Sky Lagoon is another easy escape from city life just minutes from the center of Reykjavík. Touted as being “inspired by the midnight sun” (which can be seen in the summer months at that latitude), this oceanside thermal spa is designed for ultimate relaxation.
With a seven-step procedure, guests go from tense to tranquil, participating in the ancient culture of Icelandic bathing.
History
Sky Lagoon is a recent addition to Iceland’s already numerous hot springs and spas. It was constructed for an estimated $50 million USD over the period of 15 months. If that’s not already ambitious enough, note this: the country was in complete lockdown at the time, as COVID-19 had begun to send people into isolation.
Despite the difficult circumstances surrounding its construction, this spa was created with sustainability at the center of everything. Iceland generates power for the whole island from hydropower and geothermal fueled by the hundreds of hot springs found around the country. Geothermal is what most homes are heated with.
Sky Lagoon consulted with experts to design an eco-friendly facility and a sustainable food and beverage program. They reduce, reuse and recycle wherever possible and use geothermal water to heat buildings, sidewalks, showers, etc.
A turf wall helps insulate against harsh winter conditions. They’ve eliminated the need for single-use plastic and spa robes and source local ingredients in dining areas.
The Pools and Other Activities
The lengthy process known as The Ritual is seven steps from start to finish and makes use of all of the facilities Sky Lagoon has to offer:
Step 1. Lagoon
Start your time here with a relaxing soak in the warm, geothermal and lightly-chlorinated waters of the cave-like Lagoon with the edge . Spend as much time as you need here. Enjoy the views of Mount Keilir and the coast as you float through a canyon. Relax to the sound of the waves and a waterfall.
Step 2. Cold Plunge
Reinvigorate yourself with something on the colder side of things. Take a walk in the chilly winter air or go for a dip in the cold plunge to stimulate your immune system and decrease blood flow. 10 to 30 seconds will do the trick, and it’s especially beneficial after a long flight.
Step 3. Sauna
After a jolt of energy, it’s time for a 5 to 10 minute trip to the sauna to open your pores, remove toxins, and cleanse your skin. The views from the sauna are well-worth the walk. Take a peek out of the largest window in Iceland for panoramic ocean views and enjoy the smells and sounds of the coast.
Step 4. Energizing Mist
As always, heat must be balanced by cold. This step requires a rejuvenating walk through the cold fog-mist space.
Step 5. Cleansing Scrub
Next up is a refreshing cleansing scrub reminiscent of a Moroccan hammam. Applying it all over your body exfoliates and hydrates your skin and leaves you glowing.
Step 6. Steam
A turn in the steam room increases the hydrating effects of the scrub and eases your breathing for a therapeutic and cleansing experience.
Step 7. Shower
To finish it all off, take a good, old-fashioned shower to clean off any leftover toxins or scrub particles. Walk away in a deep state of bliss, ready to take on the week, or head back to the warm waters of the lagoon for a while longer.
An on-site gift shop has all of the scrubs, lotions, and potions needed to walk through an at-home version of The Ritual or gift it to a friend.
Passes to Sky Lagoon can be purchased with or without The Experience.
Dining
Sky Lagoon puts just as much thought into their food and drink options as they do in their spa facilities. The Lagoon Bar offers local beer and drinks in the side of a cave. Guests can simply swim up to the opening in the rock.
Sky Cafe serves sandwiches, soups, and local specialties. It’s a rustic cuisine in a uniquely Icelandic style: light, healthy fare that’s perfect for a day at the spa.
Smakk Bar elevates the dining experience with unique taste plates with flavors native to Iceland. It’s seasonal food with a flair.
Details
Address: Vesturvör 44-48 200, Kópavogur, Iceland
Phone: +354 527 6800
Season: Year-round, hours vary
Website: skylagoon.com
Vesturbæjarlaug – Reykjavik, Iceland