An economical and luxurious spa adventure

Blue Lagoon Spa IcelandFor a country built on red volcanic rock, Iceland's most lucrative material seems instead to be white silica. Yes, here in North America it's used to dry flowers but in Iceland, it's an exfoliating mud-one that draws relaxation-seekers from all over the world to the nation's premier luxury spa, the Blue Lagoon.

When I travelled to Iceland as a student on a budget in April 2008, I was surprised to find that the notoriously expensive country actually offers reasonable rates for utterly unique experiences. While we trekked across the Mars-like countryside exploring craters, geysers and waterfalls for an all-in-one price, we also were able to enjoy the health benefits of the Blue Lagoon.

Icelandic BeautyLocated a few miles west of the capital city of Reykjavik (easy to access by coach with Reykjavik Excursions), the Blue Lagoon offers a full menu of experiences to its visitors. For those looking for pampering, the spa sells relaxation packages in addition to its indoor and outdoor health bar and exclusive lounge area.

Geothermal poolsWe chose to indulge in the Lagoon's cheaper alternative: the unlimited day visit (about 28 euros) to its impressive outdoor hot springs. Carved out of Icelandic rock and bubbling with warm, electric-blue geothermal seawater, the spa's most famous asset draws thousands of visitors a year. The pool's wonderful free silica is available in containers along its edge as well as under your feet. It's a DIY spa treatment that leaves your skin feeling as soft as, well, silica mud!

More than that, however, the unique experience of being outside in crisp, clean Icelandic air well into the evening, with the night sun keeping us company, was a glorious feeling. We enjoyed the springs so much that we ended up staying for 10 hours, finally catching the last coach back to the city for a health-conscious dinner.

Stunning vistasAs a contrast to Iceland's more adventuresome tourist activities (within an industry still recovering from a catastrophic economic downturn in 2008), the Blue Lagoon is the perfect place to relieve an aching body after days spent hiking stunning Icelandic scenery. So whether you're after a truly luxurious stay or simply a unique spa experience (or both), I highly recommend a trek into the Icelandic wild and its fascinating hot springs.

Want more info on the Blue Lagoon Iceland? Visit Blue Lagoon online or see what other travelers have to say on TripAdvisor.com. Reservations and information: +354-420-8800. For information about tour companies in Iceland, visit Inspired by Iceland .

All about Gennelle Smith

Gennelle holds an MA in Film & Literature and has studied in both Canada and the UK, where she was lucky enough to pursue her passions for cinema, travelling and nonfiction writing. She's now working for the Canadian Film Centre's Worldwide Short Film Festival as well as on various writing projects. Follow her on Twitter @gennellesmith, or visit her European Travel Blog.