Iceland's renowned Blue Lagoon is set to expand its hospitality offerings with the introduction of a second Retreat-branded hotel in the Icelandic highlands by 2027. This new addition will be situated near the Highland Base at Kerlingafjöll, a resort that opened last July, aiming to attract adventure-seekers with its diverse lodging options and geothermal baths.
The Highland Base, located in a remote region, features a mix of hotel, lodge, hostel, hut, and campsite accommodations. "This is a very remote part of the country," explained a Blue Lagoon spokesperson, highlighting the unique appeal of the location. The journey from Reykjavik to Highland Base takes approximately three and a half hours by car or bus, including segments of unpaved roads.
The new Retreat hotel will join the existing 60-room Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland and the 35-room Silica Hotel, further enhancing Blue Lagoon's luxury and adventure-focused hospitality portfolio. This expansion aligns with Blue Lagoon's ongoing efforts to enhance its flagship geothermal spa and hospitality venues, despite occasional closures due to volcanic activity.
Additionally, the Silica Hotel is undergoing a refresh expected to be completed by the end of this year. Upgrades slated for late 2024 include improved changing facilities, gender-inclusive locker rooms, and new water experiences such as a cold plunge, an updated sauna, a "steam cave," and two new massage waterfalls.
The Blue Lagoon's "welcome house" arrival area will also be revamped to better integrate with protective barriers against lava flow, with the new facility expected to open by the end of next year.
These developments underscore Blue Lagoon's commitment to providing exceptional and diverse hospitality experiences in Iceland, catering to both luxury travelers and adventure enthusiasts.
