THE Retreat at Blue Lagoon is an award-winning spa hotel located close to the Icelandic capital Reykjavik and set upon a private inlet of the Unesco Global Geopark. Home to Iceland’s iconic Blue Lagoon, a spectacular location is renowned as one of the 25 Wonders of the World because of the healing powers of the surrounding geothermal seawater.
Lagoon Suite
It’s raining and as I pull up in my hire car the entire landscape appears otherworldly with its undulating lava fields covered in vibrant green moss. I’m welcomed into the tranquility of the lobby and led upstairs to soak up the scene from the open-air roof top which overlooks the thermal waters below.
A fire pit surrounded by cozy seating makes this the perfect spot to enjoy the majestic Northern Lights between the optimal viewing months of September to April.
Lobby
My Moss Junior Suite is furnished in earthy tones through the use of varying natural textures, from wood and stone to wool and cotton. Aside from floor-to-ceiling windows, there is a heavy door that opens out onto a balcony with views of the volcanic landscape and serene waters.
I am even able to marvel at this vista before darkness falls from my window side stand-alone bath, which is accompanied by a shelf filled with generous-sized bottles of Blue Lagoon amenities.
I ease myself into the relaxing groove of spa life here by appearing in fluffy white slippers and bathrobe over my swimsuit in preparation for my treatment. I slip downstairs to sit beside a funnel-shaped fire in the lobby lounge where I indulge in a champagne-fuelled afternoon tea while gazing out of the window that frames one of the azure steamy geothermal water pools.
Spa
The Retreat Spa is a subterranean sanctuary, carved into the volcanic earth with plenty of cocooning nooks for relaxation. There are also three dimly-lit cavernous interconnected chambers, home to The Retreat’s three-part skin-enhancing ritual based on the trinity of natural wonders featuring minerals found in the waters for guests to utilise throughout their stay.
Lagoon
Heading outside, I meet up with my therapist for an indulgent 45-minute Float Therapy session, a recently launched treatment held in a secluded and private inlet within the Lagoon. This treatment targets bone structure and joints to relieve spinal tension, and as my body is manipulated through gentle movements, I gently doze in and out of a meditative state.
The hypnotic interplay of weightlessness and light massage leaves me with a feeling of relaxed euphoria as if my mind has been rebooted and my body has been rejuvenated.
Lounge
Two dining options here include Lava Restaurant, built into a staggering lava cliff, with views over the Blue Lagoon. This lively destination offers a varied menu featuring traditional Icelandic dishes, including plenty of meat and fish, with each dish focusing on the best and seasonal local ingredients.
Moss Restaurant is an extravagant, recently awarded Michelin-starred fine dining experience, which showcases Iceland’s vast diversity with a deep respect for when and where ingredients are most desirable.
Each plate is presented as a dramatic masterpiece, displayed on chinaware specially created in Belgium for one of the most celebrated chefs in Iceland, Raymond Blanc protégé Agnar (Aggi) Sverrison, who helms the theatrical kitchen with standout service.
Wine Cellar
After dinner, I’m encouraged to take a peek into the wine cave, where the sommelier leads wine-tasting experiences. Taking the elevator a few floors down, I’m led into a spacious volcanic grotto, where the staggering, once-molten walls are now filled with wines from across the world.
Although this experience is temporarily closed due to the recent volcanic eruptions, (as of March 2024), a thrilling highlight of any trip to Iceland is an ATV experience with 4x4adventuresiceland.is to traverse Iceland’s rugged terrain and otherworldly vistas.
Led by an expert and experienced guide, my adrenaline-pumping morning ensures another unforgettable memory as we cut through historic lava fields, cross icy- glacial rivers and ride up mountains and down along the salty-coastline heading to the black sandy beach of Sealbay. Breathtaking!
by Amanda Bernstein
The Retreat at Blue Lagoon rates start from £1,294 per night for a Moss Junior Suite (min. 2 night stay) on a BnB basis, between the dates of 1 October – 21 December 2023. To book, please visit Blue Lagoon
Icelandair: Return economy fares from London Heathrow to Keflavik with Icelandair start from £175pp
ATV experience with www.4x4adventuresiceland.is