Tag: sky lagoon

Iceland 2026 – post 4

by ginnyinshanghai

One of my top things to do in Iceland is soaking in the geothermal heated water.  While there are a few establishments near Reykjavik, my top favorite is Sky Lagoon. 

At a 15-minute ride from the city center, it’s fairly easy to reach.  We made two separate visits on this trip.  It doesn’t really matter (to me) the temps or wind as you can find a place to embrace or shield from the elements during your experience. The photo below you can see the steam rising from the geothermal water – love it! This was part of a protected cove after leaving the changing & showering area.

Speaking of the ‘showering’ area. The message below freaks out most Americans. What? I have to shower BEFORE I put on my swimsuit? In front of these women? If available, you can pre-pay for special individualized shower & dressing rooms. We did that on our first visit. It was nice, not really worth the extra money, in my opinion. Once was enough.

First step (ha, ha) is to remove your shoes before stepping into the changing area. Find an available locker, strip, bring your swimsuit to the showers (semi-private, unlike older, other lagoons) and start soaping up. A tip someone shared previously………..after showering, put on your swim suit and turn the water on again. The warm water will help ease the transition before you can get fully into the heated water. Got it! And yes, it does make a difference.

I turn the corner and see this cave-like stairway.

Ahhhhh, that water temp feels great! I submerge to my ears, soaking up the heat and see Eric patiently (not!) waiting.

L.O.V.E. these thermal bathing spots.

I was in search of some frozen precipitation. While we didn’t see any snow coming down yet, some could be seen. Found this accumulation along the barrier of the infinity wall (more on that later).

That was not going to be a good spot for our photo. I found one other area, another nook in the main thermal lagoon, that had a small accumulation in the grassy hillside.

Not exactly what I was wanting, but it will do. My dream experience is to be in the pool while it is snowing. Maybe another time.

Something that separates Sky Lagoon from others is Skjol, The Ritual.

Eric has a love/hate relationship with it, only liking certain aspects of the process. In short, the process is laid out below. The first step ‘Laug’ is no problem. Step 2 is a harder one to consider.

I found this display right inside the doorway. Once you’ve done the experience, it makes more sense. The top right corner (where you see a ‘circle’) is the cold plunge pool before going inside to the sauna.

The ‘Kuldi’ cold plunge? Not happening. Stepping out of the heated lagoon, there is a 20′ walk into the building that houses the other steps. You’re supposed to take a dip in the small, circular cold-water plunge before entering. I saw a few doing it, and I got my foot in the water – that was it. The next step is the Ylur, sauna. That I can do – but not for very long.

They have this floor-to-ceiling window that overlooks the bay. It is a really, really cool view. I kept the young boy in the photo for perspective.

Now this step is the one that Eric really doesn’t like – Suld, cold mist.

While not my favorite, I do try to stay in it long enough to feel the temp difference.

The fifth step in the ritual – Mukt, body scrub. After exiting the cold mist, a worker hands you a small bowl with their special salt scrub. The scrub has Icelandic herbs, volcanic salt, almond oil & sesame oils. It feels heavenly after putting it on. The minerals in geothermal water are said to de-toxify, relax muscles and refresh the skin.

It does help to have a partner with you to put the scrub on your back – just saying.

In the background you can see the next step – Gufa, steam room. Eric was leading the way.

Very steamy inside, ha!

I can’t stay in here too long.

And then it’s time to wash off the salt scrub and cool down a bit.

The last step – Saft, juice – was not part of our original experience in 2024 but when they expanded The Ritual space, it was added. I like it.

Remember the young man in one of my earlier photos? His mother wanted some shots of their experience, and her phone was locked up. I had no problem getting the photos and emailing them to her personal email. They were from the Isle of Wright.

Now, comes another hard part…………..walking outside this space to get to the heated pool.

Yep, that’s ice on the walkway. Yikes!

We needed some refreshment. Did I mention there is a bar carved into the lagoon?

Eric got their beer……………

…………..while I felt like something sweeter, the crowberry martini.

