Golden Circle

What is the Golden Circle ?

Exploring Iceland’s Golden Circle: A Journey Through Nature and History

Iceland’s Golden Circle is one of the most iconic travel routes in the country, offering a perfect blend of nature, history, and geological wonders. Easily accessible from Reykjavik, it’s a popular day trip for travelers who want to experience the best of Iceland without venturing too far from the capital. This 300 km loop takes visitors to some of Iceland’s most stunning landmarks, including Þingvellir National Park, the geothermal area at Geysir, and the majestic Gullfoss waterfall.

Here’s an in-depth guide to help you navigate the Golden Circle, ensuring you get the most out of this unforgettable experience.

1. Þingvellir National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Your journey typically starts with Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park, a site of both natural beauty and deep historical significance. It’s where the Icelandic parliament, the Alþingi, was founded in 930 AD, making it one of the oldest legislative bodies in the world. Þingvellir also sits between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, making it a prime location to witness geological activity.

Highlights of Þingvellir:

Silfra Fissure: Dive or snorkel between two tectonic plates in crystal-clear glacial waters.

Öxarárfoss: A picturesque waterfall tumbling into a rocky ravine.

Almannagjá Gorge: A dramatic rift valley that showcases the separation of the tectonic plates.

2. Geysir Geothermal Area: A Hotbed of Activity

Next on the route is the Geysir Geothermal Area, located in the Haukadalur Valley. This geothermal field is home to bubbling hot springs, fumaroles, and the famous Strokkur geyser, which erupts every 5–10 minutes, shooting boiling water up to 20 meters into the air. While the original Great Geysir, from which all geysers take their name, is mostly dormant, Strokkur remains active and draws plenty of attention.

What to see at Geysir:

Strokkur: A reliably erupting geyser, offering exciting photo opportunities.

Litli Geysir: A smaller hot spring that bubbles gently but is nonetheless fascinating.

Boiling mud pits and steaming fumaroles: Evidence of the intense geothermal activity below the surface.

3. Gullfoss Waterfall: The Golden Waterfall

The third major stop on the Golden Circle route is the breathtaking Gullfoss waterfall, often called the "Golden Waterfall" due to the golden hue that sometimes appears in its mist on sunny days. This powerful cascade is fed by the Hvítá River, which plunges 32 meters in two dramatic stages. You can approach the falls on a path that gets you close enough to feel the spray, offering panoramic views from several vantage points.

Key attractions at Gullfoss:

Upper and lower viewpoints for stunning vistas of the falls.

Rainbows in the mist: On sunny days, rainbows form in the spray, adding to the spectacle.

Café and visitor center: Learn more about the history of the area and enjoy a warm beverage after exploring.

4. Kerið Crater: A Volcanic Marvel

Many Golden Circle tours also include a stop at Kerið, a volcanic crater lake known for its striking red volcanic rock and vibrant turquoise water. Unlike the other stops, Kerið is relatively young at around 3,000 years old, and its caldera is much shallower than older craters. Visitors can hike around the rim of the crater or walk down to the lake’s edge for a unique perspective.

Travel Tips for the Golden Circle

Getting around: You can either drive yourself or join a guided tour. Renting a car provides flexibility, but guided tours offer expert knowledge and convenience.

Timing: The entire loop can be done in a day, but starting early allows for a more relaxed experience with time to enjoy each site.

What to bring: Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, so bring layers, waterproof gear, and sturdy shoes. A camera is a must for capturing the stunning scenery.

Best time to visit: The Golden Circle is accessible year-round, but summer offers the longest daylight hours. In winter, the snow-covered landscape adds an extra layer of beauty, and you might even catch the northern lights.

Extending Your Golden Circle Adventure

If you have extra time, consider adding other attractions near the Golden Circle:

Secret Lagoon: A lesser-known alternative to the Blue Lagoon, this natural hot spring offers a relaxing geothermal bathing experience.

Fontana Spa: In the town of Laugarvatn, this spa features hot springs and steam baths with views of a serene lake.

Friðheimar Tomato Farm: Visit this geothermal-powered greenhouse to enjoy fresh tomato soup and learn about sustainable farming practices.

Conclusion

Traveling the Golden Circle is a quintessential Icelandic experience that showcases the country’s natural wonders and deep historical roots. Whether you’re standing on the edge of two continents in Þingvellir, marveling at the explosive power of Strokkur, or gazing at the raw beauty of Gullfoss, this journey promises memories that will last a lifetime.

No trip to Iceland is complete without venturing along the Golden Circle. It’s the perfect introduction to the land of fire and ice.