Background Info:

 

The Blue Lagoon is one of the "must see's" when visiting Iceland! These geothermal pools are positioned in a lava field and have to be the most visited attraction in Iceland. The water itself is around 100 degrees but while moving about there were some cold spots. Even though the weather is freezing- the water is heated enough that your body adapts and the cold air is unnoticed (until getting out the water). The water (which is rumored to have healing powers) is actually waste water from the geothermal power plant (that can be seen from the lagoon). Sorry to bust your bubble if you thought it to be one of the natural hot springs in Iceland. The bright side is that the lava field and the water (which is natural and comes from below the surface) is real. Also, it isn't that deep- it is standing height if you are an adult. The bottom wasn't slimy either- it is a natural rock. The seawater contains algae, silica, and minerals.

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The Experience:

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We chose to go to the Blue Lagoon our day of arrival into Iceland. We arrived about 15-30mins before they opened so we lined up with everyone else. They sent someone out to speak with everyone prior to allowing us in- this person explained the process. You receive a band which you can use for all purchases (there is a swim up bar), it's best to have a reservation prior to arrival. They pull up your info and let you know all about the package you purchased- there is the "Comfort" and "Premium" and "Luxury"-all offering certain amenities. I highly suggest the Premium which includes robe, towel and sandals (you can keep the shoes). You can bring your own but that would take up space in your luggage. Once inside you shower prior to heading into the springs. People were moving about naked- but you can use the private shower areas. You suit up, put on your robe and head out to the springs. There is a station for your sandals and robe/towel. The air was freezing but once you hurry into the water you find warm relief. The springs were warm to hot- some areas had "cold" spots- you had shallow and deeper areas (all standing if you are an adult). There was a cave and waterfall area- the beating of the water in the waterfall felt like a heavy massage. Speaking of which- you can get an in-water massage but it's advised that you book ahead of time. There was a large group of us so any last min add on's was pretty much a "no-go". There was a station for you to scoop and apply a mud mask to your face and neck. You leave it on for like 15-20mins and then rinse it off right there in the Springs. Word of caution about the water itself- it leaves your hair feeling rough and stiff. It was advise to condition your hair before and afterwards. The smell was strong too so you've been warned!

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You spend your time pretty much sitting in the springs. You can do the swim up bar for drinks (you receive your first one free). You can use your arm band to charge for additional drinks and receive the bill at the end. They have a restaurant on site if you want to do lunch there (for a fee and reservation). There are private sitting rooms that are limited to 12 people at a time that is a part of the luxury package (I believe) or as a separate purchase. They have wifi in there and you can check out the view. A couple of the people in my group took advantage of the room and said the wifi was just "ok". There was a gift shop inside for purchases if you want a souvenir (my flip flops were good enough for me). 

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When you're ready to leave it is advised that you really wash/rinse off your body, hair and swim suit. The smell is so strong you do not want to carry it with you the remainder of the day. I forgot to add that with your wrist band you can choose any open locker for use. Once you are showered and changed you proceed to check out. They will take your wrist band and make sure you don't have any additional charges before allowing you to exit. I would say we stayed at the BL for about 2 hours. We would have stayed longer if we booked a massage or facial. It was a great way to unwind after a 5 hour flight from BWI. This truly is a "rite of passage" when going to Iceland. If for no other reason - do it for the dope pictures and experience of it all.

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Need to Know...

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• Book in advance (reservations are strongly recommended)

• If you choose the basic package: bring flip flops and a towel

• Put conditioner in your hair before entering lagoon (tie it up) the water has Sulphur and Silica in it

• If you have weave or extensions- take extra precautions to prevent getting them wet in the Springs

• You can bring and store your luggage there (perfect before or after a flight)

• The location is closer to the airport than to Reykjavik (again-best to visit before or after airport)

• The "Skin care trial pack" that comes with some of the packages is kind of a waste. There's free mud mask all around in buckets surrounding the lagoon

• You have no need for your wallet once inside because it's tied to a digital wristband

• Don't be afraid of using your camera- I had mine out for short amounts of time. Many people had their Go-pro's and water proof cameras. You can always store it back in your locker.

• You don't have to spend your whole time inside the lagoon. There are saunas and steam rooms off to the side of the springs in case you want to change things a bit.

• I want to reiterate- it does have a smell...strong smell