Day 1: Arrival and Geothermal Grandeur
10:00 AM – Arrival in Reykjavik Touchdown in Reykjavik, Iceland’s charming capital, where the air is crisp, and the landscape looks like it’s been lifted straight from a fantasy novel. I check into a quaint hotel with minimalist decor – a style that’s either chic or unfinished, depending on your perspective.
11:30 AM – Journey to the Blue Lagoon I embark on the short journey to the Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa located in a lava field in Grindavík. The ride offers stunning views of volcanic landscapes, making me feel like I’ve landed on another planet. Half-expecting to see hobbits and elves frolicking in the moss-covered terrain, I secretly hope that the the nearby volcano manages to contain itself for the next few hours at least.
12:30 PM – Arrival at the Blue Lagoon Arriving at the Blue Lagoon, I’m greeted by the sight of milky-blue water contrasting sharply with the black lava rocks. The steam rising from the lagoon creates an ethereal, almost mystical atmosphere. I change into my swimwear and prepare to immerse myself in the steamy waters.
1:00 PM – Immersion and Relaxation The moment I step into the lagoon, I’m enveloped in warmth. The water, rich in minerals like silica and sulfur, feels wonderfully soothing. I float around aimlessly, occasionally bumping into other tourists who are equally blissed out. It’s like a giant, communal bath where everyone’s forgotten their personal space but nobody seems to mind.
2:00 PM – Silica Mud Masks Part of the Blue Lagoon experience is the complimentary silica mud mask. I slather the white goo on my face, feeling slightly ridiculous but optimistic about the promised skincare benefits. After ten minutes, I rinse off and can almost believe that my skin is now as smooth as a baby’s bottom.
3:00 PM – Lagoon Bar Feeling peckish, I swim over to the lagoon bar. Yes, you read that correctly – a bar in the lagoon. I order a Skyr smoothie, which is deliciously creamy and makes me feel marginally healthier. For those inclined towards indulgence, there’s also a selection of beers and wines. Drinking in a hot spring feels like the epitome of luxury.
4:00 PM – In-Water Massage I decide to splurge on an in-water massage. Lying on a floating mat, I’m expertly kneaded by a therapist while still partially submerged in the warm water. It’s an experience so relaxing I almost drift off to sleep. It’s official: I’ve reached peak relaxation.
5:00 PM – Sauna and Steam Room Post-massage, I explore the sauna and steam room, built into the lava rock. The intense heat is invigorating, and the steam room, with its earthy scent, feels like a natural detox. Alternating between the hot rooms and the cold plunge pool is both torturous and strangely exhilarating.
7:00 PM – Dinner at Lava Restaurant Feeling slightly prune like, I may have stayed in too long so I dry off and head to the on-site Lava Restaurant for dinner. The dining room boasts floor-to-ceiling windows with views of the lagoon, creating a breathtaking backdrop. I opt for the tasting menu, which features Icelandic delicacies such as lamb and fresh fish. Each dish is a testament to the country’s culinary prowess.
9:00 PM – Return to Reykjavik Sated and thoroughly relaxed, I head back to Reykjavik. The ride is peaceful, the landscape now shrouded in twilight. Iceland’s long summer days mean the sky is still light, casting an ethereal glow over the lava fields.
Day 2: Reykjavik and Departure
9:00 AM – Morning in Reykjavik The next morning, I explore Reykjavik. The city is quaint, with colorful buildings and quirky street art. I visit Hallgrímskirkja, the iconic church that looks suspiciously like an oversized pipe organ. The view from the top is worth the climb, offering panoramic vistas of the city and surrounding mountains.
11:00 AM – Reykjavik Roasters I stop by Reykjavik Roasters for a coffee, where the baristas take their craft as seriously as Icelanders take their sagas. The coffee is excellent, and I momentarily consider relocating to Reykjavik just for the caffeine.
12:00 PM – Harpa Concert Hall Next, I visit Harpa Concert Hall, an architectural marvel with its glass facade reflecting the sea. It’s a hub of culture, and I manage to catch a lunchtime concert, which is a delightful surprise. The acoustics are superb, and it’s a lovely way to spend an hour.
2:00 PM – Lunch at Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur For lunch, I head to Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, a famous hot dog stand. The hot dogs, topped with crispy onions, ketchup, mustard, and remoulade, are surprisingly delicious. Even Bill Clinton ate here, and if it’s good enough for a former president, it’s good enough for me.
3:00 PM – Final Wander I take a final wander around the Old Harbour, soaking in the sights and sounds of the city. There’s a quaint charm to Reykjavik, with its mix of old-world fishing village vibes and modern Scandinavian design.
5:00 PM – Departure As my time in Iceland comes to a close, I head to the airport, reluctantly bidding farewell to this land of fire and ice. The Blue Lagoon was a highlight, a surreal and soothing experience that perfectly encapsulates the magic of Iceland. Until next time, I leave with memories of milky-blue waters, volcanic landscapes, and a profound sense of relaxation.
