Friday 28 June 2013

Reykjavik Excursions - Blue Lagoon Tour, Reykjavik, Iceland

The Blue Lagoon is one of the most popular destinations in Iceland. Known for its blue waters, silica mud, and alleged health benefits, it attracts many of the tourists to it.

We took the the Blue Lagoon Tour with Reykjavik Excursions to enjoy this trip. The coach leaves the BSI bus terminal frequently during the day and returns often too, through to late into the evening. It takes about 50 minutes to reach the Blue Lagoon from the bus terminal. The coach we were in was reasonably busy and can probably take about 80 people. Free wi-fi is available on the coach to pass the time, although the drive to the Blue Lagoon is interesting to see the landscape around Reykjavik.

The Blue Lagoon Tour is not so much a tour though as a drop off and pick up service. We were dropped at the facilities which feel like they are in the middle of nowhere. From there you go into the building and they give you a wristkey that you can swipe to lock your items in a locker. You'll need to bring your own towel or rent one there. Keep in mind that it is cold outside when you're not in the lagoon, so a bathrobe may be recommended.

The lagoon itself is fairly large, so don't be worried if you see coaches full of people turning up, there'll be no limit on space. Inside the pool you won't be able to see down more than a foot into the blue milky water because of the amount of silica in it. The waters are pleasantly warm, not too hot, and we were told they were fine even for those who are pregnant. Underfoot in the lagoon the floor is covered with crushed volcanic looking rock, which you'll only be able to see if you scoop some up. Take caution that the further you go in the larger those rocks become, and if you are stepping too fast without being careful they could hurt your feet.

There is a poolside bar where you can use your wristkey to run up a drinks tab. They have smoothies, beer and ice drinks amongst others, so you'll be able to keep hydrated in the pool. The drinks aren't cheap but they're not too expensive, so if you're on a budget you may only want one or two. You're not allowed to take free water into the pool area though, which is annoying. Inside there are eating areas that sell snacks.

Around the outside of the lagoon you'll find boxes with silica mud in. The story goes that this is good for your skin, so you'll see lots of people wearing it as face packs. It's pleasant and fun to apply, although washing it off it can be a little tough, especially if it gets in your hair.

The price for the day is expensive at Kr9800 each, so you won't want to go often or spend little time when you're there to get the value from it. You can easily spend a good few hours lazing in the lagoon. Reykjavik  Excursions do also offer a drop off to the airport service, if you're on your way out of Iceland. If you're returning to Reykjavik and your hotel, they offload you at the BSI bus terminal where small vans run by Reykjavik Excursions will collect you and take you to where you want to go.

Note that if you buy a voucher online be sure to exchange this at the BSI bus terminal for the ticket that gives you entry and exit to the coach and lagoon.

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