Dont be fooled by the photos you see on Instagram of people relaxing in the milky blue waters with no one else around. Thank you in advance for advice between these two stays. Hi Danelle, The staff are very helpful and very friendly, and the private lagoon is very relaxing. Experience the landscape of the Reykjanes peninsula. Again: A Camper in March is a horrible idea. Inside, the hotel has a minimalist design inspired by a sense of harmony with the natural beauty outside. See all 17 articles. The hotel has its own smaller private lagoon, so that guests need not compete with the public for space in the touristy medicinalwaters. Is the Golden Circle road generally more sheltered from winds than the South East road? I am taking my SO to (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? 240 Grindavk ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-105369751', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');flight home. No legitimate company that cares about it's customers would offer that due to the dangers of winter plus the ridiculously small percentage of campgrounds that are open during winter. Steam billows from the rugged landscape all around the hotel, which was built on an old lava flowdown a gravel road from the main Blue Lagoon resort. We also always travel with a portable battery pack which is great to keep your phone charged on long journies. You only have 2 full days and you are planning an ambitious itinerary that is better suited for summer. Day 2: drive along route 1 towards Jokularson and see the stuff along the route. I am a keen photographer so I do ned to plan extra time for photo stops. Discover a landmark of luxury in a landscape of wonder, Things to keep in mind before you visit the Blue Lagoon, Changes, cancellations and other booking policies, Create a personal & unique experience with our treatments, Silica Hotel - Blue Lagoon Privacy Policy. No, that's not a joke. If you are seeking a one-time romantic gesture with your significant other, or you simply can't bear the idea of being surrounded by hundreds of people in the larger Blue Lagoon, then you should definitely consider a one-night stay at the Silica Hotel. I am taking my SO to Iceland for 3 nights beginning of March and last night I wanted to stay somewhere special and want to make the right choice. I managed to secure a last-minute reservation (which basically came down to me refreshing their website on my cellphone every 1520 minutes for about two weeks, haha). For those after something a little more simple, there is takeaway sushi, sandwiches and healthy snacks available at the Silica Hotel or the Blue Cafe. Quartz as it is in rocks or as grains of sand e.g. Both options include admission to the lagoon and round trip bus fare to and from the Blue Lagoon from the airport, or from Reykjavik, the busiest tourism city in Iceland. We spent 10 days road tripping through the south of Iceland, battling hectic weather conditions, hiking snow-covered mountains and exploring various tourist hotspots. This is something you need to be aware of when making your plans. Take a walk or run around the hotel. I would not recommend camping in winter, unless you have Arctic winter camping experience and have contacted the campsite to verify that they are open. Day 3 drive back route 1 and do a cave thing in the morning. Day 3 drive back route 1 and do a cave thing in the morning. DEFINITELY don't do a campervan in March! Or just focus on the South East drive and spend last day in the Retreat. Connect with AmandaInstagram| Facebook| Twitter| YouTube| Pinterest, Posted In: EUROPE, HOTEL REVIEWS, ICELAND Tags: Amanda Twine, EUROPE, HOTELS, ICELAND, Silica Hotel, the blue lagoon, unique hotels. Travelers only seeking housing close to the Blue Lagoon can check out the Northern Light Inn, which is nearby and has much lower rates. If you do plan to go NL hunting on your own at night, make sure to scout out safe (and official) places to park in daylight. Visiting the Blue Lagoon is a must-do experience in Iceland, and staying at the Silica and Retreat Hotel is the perfect way to visit this once in a lifetime destination! That way you have a buffer day and you could just leave it out if there are weather problems. A lot of people dont actually realise that the Blue Lagoon is located very close to Keflavik International Airport. Book spa treatments maybe and walk around hotel grounds (if they have any). I read that Silica's lagoon is more private and The Retreat's can get very crowded. I would normally plan more conservative driving distances in winter. I am taking my SO to (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Whether youre in the sub-zero temperatures of Iceland or soaking up rays on the island Santorini, views seem to be better from a pool. I am a keen photographer so I do ned to plan extra time for photo stops. Most campsites are closed in winter, nights could be msierably cold, condensation could make eberything inside the vehicle damp, and taller vehicles are very vulnerable to sudden wind gusts on icy roads. You can see the Lights on the Reykjanes Peninsula, but your best chance to see them is on a tour, where you have a guide on the radio with a dozen other guides helping each other find the best show for the customers. Your plans will depend on the weather and road conditions. