Located a mere 40 minute drive from the Reykjavik city center, the Blue Lagoon Geothermal Spa is one of Iceland’s most visited sites with more than 400,000 visitors annually. It was recently voted ‘the best medical spa worldwide’ by Conde Nast Traveller and recognized as one of National Geographic’s 25 ‘wonders of the world’.

Below you will find a full gallery along with information on this incredible place that is entirely powered by Iceland’s geothermal energy. Enjoy!

 

 

 

 

 

 
– The water’s temperature is 37-39°C / 98-102°F. The lagoon holds six million liters of geothermal seawater, which is renewed every 40 hours. Regular sampling shows that “common” bacteria do not thrive in this ecosystem, thus additional cleansers such as chlorine are not needed

– The Blue Lagoon geothermal seawater is a part of an ecocycle where nature and science work in harmony. The seawater originates 2000 meter/6562 ft beneath the ground where it is heated by earth’s natural forces. At this depth the temperature is 240°C/464°F and the pressure is 36 times the pressure on the earth’s surface

– The geothermal seawater comes into contact with cooling magmatic intrusions and captures the earth’s minerals, resulting in this unique natural source known for its healing power and actives

– The composition of minerals in the water is very distinctive and has a high level of silica. Its environment is characterized by high temperature and salinity level of 2.5% which is 1/3 of the ocean’s salinity level.

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Blue Lagoon’s emphasis on architecture and design is an integral part of the company’s strategy. Sigridur Sigþórsdóttir, Basalt architects, is the architect of the Blue Lagoon facilities including Blue Lagoon Bath, Blue Lagoon Clinic and Blue Lagoon Spa in Reykjavík.

Capturing the harmonious links between man and nature is what architect Sigrídur Sigþórsdóttir accomplished with the Blue Lagoon. “I attempted to capture the mystery of the location with the ever changing play of light and shadow across the lava, the steam from the lagoon and the special light that characterizes the northern part of the world,” says Sigridur.

“Pure Icelandic materials from moss and stones characterize the design. We wanted to emphasize the relationship between nature and the man-made,” she says. This relationship can be seen the moment a visitor steps out of his car and walks from the parking lot through a 200-meter footpath that cuts through a wall of lava. It’s like descending into a lava maze, guided by nature into the lagoon itself.

Then there is the lava wall inside the facility (containing about 70,000 pieces of lava), connecting the building with an untouched lava wall that surrounds the steaming waters, providing natural shelter for bathers. The building’s soft lines blend with the lava, as it opens towards the lagoon absorbing the northern sun hanging low in the winter or rising high during the endless light of summer. [Source]

 

 

 

 

 

Bracelets
Upon arrival at The Blue Lagoon you will receive a bracelet that acts as a key for your personal locker. You can use this bracelet to charge drinks and refreshments during your stay so you won’t have to carry money with you. The maximum charge per bracelet is ISK 5.000 and is payable upon departure.

Geothermal steam bath
The Blue Lagoon has two steam baths. One is a cave like structure, built from lava rocks with benches and soft lighting that imitates an open fire.
The other steam bath has white walls that resemble white silica mud and offers a view of the lagoon. The geothermal steam baths are around 45°C/113°F.

Sauna
There’s a cozy sauna by the lagoon with a nice view of the Blue Lagoon. It is ideal to end your sauna with a refreshing cold water sprinkle or an outdoor shower.

Waterfall
There’s a waterfall in the lagoon that provides an energizing massage for shoulders and neck.

Silica mud
Silica mud is provided free of charge to all guests and is located in wooden boxes in the lagoon. Apply the mud to your face and body, avoiding the eye area, and leave to dry for 5-10 minutes. This pure white geothermal mud deep cleanses and exfoliates and naturally strengthens skin’s barrier function. It brings out the skin’s inner glow, gives a vital energy boost and a smooth complexion. The silica mud is not reccommended as a hair mask.

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– LAVA restaurant is built into the lava surrounding the area.
– A glass staircase leads people to the bar and lounge area on the second floor. The roof of the restaurant is a viewing platform with beautiful view of the lagoon and the surrounding area.
– The restaurant opens at 11:30 and orders are accepted until 21:00 in the summer (Jun-Aug) and until 20:30 in winter. During the day guests are welcome to visit LAVA Restaurant in their bathrobes to enjoy a relaxing meal while taking a break from bathing.

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