Silica Hotel

Steam billows from the rugged landscape all around the hotel, which was built on an old lava flow down a gravel road from the main Blue Lagoon resort. Wooden footpaths cut through the rock connecting the buildings to the natural lagoon pools, where a faint odor of sulfur mingles with an ever-present mist. Inside, the hotel has a minimalist design inspired by a sense of harmony with the natural beauty outside. High ceilings with slatted wood frames and big picture windows combine with a spare decor composed of wood furnishings imported from Norway.

The Silica Hotel is located down a gravel road, a little more than a half-mile (about one kilometer) from the Blue Lagoon resort. Paths lead through the natural terrain to 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. Reykjavik is about 40 minutes away by car, and Keflavik International Airport is a 20-minute drive to the north.

The hotel's 35 rooms come in single or double varieties, with hardwood floors and a simple decor in shades of light blue and gray. The understated furnishings only highlight the incredible landscape outside, and each room opens to a wooden patio set on the old lava flow. Shelves and benches are integrated into the design of the wooden wall cabinets and closets, with pendant lamps dangling from the ceilings. Minimalist Scandinavian furnishings include cube stools, couches, and sleek sitting chairs. Wall mounted flat-screen TVs come standard along with mini-fridges, but there are no tea kettles or coffeemakers. The contemporary bathrooms have heated towel racks and large walk-in rainfall showers. 

Limited access to the famous Blue Lagoon (open to the public) is included, but the hotel has its own beautifully designed geothermal lagoon that's exclusive to guests. It has the unique mix of minerals and seawater algae that's found only in Iceland. Admission is included, so only a naked shower is required before entering the prized water. Full hour-long massages can be taken in-water, while floating gently on a rubber mat. Renowned psoriasis treatments are available, along with a range of more typical body treatments, using the Blue Lagoon's branded products. The clinic has its own changing rooms, as well as a fitness center and a yoga studio. A free continental breakfast is included, and is served in a bright lounge with a coffee machine. The main resort facility has a restaurant that serves contemporary Icelandic cuisine, as well as a cafe, and a lagoon-side bar.