When you think about soaking in Iceland’s geothermal waters, the Secret Lagoon and Sky Lagoon likely come to mind. Both are spectacular, but each offers a distinctly different vibe and amenities.
Whether you prefer a dive into history and nature or a sleek, modern spa day, understanding the nuances can help you choose the right experience for your Icelandic adventure.
What to Look Out for in Secret Lagoon and Sky Lagoon
The Secret Lagoon is about authenticity and tradition. Located near the Golden Circle, it offers a quieter, more natural bathing experience in Iceland's oldest thermal pool. It’s less commercial and focused on preserving the charm of its natural surroundings.
Sky Lagoon, in contrast, embodies luxury and modernity. Positioned on the edge of Reykjavik, it offers one point of unmatched modern luxury with stunning ocean views from its infinity pool and upscale amenities like a spa ritual and swim-up bar.
Each caters to different tastes: the Secret Lagoon draws those who seek a serene, historical soak amidst the vibrant geothermal activity, while Sky Lagoon appeals to those who prefer contemporary comforts and striking landscapes.
7 Things to Expect in the Secret Lagoon
The Secret Lagoon offers a deeply authentic Icelandic experience, perfect for those seeking peace and connection with nature. Here's what you can expect when you visit.
1. Near the Golden Circle
Located conveniently near the Golden Circle, the Secret Lagoon is easy to reach while exploring famous Icelandic attractions. A visit here easily integrates with trips to see the geysers and waterfalls, making it a seamless addition to your adventure itinerary.
2. Natural Lagoon
The lagoon is fed by hot springs that keep its water warm all year round. This natural pool, unlike newer man-made facilities, provides a rustic and traditional soaking experience, allowing visitors to feel a part of Iceland’s vibrant geothermal landscape.
3. Historic Location
Known as Iceland's oldest geothermal pool, the Secret Lagoon is historically significant, giving visitors a sense of stepping back in time. This historic angle adds depth to your visit, connecting you to Icelandic culture and heritage.
4. Smaller Than The Sky Lagoon
The Secret Lagoon is smaller and offers a more intimate setting than the more expansive Sky Lagoon. This size difference ensures a quieter, more personal experience away from the bustle of larger tourist spots.
5. Traditional and Tranquil Environment
The Secret Lagoon maintains a traditional Icelandic bathhouse vibe, with simple facilities and a focus on natural beauty. Its tranquil atmosphere is perfect for those looking to relax and unwind in a serene setting without the frills of more commercial spas.
6. Mandatory Nude Shower Before Entry
A nude shower before entering the lagoon is mandatory, adhering to Icelandic traditions of cleanliness and respect for communal bathing spaces. This practice helps maintain the purity of the water and enhances the overall experience for all guests.
7. Cheaper Than The Sky Lagoon
If you’re budget-conscious, the Secret Lagoon offers a more affordable option than the Sky Lagoon. This makes it accessible to a broader range of travelers, allowing more people to enjoy the therapeutic benefits of Iceland’s hot springs without a hefty price tag.
Visiting the Secret Lagoon provides a unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and tranquil surroundings, making it a standout choice for those who prefer a quieter, more reflective visit to Iceland’s famous thermal waters.
Read More: Secret Lagoon - Iceland's Oldest Natural Hot Spring
7 Things to Expect in the Sky Lagoon
The Sky Lagoon, a newer addition to Iceland's geothermal spa scene, merges modern luxury with stunning natural views. Here are seven highlights to anticipate during your visit.
1. Located at Reykjanes Downtown
Just outside Reykjavik, Sky Lagoon sits on the shores of Reykjanes Peninsula. Its location is easily accessible for those staying in the capital city, providing a quick escape to ocean views and thermal relaxation without a long commute.
2. Spa-like Experience
Sky Lagoon offers a spa-like atmosphere that elevates the traditional hot spring experience. From a heated swimming pool to a calming steam room, everything is designed for ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation, set against a modern, sleek design backdrop.
3. Infinity Views of the Ocean
One of the lagoon’s main attractions is its infinity-edge pool that seems to blend seamlessly with the Atlantic Ocean. This stunning design offers breathtaking views and a sense of endless swimming in the open sea, enhancing the overall immersive experience.
4. Seven Step Ritual
The experience at Sky Lagoon is not just about soaking; it includes a unique seven-step ritual. This therapeutic journey combines warmth, cold, relaxation, and skin nourishment to invigorate your body and mind, making it more than just a dip in a pool.
5. Relatively New and Modern
Opened recently, Sky Lagoon boasts modern facilities that blend Icelandic tradition with contemporary luxury. The minimalist yet striking design emphasizes comfort and style, with state-of-the-art amenities catering to all your needs.
6. Luxurious and Immersive Experience
Sky Lagoon offers a luxurious escape, with features like private changing rooms and an exclusive swim-up bar. These elements create a more upscale, immersive experience, setting it apart from more rustic hot spring locations.
