Iceland’s Blue Lagoon is an 8700-square meter man-made geothermal spa. One of the most popular tourist attractions in Iceland, bathers flock to lagoons to soak in the milky blue water and rub (supposedly) medicinal clay at the bottom of the pools on their skin. Clouds of steam rise up from the waters, giving the Blue Lagoon a dreamy, serene atmosphere.
Photo: Puripat Lertpunyaroj/Shutterstock
A Soak in the Rejuvenating Waters of the Blue Lagoon Is One of the Best Things to Do in Iceland
The Lagoon is located in a lava field, and is surrounded by a landscape of jagged black rocks. Silica in the water reflects off sunlight, giving the Blue Lagoon its signature sky blue hue. Thanks to the beauty of these hot springs, the Blue Lagoon has become one of the top destinations for tourists in Iceland.
How to get to Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon is 25 miles from Reykjavik, and there are tour companies that will shuttle groups to the hot springs, and then back to the city, some of which will pick you up at your hotel. Often, these day trip tours will include multiple stops, like Thingvellir National Park and Gullfoss Waterfall, ending with a stop at the spa. If you’re staying in Reykjavik, the Blue Lagoon would be an easy day trip.
There are also shuttle buses that transfer guests from bus stops throughout Reykjavik, and directly from the airport. If you’re coming to the spa from the airport, you can rent a locker for luggage once you get there. This is a great option for people who want to experience the Blue Lagoon during a layover.
What to do at the Blue Lagoon
All you need is your bathing suit and a towel (although you can rent them when you get there). Tickets range from $60-$100 and should be booked in advance, because the lagoon tends to sell out quickly. While the entrance fee includes access to the hot springs, saunas, and steam rooms, some of the spa packages include a free drink ticket and a lunch reservation.
Guests can book additional spa treatments, like massages and float therapy. There are also three restaurant options inside the spa complex, and there’s a swim up bar within the thermal pools.
Of course, there are public, free hot springs throughout Iceland (some of which require only a short hike to find) like Reykjadalur hot spring. The Sky Lagoon is another, newer geothermal pool in Iceland, that is less expensive and less crowded. However, given the Blue Lagoon’s popularity, you wouldn’t be blamed for wanting to see it for yourself. 