The Secret Lagoon in Iceland is the perfect stop if you’re looking for a more authentic geothermal bath experience. It is a stop along the Golden Circle route, near to Geysir & Gullfoss Waterfall, and only 1.5 hours from Reykjavik.
Geothermal Swimming Pool
The Secret Lagoon is the oldest swimming pool in Iceland, made in 1891. It is completely sourced from geothermal water, which is continuously flowing into the pool. It only takes 24 hours for the water to completely replace itself, maintaining a clean and healthy environment for swimmers. The water maintains a temperature of 100-104 degrees Fahrenheit (38-40 degrees Celsius).
Locker Rooms at the Secret Lagoon
The Secret Lagoon offers locker rooms for men & women, with showers. In Iceland, it is expected that you shower completely naked before entering the thermal baths in order to preserve the cleanliness of the water. While the Blue Lagoon has private shower stalls, it’s important to note that the Secret Lagoon has an open shower area (picture old school high school locker room).
Experiencing the Secret Lagoon
There are two coolers filled with beer & cold drinks on site next to the check in desk. You can bring your drinks into the water with you to soak. Simply give the person at the check-in stand your name when you take a drink, and you pay when you leave.
It was a balmy 45 degree gray day when we visited the Blue Lagoon, so we spent most of our time in the warm water! We did take time to cool off and walk around the lagoon on a path that goes over some of the hot springs sourcing the pool. There are even little houses on site for the elves!
The Secret Lagoon in Iceland has a sandy / mossy floor, with stairs leading down into it. They offer pool noodles for guests to use to float in the water. There are some parts of the pool that are hotter than others, particularly the areas where fresh geothermal water is pouring in. I must warn you that the smell of sulfur is quite strong at the Secret Lagoon because of the geothermal energy – but you get used to it after a while!
Tickets for the Secret Lagoon in Iceland
It’s recommended to pre-book tickets for the Secret Lagoon, though you can occasionally walk in if there is availability. It costs 3,000 ISK (~$23) for adults, and children under 14 swim for free! You can rent a towel on site for 700 ISK (~$6) if needed. For more information or to pre-book your tickets visit: the Secret Lagoon.
While the Blue Lagoon is a truly luxurious experience, if you’re looking for a more authentic geothermal bath, be sure to stop at the Secret Lagoon in Iceland for a soak!
Skál, Amanda
