Silica Hotel

Location

Just a few minutes from Iceland’s international airport, on the road into Reykjavik, sits a man-made basin hewn out of 800-year-old volcanic rock and filled with six million litres of naturally warm, mineral-rich seawater that’s pumped here for more than a mile underground. This is the Blue Lagoon, Iceland’s number one tourist attraction. Just ten minutes’ walk away is the Blue Lagoon Clinic Hotel, built in harmony with its rugged surroundings, and privy to its own private geothermal lagoon – equally soothing, equally restorative, just minus the masses.

Accommodation 

Each of the 15 bright and spacious double/twin rooms has its own veranda with arresting views of the surrounding lava fields. You’ll find complimentary Wi-Fi and heaps of fresh towels and bathrobes for getting in and out of the lagoon’s soothing waters. Be sure when bathing to apply the silica mud you’ll find around the lagoon to your body and face. When you wash it off – about five minutes is all you need – you’ll have considerably softer skin.

Dining 

There was no way a hotel so dedicated to wellbeing would take its eye off the ball when it came to your dietary requirements. Leading the gastronomic charge is the a la carte LAVA Restaurant, built into a stunning lava cliff with views of the lagoon. For something quicker, the Blue Café offers a great selection of ready-to-go bites and refreshing drinks, while the swim-up Lagoon Bar allows you to quench your thirst without even leaving the water.

Facilities 

The hotel has its own geothermal lagoon, a sauna and steam baths carved into the lava rock, a man-made waterfall that works wonders on sore shoulders and stiff muscles, and a lagoon-side relaxation area that offers comfortable seating, soothing music and amazing lagoon views. There’s also an Exclusive Lounge complete with private shower rooms, designer furniture, fireplace, restaurant and outdoor deck. As a lounge guest you also have access to a dedicated staff member whose only concern is to ensure you want for nothing. Spa treatments are of course an integral part of any stay here. Popular options include in-water massages, deep-cleansing silica massages, salt rubs and beauty treatments.