The Top 5 Spas In Iceland
Famous for its natural hot springs, mineral springs and luxurious spa culture, travelers from all over the world visit Iceland for an enjoyable pampering getaway.
Both independent spas and hotel-based spas are plentiful in Iceland and although the majority of venues are situated in and around the Reykjavik area, that doesn’t mean there aren’t some beautiful establishments outside of the city too. Here’s the top 5 spas in Iceland where travelers can unwind and chill out.
1. Laugar Spa
Located in the center of Reykjavik, this complex comprises of a gymnasium, beauty salon and spa with pools filled with natural spring water. Guests are encouraged to pick and mix a range of activities from all three divisions for a personalized experience. The thermal pools are kept at a constant warmth, but visitors can experience a shock to the system by jumping into the cold seawater jacuzzis, believed to be good for the immune and circulatory systems.
2. Fontana
One of the few spas located outside of the capital, this venue is situated 45 miles east of Reykjavik in the lakeside town of Laugarvatn. As well as the naturally heated thermal pools, the major attractions here are the steam rooms built directly over a hot spring. The weather can alter the steam temperature significantly, ranging from 104 to 122 degrees Fahrenheit. Hot tubs facing the lake are a popular choice.
3. Nordica Spa & Gym
Based at the Hilton Nordica hotel in Reykjavik, this spa offers a huge range of massages and treatments designed for health as well as wellbeing. There are authentic cultural options, including ice and fire therapy carried out using heated Icelandic lava stones. Steam rooms and pools are available for public use (hotel guests get a great deal!), but the best spot for chilling out is the outdoor hot tub.
4. Blue Lagoon
This is the closest major spa to the airport, so it’s ideal for those taking advantage of the cheap heathrow parking and arriving into Keflavik. The spa is popular with those wishing to bathe in the warm geothermal waters of Iceland which are believed to have healing powers due to the presence of essential minerals. With pools kept at a constant 98 to 102 degrees Fahrenheit, the Northern Europe elements make no difference at this year round attraction.
5. Radisson Blu Saga Hotel
Another hotel-based spa in Reykjavik, this spa is a true blend of cultures, with Icelandic treatments such as lava massages carried out in an Egyptian setting. Massages, facials, manicures, pedicures and steam rooms are available, but what puts this spa on the top 5 list is its seawater jacuzzi, the mineral content of which supposedly does wonders for the skin by opening pores and allowing these minerals to be absorbed into the body.
With a large international airport located just 30 miles from the bustling capital of Reykjavik, access couldn’t be easier. For those traveling from London and considering Heathrow parking Terminal 4 and Terminal 1 are recommended.
Jennifer Watts, a freelance writer, provided this article for BAA. The opinions expressed are those of the author and any data provided does not originate from BAA. The following is a link for Heathrow parking Terminal 4.