Part of their marketing for the Sky Lagoon is where the sea meets the sky. The lagoon has an infinity edge that overlooks the Karsnes Harbor. The grates are handy for setting down your glasses or phone. A few baskets are placed around for individuals to drop off their empty vessels.

And they do have lifeguards. Several are walking the perimeter, and a few are actually in the water. Not your ‘typical’ gear for a lifeguard, ha!

Yes, this is a man-made lagoon opening in 2021, but the water is geothermally heated 100-104 degrees F. It is more tranquil, and less crowded with a focus on the Icelandic bathing culture and wellness. Our second visit was great weather for a winter day in Iceland, plenty of sun, no clouds and minimal wind. Couldn’t resist this shot.

There are a few bubbling spots where the heated water is added in.

Can’t forget their waterfall at the other end of the lagoon. Both Eric and I got close – him closer than me. 🙂

It was finally time to end the experience and get on with our day. My last few photos are us heading towards our respective locker rooms.

Towels are part of the experience with blow dryers and other amenities inside the locker rooms. After getting back into ‘real clothes’ a few options existed for food or shopping.

One day we planned for this to be our ‘lunch’ and ordered at their cafe. Eric’s selection is the top slate with traditional pickled herring and Iceland’s signature gravlox. My selection, bottom slate, was 4 flavorful cheeses, paired with bilberry jam. The sourdough grain bread is made in house daily – yum.

Alas, our time at Sky Lagoon was over for this Iceland visit. Until our next time in Reykjavik.

Ginny

As part of their ‘wellness’ Sky Lagoon soothes your body and your mind.

Reykjavik Winter 2024 #7

by ginnyinshanghai

Besides the food, we had two traditional yet classic Icelandic experiences. First up, a thermal pool.

Sky Lagoon

Opened in 2021, this oceanside geothermal lagoon demonstrated the commitment to sustainability as their water sources is fueled by the country’s 600 natural hot springs. Their building techniques and building supplies were sourced intentionally and sustainable. BTW – almost every home in Iceland is heated with geothermal power.

Soaking in the warm, mineral-rich geothermal water is a beloved Icelandic tradition. We made two separate visits to the Sky Lagoon during our stay. Coming into the reception area you begin to soak in the ambience and relax.

There is ‘spa etiquette’ that everyone should be aware of and follow.

>Remove your shoes before entering the changing facilities.

>Locate a locker, store personal items inside, locking with your wristband that also serves to purchase food and refreshments.

>Shower your body, sans clothing with soap and warm water to keep the pools clean. Yes, some places have private showers, others do not. We have done both types. First time showering in front of other females felt odd, after that, no big deal. Think high school gym class when you had to shower……… only these are MUCH, MUCH, MUCH nicer showers!

>Put on your bathing suit before leaving the changing room to head to the geothermal water.

Find your spot to enjoy the warm waters and peaceful surroundings.

At the back of the above photo you can see a waterfall. We both enjoyed the spray. Me, not quite as close as Eric. 🙂

Earlier I mentioned ‘oceanside’………..the 75 metre infinity edge of the lagoon was a gathering spot for all.

Did I also mention they have a walk up/swim up bar? Your wristband serves as your payment method.

With your entrance, you are able to participate in ‘The Ritual’. This is an opportunity to slow down, take your time and experience a deeper healing journey through all of your senses.

Not going to lie. The only part of me that ‘plunged’ into the cold pool was the few inches up to my ankle. The photo on the right you can slightly see the rounded edge of the cold plunge spot.

Walking into the turf house, the next step was the sauna.

I could not spend many minutes in this part before I felt like was cooking.

This was a ‘cool’ spot. Ha, Ha! Mist sprays were slowly occurring as you walked into and out of this area.

Totally loved the next step in the ritual

They didn’t mind being in my photo.

Take as much time as you want to exfoliate.

You’re all salty, oily and it’s time to walk into the steam chamber.

Not too much to see in the steam room…………………….

