Atlantica - 01.06.2011, Page 34

32 A t L A n t i c A
Fontana is the newest kid on the block. Located right
on the beach of Laugarvatn Lake, an hour’s drive
from Reykjavík, its heart and soul is the legendary
steam baths, built over a boiling hot spring, popular with
travelers for almost eighty years. After eight years of plan-
ning and preparation, Fontana opened its doors earlier this
summer and is already becoming one of south Iceland’s main
attractions. The owners made it their mission to incorporate
the spa into its natural surroundings, right on the beach. The
steam rooms have been rebuilt, with special grates in the
floor allowing guests to see, hear and smell the natural hot
spring as it flows under the rooms straight from the ground.
A Finnish-style sauna has also been added, offering a spectac-
ular view over the lake. At Fontana, you will also find a series
of interconnected baths and steam rooms that complement
each other to create a natural and unique spa experience. A
cluster of pools of various temperatures and depth are ideal
for relaxation or play for the entire family. Black granite
sculptures by Erla Thórarinsdóttir are scattered across the
largest pool, further adding character to the area. Fontana
spa stands quite literally on Laugarvatn’s black, sandy beach,
and therefore a refreshing swim in the lake completes the
experience.
fontana.is
Fontana