In this guide, we’ll show you how to get the most out of a visit to the Golden Circle, Iceland’s premier sightseeing route. As well as exploring the enduring appeal of its trio of headline attractions, we’ll look at the unique and upscale activities that are available along this popular route, including helicopter rides, private tours up onto the glacier and bespoke luxury experiences. With practical advice and tips, reading this Golden Circle guide will help you ensure that you have a fully customised and memorable trip.
The Golden Circle’s Must-See Attractions
Ask anyone what you should see on the Golden Circle in Iceland and they’ll reel off a trio of names: Þingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area and Gullfoss Waterfall. No matter how popular they become, these headliners are unmissable. Let’s take a look at why they draw a crowd.
Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park
It can be tempting to dismiss well-trodden visitor destinations but that would be a pity on the Golden Circle as Þingvellir National Park (you’ll also see it written as Thingvellir) has played such a pivotal role in Icelandic history.
In the early centuries of Iceland’s settled history, this was where the chieftains met to discuss laws and resolve disagreements. As you take a stroll through the Almannagjá Gorge you’ll be walking in their footsteps as you approach the Lögberg (Law Rock).
If that wasn’t reason enough to visit, this is one of several places in the country where Iceland’s position atop the Mid-Atlantic Ridge is most evident. Here, the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are slowly and imperceptibly drifting apart.
You can see it from the hiking trails within the national park, but also underwater. Snorkel or dive in the crystal clear water of Silfra Fissure to get a unique perspective on the area’s geology. Iceland has many spots where the majesty and wonder of nature make a huge impact on visitors and this is definitely one of them.
The area’s volcanic past is also evident in the wider national park. You might consider an excursion to the 360 metre long Gjábakkahellir lava tube, formed around 9000 years ago. During eruptions, magma flows underground, but as these flows subside, the conduits in which they pass drain and solidify into lava tubes. When a volcano is dormant, it’s possible to venture into these spaces with a guide and see the minerals and rock formations left behind.
Geysir Geothermal Area
Another aspect of Iceland’s physical geography that you can’t escape – and won’t want to – is the abundance of geothermal activity. The Haukadalur valley, often referred to as Geysir Geothermal Area or just Geysir, is one of the most accessible of these areas. The term geyser comes from the Icelandic word meaning “to gush”, and the first one here was called Geysir. It’s no longer active, blocked up many decades ago as well-meaning guides threw soap powder into its vent to precipitate a reaction.
Fortunately, another geyser puts on a reliable show every 5 to 10 minutes. You can’t miss it: among the steaming rivulets of hot water, fumaroles and mud pots, a circle of people gathers to watch the water in a small pond shiver, form a vivid turquoise dome and then blast a jet of superheated hot water and steam high into the air. It’s a magnificent sight, and often tourists will hurry away once they’ve seen it perform a couple of times. On a private tour, not only can you linger for a while but also take a walk around the area and get a greater sense of its setting.
Gullfoss Waterfall
This extraordinary waterfall on the Hvitá River is one of Iceland’s most powerful, sending huge volumes of water tumbling over a double step in the basalt and sedimentary bedrock to create a steep-sided gorge. Several viewing platforms have been created so that you can get remarkably close to the waterfall’s edge and see how the faulted rock is eroded by the power of the river.
It’s a breathtaking sight no matter when you come. In summer, glacial meltwater swells the river’s discharge, while in winter, the icy and snowy landscape gives the place a magical quality, particularly if the sun is shining. Bathed in the soft light, you’ll understand why its name means “Golden Falls”.
Another option is to arrange a rafting trip and experience the white water of the Hvitá River head on. Such tours tend to focus on Brúarhlöð, a few kilometres downstream of Gullfoss. Its charcoal grey walls create a stark contrast to the turbulent water, adding to its appeal. You might also wish to visit a hidden gem of a waterfall: Faxi Falls, located on the Tungufljót River. It’s an impressive 80 metres wide though only around 7 metres tall. Their flow is said by some to resemble a horse’s mane billowing in the wind.
The water that cascades over Gullfoss waterfall originates from Langjökull (“Long Glacier”), which is the second biggest glacier in Iceland after Vatnajökull. On our private Golden Circle tour, we can drive our super jeeps up to the highlands and get a closer look at this impressive body of ice and the surrounding wild terrain from a variety of overlooks along the way.
