The Retreat stands in the lava fields of the Reykjanes Peninsula, built into the landscape beside Iceland's Blue Lagoon. Its 60 suites are minimal and calm, with floor-to-ceiling windows that look over the lagoon, the volcanic rock or the moss-covered lava beyond, and a couple have private baths of their own. The main reason to stay is the Retreat Lagoon, a guests-only stretch of warm, mineral-rich water set among old lava canyons, which lets you skip the busy public lagoon entirely. Unlimited use of it, and of the Retreat Spa with its treatments based on the lagoon's silica, algae and minerals, is part of every stay, along with breakfast, morning yoga and Icelandic coffee in the lobby. Moss is the flagship restaurant, cooking Icelandic produce with real care and earning a MICHELIN star, and it has wide views across the lava. Lava, the all-day restaurant, is more relaxed, and some guests arrive in their robes. The bathing is the rhythm of the day here, and the lava fields outside the windows keep the mood still.
- Rooms
- 60 suites
Insider tip Spend your first evening in the Retreat Lagoon after the day visitors have left the main lagoon, then book dinner at Moss.
Why I choose it A private lagoon and a serious spa, minutes from the airport, which makes it an easy first or last night in Iceland. The suites are among the most peaceful we know.