Iceland’s Blue Lagoon is one of the most popular attractions for travellers looking to spend some time exploring an island where nature is at its most impressive. Whether you stop for just 24 hours on your way to North America or stay for longer on a dedicated holiday, this geothermal spa is definitely worth a visit, despite some people’s complaints that it has become overrun with tourists.

So, with that in mind, here are some handy tips to remember if you’re planning to relax beneath the waters.

Do Book A Transfer

The Blue Lagoon is situated about 45 minutes outside of Reykjavik, where many travellers choose to base themselves on a holiday to Iceland. This means that, unless you plan to hire a car, you will need to book a transfer. There are many different companies offering this (and various other fantastic excursions in Iceland), but we found the cheapest to be Reykjavik Excursions’ ‘Flybus’.

The coaches are clean, comfortable and offer free Wi-Fi, so there’s no need to worry that the service will be too basic. You can either make your way to their city centre terminal yourself or pay slightly more for a convenient pick-up from your hotel.

A lot of people choose to go to the Blue Lagoon on the way to or from the airport, as it is situated just 20 minutes from Keflavik International. So, you can add an airport transfer to your Blue Lagoon trip really easily. There’s also the option to buy a transfer that includes entry to the lagoon, but it’s slightly cheaper to pay this directly and just book the transfer.

Don’t Worry About Upgrading Your Package

When you pay for your entry into the Blue Lagoon (something best done online in advance) there are two options in terms of packages. The basic level package (known as comfort) includes entry, a silica mud mask, use of a towel and a drink.

There is the option to upgrade to the premium package, which offers the addition of slippers, a robe, an extra mask treatment and table reservations at the Lava Restaurant with sparkling wine. However, we found that the comfort option was more than enough for what we needed and provided better value for money. By all means, go for it if it’s in your budget but the restaurant reservation is only good if you plan to splash out on expensive fine dining.

Do Explore All Areas

There are so many hidden areas, obscured caves and secluded spot that it would be easy to miss something if you don’t properly explore. As well as the main pool area, there are steam rooms, saunas, waterfalls you can sit under, submerged seating around the outside and a cave in which you can lie back and watch lights dance on the ceiling whilst listening to a soothing voice over. And that’s without even mentioning the spa treatments which you can pay extra for.

So, swim around and see what you can find and then spend some time relaxing in your favourite spot.

Don’t Forget Your Free Drink

As mentioned above, every entrance comes with a free drink, so don’t forget to claim yours. When you arrive, you will be given an electronic wristband that will allow you to open and close your locker and act as a way of paying for things throughout the day. Your free drink will be loaded onto here so make your way to the swim-up bar for some refreshment.

We were surprised to find that there were few limitations as to what you could have for your free drink. Fruit smoothies, Prosecco, beer and wine were all offered. Just swipe your wristband and enjoy.

Do Stay Hydrated And Wear Sun Cream

As well as making the most of your included drink, you might want to take some water with you or buy more drinks when you’re there. Being in the water for a long time can dehydrate your body and you might not notice until it is too late.

Also, though it might be cold, it’s a good idea to wear sun cream on sunny days. The silica in the water makes it extra reflective and so you may be leaving slightly red-faced if you forget.

Don’t Worry About The Pool Environment

Judging by some of the FAQs on the official website, some people worry about how the pool environment will affect their experience. Whilst the website says that many visitors like to wear flip-flops, we found that the bottom of the pool wasn’t as rough as you might expect and is, therefore, nothing to worry about.

Whilst it obviously is a natural setting, with rocks around the outside and the odd stone of silica under your feet, you’ll be able to relax and make your way around without wondering what could be lurking under the surface.

Do Consider Other Geothermal Swimming Holes

If your budget won’t stretch to the Blue Lagoon or you are travelling in peak season and want to avoid the crowds, there are plenty of other places where you can enjoy Iceland’s geothermal waters. Some of these will require travelling a bit – perfect if you have a car – whilst some can be found in the city centre.

Most are cheaper than the Blue Lagoon and some are even completely free. If you’re feeling adventurous, this website will help you find some natural hot spots, but if you would rather stick to the public baths, try this helpful page.

If you would like to plan a city break in Reykjavik or a holiday in any other part of Iceland, we can tailor-make your stay to suit you. Call us on 0800 988 3369 or click here to send us your enquiry via the website.