When visiting Iceland, one of the first places on people’s bucket lists is the mystical Blue Lagoon with its fluorescent blue alien-like geothermal water, but it’s not the only option now. This provides a potential dilemma of which to visit. Now dilemma’s are not something we like to leave unsolved so on our latest research visit to Iceland, we thought we’d give them both a go and let you know our feedback! First, though we’ve given you an overview of both.

The Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon in Iceland is a world-renowned geothermal spa, offers a one-of-a-kind experience amidst breathtaking natural landscapes. Located in a lava field in the Reykjanes Peninsula, just 40 minutes from Reykjavík and 20 minutes from Keflavík International Airport, it has become one of Iceland’s most iconic destinations.

The lagoon’s mineral-rich, milky-blue waters are naturally heated to a soothing 37–40°C (98–104°F), making it a perfect place to relax regardless of the weather. Its water is supplied by the nearby Svartsengi geothermal power plant, where deep underground hot water mixes with silica, algae, and minerals, giving the lagoon its unique colour and reputed skin-nourishing properties.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of amenities, including in-water massages, saunas, steam rooms, and a swim-up bar. The Blue Lagoon also offers a luxurious retreat experience at its nearby hotel, where guests can indulge in exclusive spa treatments and enjoy private access to smaller lagoons.

Whether you’re seeking relaxation, natural beauty, or a memorable wellness experience, the Blue Lagoon is a must-visit destination on any Icelandic itinerary, blending modern luxury with the raw power of Iceland’s geothermal energy.

Sky Lagoon

The Sky Lagoon is one of Iceland’s newest geothermal spa experiences, offering a serene escape just minutes from downtown Reykjavík. Opened in 2021, this luxurious lagoon immerses visitors in a blend of modern elegance and Icelandic tradition, making it an ideal stop for those seeking both relaxation and a connection to Iceland’s natural beauty.

Set against the backdrop of the North Atlantic Ocean, Sky Lagoon’s infinity-edge design allows bathers to soak while taking in unobstructed views of the sea, rugged cliffs, and often, dramatic sunsets or even the Northern Lights during winter months. The geothermal waters, heated to a comfortable 38–40°C (100–104°F), provide the ultimate relaxation, enveloping guests in warmth regardless of the weather.

A highlight of the Sky Lagoon experience is the seven-step Ritual, inspired by traditional Icelandic bathing culture. This rejuvenating journey includes a refreshing cold plunge, a cleansing body scrub with local salt, and time in the sauna, steam room, and cold mist. This therapeutic cycle leaves visitors feeling invigorated and refreshed.

With its modern design, stunning views, and emphasis on wellness, the Sky Lagoon offers a tranquil and rejuvenating experience, perfect for those looking to relax and recharge while exploring Iceland.

So which is better?

In terms of actual spa experience, this is an easy one. The Sky Lagoon definitely has a less touristy feel, manages its crowds better and feels classier. It was busy when we visited, the car park was full but it didn’t feel overcrowded. The seven-step ritual was managed very well and it left you feeling as though you’d had a unique experience. The views are stunning and all from the backdrop of a outdoor thermal spa chiselled into volcanic rock.

However, the Blue Lagoon is the Blue Lagoon and the allure of the fluorescent blue box-ticking water is strong! There are just certain places you have to go when visiting if you’ve not been before… the Eiffel Tower in Paris, Dracula’s Castle in Transylvania or The Colosseum in Rome, regardless of what you’ve heard, you need to decide for yourself! And that’s not to say the experience is a bad one at the Blue Lagoon, far from it, it’s still a pick yourself moment as you bath in a blight blue geothermal pool in the middle of an old lava field near a volcano that’s even erupted this year! But it does feel a little more chaotic maneuvering the crowded changing rooms and queuing for your face masks and/or drinks. It’s worth noting that we visited when the car park 25% full so we can only imagine what it’s like when it’s full during the peak of the day.

So if you are faced with the same dilemma, then you’ll need to decide what’s important to you, if it’s the experience, then you should book the Sky Lagoon, but if it’s the “instagramable” shots then the Blue Lagoon is for you. Alternatively, you can just swing past the Blue Lagoon, on arrival (it’s near the airport) and have your picture taken by the blue pools outside of the complex and head on to the Sky Lagoon later in your trip and experience the 7-step ritual! Whichever you choose you’ll still enjoy yourself in this island of fantasy that is Iceland.

If you’re potentially interested in Iceland please don’t hesitate to register this with us at info@untravelledpaths.com. We are working on a fabulous once in a life time trip there as we speak so we’ll be able to let you know as soon as this is released!

Written by James Chisnall