Nestled within the heart of Iceland, the Golden Circle Tour is not just a “must do,” but an unforgettable odyssey through the country’s most extraordinary sights. From the ancient traditions of the past to the awe-inspiring beauty of the present, this tour seamlessly blends history and nature.
Your first stop, the National Park Þingvellir, is a place where the very earth beneath your feet tells tales of geological wonders. Here, you’ll find a unique intersection of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, where history was made as the world’s first parliament, the Alþingi, convened more than a millennium ago. Strolling through this extraordinary landscape, you’ll feel the weight of history in every step.
Continuing on, the Geysir area will leave you mesmerized as you wander among bubbling hot springs and witness the impressive eruption of Strokkur geyser, reaching for the sky in a spectacular display of nature’s power and precision. It’s a reminder of the earth’s relentless vitality, a true force to be reckoned with.
Gullfoss, often referred to as the “Golden Falls,” awaits you with its stunning grace. Cascading down a two-tiered 32-meter gorge, this majestic waterfall offers a breathtaking spectacle of raw, unbridled nature. Feel the spray on your face and the earth tremble beneath you as you stand in awe of this powerful testament to Iceland’s natural beauty.
To top off this remarkable journey, a visit to the Secret Lagoon is a tranquil indulgence. As Iceland’s oldest swimming pool, this hidden gem offers a soothing soak in warm, mineral-rich waters, providing a perfect contrast to the exciting adventures of the day. Surrounded by steaming landscapes and the soothing embrace of nature, it’s a truly unique and relaxing experience.
Incorporating both the informative and the serene, the Golden Circle Tour allows you to immerse yourself in Iceland’s diverse and mesmerizing landscapes while gaining insight into the nation’s fascinating history.
Choose a Bus stop near to your accommodation (Google Map)
We will visit the National Park Thingvellir [Þingvellir] where the Icelandic history and great geological wonders come together.
In Thingvellir, a parliament was established in 930 but there is also where the two tectonic plates meets, the North American and the Eurasian plates.
Lake Thingvallavatn
Most of the water comes from the glacier Langjökull [Long glacier], running along underground channels for 20-30 years, filtering the water. Therefore it is so clear, fresh… and cold.
We will go and walk among the bubbling hot springs in the Geysir area where we also stop for lunch.
In the Geysir geothermal area
Strokkur, a fountain geyser, is famous for its frequent eruptions, every 5-7 minutes. It sometimes can erupt to 40 meters height.
Blesi the google looking volcanic spring. At the geothermal area one can take a look at this very special spring. The southern pool is clear with hot water but the northern pool is cold and blue color.
One of the most beautiful waterfall in Iceland. Located in the river Hvítá [White river} that runs from the 2nd biggest glacier in Iceland, Langjökull [Long glacier].
The mountain ridge Jarlhettur
If visibility is good we might be able to see the mountain ridge Jarlhettur from the upper parking at Gullfoss . The ridge is 15 kilometers and consists of 20 mountains with the ice cap Langjökull [Long glacier] in the background.
Relax in the Secret Lagoon with its magical surroundings at the end of the day. The warm water stays at 38-40°C (100°F) all year.
The Secret Lagoon was made, from natural geothermal resources, in 1891 and is the oldest swimming pool in Iceland. Swimming lessons took place there from the year 1909 until 1947 when the new pool at Flúðir opened.
Around the Secret Lagoon you find several hot springs where the steam is rising into the air and gives the surroundings a fairy like feeling. The kind of cute looking geyser, Litli Geysir [Little Geser], is erupting every 5 minutes, showing off for those relaxing in the water.
![The ridge of Jarlhettur is 15 kilometers and consists of 20 mountains. The ice cap Langjökull [Long glacier] in the background.](https://glaciersandwaterfalls.is/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Jarlhettur.jpg "Jarlhettur")
