Iceland's Blue Lagoon Extends Closure Due to 'Significant' Likelihood of Volcanic Eruption

17.11.2023 - 17:03 / travelandleisure.com

The iconic Blue Lagoon has extended its closure through the end of the month as Iceland continues to prepare for a likely volcanic eruption following an increase in seismic activity.

The famous tourist destination in southwest Iceland will now remain closed until at least Nov. 30 “at which point the situation will be reassessed,” according to a statement shared with Travel + Leisure. The Blue Lagoon first closed earlier this month following increased seismic activity, which led to magma flowing toward the earth's surface around the Reykjanes Peninsula. The country’s major international airport is also located on the peninsula. 

“At this moment it is not possible to determine when or where an eruption might occur,” the Blue Lagoon wrote in the statement. “Iceland is no stranger to volcanic activity, and there have been three eruptions on the Reykjanes Peninsula in the last two years. Icelandic authorities and local communities are well-prepared for such events, and Iceland has one of the world's most effective volcanic preparedness measures.”

The Blue Lagoon said it would contact all guests with confirmed reservations through Nov. 29 and offer a full refund.

Last week, the Icelandic Civil Protection authorities declared a state of emergency, according to the government. In addition to the Blue Lagoon, the nearby small town of Grindavík has been evacuated, according to the Icelandic Meteorological Office, which said there is currently a “significant likelihood of a volcanic eruption in the coming days.” 

However, flights to and from the country’s main airport have not been affected, the government said, despite its location on the Reykjanes Peninsula. 

“Typically, the impact of volcanic eruptions is confined to specific, localized areas,” Visit Iceland wrote in a statement. “Notably, previous eruptions in the area did not impact flights to and from the country.”

While the Blue Lagoon is located on the peninsula, the team behind the famous spa and hotel do have another retreat at the base of the Kerlingarfjöll mountain range in the country’s central highlands: Highland Base. The resort features year-round activities like hiking, mountain biking, snowmobiling, and more.