7. Children Under the Age of 12 are Not Allowed
Sky Lagoon restricts entry to those under 12 years old to maintain a serene and relaxing environment. This policy ensures a quieter, more adult-focused atmosphere, ideal for those seeking peace and tranquility during their visit.
Visiting Sky Lagoon provides a modern twist on the traditional Icelandic hot spring experience. It offers luxury, breathtaking views, and a therapeutic ritual that rejuvenates the body and soul. Sky Lagoon delivers elegance and panoramic splendor whether you want to unwind or seek a luxurious spa day.
You can also read other articles about the Blue Lagoon on our blog page and try to compare the three.
Which is Better: Secret Lagoon vs Sky Lagoon
Choosing between the Secret Lagoon and Sky Lagoon can be tough when planning a trip to Iceland. Both offer unique experiences in stunning settings. Here's a breakdown to help you decide based on accessibility, experience, crowd management, and amenities.
Accessibility
Secret Lagoon is near Flúðir, making it a great stop on the Golden Circle tour. It's about an hour from Reykjavik by car. Sky Lagoon, however, is located right at the edge of Reykjavik, near Kópavogur, which makes it very accessible, especially if you're staying in the capital or coming from Keflavik Airport.
Experience
Secret Lagoon retains a traditional charm with its natural surroundings and historical significance as Iceland's oldest geothermal pool. It offers an authentic soaking experience that is less influenced by modern alterations. Sky Lagoon, on the other hand, offers a luxurious modern spa experience. Its main building includes a lavish seating area and an infinity pool that merges into the ocean horizon, providing breathtaking views.
Crowd Management
Secret Lagoon is smaller and generally less crowded, offering a more intimate and quiet experience. It's a good choice if you prefer to avoid tourist crowds. Sky Lagoon, while also effectively managing crowds, tends to draw more visitors due to its newness and the extensive facilities it offers, which can make it seem busier, especially during peak tourist season.
Amenities and Services
Sky Lagoon excels with several amenities, including a swim-up bar where you can enjoy a few drinks, a private changing room, and a detailed seven-step spa ritual catering to a luxurious experience. Secret Lagoon maintains basic amenities, emphasizing the natural environment and simplicity, perfect for those seeking a straightforward dip in geothermal waters without the frills.
Both the Secret Lagoon and Sky Lagoon offer compelling reasons to visit, depending on what you value more: the authenticity and quiet of the oldest natural hot spring at the Secret Lagoon or the luxurious, modern amenities and stunning views at Sky Lagoon.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between the Secret Lagoon and Sky Lagoon in Iceland hinges on your preferences for a traditional, serene experience or a modern, luxurious one. The Secret Lagoon, nestled within the Golden Circle, is ideal for those seeking a connection with Iceland's natural beauty and historical depth. It offers a peaceful soak in the country's oldest geothermal pool.
Conversely, Sky Lagoon, located on the outskirts of Reykjavik, caters to those desiring a contemporary spa experience complete with stunning ocean views and an innovative seven-step ritual. Whether you're drawn to the quiet intimacy of the Secret Lagoon or the upscale amenities and dramatic landscapes of Sky Lagoon, each provides a unique way to enjoy Iceland’s thermal waters.
Visit our website for more detailed insights into each option and to help plan your perfect Icelandic hot spring and pool experience. Explore our resources to make the most of your visit to Iceland's exquisite thermal waters.
FAQs
Q: Which is better, Sky Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, or Blue Lagoon?
A: Each lagoon in Iceland offers a unique experience: Blue Lagoon for its luxury and iconic blue waters but often crowded and pricey; Sky Lagoon, near Reykjavik, provides a scenic, intimate setting with a special 7-Step Ritual; and Secret Lagoon offers a natural, tranquil experience in the Golden Circle at a lower cost and with fewer people. Your choice will depend on whether you prioritize natural beauty, convenience, or spa amenities.
Q: Is Secret Lagoon worth going to?
A: Yes, Secret Lagoon is considered worth visiting, especially for its historical value as Iceland's oldest geothermal pool and its serene, natural setting. It's ideal for relaxation after exploring the Golden Circle.
Q: How hot is the water in the Secret Lagoon?
A: The water temperature in the Secret Lagoon typically ranges from 38 to 40 degrees Celsius (100-104 degrees Fahrenheit), providing a warm and soothing experience.
Q: How hot is the water in the Sky Lagoon?
A: Similar to the Secret Lagoon, the water temperature in Sky Lagoon is also maintained at about 38 to 40 degrees Celsius.
Q: What time is best to visit Sky Lagoon?
A: Sky Lagoon is open year-round with varying hours depending on the season. During the summer (June to August), it is open from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., which offers ample time to enjoy the facilities. Early mornings or late evenings are generally less crowded and provide a more tranquil experience
Q: Do you need flip-flops for Secret Lagoon?
A: While flip-flops are not mandatory at the Secret Lagoon, they are advisable for comfort and hygiene, especially in changing communal areas.
