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The Blue Lagoon is a world-renowned geothermal spa situated in Iceland’s Reykjanes Peninsula, just a short drive from the capital city of Reykjavik. Known for its stunning turquoise blue waters, therapeutic mud masks, and breathtaking views, the Blue Lagoon has become a must-visit destination for travelers seeking relaxation, rejuvenation, and adventure. Whether you’re looking to soak in the warm waters surrounded by rugged volcanic landscapes or treat yourself to a luxurious spa treatment, the Blue Lagoon offers a truly unique and unforgettable experience. In this article, we’ll delve into the history, natural wonders, and must-try experiences of the Blue Lagoon in Iceland.
Location: Norðurljósavegur 9, 240 Grindavík
Origins and formation of the lagoon
The Blue Lagoon is a natural geothermal spa that was formed as a byproduct of a nearby geothermal power plant. The plant was built in 1976 on the Reykjanes Peninsula in southwestern Iceland to harness the energy of the nearby Svartsengi geothermal field. The power plant drills down into the earth’s crust to extract hot water and steam, which is used to generate electricity and heat nearby towns and cities.
As a result of this drilling, hot water and steam were released from the ground and flowed into a nearby lava field, creating a pool of warm, mineral-rich water. Initially, the pool was considered a waste product of the power plant and was discharged into the surrounding lava fields. However, it was soon discovered that the water had unique properties due to its high mineral content, which included silica, sulfur, and algae.
In the early 1980s, people began to bathe in the pool for its reputed healing and rejuvenating effects, despite its original purpose as a waste product. As the popularity of the pool grew, its potential as a tourist attraction was recognized, and in 1992, the Blue Lagoon company was founded to manage and develop the site.
Since then, the Blue Lagoon has become one of Iceland’s most popular tourist destinations, drawing visitors from all over the world to experience its therapeutic and natural wonders. The unique formation and history of the lagoon continue to fascinate visitors and make it a must-visit destination in Iceland.
Benefits of Visiting the Blue Lagoon
- Therapeutic effects of the water and mud masks: The Blue Lagoon’s geothermal water is naturally rich in minerals, including silica, sulfur, and algae. These minerals are believed to have therapeutic effects on the skin and body, including improving skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema, reducing inflammation and joint pain, and promoting relaxation.
- Relaxation and stress relief benefits: The warm waters of the Blue Lagoon are heated to around 37-39°C (98-102°F) and offer a soothing and calming effect on the body and mind. The peaceful surroundings, the sound of the water, and the natural beauty of the volcanic landscapes help visitors to unwind and let go of stress.
- Beauty and skincare benefits: The mineral-rich water of the Blue Lagoon is also believed to have a range of benefits for the skin, including hydrating and softening the skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and boosting collagen production. The lagoon’s signature silica mud masks, which are available for purchase and application during your visit, are also known for their cleansing, exfoliating, and brightening properties.
- Immune system benefits: The geothermal water of the Blue Lagoon contains a high concentration of minerals, including sulfur, which is known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties. Bathing in the water is believed to help strengthen the immune system and promote overall health and wellness.
The Blue Lagoon offers a unique and beneficial experience for visitors looking to relax, unwind, and rejuvenate. Its natural wonders and therapeutic properties make it a must-visit destination in Iceland for anyone seeking to improve their health and well-being.
Activities and Experiences at the Blue Lagoon
Here are some of the things you can do at the Blue Lagoon:
- Soak in the Geothermal Waters: The Blue Lagoon is known for its warm, mineral-rich waters that are believed to have therapeutic properties. Visitors can soak in the waters and enjoy the natural surroundings.
- Spa Treatments: The Blue Lagoon offers a range of spa treatments that use geothermal water and natural ingredients from Iceland. These treatments include facials, massages, body scrubs, and more.
- Silica Mud Mask: The silica mud found in the lagoon is believed to have healing properties for the skin. Visitors can apply the mud to their faces and body for a rejuvenating experience.
- Saunas and Steam Rooms: The Blue Lagoon has a variety of saunas and steam rooms with different temperatures and aromas. These facilities offer visitors a chance to relax and unwind.
- Dining: The Blue Lagoon has a variety of dining options that offer visitors a chance to try traditional Icelandic cuisine. The Lava Restaurant, located on-site, offers a unique dining experience inside a volcanic rock cave.
- Northern Lights: The Blue Lagoon offers a Northern Lights experience for visitors during the winter months. Guests can relax in the geothermal waters while watching the aurora borealis light up the sky.
- Accommodations: The Blue Lagoon has a luxurious hotel on site, as well as other nearby accommodation options. Staying at the hotel offers guests a chance to experience the lagoon in a more private setting.
Tips for Planning Your Visit to the Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon is one of Iceland’s most popular tourist attractions, and it’s easy to see why. With its turquoise blue waters, geothermal pools, and luxurious spa facilities, it’s the perfect place to relax and unwind. Here are some tips for planning your visit to the Blue Lagoon:
- Book in Advance: The Blue Lagoon is a very popular attraction and gets very busy, especially during peak tourist season. It is essential to book your tickets in advance to ensure you get a spot.
- Decide on Your Package: The Blue Lagoon offers various packages, from basic entry to luxury spa treatments. Decide what you want to experience and choose the package that suits you the best.
- Arrive Early: Arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy the peacefulness of the lagoon. The Blue Lagoon opens at 8:00 AM and the earlier you go, the better.
- Do not bring a towel, it is included in your entrance ticket. You can rent robes and other accessories at an extra cost.
