The Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is the most famous geothermal spa in Iceland, a vast pool of milky, silica-rich, warm blue water set in a black lava field, fed by the runoff of a geothermal power plant. Bathing in the steaming water with a silica mud mask, often as snow falls around, is a bucket-list Icelandic experience, conveniently near the airport.

History

The lagoon is man-made: shortly after the Svartsengi geothermal power plant opened in 1976, its run-off water formed pools in the lava. In 1981 a psoriasis patient bathed in the water and found it eased his symptoms, and the lagoon soon became popular; bathing facilities opened in 1987, the Blue Lagoon company was founded in 1992, a psoriasis clinic followed in 1994, and in 1995 the company began selling skin products made with silica, algae and salt (Wikipedia, Blue Lagoon (geothermal spa)).

Highlights

• The milky-blue water - the warm silica-rich lagoon in the black lava.
• The silica mask - the white mud mask included in the experience.
• The steam and lava - the steaming water amid the black volcanic field.
• The spa facilities - the saunas, bar and premium areas.

When to go

Year-round; winter with snow falling on the warm water is especially magical, and it is a perfect stop on the way to or from the airport. Booking a time slot ahead is essential.

Good to know

It is expensive and must be booked in advance, and it is busy and commercial rather than a natural wild spring. The area sits near active volcanic ground, which has caused temporary closures, so check status. Cheaper, natural and local alternatives exist for a different experience.

Nearby

Keflavik airport and the Reykjanes peninsula are close; Reykjavik is forty-five minutes away.

Key facts