Blue Lagoon travel tips and stories. Vacations ideas, cruises, spa and resorts

The Blue Lagoon may be a man-made attractions, but it seems to meld into Iceland‘s unearthly lunar landscape. Located about 39 km outside Reykjavik and about 13 km from Keflavik International Airport, the Blue Lagoon is one of the country’s top attractions.

Measuring a massive 5,000 sq m, the giant outdoor geothermal baths are rich in natural mineral salts and algae, said to have a curative effect on the skin, especially for those, who suffering from psoriasis. Clouds of steam float above the milky blue waters, which top a toasty 40 degree Celsius (104 Fahrenheit), making it hard to drag yourself out, especially when wearing a bikini and the air temperature is below freezing.

In winter the lagoon is often surrounded by snow, and it is then that contrast between the icy-cold air and the cozy warmth of water is irresistible. In fact Icelander believe the ideal outdoor temperature to make the most of the lagoon is a teeth-chattering minus 10 degree Celsius (14 Fahrenheit).

Slather on silica mud, available in boxes around the pool, to cleanse and exfoliate, and if you get bored with bathing, head to the sauna and steam room. For a rejuvenating back massage, stand underneath the lagoon’s small waterfall, which pounds aay aches and pains.

The surrounding scenery is strange yet dramatic. The lagoon is nestled in among black lava rocks, there are mountains in the distance, and a power station nearby pumps the geothermally heated water from a mile belowground. Stay in until your skin is as wrinkled as a prune – it will do you the power of good.