Amanpuri vs The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland
Aman vs Independent — side-by-side hotel comparison
The Hotel Flock Verdict
Amanpuri scores 9.4 overall; The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland scores 9.8. The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland scores higher on our rubric, while Amanpuri lists more room categories.
Scores & Facts
| Metric | Amanpuri | The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland |
|---|---|---|
| Hotel Flock Score | 9.4 | 9.8 |
| Location | 9.9 | 9.9 |
| Service | 9.5 | 9.8 |
| Design | 9.5 | 9.9 |
| Dining | 8.9 | 9.7 |
| Value | 8.0 | 8.6 |
| Category | Beach | Countryside |
| Tier | Ultra-Luxury | Ultra-Luxury |
| Opened | 1988 | 2018 |
| From | $1,400/night | €1,600/night |
| Rooms | 84 (40 pavilions, 44 villas) | 62 lava-view suites |
| Architect | Ed Tuttle | Basalt Architects / Design Group Italia |
Dining
| Metric | Amanpuri | The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland |
|---|---|---|
| Dining Venues | 2 | 2 |
Rooms
| Metric | Amanpuri | The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland |
|---|---|---|
| Room Categories | 3 | 2 |
| Suite / Villa Types | 3 | 2 |
Spa
| Metric | Amanpuri | The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland |
|---|---|---|
| Spa Programme | Yes | Yes |
| Spa Facilities Listed | 4 | 4 |
Good to Know
Amanpuri
- As the original Aman, this is the property most "Aman Junkies" cite as their favourite — worth booking even if you've stayed at newer, flashier Aman resorts.
- Pansea Beach is genuinely quiet compared to the rest of Phuket — the resort's position and private access keep it that way.
- About 30 minutes from Phuket International Airport.
The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland
- Private airport transfers, estate activities, and bespoke guided excursions can be pre-arranged via the concierge.
- Book private thermal spa sessions and Michelin-starred tasting tables well in advance.
- Pack warm layers and outdoor country footwear for estate walks and nature adventures.
Summary
The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland scores higher on our rubric, while Amanpuri lists more room categories.