Capital Region · Iceland
Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon is Iceland's most famous geothermal spa — a vast outdoor pool of milky-blue seawater rich in silica, sulfur and algae, set in a volcanic lava field near the Reykjanes Peninsula.
About Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon is Iceland's most famous geothermal spa — a vast outdoor pool of milky-blue seawater rich in silica, sulfur and algae, set in a volcanic lava field near the Reykjanes Peninsula.
History & Background
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.
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
