Discover Sky Lagoon Iceland: Embrace Open-Sky Bathing Culture,

There’s nothing quite like immersing yourself in a country’s culture to really get a feel for a place. In Iceland, that means taking part in one of its most time-honored traditions: geothermal bathing. With some form of geothermal bathing pool in almost every town in Iceland, as part of the unique Iceland experiences, it’s no surprise that they have an entire culture surrounding community bathing. From natural hot springs to manmade infinity pools, there are plenty of soothing spots to dip your toe in this Nordic country.

While the Blue Lagoon has long been the iconic attraction of the nation, a new thermal pool that opened in March 2021 promises an even more luxurious experience. Nestled in a cliffside between two towering lava rock walls, the manmade Sky Lagoon, as it is aptly named, features views of the Kàrsnes Harbour over a breathtaking 230-foot infinity edge. The sustainable pool design, organic bath products, and healing 7-step bathing ritual make this a must-visit for eco-conscious travelers looking to unwind.

Health Benefits of Geothermal Bathing

For centuries, Icelanders have used geothermal bathing to cope with the freezing temperatures of their harsh winters. However, Icelandic bathing culture is about more than just staying warm; it’s a way of staying healthy through holistic practices. The geothermal lagoons, filled with natural minerals, have been known to have many healing benefits, from soothing arthritis to stimulating the lymphatic system, detoxifying the body, and relieving nasal congestion. By taking long soaks coupled with saunas and cold therapy, Icelanders promote mental and physical wellbeing year round. 

The Sky Lagoon

Situated just 15 minutes outside Reykjavik by car, the Sky Lagoon offers an Iceland experiences thermal bathing unlike any other. There are four packages to choose from when visiting the Sky Lagoon: the Pure Lite Pass, Pure Pass, Sky Pass, and Sky Lagoon for Two. To partake in the 7-step ritual, you’ll need to choose the Pure Pass, Sky Pass, or Sky Lagoon for Two.

Sustainability

Run by CEO Dagný Hrönn Pétursdóttir, who spent ten years overseeing the Blue Lagoon, the Sky Lagoon fuses old-world bathing techniques with sustainable innovations and an eco-forward design. The lagoon offers Iceland experiences, receiving a constant influx of fresh geothermal water with a temperature between 38–40°C or 100–104°F, which is the equivalent of a hot bath. The water circulating out of the pool is then used to heat the showers, the rest of the building, and the exterior pavement to keep snow and ice from forming.

7 Step Spa Ritual 

With the Pure Pass or higher, you can experience the full bathing ritual of the Sky Lagoon. These steps have been designed to promote relaxation, invigorate the senses, and boost your immune system. During the ritual, you’ll have access to Sky’s signature body care line, Vor, which features organic body oil and organic body lotion made with natural, calming herbs. While there is a main changing area, you can also use the private changing rooms on-site if that is more comfortable. Here’s what to expect from the ritual:

1. Relax in the lagoon
2. Cold plunge pool
3. 5-10 minute sauna
4. Walk through cool mist
5. Exfoliate with cleansing scrub
6. Steam room
7. Gentle rain shower

The Sky Lagoon Vs. The Blue Lagoon

Offering two unique, incredible experiences, the Sky Lagoon and the Blue Lagoon, both providing Iceland experiences, are both worthy of a visit. As they are very close to Reykjavik, some visitors go to one the first day and the other the next. However, they’re only a 30-minute drive from one another, so it could also be possible to do both in one day if you feel ambitious.

While the Sky Lagoon is growing in popularity, the Blue Lagoon holds the crown as Iceland’s most popular tourist attraction. Named a Wonder of the World by National Geographic, this lagoon is so popular that it is visited by 80% of tourists coming to the country. The milky blue color it is known for is caused by the mixture of sulfur and silicate found in the water, which has detoxifying benefits. 

However, the Blue Lagoon caters to families, allowing children to accompany their parents. So if you are hoping for a quiet, adults-only afternoon in a more intimate pool, then the Sky Lagoon is the best choice. The Sky Lagoon’s Ritual is also far more luxurious, with more steps and higher-end spa products. 

The only downside of the Sky Lagoon is that the food options are limited to baked goods and small tasting plates at their Sky Café and the Smakk Bar. At the Blue Lagoon, however, there are two more gourmet options: the on-site Lava Restaurant and Moss Restaurant at the Retreat Hotel. 

The Sky’s the Limit

Those wishing to visit the Sky Lagoon won’t be disappointed by the bathing experience. Despite the intense cold of an Icelandic winter, immersing yourself in this geothermal lagoon and taking in the incredible views makes it much more bearable. For some lucky travelers, these views will be made even more surreal by the appearance of the Northern Lights and/or volcanic activity at the Meradalir volcano in the distance. Combine the best of Icelandic bathing culture with a luxurious, relaxing approach, and it’s a perfect oasis. As you soak in the sustainably-heated geothermal waters, you’ll experience total bliss as all your worries float away, creating unforgettable Iceland experiences.