The Sky Lagoon: Iceland's Newest Geothermal Oasis
- Vita By Sam
- Sep 3, 2024
- 4 min read
Updated: Jul 26
Iceland, the land of fire and ice, is known for its breathtaking landscapes, geothermal pools, and unique wellness experiences. Among its latest gems is the Sky Lagoon, a luxurious retreat that perfectly encapsulates the essence of Iceland's natural beauty and rich culture.
The Sky Lagoon holds a special place in my heart, and a memory I will treasure forever. In December 2023 whilst relaxing amidst the enchanting steam rising from the lagoon, my fiancé proposed to me. He managed to conceal the ring in the GoPro handle, and with remarkable ingenuity, he discreetly retrieve it without dropping it into the water!
It is located in close proximity to Reykjavik and it took us about a 20 minutes to drive from the centre of Reyjavik. There is ample free parking when you get there and the Sky Lagoon offers visitors an unforgettable blend of relaxation, rejuvenation, and a deep connection to the stunning Icelandic environment.
Sky Lagoon: A Soothing Escape in a Spectacular Setting
Perched on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, the Sky Lagoon provides a panoramic view of the North Atlantic, creating a serene and awe-inspiring atmosphere. The lagoon's infinity-edge design allows you to feel as if you are seamlessly merging with the ocean, blurring the lines between water and sky. This breathtaking setting, with its endless horizon and occasional views of the Northern Lights, makes the Sky Lagoon a must-visit destination for those seeking both relaxation and an intimate encounter with nature.
The Seven-Step Ritual: A Journey to Well-Being
What sets the Sky Lagoon apart from other geothermal spas is its signature Seven-Step Ritual, inspired by traditional Icelandic bathing culture. This immersive experience is designed to rejuvenate both body and mind, combining the healing properties of geothermal waters with the therapeutic benefits of cold immersion, steam, and exfoliation.
The Lagoon: Begin your journey by immersing yourself in the warm, mineral-rich waters of the lagoon. As you soak, take in the stunning views and let the geothermal heat melt away any tension.
Cold Plunge: After your warm soak, invigorate your senses with a refreshing dip in a cold plunge pool. This step helps to stimulate circulation and boost energy levels. This was quite a shock to my body initially; but mind over matter...keep yourself calm, control your breathing and the reap the benefits.
Sauna: Next, enter the sauna, where the heat will further relax your muscles and detoxify your body. The large window in the sauna offers an uninterrupted view of the ocean, making this a truly meditative experience.
Cold Mist: Step into the cold mist area to cool down after the sauna. The mist refreshes your skin and prepares you for the next stage of the ritual.
Body Scrub: Exfoliate your skin with the Sky Lagoon's unique blend of sea salt and essential oils. This scrub removes dead skin cells, leaving your skin feeling soft and rejuvenated.
Steam Room: Enter the steam room to allow the essential oils from the scrub to penetrate your skin, enhancing its moisture and leaving you with a radiant glow.
Lagoon Relaxation: Finally, return to the warm waters of the lagoon to complete your journey. As you float in the calming waters, take a moment to reflect on the experience and feel the deep sense of relaxation and renewal that the Seven-Step Ritual provides.
A Celebration of Icelandic Design and Culture
The Sky Lagoon is not just a place for relaxation; it’s also a celebration of Icelandic culture and design. The architecture of the lagoon is inspired by traditional Icelandic turf houses, with their grass-covered roofs and natural materials. The design seamlessly integrates with the surrounding landscape, creating a harmonious and authentic experience.
The Sky Lagoon also emphasizes sustainability, using natural materials and geothermal energy to minimize its environmental impact. This commitment to preserving Iceland’s natural beauty ensures that future generations can continue to enjoy this pristine environment.
Practical Information for Your Visit
The Sky Lagoon is located just a short drive from Reykjavik, making it an ideal day trip for visitors to the capital. The facility offers a variety of packages, from basic entry to more luxurious options that include private changing facilities and additional amenities. Whether you’re looking for a quick dip or a full day of pampering, the Sky Lagoon has something to offer.
When planning your visit, consider the time of year. While the Sky Lagoon is a fantastic experience year-round, visiting during the winter months offers the added bonus of potentially witnessing the Northern Lights while you soak in the warm waters. The time of day should also be something to consider; we were there during the day but it would also be stunning at night. Next time we visit, I think we will opt for this experience!
We enjoyed lovely food at the end of our visit which was part of the package my boyfriend purchased. The Sky Platter included a white mould Auður cheese, flavourful Feykir and organic bilberry jam, reindeer, pork and goose wild game pâté with red onion jam, signature gravlax with home-made mustard and dill sauce, served with bread. It also had a serving of Hjónabandssæla (don't ask me to pronounce please!) but it means “happy marriage bliss” and was a delicious type of rhubarb pie.
Conclusion: A Must-Visit Destination in Iceland
The Sky Lagoon is more than just a spa; it’s a transformative experience that allows you to connect with the natural beauty and rich culture of Iceland. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a bit of both, the Sky Lagoon is sure to leave you feeling refreshed and inspired. So next time you find yourself in Iceland, don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in this unique geothermal oasis.
I would highly recommend you book before you attend to avoid disappointment. This is a stunning place to visit and has limited availability per day.
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