Heading off to see the Aurora Borealis in Iceland? Northern Lights trips will become even more of an experience to remember if you include a visit to the famous Blue Lagoon – one of the most popular attractions in Iceland. Northern Lights will naturally be the highlight of your trip, but a visit to the Blue Lagoon is very special indeed.

What is The Blue Lagoon?

One of the country’s most stunning delights is located in a lava field in Grindavik on the Reykjanes Peninsula, only 45 minutes drive from Reykjavik, the capital of the country. Although it attracts a huge number of tourists every year, even the greatest skeptics cannot fail to be impressed by what they see when they arrive.

There are approximately six million litres of geothermal water in the lagoon (which is reputed to be extremely good for the skin), all of which originates from 2000m below the surface of the earth. As the water reaches the surface it takes on a milky appearance due to the minerals it has acquired along its journey. The temperature of the water remains at a constant 37-39 degrees Celsius, making it a very pleasant place to take a dip – despite the prevailing cold weather conditions.

The area around the lagoon is well protected, and includes a sauna, a steam bath carved out of a lava cave, and a stunning massaging waterfall. The magical atmosphere wows visitors and, as they slap on the white silica mud to cleanse their skin, they can marvel at the surreal lunar backdrop that makes this wonderful place even more spectacular. The experience of dipping into this warm, cloudy aquamarine water and feeling the therapeutic powers envelop you as the steam rises is truly magical – and if you come at sunset, the atmosphere is even more special.

Interestingly, the lagoon was not born of natural origins and was, in fact, created simply as an overspill for the Svartsengi geothermal power station, which is close by. When heat and electricity have been generated from the water at the power station, it is syphoned through to the lagoon.

If you're planning a trip to Iceland, Northern Lights and the Blue Lagoon should be one and two on your list! If you book with a reputable specialist company, they will take care of all the logistics so you can sit back and enjoy the wonderful experience of Iceland. Northern Lights trips to this fascinating country will ensure a host of memories that will last a lifetime.

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.