You’re almost finished with the ritual and yes, slightly dehydrated.

Herbs in the elixir
Very tasty and refreshing drink.

Alas, time to brave the chilly air and winds to head back out to the geothermal lagoon.

What’s left to do after all that? Enjoy the relaxing pool. We visited this place twice during our visit. Below is a short video of the second visit – it was VERY windy (and I was in a protected area – Yikes!).

Would we do it again? A.b.s.o.l.u.t.e.l.y. Our first day in Iceland after arriving, we visited and our last full day in Iceland we went back again.

We exit the building and……………….

After some light refreshments to fuel and rehydrate, we drove the 15 minutes back to our apartment.

Oh man – wish I was back there now.

At the beginning I indicated we had 2 traditional Icelandic experiences. What was the other one?

Aurora Borealis – The Northern Lights

All our research indicated the best way to seeing the Northern Lights……booking a guided tour.

I follow several Instagrammers from Iceland and one company stood out – Artic Adventures. If your first foray with them doesn’t work out to see the Northern Lights, you can rebook another night, and another night, with your reservation good for 3 years (no refunds) until you see the lights.

Their reviews were fabulous. Rebooking did occur and still the reviews had positive things to say. We booked them. We also choose a day early in our vacation in case it didn’t work out. And it didn’t. If cloud cover or rain is forecast, the tour is canceled by 6:15pm (pick up was 8:30pm) and you can rebook. We looked at our remaining days in Iceland and the Friday night looked the best option – not great, but better than the other days of the week.

Here’s the radar that night. Our guide (also the driver) felt he could find us a window north of the city.

Our group of 18 was in an elongated super jeep. One couple on the tour had rebooked 2 other times that week and been canceled due to cloud cover. One criteria was to get away from the city and subsequent light pollution. We drove 40+ minutes before he stopped, talked with other guides and pulled off onto dirt roads. Yes, we needed the super jeep.

I had done my reading and truly did understand the lights tended to be ‘white fuzz’ to the naked eye. The camera on your smart phone could filter out that light and still give you a decent photo.

My first viewing, not really impressed.

Second photo I could faintly see pink and green.

Okay, things are getting a bit better. Definitely seeing streaks of green.

And then the money shot.

I will continue to be on the hunt for ‘dancing’ northern lights, but I’m good for now.

I plan to be back. Why? The unparalleled scenery, the abundant natural beauty, the thermal pools, the delicious food, the wide-open spaces and vast areas of untouched wilderness.

On my first visit in 2019, I found this street art on one of their buildings. I was hoping we could find it again. We did. This is why we travel:

We need to collect -great- moments. This is my last post for the 2024 Icelandic visit. Hope you enjoyed our activities and learned a bit more about the land of Fire & Ice.

Ginny, Eric & Adrienne

Reykjavik, Iceland Winter 2024

by ginnyinshanghai

That’s right……………we headed back to Iceland!

Eric found direct flights to Iceland from Orlando and after conferring with Adrienne, we found a week to head north.

So excited to be on another journey to one of my (current) top places to visit. In my excitement, forgot a few steps after landing……………….deplaning outside before catching a bus to the terminal. Had to dig out the scarves, gloves and headwear from the backpack!

Yep, a great way to get used to the chilly temps for us Floridans.

Going in November we got to see the beginning of Christmas displays.

We all were able to utilize carry-on luggage and a backpack (each) so no waiting at the luggage carousel.

Short walk to the BLUE rental car company and we were quickly on our 45-minute drive to Reykjavik. We rented an apartment and got really good directions, even though we went around the block a few times. OOps. There was a parking garage underneath the building and after a few trial & errors……. we got inside and parked.

The place was next door to Hotel Borg and the key box was in the opposite alley. Eric went upstairs where another key box happened to be located, and we procured both sets of keys!

Our place was the middle balcony overlooking a square.

We made the decision to pay for the prior night of our arrival thus ensuring we had immediate access upon arrival. Flights from the U.S. arrive very early Icelandic time. Five hours was the time difference from home. My body thought it was 3am.

