We all hate layovers! They're annoying, tiring and add extra time to our travel. But what if that layover was in Iceland? What if you had 6 to 8 free hours at the airport? And - What if the time you landed was between 7 am and 8 pm?... Well, then read on because this blog is just for you. I'll tell you how to make the most of your layover and enjoy some relaxing time in Iceland's geothermal pools.
Just a 20 min drive from Iceland's Keflavik airport is The Blue Lagoon-- a relaxation paradise and a dream come true for those with very little time in Iceland.
Did you know that if you traveled through Iceland air, you could ask for a stopover in Iceland (for up to 7 days) at no extra charge? -- Freeway to add one more destination to your itinerary.
So, you just landed in Iceland and didn't have much time? Rent a locker at the airport and leave your bags behind. All you'll need is a swimsuit and your wallet. Outside the airport, you'll find buses that take you directly to the Blue Lagoon (open from 8 am-9 pm), or you can opt to book a tour that includes round trip transportation from Keflavik airport to The Blue Lagoon and an entrance fee. Whatever you decide 20 min away-- awaits a relaxing wonderland.
Once at the Blue Lagoon, you can choose from different packages, from Comfort to Premium to Luxury. We opted for Premium, and our package included: Entrance to the Geothermal Spa, a Silica and Algae mud mask that you put on while soaking in the water, use of towel, slippers, and bathrobe, 1st drink at a swim-up bar so you can dip, relax and have a drink at the same time and reserve seating at Lava ( their onsite restaurant ) with the first glass of bubbles on the house. That package worked out great for us and did not break the bank. We swam, had facials, drank, and ate instead of being stuck at the airport with a layover.
The Blue Lagoon is a human-made geothermal spa with mineral rich waters that heal and repair damaged skin. On-premise, you will also find a sauna, steam rooms, a pressurize massaging waterfall, and a relaxation area overlooking the lagoon if you get tired of Swimming.
After your swim and before your flight, head on to Lava Restaurant overlooking the lagoon. Lava Restaurant offers contemporary dishes from natural Icelandic ingredients-- Fresh seafood (caught daily) and delicacy meats. They also have a great selection of wines that will complement any meal. This, hands down, was the best short layover I've ever had. Usually, 6 hours is not enough time to do anything - but not in Iceland. Here anything is possible!
Have a more extended stay in Iceland? Check out my Blog " Dreaming of Snow — 4 days in Iceland" for inspiration and a guide of things to do and the best tours to take.
Thanks for reading!
