The Retreat fact sheet
Opened in 2018, The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland is a place of timeless wellbeing. Encompassing an award-winning subterranean spa, a geothermal lagoon, a Michelin-starred restaurant, and a 60-suite hotel encircled by the Blue Lagoon’s mineral-rich waters, the Retreat is a place of complete relaxation and rejuvenation.
Origins
The beneficial powers of geothermal seawater were first discovered in the early 1980s when local residents began to bathe in the warm blue reservoir that had formed in the shadows of the Svartsengi geothermal power plant. Engineers at the facility had expected the water to seep through the lava and return to the earth’s volcanic aquifers. However, owing to the fluid’s high concentration of silica, proper drainage did not occur and a beautiful body of water took shape.
The lagoon eventually became the focus of intense scientific study, giving birth in 1992 to Blue Lagoon Ltd., a company dedicated to the research and development of the water’s primary elements: silica, algae, and minerals.
In 1995, with research confirming the healing properties of geothermal seawater, Blue Lagoon Ltd. launched a renowned line of skin care. This was followed in 1999 by the opening of the modern-day spa facility and, in 2005, a clinic hotel for the treatment of psoriasis.
Today, many decades after the first inquisitive souls began venturing into the water, the Blue Lagoon has blossomed from a humble curiosity into an extraordinary destination based around water that was chosen as a wonder of the world by National Geographic. Indeed, the story of the Blue Lagoon continues to be written with every guest who enters the water.
A UNESCO Global Geopark
In 2015, Iceland’s Reykjanes Peninsula was officially given the status of UNESCO Global Geopark. Home of Blue Lagoon Iceland, the Reykjanes Peninsula straddles the Mid-Atlantic Ridge—the tectonic boundary where the North American and Eurasian plates converge. Owing to its volcanic provenance, the peninsula is a wonderland of geothermal phenomena. The terrain is alive with craters, fissures, mud pools, steam vents, hot springs, and endless moss-covered lava fields.
Architecture
Preserving the bond between man and nature was at the forefront of The Retreat’s design and construction process. The architects were guided by the principle that building and geology should become one—unified by the convergence of form, function, and the volcanic earth.
“Nature was the guide,” says Sigríður Sigþórsdóttir, lead architect of The Retreat and founder of Basalt Architects. “There was often a sense that any given location was a gamble.”
In some cases, features mandated by the design were not supported by the type of lava laid bare by the construction. Conversely, some lava was so unique and captivating that it compelled the architects to halt work so that they could devise a strategy for incorporating it into the masterplan.
Interior design
Channeling the the shapes, colors, and patterns of the surrounding frontier, interior design throughout The Retreat adheres to the principle of timeless sophistication.
“What does timeless sophistication mean?” asks Sigurður Thorsteinsson, Chief Creative Officer of Milan-based Design Group Italia, the studio that co-conceived The Retreat’s interior design with Basalt Architects. “It means simple shapes. It means colors that are tone-to-tone. It means high quality in terms of the materials and the finishing. It means extreme attention to detail. But it should also convey a sense of warmth and a reassuring atmosphere. You should feel cocooned.”
At heart, timeless sophistication strives to establish a human connection to an extraordinary environment. When you enter The Retreat, you do not exit nature. Rather, you go deeper into nature.
Hospitality
The atmosphere at The Retreat is informal and welcoming. For the duration of your stay, your host is your guide and your attendant—instilling in you a sense of belonging: you are at home here, although here is unfamiliar, otherworldly, and likely a place you’ve never been.
Whether managing your itinerary, confirming your tour bookings, or alerting you to the imminent arrival of the Northern Lights, your host is at your service and The Retreat is a place of timeless comfort.
Suites
Conceived for comfort. Designed for serenity. Architected for wellbeing. Encircled by the Blue Lagoon’s revitalizing warmth, suites at The Retreat are arranged on two levels. On the lower level, the suites have terraces with entrancing views of the centuries-old lava and the surrounding lagoon. Some of these suites even give you direct access to the lagoon’s mineral-rich, geothermal waters. On the upper level, each suite is endowed with unforgettable perspectives on the volcanic horizon. But regardless of location, each suite is the foundation of a transformative experience.