Two bedrooms, a living area and a small kitchen was perfect for our needs.

First order of business was breakfast after dropping off luggage and no better place than right next door at Hotel Borg at their buffet. They had a variety of offerings but truly, I wanted the basics then some sleep. Two cups of coffee had absolutely no effect on my sleeping at that point.

Four hours of sleep truly made a difference for the afternoon plans……Sky Lagoon. Originally, it seemed a bit at odds to jump into water in Iceland but LOVE their thermal baths and lagoons.

This visit (yes, there is another one) was part of a package, but more on that in another post. Here are a few highlights:

Steaming water viewed after showering and putting on swimsuits.
Three delighted participants.
Eric leading the way into the main body of water.
Liquid refreshment.

Hour+ later we met at their bar for other nourishment.

An initial tasting of lamb stew – Icelandic lamb was the only reason I now enjoy lamb.

Even in this climate, I found flowers. The center flowers are related to cabbage and tolerate colder temps and looked great.

They were surrounded by a pink heather.

Even in their winter, we found plenty of activities and as long as you’re dressed in layers, you can brave almost anything here. Hang tight, more posts to come.

Ginny

Iceland’s Sky Lagoon

by ginnyinshanghai

This had been on my list once I heard it was built in 2021. Most visitors stop at The Blue Lagoon for their Icelandic thermal experience. Nothing wrong with that, they’ve built a solid business model – everyone knows about it. Most visitors stop there after landing or before getting on the plane to leave. We are not most visitors. 🙂

As the owners were building they took a holistic approach to sustainability for themselves and when selecting materials and construciton partners. Soaking in warm, healing mineral-rich geothermal water is a beloved Icelandic tradition being a part of most communities. It’s where you meet your neighbors and hear the latest goings-on.

This place is ……..

……..a journey of the senses, powered by the elements. LOVE it!

This was exactly what we needed after the ‘angst’ of getting to Iceland. There are a few different packages that can be booked (a reservation is a must – we had a hard time finding one) with the SKY package being our selection.

This package included private changing & showering, direct stairs to the lagoon and the 7-step Ritual. More on that in a bit. But in case you get stuck on the word private? You might think – huh? Isn’t everything private? Think of your gym class. Yep, locker-type changing rooms, communal locker showers BEFORE putting on your swimsuit and stepping into the lagoon. That is the norm around here. We’ve got no problem with that and have done it in Iceland previously. The only way to get the 7-step Ritual was through the SKY package. But enough of that. Let’s get into the water.

Instant warmth, I’m going to love this. Eric, he’s not the biggest fan of the thermal water, but there are pockets where cooler water prevails – he has to hunt for them, ha!

We haven’t even gotten to the best part yet and it’s heaven.

We went straight for the waterfall. Wellllll, maybe not me.

Time for a bit of refreshment.

And just in case there is some unsafe behavior…

The sea meets the sky at the edge of their infinity pool.

So I mentioned this 7-step Ritual.

With a map included below. All of my photos thus far are part of number 1, the lagoon, begging your body to slow down.

Number 2 the cold plunge – no way. Heartier souls than me were getting in and getting out extremely fast. Entering this portal started the rest of your Ritual.

Number 3 the Sauna was okay for about 1 minute – maybe.

Jumped into Number 4 the cold mist – just to cool down and man – I needed it. Number 5 the body scrub – undoubtedly the best step for me.

I was able to stay in longer for Number 6, the steam room. but showering off in Number 7 was bittersweet.

You’re done. At this point, Eric was very excited to get back into the main lagoon.

It was time to slowly make our way back to the shower & changing area.

Total time was about 1.5 hours. It was relaxing and everything I wanted it to be. I would definitely do it again!

No lie, was a little shaky getting out. All the relaxing thermal water (and possibly the lack of sleep) had an effect. Stopping at their cafe for a little refreshment did wonders for the body.

Ginny