Blue Lagoon

Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is located in southwestern Iceland, about 39 kilometers from the capital Reykjavík, and is one of Iceland’s most popular tourist attractions. The area where the Blue Lagoon is situated is one of the most geothermally active regions on Earth. This activity heats the lagoon’s water, causing it to steam. The steam from the heated groundwater near the surface is used to power turbines for electricity generation. After passing through the turbines, the steam turns into hot water, which then provides heat to the municipal hot water heating system via heat exchangers — truly making the most of the resource.

Nearly every visitor to Iceland makes a trip to the Blue Lagoon, one of the country’s top tourist destinations. Formed partly from volcanic lava, it features steaming water flowing into its pools. The average temperature of the bathing and swimming areas in the lagoon is around 40°C. The mineral-rich waters contain elements such as silica and sulfur, and soaking in the Blue Lagoon can help treat certain skin conditions, such as psoriasis. The Blue Lagoon has become somewhat of an iconic photo spot in Iceland, with many people enjoying the turquoise waters. As a world-famous open-air geothermal spa, even in the snowy winter months, the lagoon remains enveloped in steam, creating a dreamy, misty atmosphere. Immersing yourself in it feels like stepping into a hazy, otherworldly realm.