The world-renowned Blue Lagoon Iceland has long fascinated travellers with its geothermal waters and striking volcanic setting. The Retreat, a 62-suite resort carved into an 800-year-old lava field in the Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark, transforms this natural attraction into a refined wellness destination where privacy, design, and sustainability come together.
Just 20 minutes from Keflavík International Airport, The Retreat balances convenience with a deep sense of escapism. Designed by Basalt Architects, its architecture mirrors the rugged terrain, seamlessly fusing Iceland’s dramatic geological character with modern minimalism. The result is a serene sanctuary that feels both timeless and forward-thinking.
Private lagoons and volcanic design
While the main lagoon draws thousands of daily visitors, The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland sets itself apart through its exclusive geothermal waters. Guests enjoy the secluded Retreat Lagoon, a quiet haven framed by moss-covered lava walls, with a no-phones policy ensuring absolute tranquillity. Select suites elevate the experience further with private lagoons, saunas, and steam rooms, creating an unmatched level of intimacy.
Suites are designed in three styles – Lava, Moss, and Lagoon View – each with floor-to-ceiling windows that frame sweeping vistas. Natural materials, including dark stone, wood, and lava-based terrazzo, enhance interiors that draw the eye back to the elemental landscape beyond.
At the subterranean spa, signature treatments highlight the lagoon’s mineral-rich resources. “The Ritual” incorporates silica, algae, and minerals unique to the waters, while the in-water massage allows guests to float weightlessly as therapists work with nutrient-rich oils – a therapeutic encounter that defines wellness at Blue Lagoon Iceland.
Michelin-starred dining with volcanic views
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Moss Restaurant, perched at the highest point of The Retreat, earned its Michelin star in 2023. The seven-course seasonal menu celebrates Icelandic ingredients, from seafood caught in icy Atlantic waters to vegetables sourced from geothermal greenhouses. With panoramic views across the lava fields, dining here is as much about the setting as it is about the food.
The property also features Lava Restaurant, dramatically built into a lava cliff, and the Spa Restaurant, where guests can enjoy light dishes in bathrobes overlooking the lagoon. The Retreat Lounge, meanwhile, provides a relaxed fireside ambience with an all-day menu. Together, these venues ensure a comprehensive culinary experience that reflects the ethos of Blue Lagoon Iceland.
Sustainable luxury in a volcanic landscape
Sustainability is woven into the property’s identity. The Retreat runs entirely on renewable geothermal energy, employs advanced energy-efficient systems, and upholds strict recycling and composting practices. In 2023, it achieved B Corp certification, recognising its dedication to both people and planet.
Menus feature locally grown produce and extensive vegan options, minimising environmental impact. This commitment reflects the philosophy of Blue Lagoon Iceland, which has always positioned itself as a bridge between natural preservation and modern innovation.
Beyond the retreat
Guests staying at The Retreat also find themselves perfectly placed to explore the Reykjanes Peninsula, a region of stark black lava fields, bubbling mud pools, and towering cliffs. Seasonal highlights include the endless daylight of midsummer and the Northern Lights, best viewed between late September and mid-October.
Every stay includes gourmet breakfast, morning yoga overlooking the volcanic horizon, and Icelandic coffee time in the afternoons. Suites are stocked with the lagoon’s own skincare line, ensuring the signature minerals of Blue Lagoon Iceland remain part of the experience even in private.
The Retreat reimagines one of Iceland’s most famous attractions as a destination for those who seek both luxury and authenticity. By merging contemporary design with elemental beauty, it offers an elevated sanctuary where guests can reconnect with nature’s most powerful forces in comfort and style.
Quick summary – The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland
- ✨ The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland offers 62 suites set within an 800-year-old lava field.
- 📍 Located in Grindavík, just 20 minutes from Keflavík International Airport.
- 🌋 Guests enjoy exclusive access to private lagoons, saunas, and steam rooms.
- 🛏️ Suites come in Lava, Moss, and Lagoon View styles with sweeping volcanic scenery.
- 💆 The subterranean spa features “The Ritual” and unique in-water massage treatments.
- 🍽️ Michelin-starred Moss Restaurant serves Icelandic produce with volcanic views.
- 🌱 The resort is fully powered by renewable geothermal energy and is B Corp certified.
- 🌌 Perfect base for exploring the Reykjanes Peninsula, from lava fields to the Northern Lights.
