The Blue Lagoon is a geothermal spa located on the Reykjanes Peninsula in southwest Iceland. It is Iceland’s most popular attraction, drawing people from all over the world. It is only a fifteen-minute drive from Keflavik International Airport or a thirty-minute drive from Reykjavik, making it easy to reach for those who rent a car or join a Blue Lagoon tour.
Its therapeutic waters and breathtaking views will inspire you to book your next flight to Iceland just to take a dip in this beautiful lagoon. Grab your passport, and let’s discover a number of the interesting history, features, and facilities of the majestic Blue Lagoon.
What is the Blue Lagoon?
The Blue Lagoon is an outdoor spa located just outside of Grindavik, Iceland. From massages to cocktails, this lovely spa will provide you with the relaxation and rejuvenation you deserve. The Blue Lagoon offers a variety of day trips, overnight stays, and dining options.
This hot spring was created with a little help from humans, but it is filled with a variety of healing elements that occur naturally. From mineral-rich salt water to exfoliating mud, this spa offers rejuvenating treatments you’ve never imagined. The water from the spring naturally maintains a temperature of around 39C/102F all year round. With these stable temperatures, the lagoon is as comfortable as a bathtub!
History
The Blue Lagoon began in 1976 as a pool of wastewater discharged from the Svartsengi geothermal plant. The first person to bathe there was Valar Margeirsson in 1981. He encountered some resistance before taking the first dip as people thought he was crazy for bathing in a “blue mud pool.” He and others soon began to notice the unusual but remarkable healing properties of the blue water.
People suffering from diseases such as psoriasis found the water to be instantly soothing for their conditions. News spread quickly and by 1987 the first swimming facilities were officially opened. Since then, the establishment has only evolved, from an open pool with no buildings to a luxurious spa, research center and two hotels.
Why do Visitors bathe in the Blue Lagoon?
The Blue Lagoon properties offer everything from fine dining to accommodations to sleep in, but the hot spring is by far the most impressive amenity. Many people bathe in the Blue Lagoon for its healing properties. People who suffer from psoriasis often bathe in this lagoon in hopes of curing their disease.
Minerals found in the Blue Lagoon
The mineral-rich waters of the Blue Lagoon are said to be quite curative. Previous guests rave about the healing benefits. The two main minerals found in the Blue Lagoon are sulfur and silica. The combination of these two minerals gives this hot spring its ethereal blue color.
In the Blue Lagoon, you can find certain types of algae plants that cannot be found anywhere else. These algae plants combine with the minerals in the water to create the perfect combination for skin care.
Benefits of Bathing
In addition to the relaxation and rejuvenation you get from bathing in the Blue Lagoon, the minerals and bioactive molecules in the water are used to treat a variety of conditions. The most common treatment at the Blue Lagoon is the treatment of psoriasis. Traditional psoriasis treatments require extreme UV light exposure, so the Blue Lagoon offers a safer, more comfortable alternative to this method.
Best Time to Visit
Choosing the right time to visit the Blue Lagoon can make a huge difference in the quality of your time spent there. You’ll probably want to choose a time that doesn’t force you to rush, lets you relax, and doesn’t come with the hot spring filled with thousands of other guests.
Morning and Evening
The Blue Lagoon is least busy during morning opening hours and late at night. It’s fine to book your entry for the morning, but many people prefer to spend their time at the spa to relax and unwind after a full day of touring or activities. If you want to visit the spa in the morning and stay out all day, you can do that. There is no time limit for bathing in the lagoon.
The best time to visit the Blue Lagoon is in the evening, about four hours before closing time. This gives you a great chance to relax and unwind, after which you can go back to your hotel and get a good night’s sleep.
Things to do in the Blue Lagoon
The beauty and tranquility of southwest Iceland is certainly not limited to the Blue Lagoon. This region of Iceland is filled with naturally occurring hot springs, geothermal activity areas, and interesting rock formations.
If these natural phenomena sound interesting to you, you might want to check out the spectacular locations of these parks:
- Lake Kleifarvatn
- Reykjanes Peninsula
- Gunnuhvar
- Brimketill
The Blue Lagoon and the surrounding area are definitely perfect for those who love nature and outdoor activities. The opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, picnicking, and exploration are endless.
Food You Must Try in Blue Lagoon
When visiting the Blue Lagoon in Iceland, you will find some great dining options. Here are some of the restaurants you should consider:
- Moss Restaurant: A Michelin-starred gem in Blue Lagoon Iceland, Moss offers the best new take on Icelandic cuisine. Reserve a table and enjoy culinary delights!
- Lava Restaurant: Combining modern cuisine with the wild spirit of Icelandic nature, Lava is a great choice. Their pizzas are especially good!
- 240 Grindavik: Located in the heart of Grindavik fishing village, this bar and grill serves locally caught fish and grilled dishes. Perfect for a satisfying meal!
- Salthusid, Grindavik: Enjoy European cuisine at this cozy place. Their seafood dishes are worth trying!
Frequently Asked Questions About the Blue Lagoon
How was the Blue Lagoon formed?
The Blue Lagoon was formed in 1976 when runoff from a nearby geothermal power plant began to collect in a pool. Over time, the pool grew larger and became a popular destination for bathing.
Is the Blue Lagoon natural or man-made?
The Blue Lagoon is technically man-made, as it was formed from runoff water from a nearby geothermal power plant. However, the lagoon’s water is natural and comes from deep underground, where it is heated by geothermal energy.
What is the water temperature in the Blue Lagoon?
The water in the Blue Lagoon is heated naturally by the Earth’s geothermal energy and is usually around 37–39 °C (98–102 °F).
Is the Blue Lagoon water really blue?
Yes, the Blue Lagoon water has a milky-blue color because the water contains a high concentration of silica and other minerals.
What other facilities are there at the Blue Lagoon?
Apart from the pool, the Blue Lagoon also has a spa, a restaurant and a gift shop. The spa offers a variety of treatments including massages, facials, and skin care treatments using the mineral-rich water of the lagoon and local Icelandic products.
Do I need to book in advance to visit the Blue Lagoon?
Yes, it is advisable to book in advance to ensure availability, especially during the peak tourist season (June-August).
Can I visit the Blue Lagoon alone or do I need to book a tour?
Travelers can visit the Blue Lagoon alone or as part of a guided tour. However, it is advisable to book in advance, as the lagoon can get busy, especially during peak tourist season.
What is the best time to visit the Blue Lagoon?
The Blue Lagoon is open year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences. The summer months (June-August) offer mild weather and long days, while the winter months (December-February) offer the chance to see the northern lights and enjoy a unique winter bathing experience.
Is the Blue Lagoon accessible to people with disabilities?
Yes, the Blue Lagoon is accessible to people with disabilities, with ramps, lifts and changing rooms available for those who need it. The lagoon also has a wheelchair-accessible bus that can pick up and drop off visitors to the parking lot.
How much time should I plan to spend at the Blue Lagoon?
The recommended time to spend at the Blue Lagoon is around 2-3 hours, but visitors can stay longer if they wish. It is recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled entry time for check-in and changing.
Can children visit the Blue Lagoon?
Yes, children are allowed in the Blue Lagoon, but visitors under the age of 8 must wear floaties or life jackets. The lagoon is family-friendly and offers many facilities for children, including a shallow wading area and a separate children’s pool.
This almost naturally occurring hot spring is filled with mineral-rich water and exfoliating silica mud that will leave you refreshed and revitalized. Whether you’re only stopping in Grindavík to bathe in the Blue Lagoon or you plan on exploring the spectacular sights in the surrounding area, you’ll leave Iceland with invaluable memories that will last a lifetime.