On my most memorable trip to date, in Iceland, I had the opportunity to visit its most “instagrammable” (which nowdays means popular) location: The Blue Lagoon. I’m gonna be 100% honest with you. The main reason that made me want to go to Iceland so bad was the Blue Lagoon. I had seen tons of pictures and posts about it that I just had to visit it as soon as possible. But once I got to see the unreal beauty of this country, I realized that there’s so so much more to Iceland than the Blue Lagoon. Stunning, unprecedented scenery everywhere you go. So mesmerizing that it’s like you are in a whole different world. However in this post I’m gonna focus on the Blue Lagoon and talk about everything you need to know about it.
I had decided to do the Blue Lagoon on my first day in Iceland as a relaxing treat at the end of day. After reading and researching to figure out what time was the best to visit, it made perfect sense to go late in the evening close to its closing hours. Why you might ask. One of the main reasons is to avoid the numerous tourists that flock there, especially in the summer when it can get too crowdy and ruin the experience. And the other reason is, it seems like a great way to unwind, relax, end a busy day and get you recharged for the next adventure filled day. Lastly I wanted the dark, moody atmopshere which is more likely to happen in the evening. Even though the sun doesn’t set in Iceland in June ( maybe like an hour or so) it will not be as bright as it is during the day. Something you should know: you have to pre-book the day and time slot you will be visiting in order to go. There is a entry fee you pay which depends on the hour you go. Its basic ‘Comfort’ package starts at 48 euros and can go up to 83 euros. The ‘Premium’ package is more expensive and the luxury ‘Retreat Spa’ goes over 250euros.
Now let’s get into the important stuff. How does one get to the Blue Lagoon? What surprised me is how far the lagoon is from the capital, Reykjavik. I would recommend you rent a car when going to Iceland but if you’re just visiting the Blue Lagoon then you can take the shuttle (tour bus that you have to book) that brings you to the location. The drive takes about 45 minutes each way.
Once you get there you give them your reservation information and the staff will give you a special locker bracelet and lead you to the changing rooms. Like many spas around the world you need to shower before you enter the lagoon. There are shower stalls with shower gel and shampoo/conditioner for you to use before and after you enter the lagoon. Now a warning for us ladies and gents with longer hair: don’t let your hair touch the water. Avoid it as much as you can because the water at the lagoon can damage your hair and no amount of conditioner can help with that. Putting your hair up in a bun or even wearing a shower cap (no shame in that) can help with that.
The experience.
I was in awe the moment I saw the lagoon in front of me. Its alot more beautiful when you see it in person. No picture can translate how magical it looks with its vibrant blue color and steam setting an otherworldly atmosphere. The water is HOT. There are points in the lagoon that reach 40C which make it perfect considering that outside temperature is cold (when I went it was around 10C). Once you have settled in the warm, toasty water you can go to the swim-up bar to get yourself drinks/cocktails . If you’re not ready for drinks yet you can head up to the floating mud mask bar where you get your free mineral mask for your face and body. You slather it on and leave it for 15-20 minutes before rinsing it out in the lagoon. If you want to try the other masks you can conveniently pay for them with your wrist bracelet ( same goes for having more than 1 drink at the swim-up bar). You can also totally instagram the whole experience with your phone using a waterproof case which I did or use a GoPro. Just be careful not to let it sink in the water or you’ll lose it forever.
Now to the frequently asked question. Is it worth it?
Talking from my experience, yes it is totally worth it. I enjoyed my time there and will definitely be visiting again, hopefully soon . Even though I stayed in Iceland for a week it still wasn’t enough to explore everything.
In my next adventure in Iceland I will of course be making a stop at the Blue Lagoon again. It’s an experience I will never forget and will recommend to others as well.
