Geocaching a geothermal geocache—Geocache of the Week

By Janelle
EarthCache
GC25643
by goldohulk
Difficulty:
1.5
Terrain:
1.5
Location:
Iceland
N 63° 52.810 W 022° 26.976

Iceland’s Blue LagoonNo doubt if you plan to visit Iceland, you will probably plan to work a visit to the Blue Lagoon into your itinerary. With its otherworldly landscape, promoted benefits to your health, and mix of rugged rocks and modern architecture, it’s obvious to see why it’s the country’s top destination.
You don’t need to enter the spa to log this EarthCache. But if you do, know that the waters are rich in minerals like silica and sulfur, and bathing in the Blue Lagoon is reputed to help people suffering from skin diseases such as psoriasis. The temperature in the bathing and swimming areas of the lagoon averages 37–39 °C (99–102 °F). The Blue Lagoon also operates a research and development facility to help find cures for other skin ailments using the mineral-rich water.
No need to enter the spa to log this EarthCacheHow did this come to be? In 1976, a pool of wastewater formed near the geothermal power plant that had just been built. In 1981, people started bathing in it after its supposed healing powers were popularized. In 1992, the Blue Lagoon company was established, and the bathing facility was opened for the public.
So no, the Blue Lagoon is not a natural phenomenon; it’s actually created by the runoff from the nearby geothermal plant. But it’s fascinating, nevertheless. Check out what some geocachers have to say about this geothermal geocache:
EarthCache logging is tough businessDiabolic27Brilliant trip. Went in 54 yrs old and emerged a mere 21(again). Well worth a visit.
Soapy JoeWell the sun actually came out today, for the first time during our trip. What an odd feeling to be bobbing away in warm water when the air temperature was 3 degrees! Made the sprint to the changing rooms even colder than normal! Thank for placing this cache at this iconic location. TFTC
BeinhartWe had already visited a geothermal plant, so we knew what is done here. It is fascinating that a company uses the geothermal power, can sell electricity and hot water and that they can even make money from the “waste” (the used water) by building a bath, a hotel and by selling beauty products and other stuff under the name “Blue Lagoon”.
Hot spot in the lagoon are near the steam ventsYup. It’s cold outside the spa!Now THAT’S a wet bar!Silica and mud maskSilica and mud maskSoak it all inContinue to explore some of the most amazing geocaches around the world.
Check out all of the Geocaches of the Week on the Geocaching blog. If you would like to nominate a Geocache of the Week, fill out this form.