Here’s what it’s like to spend the night at the Retreat at Blue Lagoon.
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During my first trip to Iceland in 2019, the very first thing I did upon landing was head to the Blue Lagoon, located in the heart of the Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark. I’d read about the natural wonder for years and was ecstatic that I’d made it to this dream destination. As I relaxed in the mineral-rich waters, blissed out at the mask bar, and sipped on a crisp glass of prosecco, I remember thinking, “I wish I could stay here forever.” Consequently, while it’s not possible to become a permanent resident of the Blue Lagoon, I did the next best thing: I returned as a guest of the attraction’s luxury hotel, The Retreat at Blue Lagoon.
The Retreat Hotel
There are 62 rooms at the Retreat, and I stayed in one of the junior lava suites. Walking into the suite, I instantly fell in love with the understated nature of the room. The suite was spacious, intentionally simple, and designed to draw your eyes to the breathtaking views of lava fields and the lagoon just outside the bedroom. The award-winning architectural highlights featured sleek Nordic furniture, a gorgeous white bathtub that served as the ideal setting for relaxation, and dramatic floor-to-ceiling windows that led to a private outdoor terrace where I could take in the magnificent midnight sun phenomenon from the comfort of my room.
Iceland’s Luxurious Blue Lagoon Hotel
After a jet lag-induced nap and quick shower, I changed into my swimsuit, grabbed a robe from the bathroom, and headed out into the Retreat. Guests roamed the property in fluffy white robes and flip-flops, ready to wade into the pearly-blue lagoon waters. I walked out of the building and into the brisk summer air, then quickly made my way into the Retreat Lagoon for the first of many serenity-filled soaks.
The Retreat Lagoon
Wandering around the Retreat Lagoon felt like stepping foot onto another planet. In contrast to the large crowds and boisterous energy of the Blue Lagoon, the atmosphere at the Retreat Lagoon was much more tranquil, with a no-phones policy in place to ensure maximum privacy and solitude. As I explored the hidden canyons and coves looking for the perfect lounge spot, I couldn’t help but admire the astonishing beauty of the Blue Lagoon — and Iceland’s dedication to preserve this natural landmark. When I finally found a prime location to bask in the geothermal hot spring, I sank into the water and slowly fell into a state of pure bliss.
The Spa Treatments
While all Blue Lagoon visitors have the opportunity to try some of the purifying face masks (as I did my first time around), the Retreat offers an array of enhanced treatments to completely detoxify and rejuvenate your skin. The Ritual is the Retreat’s signature wellness offering, and the three-step treatment showcases the Blue Lagoon’s exclusive skincare products, made with ingredients sourced from the lagoon itself. I began with a face and body exfoliation scrub, followed by a moisturizing silica cleanser, and then locked in the reparative moisture with a nourishing algae blend. Consequently, I was left with smooth, glowing skin.
Additionally, there are saunas and steam rooms located throughout the spa, but it’s a secluded area of the lagoon where the most special treatment can be found: the in-water massage. Created and perfected at the Blue Lagoon, this unique spa experience aims to unlock new levels of well-being in the mind, body, and spirit while utilizing the restorative elements from the lagoon itself.
Sandwiched between a yoga mat and blanket, I closed my eyes and let my massage therapist work her magic. I felt all of my stress and worries melt away in real time as she anointed my pressure points with mineral-infused massage oil and guided me through the private lagoon area on my floating mat. The in-water massage left me feeling light, undoubtedly ranking as the most unique therapeutic experience I’ve ever had.
The Food
Between my daily massages and dips in the Blue Lagoon, I grabbed a bite to eat at the Spa Restaurant or Lava Restaurant, both conveniently located just steps away from the lagoon entrance and offering light and modern fare to keep my energy up during the day. The culinary highlight of my trip was dining at Moss, the Retreat’s acclaimed fine-dining establishment. Recommended by the 2020 Michelin Guide, Moss is situated at the highest point of the Retreat, complete with spectacular views of the volcanic horizon. Its incredible seasonal menu showcases the freshest ingredients that Iceland has to offer. My seven-course meal included flavorful local produce, meats, and seafood, paired expertly with delicious wine to complement each dish.
My four days at the Retreat at Blue Lagoon were unforgettable. This oasis provided the ideal environment for me to rest, recover, and reset from the pressures of everyday life. Although I don’t know when I’ll return to Iceland, the memories from this wellness getaway will last a lifetime.
