First Look: The Retreat at Blue Lagoon

The The Retreat at Blue Lagoon will be Iceland's first five-star hotel and spa resort, opening this February.

Suite 60

Suite 60

Spa Bar

Iceland continues to soar in popularity among American travelers, and chances are, even if you haven’t been there already, you’ve probably heard of the Blue Lagoon. One of the most visited attractions in Iceland, this geothermal spa is situated in a manmade lagoon with mineral-rich waters sourced from the neighboring geothermal power plant. It’s a popular stop between the international airport and the capital of Reykjavik.

The property combines a “subterranean spa” experience with five-star accommodations and dining. To quote the official website, the Retreat is “built into an 800-year-old lava flow on the south shore of the Blue Lagoon”—tapping into the “same volcanic aquifer of geothermal seawater as the Blue Lagoon.”

Surrounded by the Lava Lagoon’s turquoise waters, The Retreat will have 62 guest rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows and balconies or terraces opening onto the dramatic volcanic landscape. Some suites have direct access to a private lagoon. Top digs: The Blue Lagoon Suite, which sprawls across multiple levels. Note that adjoining rooms are available.

What’s more, the Moss restaurant is billed as a foodie destination highlighting the country’s culinary heritage. To quote the official website: “Everything is prepared with an affection for this island and the bounty of nourishment brought forth from its seas, its mountains, its farmlands, and its geothermal greenhouses.”

As reported by Travel + Leisure, this new hospitality experience is about a 10-minute walk from the Blue Lagoon.