Is the Blue Lagoon naturally hot?

The Blue Lagoon's history dates back to 1976 when it formed next to a geothermal power plant, Svartsengi. Contrary to many people's belief, the lagoon is not a natural hot spring but a pool created by a human-made structure. It's wastewater from a power plant drilling for steam and hot water.



People Also Ask

How is the Blue Lagoon Heated? Geothermal energy. Underground lava flows and natural hot springs heat the lagoon's mix of sea and freshwater. The water is drawn up through geothermal extraction wells from 2-kilometres beneath the Earth's surface.

MORE DETAILS

The Blue Lagoon's history dates back to 1976 when it formed next to a geothermal power plant, Svartsengi. Contrary to many people's belief, the lagoon is not a natural hot spring but a pool created by a human-made structure. It's wastewater from a power plant drilling for steam and hot water.

MORE DETAILS

In the case of the Blue Lagoon, we see blue because the silica that permeates the water only reflects blue and absorbs all other colors!

MORE DETAILS

Unlike boring old regular geothermal water, the composition of the Blue Lagoon is unique—you won't find it anywhere else in the world. It's home to a couple of algae plants also not known to exist elsewhere. This combination has been found to have a number of proven beneficial effects on skin.

MORE DETAILS

Are swim suits required at the Blue Lagoon? Bathing suits are worn in and around all areas of the bathing lagoon, including the sauna. You can bring your own, or rent them from reception. You can also rent towels and bathrobes.

MORE DETAILS

Likewise, you can purchase a swimsuit in the shop at Blue Lagoon. Is there a maximum time allowed in that water? You may spend as much time as you wish enjoying the water. Your entry ticket is valid for the entire day.

MORE DETAILS

The water's iconic color is a result of the way that silica reflects sunlight. Deep in the earth, the water's temperature is a scorching 240° C. By the time the water reaches the lagoon, it is a warm, luxurious 38° C. Geothermal seawater is 70% ocean water and 30% freshwater.

MORE DETAILS

Catching a glimpse of the milky-blue water against the black-rock lava fields, it may not come as a complete surprise that the Blue Lagoon is man-made. Runoff water from the nearby Svartsengi geothermal power plant trickles into the lava fields and a blanket of mineral-rich mud lines the foundations of the Blue Lagoon.

MORE DETAILS

Luckily, this isn't like many other geothermal pools in Iceland! There, sulfuric compounds are the main characters, and everything smells like a million rotten eggs. Misunderstand us correctly; some people might feel like the Blue Lagoon doesn't smell like a bundle of roses!

MORE DETAILS

The seawater in the Blue Lagoon has high levels of silica. Silica is not harmful to hair. However, if your hair gets wet, it can become stiff and difficult to manage. Therefore, we recommend that you apply conditioner to your hair before entering the lagoon--and leave it in your hair while in the lagoon.

MORE DETAILS

Many pregnant women bathe in the lagoon, but it is important that each woman evaluates her own physical condition before entering the water. It is also vital to stay hydrated and nourished during the lagoon experience.

MORE DETAILS

Geothermal heat can make outdoor swimming and bathing in Iceland a gorgeous experience – with some springs and lagoons hitting about 36 °C (96°F). In fact, some bathing areas are too warm to swim in!

MORE DETAILS

But is the lagoon's renowned geothermal seawater harmful to your hair? No, it is not harmful. Geothermal seawater contains high concentrations of minerals, such as sulfur, silica, and magnesium. While these are great for your skin, they can leave your hair feeling dry and matted.

MORE DETAILS

Likewise, you can purchase a swimsuit in the shop at Blue Lagoon. Is there a maximum time allowed in that water? You may spend as much time as you wish enjoying the water. Your entry ticket is valid for the entire day.

MORE DETAILS

The best time to visit the Blue Lagoon is in the evening to enjoy the midnight sun in summer or the northern lights in winter. The average water temperature is 102 F (39 C) all year. The Blue Lagoon is not natural and was formed in 1976.

MORE DETAILS

However, unlike some naturally occurring hot pools the Blue Lagoon is self-cleaning with nine million litres renewed by the aquifers every 40 hours. The pool is checked regularly by the spa for “foreign bacteria” and waterborne diseases, which are a risk in other geothermal pools including in New Zealand.

MORE DETAILS

You are welcome to bring your own towel, robe or slippers. However, towels are included in all packages, so there is no need to bring it with you.

MORE DETAILS

There are instructions on the locker door as well. It is recommended that you leave all your jewelry and watches in the locker and the water might cause some damage to them. After having fun with the locker, you will need to shower before going into the lagoon. It is compulsory to shower and wash with soap.

MORE DETAILS