Hofsós, a charming, historic village in northern Iceland, once buzzed as a trading port since the 16th century and exudes quaint, coastal charm.
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"Artist and horsebreeder Lilja Palmadottir built her own pool of dreams when she and neighbor Steinunn Jónsdóttir commissioned Basalt (the same architects as the Blue Lagoon) to design Hofsós, a coastal swim spot in her northern fishing village. “The idea for the pool came when hot water was found in the earth close by,” she says of the beloved bolthole, a donation to the community which overlooks arctic fjords. She’s also a brave ocean swimmer, “which is a huge challenge because the water is usually 4 degrees celsius. It reduces inflammation, strengthens the immune system, and gives you super soft skin. Plus it is a cathartic experience that clears your head.”"