Nestled in the heart of Iceland’s otherworldly volcanic landscape, the Blue Lagoon has long been a magnet for travelers seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. Its milky-blue geothermal waters, rich in minerals like silica and sulfur, are famed for their skin-healing properties. But recently, the lagoon unveiled an exclusive new addition: the Retreat Spa, a private sanctuary within the lagoon that promises an elevated, more intimate experience—at twice the price. The question on many travelers’ minds is simple: Is it worth it?

The Retreat Spa is designed for those who crave solitude and luxury. Unlike the main lagoon, which can get crowded with tourists snapping selfies, the private area limits access to a handful of guests at a time. Here, the atmosphere is serene, almost meditative. The water is the same mineral-rich blend, but the experience is undeniably more curated. Guests are escorted to private changing rooms, offered premium skincare products, and given access to secluded areas of the lagoon where the only sounds are the gentle lapping of water and the distant hum of Iceland’s wild winds.

One of the standout features of the Retreat Spa is its subterranean spa suite, carved into an 800-year-old lava flow. This space includes a private lagoon, a sauna, and a cold well—an icy plunge pool for those brave enough to take the leap. The contrast between the warm geothermal waters and the bracing cold is said to invigorate circulation and heighten the senses. It’s a ritual deeply rooted in Nordic wellness traditions, and here, it’s performed in utter privacy.

Then there’s the skincare. The Blue Lagoon’s silica mud masks are legendary, but in the Retreat Spa, the treatments go beyond the basics. Guests can indulge in in-water massages, floating therapy sessions, and bespoke facials using the lagoon’s proprietary products. The staff—trained in both luxury hospitality and dermatology—tailor each treatment to individual skin needs. For those who prioritize skincare, this alone might justify the splurge.

But let’s talk numbers. A standard entry ticket to the Blue Lagoon starts at around $60, while access to the Retreat Spa begins at $450—and can climb much higher depending on the package. For some, the price tag is a dealbreaker. After all, the main lagoon offers the same healing waters, the same breathtaking scenery, and the same Instagram-worthy moments. Why pay more?

The answer lies in the details. The Retreat Spa isn’t just about bathing in geothermal water; it’s about immersion in a slower, more intentional kind of luxury. There are no queues, no jostling for space, no distractions. It’s a place where time seems to stretch, where the outside world fades away. For honeymooners, wellness devotees, or anyone seeking a truly singular experience, the Retreat Spa might just be worth every penny.

Yet, it’s not for everyone. Budget-conscious travelers or those who thrive on the energy of a shared experience might find the main lagoon more than sufficient. The Blue Lagoon, even at its busiest, remains a marvel—a place where nature and nurture collide in the most spectacular way. The Retreat Spa simply offers a different lens through which to view it.

In the end, the value of the Retreat Spa comes down to personal priorities. For those who see travel as an investment in well-being, who cherish privacy, and who are willing to pay for an experience that feels both exclusive and deeply connected to Iceland’s raw beauty, the answer is clear. For others, the magic of the Blue Lagoon, in its original form, will always be enough.