• Total size: 10 000 m²
• Suites: 60
• Suite sizes: 40–230 m²
• Suite types: 6
In line with our goal of fostering a tranquil environment throughout The Retreat, the suites are not equipped with TVs.
Suites overview
Suite type | No. of suites | Size | Level | Outdoor area |
Lava view junior suite | 18 | 40 m² / 431 ft² | Lower level | 10 m² private terrace |
Lagoon view junior suite | 9 | 40 m² / 431 ft² | Lower level | 10 m² private terrace |
Moss junior suite | 26 | 40 m² / 431 ft² | Upper level | 10 m² private balcony |
Moss suite | 2 | 60 m² / 646 ft² | Upper level | 26 m² private balcony |
Lagoon suite | 3 | 60 m² / 646 ft² | Lower level | 28 m² private terrace, a private lagoon |
The Blue Lagoon suite | 1 | 230 m² / 2475 ft² | Duplex | 20 m² balcony, 22 m² terrace, a private lagoon |
Additional suite information
-The Blue Lagoon suite maximum occupancy is 4 adults
-There are 6 twin rooms available.
-There are 6 wheelchair-accessible junior suites.
-There are 4 junior suites that have the option of an adjoining room.
-It is not possible to add an extra bed in any of the junior suites.
-Bed sizes: Twin beds are 100 cm x 210 cm; king beds are 180 cm x 210 cm.
-Crib can be added to selected suites.
-All suites are non-smoking
Suite features and inclusions
Features
-Bespoke furniture exclusively crafted by B&B Italia
-Bespoke lighting–European grand king size bed
-Luxury linen
-Blackout curtains
-Heated floors
-Coffee machine and a selection of tea
-Tablet -Bluetooth speakers
-Charging stations and safe box
Bathroom features
-Walk-in shower and free-standing bathtub*
-Quality bathrobes, slippers, and flip flops
-Hair dryer and straightener
-Selection of Blue Lagoon skin care products and other bath amenities
*Twin rooms do not feature a free-standing bathtub
Inclusions
-Access to the Retreat Spa* - access to the Blue Lagoon Ritual - access to the Retreat lagoon - access to the Blue Lagoon**
-Welcome drink
-A la carte breakfast (07:30-11:00)
-Blue Lagoon skin care amenities
-In-room minibar (complimentary soft drinks, wine, and Icelandic beer)
-Wi-Fi
-Turndown service
-Daily group yoga session
-Use of fitness center
-Team of hosts
-Afternoon Icelandic coffee in the lounge
-Concierge service
-Valet parking
*Minimum age for Retreat spa, Blue Lagoon Ritual, and the Retreat lagoon is 12 years. **Minimum age for the Blue Lagoon is 2 years
Moss junior suite
Walls of glass open up to panoramic vistas of ever-changing moss. Sweeping lava fields unfold into the volcanic horizon. With timeless design that channels the forms and colors of the enchanting landscape, each Moss junior suite becomes one with nature—creating a place of profound comfort.
Suite features
• 40 m² / 431 ft² 10 m²
• Private balcony
• Upper level
• Horizon view
Lagoon view junior suite
Spacious. Cozy. Simple. Elegant. With concept and design inspired by the serene blue waters and multi-colored lava that lie just beyond the floor-to-ceiling windows, each Lagoon view junior suite creates harmony between luxurious interior and sublime exterior.
Suite features
• 40 m² / 431 ft²
• 10 m² private terrace
• Lower level
• Lagoon view
This suite offers a great view of the surrounding lagoon. For private lagoon access from your suite, please book the Lagoon suite. Children aged 8 or younger are not permitted to stay in the suites on the ground level. This is because these suites have direct access to the water surrounding the complex.
