Ja n u a r y 2 0 17 This page: The mineral-rich spring water is Iceland’s most visited attraction

A SONG OF QUIET IN ICELAND Blue Lagoon, Iceland Iceland’s Blue Lagoon is not the most exclusive of retreats on this list. In fact it’s the Atlantic nation’s most visited attraction. But what the resort lacks in one-on-one care, it makes up for with an experience unlike any other on earth. Located in a lava field on the southwest of the island, around 24 miles from capital city Reykjavik, the Blue Lagoon is a rugged tangle of volcanic rock and mineral-rich spring water, whose silica and sulphur are great natural healers for a tired, post-winter body. Opened in 1992 the lagoon offers guests a chance to try silica mud masks; massages; saunas; a waterfall and relaxation area (the water is heated to over 37C, so it’s best to get out from time to time). For those wanting to stay at the springs in style, the Silica Hotel offers deluxe rooms in sleek, Scandinavian style that have won a host of design awards. The onsite Lava Restaurant is also an established and well-respected eatery, serving up contemporary Icelandic dishes such as reindeer carpaccio, cod and torched Arctic char. Of course, no trip to the Blue Lagoon would be complete without discovering Iceland itself, whose rugged, windswept terrain is a hiker’s paradise. Easy to get around and very friendly, the country offers a chance to see valleys, waterfalls and glaciers all on the same day – and Reykjavik itself has earned a reputation as one of Europe’s up-and-coming tourist destinations, with top-line restaurants and a buzzing music scene. Perhaps it’s too tempting a chance to undo some of that sulphur’s good work. But it’s worth it nonetheless. Fly there British Airways fly via London to Reykjavik six times weekly. britishairways.com

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