A volcanic eruption near Sundhnúkagígar, Iceland, has forced geothermal spa Blue Lagoon to close
The eruption has come following increased earthquake activity in Iceland since late October
The destination spa shut just 24 hours after reopening on Sunday following a six-week closure due to the threat of an eruption
Iconic Icelandic bathing destination Blue Lagoon Resort and Spa has closed again following a volcanic eruption on Monday night.
The major tourist destination shut down just 24 hours after partially reopening on Sunday following a six-week closure.
Blue Lagoon had been shut since early November due to fears of an eruption because of increased earthquake activity in Iceland during October and November.
In an official statement, Blue Lagoon’s team stated:
“Our facilities have been temporarily closed due to a volcanic eruption in Sundhnúkagígar.
“Sundhnúkagígar is a known volcanic area east of Blue Lagoon and north Grindavík.
“All guests with confirmed bookings in the upcoming days will be contacted. We will continue to monitor the progress and maintain close communication with authorities, prioritising safety and wellbeing.”
The spa and wellness destination launched in 1992 and has since grown to encompass two hotels, a large bathing lagoon, a spa, a restaurant and a skincare line.
The jewel in Blue Lagoon’s crown is its central bathing pool holding 6 million litres of water and covering an area of 8,700sq m (94,000sq ft) with a turnover rate of 40 hours.
In 2019, the company’s annual revenue was estimated at €125m (US$141m, £107m), with €22m (US$25m, £19m) in profit, and close to a million visitors each year.
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