Lava view junior suite
Carved into the earth, this suite brings you face-to-face with frozen-in-time layers of historic lava. From your terrace you can reach out and touch the once-molten flow. These shapes and colors are embodied by the suite’s interior design, creating the sublime interplay of nature and comfort.
Suite features
• 40 m² / 431 ft²
• 10 m² private terrace
• Lower level
• Lava view
Lagoon suite
Floor-to-ceiling windows dissolve the boundary between interior and exterior, transforming this two-room sanctuary into an experience of the geothermal waters that surround The Retreat. From the relaxing comfort of each suite, the mineralrich warmth of your own private lagoon is just a step away.
Suite features
• 60 m²
• 646 ft²
• 28 m² private lagoon
• Lower level
• Living area with sofa
Children aged 8 or younger are not permitted to stay in the suites on the ground level. This is because these suites have direct access to the water surrounding the complex. Minimum stay is two nights.
Moss suite
The timeless majesty of the moss-covered lava fields—radiant, pristine, ever-changing. The exquisite tranquility of two rooms that unlock the harmonic interplay of design and nature. Each Moss suite becomes the centerpiece of an otherworldly perspective and a transformative experience.
Suite features
• 60 m² / 646ft²
• 26 m² private balcony
• Upper level
• Horizon view
• Living area with sofa
The Blue Lagoon suite
Timeless. Sophisticated. Sublime. The Blue Lagoon suite brings together concept, design, service, affluence, and the extraordinary powers of geothermal seawater into one palatial, multi-dimensional, multi-story space.
Floor-to-ceiling windows on both levels. Expansive balconies and terraces. Breathtaking views of the surrounding waters and the moss-covered lava plain. A private lagoon shimmering with warmth and rich with organic and mineral treasures. Two bedrooms and a spacious living room. A built-in spa with a sauna, steam bath, and massage suite. A personal butler. The heights of luxurious wellbeing in the heart of a volcanic frontier.
Suite features
-230 m² - 26 m² terrace
-20 m² balcony
-Lower level and upper level
-Horizon view
-Private lagoon
-Private spa with a fireplace
-Sauna, and steam bath
-Full kitchen
-Spacious living room with a fireplace
-Dining area
-European grand king-size bed
-Rain shower and bathtub
-Dressing room
-Heated chaise lounges for relaxing
-Indoor and outdoor showers
Activities and adventures
Beyond the wonders of the water, there are many things to do at The Retreat. From the mindful to the physical, discovery is a touchstone of The Retreat journey.
Each morning, there is a guided yoga session based on various styles of yoga such as Hatha, Vinyasa, and Kundalini.
There are also guided hikes that bring you closer to the landscape, enabling you to explore the striking geological features of Blue Lagoon’s volcanic surroundings.
There is also a wide array of adventures available at The Retreat’s doorstep: Tour the stunning volcanic phenomena of the Reykjanes Peninsula in a chauffeur-driven luxury sedan; Experience Iceland from the sky in a private helicopter; Ride an ATV across black sand beaches, sprawling lava fields, and extinct volcanoes. Whether you wish to remain close to the Retreat or venture deeper into Iceland, your host can arrange a tour that suits you.
Retreat areas
A spa of the volcanic earth
Retreat Spa is a defining hallmark of The Retreat experience. As a guest of the hotel, you have complete access to this award-winning subterranean sanctuary. An exquisite realm of inspiring design, enchanting geology, and timeless wellbeing, the spa brings you into harmony with the transformative powers of the volcanic earth.
The spa journey culminates with the Blue Lagoon ritual. In a spacious cavern of interconnected chambers, you cover your body with the Blue Lagoon’s trio of natural treasures: silica, algae, and minerals. Silica is a purifying marvel that deep-cleanses and strengthens the skin barrier. Algae is a nourishing wonder that stimulates collagen production and reduces collagen degradation. And minerals bring hydration and revitalization. Ultimately, the ritual takes the mind and body to new horizons of radiance and rejuvenation.
