7 Things To Know Before Visiting Iceland’s Blue Lagoon
Iceland is world-renowned for its stunning geothermal lagoons and communal bathing is part of an important social ritual that dates back to the 12th century. The Blue Lagoon is one of Iceland’s most famous attractions and was named one of National Geographic’s Top 25 Wonders of the World. A visit here is truly one of the most unique experiences I’ve ever had and the setting is truly otherwordly with the milky blue waters contrasting with the surrounding black lava fields. As it’s only 20 minutes from the Reykjavik airport, it was the perfect way to kick off our trip to Iceland. Soaking away the jet lag is something I highly recommend and below I’m sharing an overview of what to expect during your visit.
History of The Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon is actually a man-made lagoon, that was accidentally “discovered” when a nearby powerplant was drilling to create electricity and hot water. The runoff water pooled and created an alluring reservoir of warm water where residents were bathing. The high concentration of silica in the waters was the reason the water didn’t drain through the lava fields. Rumors of unexpected health benefits began to circulate and a rewnowed doctor decided to harness the healing properties of the water and created the geothermal spa now known as The Blue Lagoon.
Health Benefits
The waters of the lagoon are comprised of three primary ingredients–silica, algae and minerals and three decades of research have revealed the incredible benefits to your skin and body. The Blue Lagoon even created its own skin care line with unique, patented ingredients and you can purchase these products onsite or online and experience them in person during your visit at the “mask bar”. Benefits of a soak in their waters include:
- Psoriasis and eczema relief
- Skin rejuvenation and hydration
- Muscle relaxation and pain relief
- Stress reduction
- Improved circulation and detoxification
- Enhanced immunity
Blue Lagoon Offerings
In addition to the large pool that serves as the primary zone, there are sauna and steam rooms, a cold plunge, a man-made waterfall, an in-water bar, onsite dining options, indoor relaxation area and a mask bar offering exclusive silicia, mineral and algae face masks. You can also experience an in-water massage or book a stay at one of their onsite hotels, the Silica or the Retreat.
When To Visit
Located just 20 minutes from the Reykjavik airport and 45 minutes from Reykjavik, The Blue Lagoon is open every day of the year with hours varying with the seasons. Pro tip: try and schedule your visit when they first open in the morning to beat the crowds that are typically at their peak between 10 am and 2 pm. Summer months are usually more crowded but you’ll likely experience milder weather and longer daylight hours (Iceland’s midnight sun is pretty amazing). Winter months grant visitors a chance to see the Northern Lights along with a cozier atmosphere and even more dramatic scenery with the snow-capped lava fields.
What To Bring
Guests are all provided a towel and if you book the premium package, you will also get a robe when you check in. Lockers and hair dryers are provided and the showers do have shampoo and conditioner products available. Speaking of hair products, avoid dunking your head and keep your hair pinned up as the silica in the water can leave your hair very dry. Some have asked if the water will damage your swimsuit and I didn’t experience this, but the silica did stick to the suit until it was washed.
- Swim suit
- Waterproof phone case
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Hair ties
- Water bottle to refill at the complimentary water refill stations.
What To Expect During Your Time At The Blue Lagoon
When you arrive at The Blue Lagoon, you’ll make your way through the queue and then show your ticket(s) at the check-in counter. Depending on which package you booked, staff will give you a towel, robe and slippers along with an electronic wristband which will serve as your entry and locker key. You’ll wear this during your soak and can use to scan for beverages that are included with your package and if you wish to purchase additional drinks. Your wristband will also let the attendent at the mask bar know which face masks you are eligible for. You can purchase extra mask treatments using your wristband as well.
Once you enter the locker room, you can store your belongings in the locker before heading to shower. Iceland takes seriously full body showers before entering their lagoons. We wore our robes out to the lagoon and there are hooks both inside and outside with numbers on them so you can remember which robe is yours. I recommend leaving your towel in your locker so it’s dry for your departure shower. You are then free to enjoy the amenities of the lagoon and make your way to both the water and mask bars. Once you’re ready to check-out, you’ll scan your wristband near the exit, and any charges that are linked you can pay at the kiosks.
Which Package To Book
I highly recommend prebooking your tickets due to the popularity of this experience. The Blue Lagoon offers two different packages and depending on the time of year, they also have “seasonal packages”. The Comfort and Premium packages both offer access to the lagoon and the different steam rooms and saunas, a towel, silica mud mask at the mask bar and one drink of choice at the in-water bar.
The Premium package also includes use of a bathrobe, a second drink at the in-water bar and two additional masks of your choice at the mask bar. From my opinion, we did enjoy the variety of facial masks and the second beverage was also a bonus. The in-water bar has several non-alcholoic and alcoholic options to choose from, even smoothies. I would recommend booking premium package as the additional amenities are worth it. However, if you don’t need a beverage (water stations are complimentary) and aren’t interested in additional masks, stay with the Comfort package to save some money.
Are you ready to start planning your Iceland vacation? In addition to seeing waterfalls, hiking glaciers and whale watching, there are several other geothermal lagoons located throughout Iceland. Spending time in nature and enjoying a soak is part of the culture in the land of fire and ice and if you’re flying into Reykjavik, you must also visit the stunning waters of Sky Lagoon and you can read more about my experience here. We also highly recommend a visit to the beautiful Forest Lagoon near Akureyri in northern Iceland. I am an Certified Travel Advisor and would love to work with you. Reach out to me at [email protected] or fill out a quote request here.
