It might be a bit strange to see a post about a spa on a blog that describes mainly an active way of traveling and discovering some forgotten and unknown places where few even think of visiting. But Blue Lagoon in Iceland is different. It's an amazing proof how human engineering and nature can cooperate perfectly. It's not an ordinary, boring spa with swimming pools and massages. The Blue Lagoon is one of those experiences that, I think, everyone should try at least once in life. Especially after exploring some of the marvelous sites of Iceland - an outlandish island on the periphery of Europe.

How to get to the Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is located close to the Keflavik International Airport, only 20 km (12 miles) away. Many tourists start or finish their adventure in Iceland at the Blue Lagoon, on the way to or from the airport. The distance from the capital, Reykjavik is around 50 km (30 miles). There are numerous companies offering tours and transfers to the Blue Lagoon. Check out Greyline Iceland, they have many packages for a very good value.

What is the Blue Lagoon in Iceland

The Blue Lagoon is a geothermal spa that uses hot water (37-40 degrees Celsius/98-102 degrees Fahrenheit) from underground springs that is a byproduct of the power plant located nearby. Volcanic activity of Iceland has its good sides - the heat produced in the process gives the Icelanders electricity, heat and light that makes growing fruit and vegetables possible in the darkness of long, arctic winters.

Blue Lagoon is man made (I'd say half-natural), however it doesn't make it less enjoyable or impressive. The hot water, naturally heated by geothermal processes is taken from the underground sources and the natural solidified lava fields are filled with it. It contains minerals such as sulfur and silicate that give it an outstanding, milky-bluish color. They are also said to have many health benefits and are especially good for your skin.

The experience

The experience of bathing in the milky blue waters of the Blue Lagoon is indescribable. It's like looking at a negative of a photograph or suddenly ending up on a different planet. It all starts upon arrival where you must go through a strict hygiene routine as everyone must take a shower before going to the pools. I have read some stuff on other blogs that you must remove your underwear in a common changing room and that there are no doors in the showers. That is NOT true. There are many open showers, but there are some that are closed.

That said, the pools are outdoor, not covered with any sort of a roof. To go out of the main building might be quite a challenge and it feels really weird (and awesome at the same time) as you're just in your underwear outside when it's below freezing. It's completely opposite to when you are on a beach and the sea cools you down from the heat. Here, when you immerse yourself in the silky smooth hot water, you will no longer feel bothered at all, even by the snowflakes falling on your head! The water is so hot in places that it almost scolds. But overall, the experience is simply amazing, out of this world and I'd love to do it again.

Don't limit yourself only to swimming in the pools, most of the visitors are not aware of the fact that behind the main building there is a little trail where you can admire the lakes and rivers of the white-bluish water flowing through the creases of dark, bare lava fields. It's an amazing sight, totally out of this world so don't miss it!

Now, let's talk about the downside of all this goodness (nothing is perfect in this world, right?). The only downside is... the price. It starts from 35 EUR (40 USD) in winter and 45 EUR (51 USD) in summer. However, you can stay as long as you wish so you can easily relax there for a few hours. I would recommend that you visit it in winter, if you have a chance. It's not only cheaper but also the whole experience is so much more fun when the cold air contrasts with the hot water. You can find more info about the entry fees on the official website.