Iceland's Golden Circle is a mesmerizing route that takes you from the vibrant capital city of Reykjavik on a remarkable journey of natural wonders.
From the historical significance of Thingvellir National Park to the explosive geothermal activity at Geysir and the awe-inspiring Gullfoss waterfall and Karid Crater, this iconic circuit showcases the essence of Iceland's beauty. Unleash your Icelandic adventure on the Golden Circle and immerse yourself in stunning landscapes, geological wonders, and rich heritage!
How to visit Iceland's Golden Circle
Iceland's Golden Circle is one of the most renowned tourist routes in the country, showcasing some of Iceland's most iconic attractions, including the majestic Gullfoss waterfall, the geothermal wonders of Geysir, and the historical and cultural significance of Thingvellir National Park.
When planning a visit to the Golden Circle, there are two primary options: taking a guided tour or renting a car for a self-guided exploration. Each choice offers unique advantages, so it ultimately depends on your preferences and travel style.
Opting for a guided tour is an excellent choice for those seeking a hassle-free experience and insightful commentary from knowledgeable guides. GetYourGuide offers numerous Golden Circle full-day tours from Reykjavik that include transportation, guided commentary, and visits to key sights along the Golden Circle route. This option is ideal for travelers who prefer to sit back, relax, and let someone else take care of the logistics while they immerse themselves in the beauty of the surroundings.
On the other hand, renting a car allows for flexibility and independence, granting you the freedom to explore at your own pace. With well-maintained roads and clear signage, driving in Iceland is relatively straightforward, making it a popular choice for adventurous souls.
We chose this option to continue our route along the south coast of Iceland, spending the night in Hella instead of returning to the capital.
Iceland’s Golden Circle driving route
Thingvellir National Park
Embarking on a scenic drive from Reykjavik, the vibrant capital of Iceland, it takes approximately 45 minutes to reach the Thingvellir National Park, allowing you to quickly escape the city and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Similar to many natural attractions in Iceland, admission to the park is free of charge; however, there is a parking fee applicable if you’re bringing your own vehicle.
Thingvellir National Park stands as a testament to the country's raw and untouched beauty. Steeped in history, geology, and natural wonders, this remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site invites travelers on an unforgettable journey. From awe-inspiring vistas to geological marvels, Thingvellir National Park offers a unique blend of cultural significance and breathtaking landscapes.
Thingvellir is situated on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates meet, creating a fascinating geological phenomenon. The park provides an opportunity to walk along the exposed rift valley, where the Earth's crust is visibly splitting apart. Witnessing this natural wonder is a humbling experience, showcasing the raw power of the planet.
At Thingvellir, history echoes through the ancient Alþingi assembly site, where the world's first parliament was established in 930 AD. As you wander through the open-air assembly grounds, you can almost feel the weight of centuries of governance and decision-making that shaped Iceland's democratic roots.
Thingvellir's picturesque landscapes are a treat for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike. Lush meadows, volcanic rock formations, and serene lakes create a breathtaking backdrop. You can gaze upon the tranquil Thingvallavatn, Iceland's largest natural lake, or hike through scenic trails to reach the amazing waterfalls. The trek can be extremely challenging during the winter months due to the vast amount of ice covering the ground, so using crampons and good waterproof boots is essential. The park is enveloped in green by its vibrant flora during the summer months, making each visit unique.
A visit to Thingvellir National Park in Iceland is an unforgettable experience that merges history, geology, and natural wonders. You can delve into the footsteps of Iceland's ancient parliament, witness the magnificent geological forces at play, and immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of the surroundings. Thingvellir National Park is a testament to the harmonious coexistence of nature and culture, creating a lasting impression on every visitor.
Geyser
Our next stop was the Geyser Park, a place that promised to unfold the wonders of nature before my very eyes with a realm of erupting geysers, bubbling mud pools, and geothermal marvels. Entrance and parking is free of charge.
A geyser is a fascinating natural phenomenon characterized by intermittent eruptions of hot water and steam from the Earth's surface. It occurs when groundwater seeps into the Earth and comes into contact with hot rocks or magma, causing it to heat up and build pressure. Eventually, the pressure becomes too great, resulting in a powerful release of boiling water and steam through a vent or fissure.
Standing in the presence of the legendary Great Geysir, I felt a surge of anticipation. Erupting in intervals of approximately 10 minutes, its towering plume of boiling water can reach heights of up to 30 meters - a truly unforgettable experience!
Within the park, you'll find an array of smaller geysers, including the renowned Strokkur geyser. As the liveliest geyser in Iceland, it delights visitors with its natural eruptions occurring every 4-10 minutes reaching heights of 15 to 20 meters.
Gullfoss Waterfall
After a short 10-minute drive from the Geyser we reached the breathtaking beauty and raw power of Gullfoss, Iceland's magnificent waterfall. The waterfall cascades down in two stages, with the water plummeting into a narrow canyon below. The sheer power and beauty of the falls, combined with the surrounding dramatic landscape, create a truly awe-inspiring sight.
Approaching Gullfoss, the thunderous roar of cascading water reverberates through the air, heightening anticipation. As I stood on the viewing platforms, a mesmerizing vista unfolded before me. The sight of the glacial Hvítá River plunging into a rugged, two-tiered waterfall was simply awe-inspiring. The sheer power and grandeur of Gullfoss left me humbled and in awe of nature's forces.
Gullfoss offers a variety of viewpoints, allowing visitors to admire the waterfall from different angles. From the upper platforms, you can witness the roaring torrent of water as it crashes against the basalt cliffs, creating a dazzling spray that shimmered in the sunlight.
Gullfoss is nestled within a pristine natural environment, enhancing the experience of the waterfall. Surrounded by rugged cliffs, the surroundings offer a tranquil retreat where visitors can immerse themselves in the serene ambiance and marvel at the harmonious blend of power and serenity.
Kerið Crater
The last stop of the day was the Kerid Crater, a volcanic marvel cradling a mesmerizing turquoise lake. The crater is easily accessible and can be reached by a short walk from the parking area.
Approaching the crater's rim, a sense of awe washed over me as I beheld the colossal and perfectly symmetrical caldera. Its steep walls, adorned in captivating hues of red and black, stood in stark contrast against the serene azure waters below. The vivid red and black volcanic rocks mingled harmoniously with the vibrant blue-green of the frozen lake, creating a surreal and ethereal ambiance.
You can walk around the rim of the crater for stunning views of the surrounding landscape, and weather permitting, you can descend into the heart of the crater and reach the shore of the lake. Kerid stands as a testament to the intricate beauty born from ancient volcanic forces, reminding us of the profound wonders that lie beneath the Earth's surface.
Leaving the Kerid crater behind, we embarked on a scenic journey to Hella, where we spent the night. If you’re taking a day trip to the Golden Circle, it will most likely return to Reykjavik at the end of the day.
The next day, we continued exploring Iceland’s south coast to visit the Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, marvel at the Solheimasandur Plane Wreck, and witness the breathtaking views from Dyrhólaey. Resting in Hella, we prepared for another day of captivating landscapes and unforgettable experiences in this enchanting country.
Some links in this post are affiliate links, which means that if you buy through them, we’ll receive a small commission. This will never cost you more and in many cases you will receive a special discount.
As always, all opinions are mine. We appreciate your support!
