BLUE LAGOON – unique Icelandic spa experience
“Iceland’s Blue Lagoon Spa covers an experience, somewhere between extra terrestrial landscape adventure and the most direct contact with geological wonders, in a unique spa frame…”
Iceland is so loaded with miracles of nature, that even a single spa treatment can be done in “out of this planet” type of environment. I thought: “No chance. Something similar does not exist.” It was just before I reached famous, Blue Lagoon Spa Complex, located around 20min drive from Keflavik International Airport, or 45min, from Icelandic capital Reykjavik. After my deep fascination with Icelandic waterfalls, beaches and volcanoes, it was time to step even futher.
Approaching what supposed to be my spa zone, I was more than aware that I was right in the middle of volcanic lava field! Short walk from the parking lot, passing walls of basalt rocks, I came to the entrance, where real story finally begins.
Bleu Lagoon spa development
Everything started during 1980s, when nearby Svartsengi geothermal power plant used more than a mile deep, superheated seawater. After venting it from the ground, water under pressure was used to run turbines that generate electricity. The same water, with temperature of 240°C (464°F) passed through special heat exchangers, to provide heat for majority of small towns around. Final part of the process provides a key on how everything evolved into the most unusual spa resort in the world.
Hot pool surrounded by black lava, Blue Lagoon
Water that comes out, contains rich mineral content, provided by underground geological layers. Therefore, it cannot be used again, but needs to be disposed into the lava field. for the locals, it was just ideal to start bathing in a small pond, just behind the power plant. Nobody was even thinking how, one day, Blue Lagoon in Iceland, will represent ultimate spa prestige of the Northern Europe.
blue lagoon icelandic treatments
Now it was my turn to experience it. Among many spa packages, I chose “Comfort” one. For 50$ or 6.990 Icelandic Krona, it included Blue Lagoon entrance, a towel, one drink of my choice, and a silica mud mask. Changing rooms area with lockers and staff to help you were perfectly organized. The only mandatory things were to take off all jewelry and have a shower just before getting out to the pool area. And finally I was outside, with pretty cool air temperature, even in the middle of July. No matter of that, I felt so good, looking at the smoke of geothermal water, with its distinctive milky color, due to silica minerals.
Ready for geothermal pool, Blue Lagoon
video: Blue Lagoon Highlights
Hot water pools are all around, with wooden paths and bridges, connecting different parts. Year after year, pool area clearly becomes larger, since water is still disposed into the vast lava fields like forty years ago. Only thing you need to do is to get into the water, and feel warm wave embracing you. What a nice contrast with the air temperature. One can wander through the water, relax, next to small , hot waterfalls or eventually swim. Just avoid diving, or making your hair really wet, since minerals from the water can affect it. After a while, you can enjoy your included cocktail, Icelandic gin, beer or a juice. Bar is located just next to the pool, so no need to get out of your cozy warm water.
And what about your included silica mud mask? Go and get it from staff on a stand in the middle of the pool. The only difference is that this “mud” is white. When I felt how my mask started to dry off and crack on my face, then it was time to wash my face in a pool. that is how all visitors contribute, adding more “milky color” to the spa excitement. Massage and beauty treatments are excellent here. Some would say a bit pricey (125$ for 30 minutes). Just consider, your massage will take place in a subterranean suite to absolutely restore peace and harmony of your body. When in 1995. science confirmed treatment of chronic skin conditions using silica, blue-green algae and mineral salt content, future of skin care at the Blue Lagoon in Iceland was secured. Each treatment is designed according to your skin type so just relax and let your face to be revitalized.
Enjoying the pool and silica mask, Blue Lagoon
If you need to refuel your energy, great indoor restaurant is on your disposal, with superb views of the entire spa complex. Half day visit to Blue Lagoon is truly enough to take all the experience. If you plan a noble spa weekend here, “Silica” and “Retreat” hotels provide exceptional rooms and suites starting from 535$ per night for a double room. Then, every morning, after typical Icelandic breakfast, you can easily embrace this unreal volcanic landscape right from your balcony.
Every moment here is unique, full of respect to the powers of our planet, enabling spiritual and physical treatment of a lifetime.
Leaving Blue Lagoon always requires some deep reflection, to describe a feeling of being so warmly welcomed by mother nature!
Travel Authentic. Live Inspired.
Notice: article images are made by Jonnie World Walker team.
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Discover all curiosities of the iconic Blue Lagoon Thermal Spa in Iceland. Plan your experience in advance with the best practical information, accommodation options, fine dining, unique skin care tips and fascinating spa treatments.
