Blue Lagoon

According to their new promotional materials, the Blue Lagoon is one of the new 'Wonders of the World'. It's definitely a beautiful spot, though I wonder if that could be a stretch. Locals certainly told us that there were better (or at least cheaper) hot springs to try, but we decided we needed to experience the quintessential Blue Lagoon to at least know what all the fuss was about. 

It is very well run with organized, friendly staff. Included in the standard (expensive!) admission is a locker, drink and face mask. Before admittance, guests are required to watch a video that provides information about how to use the lockers, showers, and the necessity of well conditioning your hair before entering to avoid hair damage from the strong mineral content of the water. I had just had my hair highlighted a couple of weeks before and my daughters were telling me horror stories they had watched on YouTube of guests losing hair, but I didn't have any issues and, after leaving conditioner on for the full 2 hours we were there, I think my hair was actually a lot healthier after we left.

The pools themselves are all a nice temperature, toasty warm, but not hot. They were definitely warm enough that travelers could be comfortable lounging in the winter time and that we felt the need to get out every so often to cool off in the summer. It's mostly a place for lounging, not swimming. Guests walk around the pools with their drinks or sit on the benches lining many of the sides. 'Face masks' are essentially a handful of mud mask that you are given to apply, leave on, and then wash off in the pool when you are ready, adding to the milky bluish white color of the pool. There's a quiet area where pool massages are offered as well as some sauna and steamrooms that are included. One of our favorite spots was a cave like area under a bridge where you could relax in the water away from the crowds.

All in all, it was definitely an experience worth trying once, but probably too expensive to make it a regular visit. For repeat hot spring visits, it would make more sense to try one of the many free or less expensive alternatives in the area. 

After our soak, we had pre booked reservations for the Lava Restaurant. We worried that we might be underdressed, but there were other guests dining in this posh restaurant in their bathrobes so it seems that most any attire is acceptable. We hadn't eaten out in Iceland up to that point so the prices were a bit jaw dropping. However, after later trying a much less exciting restaurant in Reykjavik for similar cost, we realized what a bargain this one was. The service was fantastic! They continually filled up fresh glass bottles of water (something I adore about Iceland is that they repeatedly discourage plastic water bottle use and remind travelers that the tap water is not only safe, but fantastic and better for the environment). The food was also exceptional!! We tried a variety of steak and fish options and all had beautiful presentations. The fresh bread and butter is also delightful. All in all, Lava Restaurant won me over and I regretted my initial dismay over the costs when I saw how well they delivered.... wish I would have ordered even more!