Blue Lagoon Geothermal Spa – Grindavík, Iceland

The Blue Lagoon is undoubtedly one of the world’s most iconic and popular hot springs destinations. Situated about 45 minutes from downtown Reykjavík, this full resort offers two hotels, a plethora of spa treatments and world class hot springs pools.

The geothermal pool sits only 20 minutes from Keflavík International Airport, meaning it’s entirely possible to schedule a long layover flight in Iceland and hit the hot springs before your next leg of the journey. Recharge like your body deserves prior to your flight departure onward to Europe or the United States.

Residing on an other-worldly lava field in Grindavík, the Blue Lagoon is isolated on the Reykjanes Peninsula next to a geothermal power plant, Svartsengi. It’s easily one of Iceland’s most popular tourist attractions and a can’t miss destination if you’re on the island and a fan of healthy hot mineral water. Pre-booking is required for all day visits!

Hot Springs Pools

Blue Lagoon Iceland Geothermal Spa Main Building — Main Building at Blue Lagoon. Photo: Ivan Sabljak

The hot springs pool at the Blue Lagoon is one of the most unique and largest in the world. The crazy blue shade of milky water is due to the high silica content. You’ll notice bathers covered in white face masks, which is from a Silica mud mask complimentary to all bathers.

The soaking pool’s temperature averages between averages 37–39° Celsius (99–102° Fahrenheit). The pool is open to children 2 and over, however those under 9 years of age must where complimentary pool floaters on their arms. Children under 14 get in free with adult. All guests must shower before entry. Clothing is optional. There is an accessible ramp for wheelchair users.

The deepest part of the pool is 1.4 meters (4.7 feet). The shallowest area is nearly 0.8meters (2.6 feet). All guests must pre-book their ticket before they visit. Entrance comes with a mud mask, towel and 1st drink free. In addition to the pools there is a Sauna and Steam rooms.

There is also an In-Water Bar and Mask Bar. The bar has a refreshing selection of soft drinks, beer, wine, smoothies and juices. The Mask Bar has both a Silica mud mask and Algae mask, the former deep cleans and the latter stimulates collagen production.

Water Source – The Blue Lagoon is filled with natural mineral water from volcanic aquifers 2000 meters under the earth. It’s a wonderful combination of freshwater and seawater: geothermal seawater. The silica, algae, and salt-rich water repairs and strengthens the skin.

Though the water is a byproduct of the local geothermal power station. Superheated water from the ground is used to move turbines that make electricity. After that the water passes thru a heat exchanger to supply heat for a municipal water heating system. After which the water flows into the lagoon. The water in the Blue Lagoon renews every 40 hours.

The all natural water is not artificially disinfected and rich in minerals, PH 7.5 and salt content 2.5%. Still it contains no foreign bacteria, such as fecal bacteria, environmental bacteria, fungi, or plants. It is a self-cleaning ecosystem. It has been gifted a Blue Flag for more than a decade.

History – After the power plant opened in 1976 the runoff formed hot springs pools. A psoriasis patient soaked in one in 1981 and noted that it improved his symptoms. Bathing there rose in popularity and facilities officially opened in 1987. The Blue Lagoon company formed in 1992. There was a psoriasis clinic opened in 1994. A year later the Blue Lagoon introduced their own line of skin care products, which contained silica, algae, and salt.

Spa Treatments

Blue Lagoon Iceland Geothermal Spa In Water Massage — In water massage at Blue Lagoon.

There are a number of beauty treatments and massage therapy to choose from at Retreat Spa. The therapeutic gem here, aside from the geothermal seawater, is the in-water massage. Durations last 30, 60 or 120 minutes. A Steam Cave is available, which features an earthen chamber full of moist heat, as well as a Sauna.

Dining

There are four dining options at the Blue Lagoon. Reservations are recommended for Lava and Moss restaurants.

Blue Café – A great place for snacking and to take a break away from the water. It has nice views of the lagoon. Hours are 8:00AM to 9:00PM.

Moss Restaurant – This 2019 Michelin Guide recommended restaurant is a can’t miss. The menu is remixes on classic Icelandic cuisine. Because Moss is located at the highest point of the resort, you’ll get views of the volcanic horizon like no other.

Lava Restaurant – Offers gourmet dining experience on the shores of the Blue Lagoon. This relaxed fine dining restaurant is open for lunch beginning at 11:30AM through dinner closing at 9:00PM. You can dine here in your robe until 4:00PM.

Spa Restaurant – Spa guests can dine at the Spa Restaurant too, away from the crowds. It has both an À la carte breakfast and all day menu, available from 7:30AM to 10:00PM.

Overnight Accommodations

Blue Lagoon Iceland Geothermal Spa Hotel Room Junior Lagoon View — Junior Lagoon View at Retreat at Blue Lagoon.

There are two hotels to choose from at the Blue Lagoon. Both are upscale and sublime.

Silica Hotel – The more affordable accommodation of the two at the resort. Rooms have stunning views of the volcanic moss covered landscape, mountains and/or silica-rich water. Clean, modern room types include:

Lava Deluxe
Mountain Deluxe
Silca Deluxe

Retreat – First class hotel designed to unwind you from your modern day chaos. Lagoon suites have their own private lagoon! Classy suite types include: