The Silica Hotel: Here’s Why I Loved It

Indulge in the deep blue

A female walks near the private Lagoon at the Silica Hotel in Iceland.

Why stay at the Silica Hotel?

Hands down, the best thing about staying at the Silica Hotel in Iceland is the use of the private lagoon. If you are adverse to crowds, you will love this place. Having a private version of the Blue Lagoon is a decadent treat. It’s pricey, but it’s an amazing experience. 

Honestly, it depends on what you value. If you prefer spending the day lazing about in a private lagoon, the Silica Hotel is for you. However, if you are unphased by the Blue Lagoon crowds, then your money might be better spent on other Icelandic activities. This country is expensive, and things add up faster than you think. Seriously, I was shocked how quickly I was tickled and died at every location.

Also, if you are traveling in a large, boisterous group, you might be better served by livelier lodgings. As for me, the Silica Hotel was exactly the atmosphere that I wanted. It was relaxing, cathartic and unfailingly beautiful. The Silica was everything that I wanted out of the deep blue!

How long should you stay at the Silica Hotel?

One or two nights is really all you need to fully soak up every ounce of this gem. If you are anything like me, you will be thinking about this place long after you leave.

Personally, I think staying at the Silica Hotel is an ideal way to unwind after a long flight. Or, it’s the perfect way to say goodbye to Iceland after a wonderful trip. Treat yourself to a room for 1 or 2 nights before you hit the airport. Either way, you will create Blue Lagoon memories that you won’t soon forget.

Breakfast

The breakfast here is awesome. It is a buffet, which I usually don’t love. However, there are tons of options to please both vegetarians and carnivores. 

The killer bathrooms at the Silica Hotel

One of the absolute best reasons to stay at the Silica Hotel in Iceland is the enormous bathrooms. They are simple, but they underscore everything that is awesome about minimal design trends. I still remember that the shower was enormous. In fact, I felt like I could have held a party in there.

After you spend the day soaking in the Blue Lagoon, you might be a little chilly. The ridiculous bathroom with its clean lines is just the ultimate place to kick back after an already relaxing day. Additionally, the Blue Lagoon products from the hotel are more than completely pampering. (Please note, I am not getting paid for this recommendation.) The fact is, I just love them so much that I bought some while checking out of the hotel. The little luxuries of this well sized bathroom take an already fabulous vacation to the next level. It’s one of the reasons that I absolutely adore the Silica Hotel. 

Free shuttle service

The hotel offers free shuttles to the Blue Lagoon, and one night it rained so that this service felt like a gift from Heaven. However, the walking path, which is no more than 15 minutes, is quite enjoyable if the weather is cooperating. Plus, it offers tons of opportunities to photograph the Lagoon from different angles.

Please be aware that the ground is composed of sharp lava, so do not wear the flip flops given out by the Silica Hotel along the trail. The landscape will quickly shred your feet to pieces. Sneakers or closed toe shoes work best.

Carmen Sol

The Scandinavian design of the Silica Hotel Lagoon

In line with Scandinavian design, the rooms are smart. Translation: the focus is placed on the stunning outdoor vistas. Floor to ceiling windows highlight the amazing scenery. The point is to draw your eye to the outdoors without getting hung up on fussy interiors. Personally, I am a huge fan of bold interiors; however, this streamline aesthetic makes sense to me at this destination. The Silica Hotel is not competing for your attention. Rather, it is simply highlighting what already exists. Normally, this would not be my choice; however, I think it really works in this setting.

Overall

After you spend your day swimming, gaze out on the crystal blue waters of the hotel’s mini Blue Lagoon. Every room is outfitted with small balconies and huge bathrooms. With just 35 rooms, the Silica Hotel books up early. So, if this boutique experience sounds like you, don’t hesitate, because it’s always in demand. I don’t regret one second of my stay and I would return in a heartbeat!

The Silica Hotel and Blue Lagoon are beautiful.

Please note, I was not paid for this review, I just really enjoyed staying at the Silica Hotel. 

BELLA+CANVAS

19 COMMENTS

    • Awww, thanks so much for your vote of confidence. The Silica Hotel is pricey, but I think it’s so special, that it’s worth treating yourself. I wish I was there now!!!

    • It really was a dream! Especially compared with the actual Blue Lagoon which I found over-crowded. In terms of expense – yes I definitely agree with you. For a while Iceland was subsidizing travelers with inexpensive flights there, which slightly compensated for the high prices on arrival. Curious what the strategy will be post-pandemic!

  1. It actually took my brain a hot second to understand what this place was all about because DARN it is SO cool and different. I would love the opportunity to visit someday, it looks like a dream.

    • It’s a total gem. When I was researching Iceland, I stumbled on it. You need to book it several months in advance (well, it was like that when I visited), and it’s totally worth it.

  2. OMG i am 100% booking a night here… might not do a whole trip, but i think it’s worth the splurge for one night! i love the idea of a “private” blue lagoon (the real one looks super touristy these days), so i’m really glad i found your blog 💙

  3. Wowww, I am the only person who could spend a month in Iceland and miss the Blue Lagoon. My partner found it to be overcrowded and overrated so he refused to go 🙁 This looks sooo much better, less people more privacy and sounds like a great overall place to stay. Will suggest it next time we are in Iceland, thanks!

    • Yes, I must agree. The actual Blue Lagoon is magical, but it was incredibly crowded when I visited. If you prefer a more secluded adventure, definitely give this place a shot. I bet you will love it!

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