Iceland's Sky Lagoon unveils bathing ritual, Skjól
Skjól at Sky Lagoon is a multi-sensory spa experience combining geothermal baths with native berry juices and a unique sauna. Olivia Palamountain reports
Iceland's oceanfront hot springs, Sky Lagoon, is now offering guests a transformative new experience called "Skjól", a reimagined ritual celebrating the essence of Icelandic bathing culture.
The new wellness journey, deeply rooted in Icelandic heritage, pays homage to ancient rituals while providing a contemporary sanctuary for visitors.
Located in Kársnes Harbour, Kópavogur, just minutes from Reykjavik, the 70-metre infinity-edge lagoon is also expanding its Turf House.Helga Albertsdottir, managing director of Sky Lagoon, says: "Skjól, in essence, is an invitation to partake in a ritual that is as ancient as the land itself. Offering an inclusive experience for all guests that is both uniquely Icelandic and universally appealing, Sky Lagoon honours the past while offering a sanctuary for the present."
The experience immerses guests in the raw elements of Iceland, with every architectural detail inspired by the country's dramatic landscape.Skjól, now included for all visitors, introduces several new elements to deepen the connection with Icelandic culture.
A highlight of the expanded ritual is "Ylur", a second sauna featuring Iceland's largest single-pane glass window.
This addition offers views of the Atlantic Ocean, further blending the boundaries between the manmade sanctuary and the natural world.The ritual also introduces "Saft", a traditional elixir infused with krækiber (crowberries) that thrive in Iceland's lava fields.
This unique offering provides a taste of Iceland's natural bounty, enhancing the multi-sensory experience.
"For Icelandic people, Skjól is more than just a word; it's a shelter from the storm and a moment of peace in the hectic rhythm of life," Albertsdottir adds. "It provides a sanctuary for all guests to experience while they are on their Sky Lagoon journey."