Visiting Iceland: Northern Lights and Blue Lagoon

Whether the visit is a long one or brief, there are two iconic experiences to be had in Iceland: Northern Lights viewing and a swim in the Blue Lagoon. As one is done by day and the other by night, it is easy to fit both experiences into a stay, especially given the Blue Lagoon’s convenient location near Keflavik International Airport. When planning an itinerary for visiting Iceland, Northern Lights viewing and the Blue Lagoon should be at the top of the list.

Northern Lights

Iceland is one of the most popular destinations for viewing the aurora borealis, no doubt because its dynamic geothermal landscape ensures an exciting holiday aside from seeing this natural phenomenon. That landscape is in abundance at Thorsmork, one of the finest locations in the southern part of the country for viewing the lights. The region is surrounded by three glaciers descending the sides of volcanoes, which helps to keep cloud cover minimal and increases the chance of clear skies. It is important to arrange an excursion to Thorsmork with an experienced tour operator, as the landscape leading the site is rugged. For people visiting Iceland, Northern Lights viewing at Thorsmork is unforgettable.

Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is located between the city of Reykjavik and Keflavik International Airport, making it ideal for a stop-off on the way home. Visitors can also enjoy the lagoon on the morning or afternoon of a full day excursion, before returning to the city to embark on an evening trip to view the aurora borealis.

The Blue Lagoon is a man-made creation, fed by the water output of the Svartsengi Power Station — a geothermal power plant — located nearby. The distinctive milky blue colour is caused by silicate minerals in the water, which are considered good for the skin, particularly for people suffering conditions such as psoriasis. The average temperature of the water in the Blue Lagoon is 37-39 C (98-102 F). In winter, there is nothing quite as magical as bathing in the hot waters while snow falls on the black volcanic rocks surrounding the pools. It is one of the most memorable experiences to be had in Iceland - Northern Lights viewing is perhaps the only one that tops it.

Visitors to the Blue Lagoon can enjoy a complimentary mud facial at the side of the pools, recline in the sauna and steam rooms, and stand under a waterfall for a pummelling shoulder massage, but more extensive facial treatments and massages are available at an additional cost in the on-site spa. The Blue Lagoon shop also sells skin care products developed from research into the silica mud’s skincare properties. The Blue Café and Lava Restaurant offer a satisfying range of food and drink options for visitors who want to spend a little more time at the lagoon site, either before returning to Reykjavik or continuing to the airport for a later flight.

Abigail Collins is director of Aurora Nights, a company offering a select range of once in a lifetime holidays to see the Northern Lights. When you travel to Swedish Lapland or Iceland, Northern Lights encounters make for a thrilling experience. Aurora Nights is part of Weekend a la Carte, a family-run company with vast in-depth knowledge based on their extensive travels to the region of the Aurora Borealis and passionate about giving superb client service.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.