Is The Blue Lagoon Worth It?

If you have been on social media you have likely seen an image of the iconic Blue Lagoon in Iceland and wonder is it worth it? Should I bother going? It is probably one of the most well-known things about Iceland and one of the first things that will come up on a google search or Pinterest search about the country. Yes, it is touristy. If you are like me you might not like touristy. BUT. GO. YES! It is worth it. It is like nothing I have seen or experienced. 

We went while on our Iceland Ring Road Road trip. We had heard mixed reviews about going but ultimately decided that it was too iconic to miss. Here is everything you need to know:

What is The Blue Lagoon? 

The Blue Lagoon is a geothermal pool that was formed in 1976 during operation at the geothermal power plant, Svartsengi, nearby. After a while, people began to bathe in the water and apply the silica mud to their skin. They started to know that the water has some pretty great effects on the skin, like those with psoriasis noticed an incredible improvement in their condition. So of course, they harnessed this gift of nature and developed spa services and products.

Today, Blue Lagoon is recognized as one of the wonders of the world. It’s interesting to know that Icelanders get their hot water almost exclusively from geothermal water. This power plant harnesses this water which starts deep in the earth where freshwater and seawater are combined at high temperatures, on its way up it collects silica and other minerals and is usually about 98-104 degrees. That silica and those minerals also give the water its iconic color, which is actually a milky white, the lovely blue sky reflecting in it makes it the pale stunning ice blue color you see in images. 

Why the Blue Lagoon Is Worth It

It’s amazing, that’s why. The whole place is so beautiful, the architecture of the buildings is modern yet inspired and complements the area. There is a swim-up bar, so grab a drink while you soak. The pools are large and there is plenty of space, they also limit the number of people who can come in at a time so it’s not crowded. The water feels so great, the water is the perfect temperature and it feels so soft. There is a place to swim up and get some silica for your face. Lastly, the color of the water, images just can’t do it justice. There is literally no reason not to go. So go!

What You Should Know Before You Go

As I mentioned, they limit how many people come in. You need to make an appointment in advance. Check-in is easy, you will get a locker for your things. You need to shower… naked… in an open shower. Now some of us when to schools that had this in gym class but I did not, so this was a little uncomfortable for me.

They have conditioner in the showers. Use it. The water while soft and lovely, it does dry out your hair. They recommend taking off your jewelry, I didn’t, it was fine but you might want to. They give you a towel and depending on your ticket choice, you may get a robe and slippers too. It’s a full spa, so grab a massage while you are there, we skipped this but I hear they are great there. 

What to Bring

We did not come as prepared as I would have liked for the Blue Lagoon so I will give you a list of a few things I would bring with you.

First, I would pack your items separately in your suitcase and have a bag to put them in. The lockers aren’t that big so bringing your whole suitcase into the locker room isn’t an option. I should note, we left our bags in our rental car, they do have storage lockers available if you don’t have a car, they just aren’t in the locker room.

In this bag, I would put a swimsuit, duh, a towel and a small ziplock or coin bag if you plan to take off your jewelry and a wet bag to put your wet items in after you get out. I mentioned before they provide towels but you have to give them but you have to give it back and we had wished we had an extra that we didn’t need to give back.

The biggest mistake we made was not bringing something to put our wet suits in! Ladies, I might recommend a leave-in conditioner and hairbrush too. You will notice your hair is pretty dry. They offer conditioner in the shower but I would have loved to have some nice leave-in conditioner to make it easier to brush it out afterward. 

While You Are There

Check-in, on time! We made it in just the nick of time. Have that awkward (for me anyway) shower I mentioned and get changed. Then get in! The water is warm and soft. A little smelly but not like other hot springs I have been in. You can explore the large pool, go in the caves, just hang out.

Head over to the swim-up bar for a drink.

And of course a famous Silica Mask. You get to look like a total nerd with a white face and when you wash it off your skin will never feel better.

Schedule a massage, I hear they are great if you are into that sort of thing. There is plenty of things to do at the Blue Lagoon.

Wrap up

They were starting a remodel when we went, it didn’t affect our stay at all. They were expanding to offer even more services and dining options. Since our visit, I understand that they have finished the renovations, we haven’t been to see it completed yet though. 

So there you have it, the low down on the Blue Lagoon. 

A little touristy but the Blue Lagoon is definitely worth it. 

Admission:

Since our visit, Blue Lagoon has updated its admission packages. They now offer 3 pages to suit your needs:

Click Here to book now.

Have you been? Planning a trip? Leave your questions and comments below!

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