Spa areas
In-water experiences
Our unique in-water experiences unlock the door to timeless dimensions of relaxation and rejuvenation.
In-water massage
Unifying the dynamic benefits of massage therapy, the revitalizing powers of geothermal seawater, and the otherworldly beauty of the Blue Lagoon’s volcanic landscape, in-water massage unlocks new vistas of wellbeing for your mind, body, and spirit. Developed nearly 20 years ago when a guest innocently asked if they could have a massage in the lagoon, this in-water experience has become a hallmark of the Blue Lagoon universe.
Float therapy
Healing. Meditative. Transformative. Floating on the mineral-rich warmth of a wonder of the world, you enter a deeply relaxing, highly meditative state as you harmonize with the water, the earth, and the skilled guidance of a dedicated bodyworker. The hypnotic interplay of weightlessness and light massage soothes the body, calms the mind, and elevates the spirit— alleviating stress, relieving pain, and bringing inner peace.
Moss Restaurant
Moss Restaurant is located at the apex of The Retreat. Serving an imaginative tasting menu that takes inspiration from Iceland’s landscapes, the culinary journey moves seamlessly from mountains to rivers to seas. Each dish highlights seasonal ingredients and familiar flavors, reimagined with fresh perspectives.
Moss earned its first Michelin star in 2023 under the leadership of Executive Chef Aggi Sverrisson.
Complemented by design and architecture calibrated to bring interior and exterior together, highlighting the ever-shifting colors and tones of the moss-covered horizon, Moss’s menus are likewise mercurial: changing with each season but intimately bound to the land.
Open Wednesday through Sunday from 18:00 - 21:30.
Total size (interior): 192 m² - total size (terrace): 84 m² - seating: 60 people - menu: Set menus - cuisine: Tradition reinvented.
Executive Chef Aggi Sverrisson
Born in Iceland and raised in Reykjavík, Aggi Sverrisson was the chef patron and mastermind of London’s renowned Texture Restaurant & Champagne Bar. Honored with a Michelin star in 2010, Texture retained its coveted award for ten remarkable years.
In 2020, Aggi returned to his native country, taking the Executive Chef position at Moss Restaurant. Innovative, inventive, inspired—Aggi brings a sublime sense of simplicity and adventure to Moss’s ever-changing menus, integrating Asian flavors as he transforms seasonal ingredients into timeless gourmet experiences. With boundless passion for his craft and encyclopedic knowledge of Iceland’s endless bounty of nourishment, Aggi is an explorer of the country’s culinary frontiers, reinventing the past as he pushes the boundaries of the future.
In 2023, Moss was awarded a coveted Michelin star, propelling the restaurant into the upper echelons of Icelandic dining and honoring the visionary gourmet creations of Aggi and his dedicated team.
Wine cellar
A visit to the wine cellar is a journey into the earth. Characterized by multi-hued, frozen-in-time lava that erupted in the year 1226, the striking colors in this geologic dominion evoke sensations of cave paintings. But these walls—lined with wines from all over the world—were painted by the volcanic hand of nature.
Anchored by Old World wines from France’s celebrated wine growing regions—with a focus on Bordeaux and Burgundy—as well as selections from the classic vineyards of Italy, Spain, and Germany, the timeless heritage embodied by our wine list is complemented by wines from some of the preeminent New World wine producers of the Americas and Australia.
Wine tasting is available for individuals and small groups. Please contact our sales team for further information.
Lava Restaurant
Built into an 800-year-old lava plateau on the shores of the Blue Lagoon, Lava Restaurant embodies the enchanting combination of nature, architecture, and relaxed casual dining. With soaring windows and stunning views of the otherworldly waterscape, the restaurant is a remarkable setting for experiencing classic Icelandic cuisine created from the finest, freshest ingredients.
For further information, please contact us
retreat@bluelagoon.is / +354 420 8700 / bluelagoon.com