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. Day 4: flight is late in the evening so not sure what to do on this day. Proper Planning Prevents Piss Poor Performance! You can see the Lights on the Reykjanes Peninsula, but your best chance to see them is on a tour, where you have a guide on the radio with a dozen other guides helping each other find the best show for the customers. Whilst the Silica Hotel doesnt actually have a restaurant (they only serve breakfast), the LAVA Restaurant located at The Blue Lagoon is only a 10-minute walk away. It is a one-time experience worth paying for, but repeats are totally not necessary. I did the South East route a few years back by myself and it was very memorable (also in March but it may have been later in March). Several travel companies within Iceland offer various Blue Lagoon experiences, including both vacation day trips as well as quick lay-over trips to the lagoon. This is all weather permitting obviously. The Silica Hotel is a short walk from the Blue Lagoon with breathtaking views of the moss covered lava fields. DEFINITELY don't do a campervan in March! So if the elusive Aurora Borealis decides to show up, you are only steps away from hopping into the hotels lagoon and gazing away at the night sky. This is a major bummer not only because you traveled 40-minutes from Reykjavik for nothing, but also because you get to stare at the lagoon but not go in! If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Secret Lagoon which claims to be Iceland's oldest swimming pool dating back to 1891. When I turned up for breakfast the next morning, there were a lot of people in the hotels lagoon. We appreciate your support so much! more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. We were really in need of some downtime when we arrived at the Silica Hotel. Iceland ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-105369751', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');flight home. The dining room is on two levels with floor to ceiling windows looking out to the lava cliffs and the blue lagoon. Booking the half-day trip to the Blue Lagoon will allow you to return to Reykjavik for exploration, other tours, or the shopping/bar scene, while also keeping some extra ISK in your pocket! One of Iceland's most popular places, The Blue Lagoon, is located about 6 miles (10 km) from Reykjavik and close to the fishing village of Grendavik. If youre not keen on walking, the hotel also offers transfers. This article is to help you decide whether or not you should bust out your wallet for the Silica Hotel or if you should just go to the Blue Lagoon instead and save yourself some major coin. 2023 The Arena Media Brands, LLC and respective content providers on this website. That way you have a buffer day and you could just leave it out if there are weather problems. The Silica Hotel at the Blue Lagoon is a retreat from reality. The lagoon is in fact not natural, and was caused by a man-made structure for excess water from the power . Conceived for wellness and designed for wellbeing, each room is the foundation of an enchanting experience. Get answers to your questions about Iceland, Wild camping with a vehicle is illegal in Iceland, What ,,not to do when traveling in Iceland", Taxi/Bus costs from KEF Airport to Reykjavik. The Blue Lagoon history dates back to 1976 when it formed next to the geothermal power plant, Svartsengi. It was such a peaceful experience walking through the lava fields on our way to the Blue Lagoon. I'd love it if someone who had stayed at both Silica Hotel and (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? This is a country bordering the Arctic Circle in winter. MinimalistScandinavianfurnishings include cube stools, couches, and sleek sitting chairs. I strongly suggest you get either the comfort or premium packages in the winter months. There are a lot more tourists in Iceland than I expected so being able to relax in the hotels lagoon without too many other people around was definitely one of the highlights. It is a little pricey. Basic includes zero frills, charging you extra for anything down to the use of a towel, while luxury includes flip flops, a towel, robe, and even drinks and a dinner reservation at Lava, the restaurant attached to the lagoon (you can skip this one, I'll explain in another post). Disclaimer: This content was accurate at the time the hotel was reviewed. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-105359385', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Iceland for 3 nights beginning of March and last night I wanted to stay somewhere special and want to make the right choice. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. Admission is included, so only a naked shower is required before entering the prized water. Paths lead through the natural terrainto the main facilities, and guests should be aware that they will have a 15-minute hike to the hotel if they're dropped off at the main resort area. (aside from their price difference) I read that Silica's lagoon is more private and The Retreat's can get very crowded. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-105369751', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');flight home. Why stay at The Retreat hotel Blue Lagoon Iceland? The Silica Hotel vs retreat Hotel In Conclusion: Where should I stay when visiting Blue Lagoon Iceland? A Review of The Silica Hotel Iceland Blue Lagoon. June 5, 2018 Last Updated on February 17, 2020. And there aren't many nice hotels (from looks of it) until closer to skaftafell/jokulsarl on road 1 from what I gather. a week, 3 days, 30 minutes? It was most natural setting of the 3 and the most non-frills. Is the Golden Circle road generally more sheltered from winds than the South East road? (aside from their price difference). Hotel 360 looks nice but I am not sure I can get to it during winter). This rate is available with Ferienwohnung Nfelt. Wenn Sie auf der Suche nach dem qualitativsten Lego 79015 sind, sind Sie hier genau richtig. Volcanic architecture. I saw a few of those few years back in March and they looked so cosyI wanted the flexibility to hunt for the northern lights but I suppose I could do it with the car just the same. Book spa treatments maybe and walk around hotel grounds (if they have any). Any recommendations for caves/glacier tours? Or just focus on the South East drive and spend last day in the Retreat. I never suggest anyone even drive a regular vehicle that time of year unless they are an Expert Arctic winter driver. I saw a few of those few years back in March and they looked so cosyI wanted the flexibility to hunt for the northern lights but I suppose I could do it with the car just the same. Stay at (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Your email address will not be published. You only have 2 full days and you are planning an ambitious itinerary that is better suited for summer. The understated furnishings only highlight the incredible landscape outside, and each room opens to a wooden patio set on the old lava flow. Make sure you check the bus schedule and plan accordingly, otherwise you'll get out of the lagoon, shower, get your things and walk out only to see a license plate driving away into the distance, and have to wait around for the next one, losing precious time in the beautiful country. There are also several lagoons around the hotel, filled with geothermal water. A transformational experience. I am taking my SO to Iceland for 3 nights beginning of March and last night I wanted to. High ceilings with slatted wood frames and big picture windows combine with a spare decor composed of woodfurnishings imported from Norway. This is hands down your best option if you have not rented a car. I would normally plan more conservative driving distances in winter. Your plans will depend on the weather and road conditions. Alternatively, you may use. Instead, we enjoyed our breakfast and then made our way over to the actual Blue Lagoon for the morning. We didn't have an option for Silica as it was completely booked, but I can definitely recommend the retreat hotel and it gave us access to the retreat spa. The landscape was like nothing Ive ever seen before. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-105369089', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Fosshotel Blue glacier. You likely won't forget this stay. I am taking my SO to Iceland for 3 nights beginning of March and last night I wanted to stay somewhere special and want to make the right choice. It was much lower key and relaxing than what I saw of Blue Lagoon and the price is better to at $29 per person vs Blue Lagoon's $45. For our purposes, the Silica Hotel was 100% worth every dollar. The larger Blue Lagoon is open to the public, but believe me when I tell you it is packed with tourists all day. Would it not be worth it renting a small 4WD camper thingy just in case the weather might be reasonable (and book hotels along the route in case it is not). I would not recommend camping in winter, unless you have Arctic winter camping experience and have contacted the campsite to verify that they are open. Does this look realistic? As I mentioned before, there are two different places to stay on site while at The Blue Lagoon: The Retreat or Silica Hotel. I read that Silica's lagoon is more private and The Retreat's can get very crowded. Thanks for submitting such a great post Amanda and for being such an important member of our community! Day 3 drive back route 1 and do a cave thing in the morning. Not worth it at all. One of the Blue Lagoon Iceland hotel is named Silica Hotel and the other one is a highly recommended hotel, brand new, opened in 2018 and is named The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland. Silica Hotel vs The Retreat 2 years ago Save How do the two hotels compare? Shelves and benches are integrated into the design of the wooden wall cabinets and closets, with pendant lamps dangling from the ceilings. more. Book spa treatments maybe and walk around hotel grounds (if they have any). This year my girlfriend and I decided to go to Iceland in February, and it just so happened to cross paths with Valentine's Day. What are the opening hours for Silica Lagoon? The Retreat Lagoon Wandering around the Retreat Lagoon was like stepping foot onto another planet. If you're looking for a Blue . ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-105370593', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');car and worrying about being blown off the road as the wind picked upJust thought I should share the experiences with wife who can be bit more squeamish about these things :) this can get addictive. Hotel 360 looks nice but I am not sure I can get to it during winter). The hotel provides a wake-up call service throughout the evening. Thanks. Stay at (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? From hiking to sightseeing to guided tours, the region is rich with enchantments and ripe for discovery. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in Australia. The same company offers both tickets, so be sure to ask them if that is also your plan! Whatever you do, do NOT get a taxi from Reykjavik to the Blue Lagoon or the Silica Hotel, or you will be staring at a $140 USD taxi receipt. I am taking my SO to (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? If you are staying at a hotel, simply ask your hotel concierge to give you the number of the bus company Reykjavik Excursions. During my time in Iceland, I never saw a breakfast spread quite like the one at the Silica Hotel. Re: Silica Hotel vs The Retreat 3 years ago Save Bad weather can hit in Iceland at any time and on any road in winter. In any case, I will probably have to pick/reserve hotels on route (and hope I can make it to them otherwise it will be expensive). The Blue Lagoon pathway has many smaller pools along the path for picture opportunities, as swimmers are not allowed in them. In any case, I will probably have to pick/reserve hotels on route (and hope I can make it to them otherwise it will be expensive). I figured hey, why not try to stay at the Silica Hotel for Valentine's Day? However, owing to the fluid's high concentration of silica, proper drainage did not occur and a beautiful body of water took shape. First two nights we are renting a campervan and driving around the south coast towards Jokulsarlon. It was very relaxing with the vast majority of guests swanning around the breakfast room in their bathrobes. I would normally plan more conservative driving distances in winter. I still want to try and hire a 4x4 as my main goal is to stay flexible and see/photograph the Northern lights. Hotel 360 looks nice but I am not sure I can get to it during winter).