Combining sublime comfort at Silica Hotel and classic Icelandic cuisine at Lava Restaurant, this overnight experience opens a world of radiant wellbeing. 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. 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. Show on map, I agree to receive marketing communications and agree to the. I am a keen photographer so I do ned to plan extra time for photo stops. How long in advance can the weather forecast be considered 'reliable' more or less? And is going on snowmobil fun? 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. The pick would have to be the in-water massage. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. 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. DEFINITELY don't do a campervan in March! 11. 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. It was such a peaceful experience walking through the lava fields on our way to the Blue Lagoon. Golden circle or part of it, seemed like an obvious/safe choice to start with. Most review of each are fabulous, but with The Retreat being SO much more expensive I wonder if it's THAT MUCH better?? Iceland is part of the European Schengen zone, which typically provides 90 days of free entry every 180 days to visitors from many countries. Why You Should Be Traveling to Japan in December. It was made up of massive black bubbles of lava that have hardened and in some cases, hollowed over thousands of years and are now covered in green moss and snow. I never suggest anyone even drive a regular vehicle that time of year unless they are an Expert Arctic winter driver. I would normally plan more conservative driving distances in winter. Proper Planning Prevents Piss Poor Performance! It was located as far away from the . First two nights we are renting a campervan and driving around the south coast towards Jokulsarlon. 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. We were really in need of some downtime when we arrived at the Silica Hotel. Last time I skipped the golden circle (as I only had 2 days) as I wasn't sure Golden Circle as varied as South East drive. 28 Feb-1 Mar (1 night) Lava Deluxe Price from USD 607 Mountain Deluxe Price from USD 655 Silica Deluxe Price from USD 655 Lava Restaurant Culinary classics. We saw several groups of locals out for a morning run around the lava fields. I strongly suggest you get either the comfort or premium packages in the winter months. I think planning the Golden Circle and Jkulsrln and back in 3 days in winter is ambitious, but possible if weather and road conditions cooperate. Silica Hotel is a just ten-minute walk from the Blue Lagoon. 7) Silica Hotel Is A Great Place To Relax. The atmosphere at the Silica Hotel is very calm and serene and from the moment we arrived, we felt like we could finally breathe a sigh of relief. It has the unique mix of minerals and seawater algae that's found only in Iceland. You only have 2 full days and you are planning an ambitious itinerary that is better suited for summer. Silica looks a little simple from the photos (though I am sure it is beautiful too). 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). HubPages is a registered trademark of The Arena Platform, Inc. Other product and company names shown may be trademarks of their respective owners. 1 night was perfect for us, 2 nights would be the max I'd spend as there's nothing else to do here but the spa and the nearby Fagradalsfjall volcano hike (which I recommend highly). The 4000sq-m spa is at the heart of the hotel, connecting the Retreat hotel to the public lagoon. This is all weather permitting obviously. The hotel, set in its own rough, lava-filled landscape, is a quarter of a mile from the primary hotel Blue Lagoon Iceland.During your stay, you can enjoy the on-site lagoons, bars and restaurants and explore the hotel surroundings from Reykjanes Peninsula, a Unesco Global Geopark. 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). We arrive 11am on Day 1 and I thought to take the route up towards Gullfoss and down on Road 30 and stay first night somewhere around road 30 or 1 (need to find a place. 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). Open daily from 9am to 10pm, the hotel's private Silica Lagoon offers in-water massages and two types of bench treatments. Steamy! Premium entry to the Blue Lagoon is included with your stay. How do the two hotels compare? All rights reserved 2018-2023. The risk of losing money on bookings already made is just something that you need to accept when you are making self-driving plans for winter. 0. Correction: I may have to rethink the campervan idea in march as it might not be very safe. Discover the extraordinary pleasures of in-water massage at the Blue Lagoon. Answer 1 of 18: How do the two hotels compare? It features light woods, stone and natural fibres. We checked in around 3 pm and made a beeline for the hotel lagoon. 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. The bill for the Silica Hotel is not a cheap one, costing me just a little over $530 for a one-night stay. It was most natural setting of the 3 and the most non-frills. 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. We literally had the entire place to ourselves for at least an hour before one other couple joined us. . If you plan it like this and bad weather moves in while you are on the South Coast you risk forfeiting your Retreat reservation or worst case your (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? See all 17 articles. The Arena Media Brands, LLC and respective content providers to this website may receive compensation for some links to products and services on this website. Thanks. At our Madh Island beach resort, you can spend a day on the beach while spending a relaxing night indoors. Dont be fooled by the photos you see on Instagram of people relaxing in the milky blue waters with no one else around. 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'm having trouble finding comparisons to these two options. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g608874-d643977-Reviews-Silica_Hotel-Grindavik_Reykjanes_Peninsula.html, https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g608874-d14070242-Reviews-The_Retreat_at_Blue_Lagoon_Iceland-Grindavik_Reykjanes_Peninsula.html. Your plans will depend on the weather and road conditions. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-105369973', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Iceland at any time and on any road in winter. People are more inspired to travel than ever with so many travel websites, travel apps, and social media feeds full of exciting destinations. I still want to try and hire a 4x4 as my main goal is to stay flexible and see/photograph the Northern lights. We noticed that most hotel guests visited The Blue Lagoon in the afternoon after they checked in. However, I will say that we probably would never stay there again. I wonder if we can make the Golden Circle and then do the South East drive (weather-permitting) in 3 days. I think planning the Golden Circle and Jkulsrln and back in 3 days in winter is ambitious, but possible if weather and road conditions cooperate. They have a 4-course tasting menu which changes daily and features traditional Icelandic dishes. Its quite expensive so you want to allow plenty of time to enjoy yourself. I read that Silica's lagoon is more private and The Retreat's can get very crowded. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. There are regular bus shuttles between the airport and the Silica Hotel. Admission is included, so only a naked shower is required before entering the prized water. and our 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. Transformative elements. Silica looks a little simple from the photos (though I am sure it is beautiful too). That way you have a buffer day and you could just leave it out if there are weather problems. (aside from their price difference) I read that Silica's lagoon is more private and The Retreat's can get very crowded. That way you have a buffer day and you could just leave it out if there are weather problems. It is very isolated, so basically your only options for that day will be private lagoon, public lagoon, or relax at the hotel. We appreciate your support so much! ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-105369089', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Fosshotel Blue glacier. How could you come to Iceland and not visit this magical geothermal wonderland? Full hour-long massages can be takenin-water, while floating gently on a rubber mat. It is a one-time experience worth paying for, but repeats are totally not necessary. Thanks. Silica looks a little simple from the photos (though I am sure it is beautiful too). This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in Australia. Lava restaurant at the Blue Lagoon LAVA Restaurant at Blue Lagoon offers a unique dining experience. I made it to the hotel that looks like a shelf of books (forgot the name). 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). Cookie Notice Will ask the hotel. Hotel 360 looks nice but I am not sure I can get to it during winter). Again: A Camper in March is a horrible idea. That being said, travelers deciding on the best time to go should consider what theyre hoping to do and see. By accepting all cookies, you agree to our use of cookies to deliver and maintain our services and site, improve the quality of Reddit, personalize Reddit content and advertising, and measure the effectiveness of advertising. WiFi is available in all areas and is free of charge. 11 days in Iceland in September with Nordic Visitor. Renowned psoriasis treatments are available, along with a range of more typical body treatments, using the Blue Lagoon's branded products. Thanks. I am a keen photographer so I do ned to plan extra time for photo stops. 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. Admission varies from basic, comfort, premium and luxury. Is the Golden Circle road generally more sheltered from winds than the South East road? Enjoy the robe, the flip flops, the included drink at the swim-up bar in the lagoon, and the included silica and algae masks. 1 room: 2 guests. We actually did it the other way around, which I would definitely recommend. 11 Shares. 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! 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. Correction: I may have to rethink the campervan idea in march as it might not be very safe. High ceilings with slatted wood frames and big picture windows combine with a spare decor composed of woodfurnishings imported from Norway. We spent 10 days road tripping through the south of Iceland, battling hectic weather conditions, hiking snow-covered mountains and exploring various tourist hotspots. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-105369089', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Fosshotel Blue glacier. All of the 35 spacious and light-filled . Book spa treatments maybe and walk around hotel grounds (if they have any). 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. Travelers only seeking housing close to the Blue Lagoon can check out the Northern Light Inn, which is nearby and has much lower rates. "Discover the Breathtaking Beauty of Iceland's Blue Lagoon Hotel -#iceland #bluelagoonmocktail #hotel #nature #top10 Audio Credits: Song: 'Miguel Johnson -. Do you mean lava tube caves or ice caves? 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. 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. If you hold a Retreat Spa ticket, you will get to experience Blue Lagoon's three-step ritual. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-105369751', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');flight home. (aside from their price difference) I read that Silica's lagoon is more private and The Retreat's can get very crowded. How do the two hotels compare? The Silica Hotel is a short walk from the Blue Lagoon with breathtaking views of the moss covered lava fields. 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). This is all weather permitting obviously. The landscape was like nothing Ive ever seen before. It is a little pricey. DEFINITELY don't do a campervan in March! 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. Three classifications of accommodation are available at Silica Hotel, which is namely Lava Deluxe, Mountain Deluxe and Silica Deluxe, and each offers its own respective outlook. Day 2: drive along route 1 towards Jokularson and see the stuff along the route. This post may contain affiliate links. Conceived for wellness and designed for wellbeing, each room is the foundation of an enchanting experience. (aside from their price difference) I read that Silica's lagoon is more private and The Retreat's can get very crowded. Arrive at The Retreat blue lagoon in late afternoon. The Blue Lagoon pathway has many smaller pools along the path for picture opportunities, as swimmers are not allowed in them. Specifically what amenities come with the room between the two hotels? book flight now or wait until Efling Strike is over? 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. I am taking my SO to Iceland for 3 nights beginning of March and last night I wanted to. Fine dining at Blue Lagoon Iceland takes you into a gourmet landscape of tradition, innovation, purity, and freshness. Yes, I remember the local weather varying quite a bit within just 15 mins of drive. Book spa treatments maybe and walk around hotel grounds (if they have any). I still want to try and hire a 4x4 as my main goal is to stay flexible and see/photograph the Northern lights. Your email address will not be published. The hotel provides a wake-up call service throughout the evening. Enter email and get our travel tips to maximise your trips. Day 4: flight is late in the evening so not sure what to do on this day. Silica Hotel: Book Your Room at Silica Hotel | Blue Lagoon Iceland Silica Hotel Comfort and hospitality in the heart of an otherworldly landscape. If you want to go ahead and try for both the Golden Circle and Jkulsrln with the time you have I would do the cave tour and start driving South on arrival day and plan the Golden Circle for day 3. Hi Danelle, Dining options at Silica Hotel and Blue Lagoon Iceland. If youre staying at the Silica Hotel, entry to The Blue Lagoon is included in the price of your stay. Instead, we enjoyed our breakfast and then made our way over to the actual Blue Lagoon for the morning. The Silica Hotel at the Blue Lagoon is a retreat from reality. Comfort and hospitality in the heart of an otherworldly landscape. 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