The milky blue waters and cloudy steam vents of Iceland’s famous Blue Lagoon drew us in as we approached the entrance.
Situated along Iceland’s Reykjanes Peninsula in the middle of a lava field, the Blue Lagoon, known in Icelandic as Bláa Lónið–is one of Iceland’s most popular geothermal spas. Created by accident and fed by outflow from the nearby Svartsengi geothermal power station, salt water and fresh water combine at scorching temperatures of 240°C (470°F) approximately 1.2 miles below the earth’s surface. This mineral-rich water eventually flows up through steam vents at Svartsengi generating electricity and heating water for the nearby neighborhoods. The run-off water, which is rich in silica, algae, and other minerals, emerges as the soothing milky blue waters of the Blue Lagoon. The 38°C (100°F) waters are a milky color but appear to have a blue hue due to the way the sunlight reflects off the surface.
After flying into Keflavik earlier that afternoon, we picked up our rental and excitedly drove straight to the Blue Lagoon for a little relaxation after our long day of traveling. The friendly staff welcomed us with warm coffee and ice cream popsicles as we briefly waited in line to enter the Blue Lagoon. After entering we went to our designated men’s and women’s locker rooms to change into our bathing suits. There are showers, bathrooms, and changing areas, as well as, lockers in the rooms to make sure your visit is comfortable and your possessions are safe. When you arrive you are given a wristband which is your key to unlocking your lockers and serves as a link to your credit card for purchasing drinks and refreshments from the swim-up bar located in the Lagoon. Make sure it is secure around your wrist so you don’t drop it in the Lagoon!
Once my belongings were securely locked away I headed out to the Blue Lagoon and couldn’t wait to submerge in the milky blue, mineral infused geothermal waters. We were reminded to either condition our hair (Conditioner was provided in the shower areas) or tie it up prior to entering the lagoon since the geothermal waters can make your hair feel very dry. The large lagoon has a cozy vibe and everyone inside seems completely relaxed.
Around the edges of the lagoon there are wooden boxes containing silica mud that you can apply to your face and body–allow it to dry for at least 5 minutes to reap the benefits of its exfoliating and cleansing properties. We got a real giggle out of watching some visitors apply too much of the mud mask and watching it drip down their faces. But, at least they were getting a true Icelandic experience! The Blue Lagoon offers many other spa amenities to enhance your visit including Saunas and steam rooms, in-water massages and beauty treatments.
We really enjoyed our time spent at the Blue Lagoon and wished that we could’ve stayed longer. A visit to the Blue Lagoon was an amazing way to start our 8 day trip around Iceland!
Tips Before Your Trip:
Tickets to the Blue Lagoon can be purchased online prior to arrival and cost €40 for a basic entrance fee. You can even rent bathing suits, towels and robes for an extra cost. If you are interested in some of their additional spa amenities those can be reserved and purchased online as well.
Getting to the Blue Lagoon from the Keflavik airport head out on Route 45 towards the Reykjanes Penninsula and eventually turn onto Route 43. From there just follow the signs marked Bláa Lónið as you will have already spotted the plumes of steam billowing above the barren lava fields.
