17 Aug Unwind from Your Iceland Adventures in the Blue Lagoon
Iceland’s Blue Lagoon might as well be on another planet. Its milky aqua waters ringed with rough black lava are an otherworldly sight. You reach it only after traversing miles of stark volcanic plain, a daunting landscape of jagged basalt boulders covered in moss. National Geographic named it one of its 25 Wonders of the World.
For adventure travelers, the Blue Lagoon offers a sublime chance to relax before or after the exhilarating slate of outdoor activities Iceland has to offer, including hiking, glacier walks, sea kayaking, snorkeling, rafting, horseback riding, mountain biking, whale watching, off-road Super Jeep tours, Zodiac cruises through iceberg-laden lagoons, and more.
The Blue Lagoon was formed in 1976 during operations at the nearby geothermal power plant, and soon after, visitors began to soak in the mineral-rich waters. As the rough volcanic landscape was submerged beneath geothermal seawater water naturally heated by forces deep within the earth, the lagoon’s soothing and healing properties were revealed. The 99-degree water is the perfect temperature for extended bathing, and the heavy silica content is known not only to smooth complexions but also to clear up psoriasis and other skin ailments. Travelers have flocked to this globally famous attraction since it was opened to the public in 1987, and the Blue Lagoon has grown to provide a renowned spa experience.
Because of the Blue Lagoon’s popularity, however, it’s important to be aware of a few things to ensure an optimal visit.
Applying a silica mud mask to the face is an essential part of the Blue Lagoon experience
Make Advance Reservations
I didn’t realize till a few days before I got to Iceland that it’s essential to make reservations for the Blue Lagoon well ahead, especially during peak season in July and August. A limited number of lockers requires a cap on visitor numbers, which also helps keep crowds in check. I initially went directly to the Blue Lagoon’s website, but all the morning time slots, booked on the hour, were full. Fortunately, the package I found instead included transfers from the airport along with admission and was ultimately cheaper than getting there and back separately. You can show up without a reservation, but odds are not necessarily good you’ll get in.
Reykjavik Excursions offers bus transportation to and from the Blue Lagoon from both the city center and Keflavik International Airport, making it possible to stop en route to ease jet lag after a long flight, or to relax after your Icelandic adventure before departing for home. We went straight from the airport to the lagoon, where luggage storage is available for 3 euros per bag, then spent about six hours soaking, purging cares in the steam bath and sauna, and blissing out with the in-water massage.
Bring a Towel & Robe, or Upgrade Your Package
General admission, starting at 45 euros, includes entrance to the lagoon, steam bath, sauna and use of silica mud for facial mask or slathering your body if it’s warm enough to let it dry outside the bathing pool. A towel and robe are essential for the most enjoyable time, and if you don’t have them with you, you can upgrade to the Comfort or Premier package, at 60 and 75 euros respectively, which include them. Other perks are available such as flip flops for the shower/changing room, samples of spa products, drinks and restaurant reservations, depending on the package level you purchase. Make your choice on the Blue Lagoon’s website, or upgrade when you arrive. And with the handy electronic wristband you receive when you check in, you don’t have to worry about cash or credit cards — your included items are noted, and you just charge whatever else you want to buy.
Book Spa Treatments Ahead of Time
Spa treatments are also in limited supply — reserve these well ahead. All massage treatments are done in the water, for an utterly relaxing indulgence. You float on a buoyant mat (think of a thick yoga or Pilates mat with an inflatable pillow to cushion your neck and head) as the therapist works your muscles with essential oils or silica mud from the lagoon. Other spa options include salt scrubs, algae body wrap, and various facials that feature minerals from the lagoon and exfoliation with volcanic stones. To book a spa service, visit the Blue Lagoon website and submit an email request.
Indulge in a Meal at Lava Restaurant
Ideally, don’t rush your visit — stay long enough to enjoy lunch or dinner at renowned Lava restaurant, built into a lava cliff overlooking the lagoon. While prices are steep (it’s part of dining in Iceland, plus you’re paying for the experience), the flavors and presentation of the contemporary Icelandic dishes are superb. I had the langoustine soup featuring the garlic-marinated small lobster native to Iceland’s waters, white chocolate and seaweed. The combination may sound unusual, but it was fabulous. The slow-cooked Arctic char with sunchokes, apple and watercress was equally innovative and delicious. And the most fun part of dining at Lava is that you get to do it in your bathrobe!
That’s me on the right, lunching at Lava.
Fresh-caught Arctic char and watercress starter at Lava restaurant
If even that sounds like too much bother, there’s the option to swim right up to the Lagoon Bar while you’re in the pool, for healthy refreshments like the blueberry smoothie I tried, made with local skyr, a thick, tart Icelandic yogurt. Indoors, the casual Blue Cafe is another option, with ready-to-go snacks like freshly made sandwiches, sushi and salads, plus hot drinks.
Yes, the Blue Lagoon is touristy (I must have seen or heard at least 15 different nationalities during my 6-hour visit), and yes, it’s rather expensive… but I found it a unique and aesthetic indulgence, the perfect complement to the more rigorous adventures Iceland has to offer the avid traveler who loves nature and the outdoors. And as of 2017, visitors will be able to stay on the premises for an extended period of R&R, when a new luxury and expanded spa area are completed.
All photos ©Wendy Worrall Redal
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