The Retreat at Blue Lagoon

This sleek and luxurious spa resort was built into Iceland’s volcanic frontier and offers exclusive access to the famous Blue Lagoon.

• The tranquil spa that uses the Blue Lagoon’s revitalizing waters in its treatments.
• The tasting menu at Moss restaurant, which features unique takes on Icelandic cuisine.
• The views from the suites’ floor-to-ceiling windows.

Located just 20 minutes from the Keflavik airport, The Retreat at Blue Lagoon opened in 2018 as Reykjavik’s first five-star hotel and spa resort. The design of the 62-room hotel feels decidedly modern, but the property aims to provide an escape from the stresses of modern life, inviting guests to unplug and relax in its comfortable suites. The accommodations are furnished in tasteful Scandinavian style, with freestanding soaking tubs, private terraces or balconies and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the dramatic landscape of volcanic rock and glistening geothermal waters. The suites also come with Blue Lagoon spa products, a Bluetooth speaker and a tablet customized to each guest’s stay.

The focal point of the property is its spa, which was carved into an 800-year-old lava flow and is encircled by a private section of the Blue Lagoon that is separated from the public pool and reserved for guests of The Retreat. (Guests can also book a VIP section of the lagoon with a self-contained spa, butler and private chef.) Spa treatments are infused with the unique natural elements of the Blue Lagoon: mineral salt, silica and algae. Beyond the spa, the hotel has a state-of-the-art gym and offers daily yoga classes as well as guided hikes.

Dining options include a complimentary breakfast buffet of fresh fruits and vegetables, meats, cheeses, homemade bread and butter, skyr parfaits, green juices and smoothies. There is also a daily coffee break each afternoon, where guests can enjoy traditional Icelandic coffee and pastries. The Moss Restaurant serves a gourmet tasting menu of Icelandic dishes, while the hotel’s two additional on-site restaurants offer more casual fare.

Guests who are visiting during the Northern Lights season from late August to mid-April can arrange for a wake-up call to observe the natural phenomenon from the resort’s indoor viewing area (weather permitting).

Couples who are looking to unplug and unwind in an otherworldly location.

From Keflavik airport, it is an easy drive to The Retreat. Follow the signs for the Blue Lagoon, as the Retreat does not yet have an address on GPS.