Blue Lagoon is the most visited geothermal attraction in Iceland, located around 13 miles from the Keflavic Airport and around 30 miles from the capital city of Reykjavik. We had the opportunity to visit the lagoon in September 2011 and what a memorable experience it was! I don’t remember another time when we were in such close proximity to nature. While the day was bitter cold and windy, throngs of people bathed and soaked in the warm water, enjoying the marvel of nature.
Blue Lagoon
Blue Lagoon is the most acclaimed Icelandic destination, winning several coveted awards in various fields. Awarded as the “Best Spa” by Spa Finder and Conde Nast Traveler, Blue Lagoon has also won recognition for architecture, design and for maintaining environmental issues.
Right from the moment you step out of the tourist bus, you’ll realize that Blue Lagoon aims to preserve the harmony between man and nature. It’s evident in its design with lava walls, shimmering blue lights and the gorgeous clean facility. “It’s like descending into a lava maze, guided by nature into the lagoon itself,” describes its website.
The bathing lagoon is located where the Euro-Asian and American tectonic plates meet. Measuring 5000m square big, the Blue Lagoon holds six million liters of geothermal seawater all of which is renewed every 40 hours. The shallowest part of the lagoon measures half a meter, the deepest is around 1.60 meters.
If this is your first time visiting the attraction, here’s a list of key things to expect.
Key things to expect
Hours
Blue Lagoon is opened daily from September 1 to May 31 from 10am to 8pm and from June 1 to August 1 from 9am to 9pm.
Entrance Fee
EURO 30/adults; EUR 15/teenagers; 3 years or younger go free when accompanied by a guardian.
Swimwear
Bring your own; however, if you forget, there are stores in the facility that carry those.
Bracelets
Upon arrival, guests receive a personal bracelet that serves as a key to their locker. The bracelet costs SK 5.000. Guests use the bracelet to charge for refreshments, drinks, treatments and products at the outdoor bar and around the spa. The money is payable during checkout. Although the system is very effective, make sure you don’t misplace the bracelet and remain aware of the charges.
Steam Baths
Blue Lagoon offers two steam baths with hot water around 45°C/113°F.
Beauty Treatments & Massages
An array of massage and beauty treatments is available that uses the lagoon’s rich silica mud and other active ingredients. Enjoy them in the privacy of a spa room, or indulge in one of the several in-water treatments offered. Anti-aging, hydrating and detox beauty treatments are also available, along with pedicure, manicure and wax packages. Advance booking is highly recommended.
Remember, silica mud is provided free of charge to all guests. Use the geothermal mud to exfoliate and cleanse your skin.
Changing rooms
Clean, sophisticated and well-maintained changing rooms are available; however, guests looking for more privacy can opt for the exclusive lounge for EURO 900 for 4 hours.
Childcare
Blue Lagoon does not have any child care facility. However, there is a cafeteria and a relaxing area for parents who need to wait with their young ones.
Dining
Blue Lagoon offers an array of dining options to visiting guests. Whether you are looking for a traditional Icelandic fine dining experience or a quick grab and go meal, there are plenty of choices.
The LAVA restaurant offers a picturesque view of the lagoon along with several Chef delicacies. Spend a relaxing evening at the bar is located on the second floor of the facility. Guests bathing in the lagoon can enjoy a leisurely drink at one of the outdoor bars. In addition, the Blue Café is the perfect stop for a selection of healthy and quick meals on the go.