Attention all spa enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and Instagram photo opportunists! Have you ever dreamt of soaking in a hot spring surrounded by stunning natural scenery, with the occasional glimpse of Northern Lights dancing above you? If yes, then Iceland should definitely be on your bucket list. But with so many geothermal wonders to choose from, how do you decide which one to visit? I have taken it upon myself to compare two of the most talked-about hot springs in Iceland: the legendary Blue Lagoon and the brand new kid on the block, the Sky Lagoon. I’m sure you can imagine how terrible it must have been to visit two geothermal spas in one trip simply for research. Ok, you got me. Of course it wasn’t ONLY for research.
Meet the Contenders
First, let’s meet the contenders. The Blue Lagoon is a world-famous geothermal spa located in a lava field in Grindavik, about 50 kilometers southwest of Reykjavik. Its milky-blue water is rich in minerals like silica and sulfur, which are said to have healing properties for the skin. The Blue Lagoon has been a popular tourist destination since the 1980s, and for good reason: where else can you soak in a warm, steamy pool surrounded by rugged volcanic landscapes, while sipping on a refreshing drink from the swim-up bar?
But wait, there’s a new hot spring in town! The Sky Lagoon opened its doors in April 2021, and it’s already making waves (pun intended) in the Icelandic spa scene. Located in the heart of Reykjavik, the Sky Lagoon boasts panoramic views of the ocean, the city skyline, and the nearby mountains. Its sleek and modern design includes a giant infinity pool, a sauna, a cold plunge pool, and even a swim-up bar (because what’s a hot spring without a drink in hand, am I right?).
So, which one should you choose: the Blue Lagoon or the Sky Lagoon? Let’s dive in and find out.
The Blue Lagoon (The OG, Mac Daddy)
First, let’s take a look at the Blue Lagoon. This iconic spa boasts milky-blue waters rich in minerals like silica and sulfur, which are said to have healing properties for the skin. But that’s not all – the Blue Lagoon has a lot more to offer. There’s the Silica Hotel, a luxurious accommodation that offers exclusive access to the lagoon. And if you’re looking for the ultimate spa experience, the Retreat Spa at the Blue Lagoon is the place to be. Here, you can indulge in floating therapy and receive an in water massage!
The Blue Lagoon has an in water Mask Bar, where you can try out mineral and algae masks. You can also relax in the sauna or steam room. And when hunger strikes, the Blue Lagoon has got you covered with its restaurants and in-water bar serving drinks (both alcoholic and alcohol-free) and smoothies.
Blue Lagoon Packages
Now, let’s talk about the packages offered at the Blue Lagoon. These package prices are starting prices. The prices vary based on date, time, and availability. Children aged 13 and younger are admitted for free when accompanied by a parent or guardian. Children under the age of 2 are not permitted and children ages 8 and under must wear arm floaties.
The Comfort Package (USD 65) includes entrance to the lagoon, a silica mud mask, use of towel, and one drink.
The Premium Package (USD 83) offers all of the above, plus two additional masks, a bathrobe, and one glass of sparkling wine at the Lava Restaurant. This is the package that I chose for myself, my husband, and stepdaughter on our recent trip. I thought this package was perfect. Brooklyn’s admission was free since she is under 13, but she received the basic comfort package since she was free. She didn’t receive the 3 mud masks or the bath robe.
And if you’re feeling extra fancy, the Retreat Spa package (USD 498) gives you five luxurious hours at the Retreat Spa, complete with a private changing room, a Blue Lagoon Ritual, a 90-minute in-water massage, and more.
Sky Lagoon
But what about the Sky Lagoon? This brand new hot spring has already made a splash (pun intended) with its stunning ocean views and sleek, modern design. The infinity pool is the star of the show, offering panoramic vistas of the sea, the city skyline, and the nearby mountains. And just like the Blue Lagoon, the Sky Lagoon has its own swim-up bar, serving up drinks and light bites.
