Visiting the Blue Lagoon in Iceland:
A Wheelchair-Friendly Experience
Iceland’s Blue Lagoon is one of the most famous geothermal spas in the world, drawing travelers from all corners of the globe to its warm, mineral-rich waters set against a striking volcanic landscape. The milky blue waters, surrounded by black lava rocks and steam, create an unforgettable atmosphere. For people with mobility challenges, visiting the Blue Lagoon can still be a wonderful experience, thanks to the facilities and accommodations they’ve put in place to make this natural wonder accessible to everyone.
As a wheelchair user, Nick found that a visit to the Blue Lagoon was not only possible but enjoyable. In this blog post, we’ll share our experience navigating the Blue Lagoon with a wheelchair and provide helpful tips for anyone planning a visit.
Getting There
The Blue Lagoon is located about 45 minutes from Reykjavik and 20 minutes from the Keflavik Airport, making it easy to reach by car or bus. There are various transport options, and the accessibility of these services is excellent. For wheelchair users, there are accessible buses that operate from Reykjavik to the Blue Lagoon. They have space for wheelchairs and offer a smooth ride to and from the lagoon. If you come by car, there there is disabled parking in the main parking lot next to the parking places for buses. From there, the stroll to the main complex takes approximately 5 minutes.
Entrance and Facilities
Upon arriving at the Blue Lagoon, you’ll find that accessibility has been prioritized. The entrance to the lagoon has ramps to accommodate wheelchairs, and the staff is very welcoming, ready to assist if needed. With elevators and electric door openers, the main complex is wheelchair accessible. The check-in process is straightforward. If you’re in a wheelchair or have special needs, you can opt to use a private changing and shower room, available upon request. The room is spacious and designed to provide more privacy and comfort. However, be aware that the private room may not always be available immediately, as it is shared by other guests and may require a short wait. Inside the private room there are 6 lockers.
Entry Price
The entry fee for individuals with special needs is ISK 9,990, which includes admission to the lagoon, a towel, a silica mud mask, and a drink of your choice at the in-water bar – a great value for such an incredible experience. If you need assistance, you’re welcome to bring an assistant with you, who will receive complimentary admission, a towel, and a silica mud mask as well. For bookings send an email to: contact@bluelagoon.com.
A Relaxing Experience for All
The smooth and even surfaces around the lagoon make it easy to move around the main area, and I found it relaxing to explore the scenic surroundings of the geothermal pool. The views of the rugged volcanic landscape, steam rising from the water, and the contrast between the white silica mud and black rocks were breathtaking. The warm water, full of natural minerals, was soothing for both the body and the soul.
The lagoon can be accessed directly with a specially designed amphibious wheelchair (one available). The deepest part of the Blue Lagoon is 1.4m/4.7ft., but most areas are shallower. However, the bottom of the lagoon is naturally uneven, making caution an imperative. An overview map of the lagoon, displaying depths and temperatures, is located by the lagoon entrance. We also managed to enter the sauna using the wheelchair provided by the Blue Lagoon.
One of the best features of the Blue Lagoon is the range of spa treatments available, and many of these can be enjoyed by wheelchair users. The most famous treatment is the silica mud mask, which you can apply directly in the lagoon. There are also in-water massages that can be tailored to your needs, ensuring that your experience is as comfortable and relaxing as possible. You can ask about accessible treatment rooms, as some have more space to accommodate a wheelchair.
In addition, the Lagoon’s Lava Restaurant offers a wonderful selection of food in an accessible setting. You can relax with a meal and enjoy stunning views of the lagoon through the large windows, all while sitting in comfort.
Tips for a Smooth Visit:
For more information on the Blue Lagoon’s accessibility features, booking details, and visitor tips, be sure to visit the official website.
Be sure to explore our other articles on accessible Iceland, offering valuable insights into inclusive attractions, transport options, and tips for a smooth travel experience in this amazing country.