Iceland is renowned for its wealth of hot springs, geothermal pools, and luxurious spa retreats. The latest addition is Sky Lagoon, a stunning new geothermal lagoon located in the Reykjanes Peninsula. With its buzzworthy infinity pool overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and pampering seven-step ritual, does Sky Lagoon live up to the hype?
In this review, we’ll dive into the pros and cons of visiting Sky Lagoon based on first-hand experiences and expert opinions. Read on to find out how it compares to Iceland’s other top geothermal spas like the famed Blue Lagoon.
An Overview of Sky Lagoon Iceland
Sky Lagoon opened in 2021 as Iceland’s newest geothermal oasis, located on the southern tip of the Reykjanes Peninsula just minutes from Keflavik International Airport. It was designed to offer a more intimate and luxurious lagoon experience compared to Iceland’s crowded tourist attractions.
The uber-modern spa facility features an expansive 9,000 square meter infinity-edge pool that blends into the ocean horizon. The heated lagoon ranges from 98-104°F and is filled with revitalizing seawater, silica, and algae. Cabanas and a swim-up bar provide poolside indulgence.
Inside, Sky Lagoon offers premium changing rooms, a spa with treatments like massages, a cafe and restaurant, and sleek Scandinavian design throughout. The spa caps visitors at 200 per day to maintain an exclusive ambiance.
Sky Lagoon’s signature seven-step ritual guides guests through cold and hot pools, steam baths, waterfall showers, relaxing pool soaks, and skin-nourishing algae masks for the ultimate rejuvenating experience.
The Best Parts of Visiting Sky Lagoon
So what are the biggest pros that have impressed visitors at Sky Lagoon Iceland so far? Here are some of the top highlights according to guest reviews:
The Stunning Scenery
Without a doubt, Sky Lagoon’s most jaw-dropping feature is its picturesque infinity pool set against the dramatic volcanic landscape and open Atlantic Ocean. The panoramic views take center stage.
“Absolutely beautiful setting. The views were incredible looking out over the ocean.”
Luxury Amenities
From cushy changing robes to poolside service, Sky Lagoon nails the details. Travelers love the luxury cabanas, swim-up bar, complimentary products, and general sense of pampering.
“The cabanas came with robes, slippers, and towels. We felt like VIPs!”
Intimate & Relaxing
With strict capacity limits, Sky Lagoon offers a crowd-free experience unlike often crowded attractions like Blue Lagoon. Guests appreciate the quiet ambiance.
“Hardly any queues, very relaxing! Much more personal compared to other lagoons.”
Soothing Geothermal Waters
While small, Sky Lagoon’s lagoon delivers the soothing and restorative benefits people seek in Iceland’s geothermal spas. The water feels silky smooth.
“The lagoon was absolute bliss. My skin felt amazing afterwards.”
The 7-Step Ritual
Unique to Sky Lagoon, the guided ritual takes guests through hot and cold baths, steam rooms, showers, and algae masks. It’s a special spa journey.
“Loved the different stations and treatments. Felt like a real spa circuit.”
The Downsides to Visiting Sky Lagoon
While reviews are overwhelmingly positive, Sky Lagoon isn’t without a few criticisms and downsides to consider:
Small Lagoon Size
Some find the lagoon smaller than expected, especially compared to the expansive Blue Lagoon. Sections can feel crowded during peak times.
“I wish the actual lagoon was bigger. Felt cramped in areas.”
Pricey Admission
As a newer luxury lagoon, Sky Lagoon sits at the higher end of admission costs in Iceland. The premium ticket runs around $100 USD.
“Really expensive compared to other lagoons in Iceland.”
Limited Food Options
With only one main restaurant onsite, food gets mixed reviews. More causal dining options near the lagoon would be desirable.
“Food was mediocre and crazy expensive. We ate before going.”
Booking Difficulty
As an in-demand new spot, Sky Lagoon sells out weeks in advance online. Snagging a last-minute reservation is tough.
“Impossible to book same or next day. Had to book months out instead.”
Spa Treatments Book Up
Add-on spa treatments like massages need to be reserved far in advance. Day-of bookings usually aren’t available.
“Wished I could’ve booked a massage same-day but were all booked out.”
While Sky Lagoon has some kinks to iron out as a new attraction, it delivers an overall high-end lagoon experience with a few key advantages over Iceland’s other geothermal spas.
How Sky Lagoon Compares to the Blue Lagoon
No Iceland lagoon review would be complete without comparing new-on-the-scene Sky Lagoon to the country’s most famous spa – the Blue Lagoon. How does Sky Lagoon stack up against Iceland’s hottest geothermal attraction?
Size
Blue Lagoon is massive with over 15 million gallons of water. Sky Lagoon is much more intimate at just over 2 million gallons.
Location
Blue Lagoon is conveniently located between Reykjavik and the airport. Sky Lagoon sits close to the airport on the Reykjanes Peninsula.
Ticket Cost
Sky Lagoon costs around $100 USD while Blue Lagoon starts around $65 USD for basic entry. Both offer luxury upgrades.
Amenities
Both offer in-water bars, restaurants, luxury cabanas, swim-up bars, on-site hotels, and more. Blue Lagoon has more spa amenities.
Ambiance
Sky Lagoon feels quiet and exclusive thanks to strict capacity limits. Blue Lagoon gets very crowded and touristy.
Water & Treatments
The lagoon waters offer similar relaxation and skin benefits. Sky Lagoon’s ritual treatment is a special experience.
Scenery
Sky Lagoon showcases dramatic oceanfront views. Blue Lagoon has a volcanic, lunar-like landscape.
Booking Ease
Blue Lagoon rarely books up more than 1-2 weeks in advance. Sky Lagoon books all slots months ahead.
Overall, Sky Lagoon provides a more high-end, luxurious visit with the advantage of crowds capped at 200 visitors daily. But Blue Lagoon offers more amenities and flexibility thanks to its massive size and popularity. You can’t go wrong visiting either for a quintessential Icelandic spa experience.
Is Sky Lagoon Iceland Worth It? Our Verdict
Based on Sky Lagoon’s glowing reviews and unique offerings compared to Iceland’s other geothermal spots, the answer is yes – it’s absolutely worth a visit! While the smaller size and difficult bookings are drawbacks, the overall experience at Sky Lagoon lives up to the hype.
Travelers visiting Iceland who want to experience the country’s famous hot spring spas in style should add Sky Lagoon to their itinerary. No other lagoon combines luxury cabanas, ritzy amenities, stunning ocean views, and a serene low-crowds atmosphere like Sky Lagoon manages to do.
While the premium cost may deter budget travelers, Sky Lagoon’s prices reflect the higher-end experience compared to Iceland’s other geothermal options. Treat yourself to a few hours of oceanfront indulgence in the waters at Sky Lagoon for the ultimate relaxing escape.
Just be sure to book well in advance online before your trip. And consider splurging on upgrades like the Ritual package or cabana rental to make the most of Sky Lagoon’s offerings. If you’re willing to pay more for an exclusive VIP spa visit, Sky Lagoon delivers breathtaking scenery and sublime pampering worth the price.
Have you visited Sky Lagoon in Iceland? Share your own thoughts in the comments below!