So, what’s on the menu at the Sky Lagoon? At the moment, there are no accommodation options or retreat spas, but there are plans for a luxury hotel in the future. However, the Sky Lagoon does have its own skincare line, featuring products inspired by Icelandic nature. And for those looking for a little extra pampering, there are two types of massages available: the Sky Lagoon Signature Massage and the Deep Tissue Massage.
One thing that sets the Sky Lagoon apart from the Blue Lagoon is the ambiance. While the Blue Lagoon is surrounded by volcanic rock formations, the Sky Lagoon offers a more open and airy setting, with stunning views of the ocean and the city of Reykjavik. It’s a great choice if you want to feel like you’re floating in the clouds!
Sky Lagoon Packages
When it comes to admission, the Sky Lagoon offers three different passes to choose from. These also vary in price depending on the time, date, and availability. Children under the age of 12 are not permitted at the Sky Lagoon. Children ages 12-14 must have a guardian present. The prices for children are cheaper than adult admission, but also vary. The prices listed below are all starting prices.
The Pure Lite Pass (USD 55) includes admission, public changing facilities, and a towel.
The Pure Pass (USD 80) adds a journey through the seven-step ritual, which includes the lagoon, cold plunge, sauna, cold mist, sky scrub, steam room, and shower. This is the package that I chose for our family. I didn’t think it was worth it to to pay that much extra money for a private changing room. They do offer restrooms in the changing room, and my step-daughter utilized that to change into her swimsuit.
The Sky Pass (USD 150) includes everything from the Pure Pass, plus access to a private changing facility.
The seven-step ritual is a unique feature of the Sky Lagoon, and it’s definitely worth trying out. It’s a series of different experiences designed to invigorate your senses and leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. It starts with a dip in the lagoon, followed by a cold plunge, a visit to the sauna, a refreshing mist, a body scrub, a steam room session, and a shower. It’s a great way to experience the full range of geothermal sensations that Iceland has to offer. You do only get one journey through the ritual, so I recommend you spend as much time as you’d like in each step. The panoramic views from the dry sauna were breath-taking.
Similarities
Both spas offer tiers of packages that vary pricing based on demand. Both spas offer an in-water bar. They both offer showers with partitions for privacy as well as Wash Closets (restrooms for the Americans reading this). They both offer luggage storage for a small fee.
Differences
One thing to note is that the sauna and steam room at the Blue Lagoon are included in the regular admission price, while at the Sky Lagoon, they are part of the seven-step ritual and require the Pure or Sky Pass. However, the Sky Lagoon does offer a unique and immersive experience that some may feel is worth the extra cost. The Blue Lagoon includes a mask and drink with each package. The Sky Lagoon does not include either.
My Thoughts
Both spas were unique and breathtaking in their own way. The rugged landscape of the Blue Lagoon combined with the milky water, and steam rolling off seemed magical. It felt like I was in a fairytale. Children were allowed at the Blue Lagoon to age 2. I did see a lot of children, but it did not hinder or disrupt my experience. All of the children seemed extremely well behaved.
We chose to visit the Sky Lagoon at night. We visited the Blue Lagoon around 11 am before our evening flight. The Sky Lagoon did have a more “adult feel.” I’m not sure if this is because no children under age 12 are allowed, because we visited at night, or because it is new and modern looking. The views were incredible overlooking the ocean. I felt like it was a very sophisticated experience if that makes sense. My husband and I felt as if the Blue Lagoon was our choice, but my step-daughter liked the Sky Lagoon best.
So, which one is right for you? Both the Blue Lagoon and the Sky Lagoon offer their own unique experiences, and it really depends on what you’re looking for. If you want a classic geothermal spa experience with all the bells and whistles, the Blue Lagoon is the way to go. But if you’re after something more modern and Instagram-worthy, the Sky Lagoon is definitely worth checking out. Whatever you choose, you’re sure to have an unforgettable time soaking in Iceland’s geothermal wonders.
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