- Leave Your Jewelry at Home: The minerals in the water can damage your jewelry, so it’s best to leave it at home.
- Pre-Condition Your Hair: The water in the lagoon can leave your hair feeling dry and tangled. To prevent this, it is recommended to apply a conditioner before entering the water.
- Take a Break: Don’t forget to take breaks from the hot water and relax in the sauna or steam room.
- Stay Hydrated: The high temperature of the water can cause dehydration, so make sure to drink plenty of water during your visit.
- Relax and Enjoy: Finally, relax and enjoy your visit to the Blue Lagoon. Take in the beautiful surroundings and enjoy the unique experience that this geothermal spa has to offer.
How to get there?
Blue Lagoon is easily accessible from the main highway that connects Keflavík to Reykjavík.
Take Highway 41 to Highway 43 and follow the signs to Blue Lagoon.
Parking is free.
Estimated travel times by car.
From Reykjavík : 50 minutes
From Keflavík Airport: 15 minutes
From Vík: 3 hours
Visit with a booked tour
If you do not have a car then the best way to visit The Blue Lagoon is by a booked tour. Here are some tours to choose from.
Opening hours
January-May, from 08:00-21:00
1 June-20 August, from 07:00-24:00
21 August-January, from 08:00-22:00
21 June, Summer Solstice, from 07:00-01:00
Christmas Eve, from 08:00-16:00
New Years Eve, from 08:00-18:00
Prices: pre-booking is required
website: The Blue Lagoon
Comfort: Blue Lagoon
From EUR 58
- Entrance to the Blue Lagoon
- Silica mud mask
- Use of towel
- 1st drink of your choice
Premium: Blue Lagoon
From EUR 74
- Entrance to the Blue Lagoon
- Silica mud mask
- Two additional masks of your choice
- Use of towel
- 1st drink of your choice
- Use of bathrobe
- 1 glass of sparkling wine if dining at Lava restaurant
Luxury: Retreat Spa
From EUR 444
Five luxurious hours at the Retreat Spa. Includes a private changing suite and unlimited access to both the Retreat Lagoon and the Blue Lagoon.
Spend the night at The Blue Lagoon
The Silica Hotel is a luxury hotel located in the heart of the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa in Iceland. The hotel is known for its stunning views of the surrounding volcanic landscape, its modern design, and its close proximity to the Blue Lagoon itself.
The hotel features modern and spacious rooms, each with its own private balcony and views of the surrounding landscape. The rooms are decorated in a minimalist and contemporary style, with natural materials and soothing color schemes that evoke the Icelandic environment.
Guests at the Silica Hotel have exclusive access to the Blue Lagoon, which is only a short walk away. The Blue Lagoon is a geothermal spa that is famous for its mineral-rich, milky-blue waters, which are said to have healing properties. Guests can enjoy a relaxing soak in the warm waters, surrounded by volcanic rock formations and steam rising from the earth.
Other amenities at the Silica Hotel include a restaurant that serves modern Icelandic cuisine, a bar with a selection of wines and cocktails, and a spa that offers a range of treatments and massages.
Overall, the Silica Hotel offers a luxurious and unique experience for guests who want to explore the natural wonders of Iceland while enjoying the comfort and convenience of a modern hotel.
The Retreat Hotel is a luxurious and exclusive hotel located in the heart of the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa in Iceland. This hotel is designed to offer guests a truly unique and unforgettable experience that is focused on wellness, relaxation, and rejuvenation.
The Retreat Hotel features elegant and spacious suites that are designed to blend in with the surrounding volcanic landscape. The suites are decorated in a minimalist and modern style, with natural materials and neutral color palettes that evoke the Icelandic environment.
One of the highlights of the hotel is the Retreat Spa, which offers a range of wellness and relaxation treatments that are designed to promote overall health and wellbeing. The spa features a series of interconnected lagoons that are filled with the same mineral-rich waters found in the Blue Lagoon. Guests can enjoy a range of experiences, including steam baths, saunas, in-water massages, and other treatments that are designed to soothe the body and mind.
The hotel also features a restaurant that serves modern Icelandic cuisine, a lounge area with a fireplace, and a bar with a selection of wines and cocktails.
Blue Lagoon Skincare
Blue Lagoon Skincare is a line of products designed to bring the benefits of Blue Lagoon’s geothermal seawater to your skincare routine. The skincare line includes a range of products, including cleansers, moisturizers, masks, and more. Each product is formulated with the unique minerals and nutrients found in Blue Lagoon’s geothermal water to help hydrate, nourish, and revitalize the skin.
In addition to the skincare products, Blue Lagoon also offers in-spa skincare treatments to help you achieve your best skin yet. The skincare treatments use Blue Lagoon’s signature geothermal water to cleanse and nourish the skin, leaving it looking and feeling its best.
If you’re looking to bring the benefits of the Blue Lagoon to your skincare routine, look no further than Blue Lagoon Skincare. With its unique blend of natural minerals and nutrients, Blue Lagoon Skincare is the perfect choice for anyone looking to achieve healthy, glowing skin.
Gourmet cuisine
Of course, no visit to the Blue Lagoon would be complete without sampling the gourmet cuisine at one of the resort’s many restaurants. The Lava Restaurant features culinary classics with a volcanic twist, while the Moss Restaurant offers unforgettable cuisine and is a Michelin-recommended experience. For those looking for gourmet delicacies in a spa setting, the Spa Restaurant at the Retreat Spa is a must-visit.
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