reykjanes
Blue Lagoon
About Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon is Iceland's most famous geothermal spa, set in a dramatic lava field on the Reykjanes peninsula. The milky-blue water, rich in silica, algae, and minerals, maintains a comfortable temperature of 37–40°C year-round. Visitors can apply complimentary silica and algae face masks while soaking. The complex includes a restaurant, spa treatments, and the high-end Retreat Hotel. Pre-booking is mandatory as the lagoon has capacity limits. The water originates from the nearby Svartsengi geothermal power plant and is renewed every 40 hours.
🐉 Legends of Blue Lagoon
Blue Lagoon has been part of Icelandic folklore for generations. Local tales speak of hidden people (huldufólk) and other supernatural beings who inhabit the area. According to tradition, this place deserves respect and visitors should be mindful of the ancient spirits who call it home.
📖 History of Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon is not entirely natural — it formed accidentally in 1976 from the run-off water of the nearby Svartsengi geothermal power plant. Workers at the plant noticed the warm mineral-rich water accumulating in the lava field. Locals began bathing in it in 1981 after noticing it helped their psoriasis. The spa was officially opened in 1987 and has since become Iceland's most visited tourist attraction. The water is rich in silica mud and mineral salts with documented healing properties for skin conditions.
✈️ Why Visit
Top-rated tourist attraction with in-water bar and silica masks
💡 Did You Know?
Water temperature stays at 37–40°C year-round
Key Facts
Formed accidentally from geothermal power plant run-off in 1976
Water temperature maintained at approximately 38–40°C
Rich in silica, sulfur and algae with skin-healing properties
Iceland's most visited tourist attraction
Located near Keflavík International Airport — easy to visit on arrival or departure
💎 Hidden Gems
Steam Patterns
Watch how the steam patterns change with wind direction and temperature throughout the day.
On cold mornings, the steam is most dramatic, creating an otherworldly atmosphere that photographs beautifully.
Mineral Colors
Notice the vivid colors around the geothermal features — yellow sulfur, red iron oxide, and green algae.
These colors represent different minerals deposited by the hot water, creating a natural palette unique to each hot spring.
Bubbling Mud Pots
If present, the bubbling mud pots are mesmerizing to watch — each bubble is a small volcanic event.
The mud is created by acidic steam breaking down the surrounding rock, and each site has a unique bubbling rhythm.
🕐 Best Time
Year-round, less crowded on weekdays and early morning
🚗 Access
20 minutes from Keflavík Airport, 50 minutes from Reykjavík. Bus service available. Must pre-book.
⏱ Duration
2–4 hours
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to touch the geothermal water?▾
Never touch geothermal water unless at a designated bathing area. Water temperatures can exceed 100°C and cause severe burns.
Can I visit geothermal areas year-round?▾
Yes, most geothermal areas are open year-round. The steam is even more dramatic in cold winter weather.
Do I need to stay on boardwalks?▾
Yes, always stay on marked paths and boardwalks. The ground near geothermal features can be thin and unstable.
📍 GPS Location
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