Unique and Upscale Activities Available Along the Golden Circle Route
In addition to the main attractions, there are plenty of lesser-known sights to discover and experiences designed with the luxury market in mind. Customising your trip gives you full control over how you spend your time and maximises flexibility; not a minute is wasted on activities or places you have no interest in. Tapping into the expert knowledge of a private local guide helps you to understand your surroundings and get the most out of your Golden Circle visit.
Bespoke Luxury Experiences on the Golden Circle
The greatest advantage of taking a private tour of the Golden Circle is the flexibility it gives you – which you can use to build in some bespoke luxury experiences that will make your vacation truly memorable.
Helicopter rides
Helicopter flights over the Golden Circle region operate from Reykjavik’s downtown airport and make an interesting add-on to a driving tour. Seize the opportunity if you can to see the plate boundaries from the air and witness landforms such as Strokkur and Gullfoss from a different perspective.
Private glacier tours
In a robust, high-clearance vehicle, you can travel much further off the beaten track. And doing so doesn’t have to mean compromising on quality – some super jeeps are luxurious, built with comfort as well as functionality in mind. Langjökull is a popular addition to a Golden Circle private tour; snowmobiling or glacier hikes can also be arranged.
Geothermal baths
Laugarvatn Fontana spa is located within the Golden Circle and with prior notice can accommodate private visits. It’s also possible to customise our bespoke tours with a soak in the rustic-chic surroundings of Hvammsvik Baths overlooking unspoilt Hvalfjörður, a hike to Reykjadalur hot river or a booking for the seven-step ritual at upscale Sky Lagoon on your return to Reykjavik.
Upgrade Your Golden Circle Visit With an Overnight Stay
The Golden Circle doesn’t have to be a standalone; it can be a part of a longer trip around the south of Iceland and beyond. While it’s possible to see the highlights in a single day, overnighting in the Golden Circle region takes the pressure off, allowing you to explore at an unhurried pace and build in more activities into your itinerary. Doing as well as seeing is guaranteed to make the trip more memorable.
These upscale properties also offer some of the best dining opportunities in the Golden Circle region. Talented chefs source local ingredients to create sumptuous breakfast spreads in rooms overlooking some of the area’s most impressive views. After dark, these light and airy spaces become cosy and characterful dining rooms. Let’s take a look at where you might stay within the Golden Circle region.
Hotel Geysir, Geysir Geothermal Area
When location matters, Hotel Geysir is a smart choice. This stylish 4 star hotel is a stone’s throw from Strokkur, meaning that you can take advantage of a late night or early morning view of Iceland’s largest geyser before everyone else has left Reykjavik. Nordic décor gives the place a chic, contemporary feel.
ION Adventure Hotel, Nesjavellir
The cantilevered design of this ultra-modern hotel is its most striking feature – more than a match for the drama of its surroundings. Look out through floor-to-ceiling windows over a rugged lava field and feel the splendid isolation for which Iceland is known. Toast the view from the hotel’s Northern Lights bar.
Torfhús Retreat, Golden Circle
If seclusion is an indulgence you crave, then this gorgeous retreat midway between Faxafoss and Brúarhlöð is just the place. Its exquisite design is matched only by the beauty of its surroundings. Sleep under a luxurious turfed roof in suites crafted from local stone and reclaimed wood. Unwind after a day’s sightseeing as you soak in a basalt stone hot tub.
Hotel Grímsborgir, Golden Circle
Part of the KEA hotels family, this delightful 4-star property is located in the south of the Golden Circle region. It occupies a bucolic spot beside the River Sogid, between the southern tip of Þingvallavatn and Kerið crater. Opt for a spacious suite with private hot tub and terrace for the ultimate in privacy and pampering.
360 Hotel and Spa
If you’re planning to continue your journey with your sights set on Iceland’s remarkable south coast, this hotel just east of Selfoss is ideally situated. Extensive renovation work will commence in late 2024 to create a brand new luxury hotel and spa. It promises to be even more stylish than the current offering when it reopens in July 2025.
Tips For Getting the Best Out of Your Golden Circle Visit
Next, we can take a look at the ways you can prepare for your Golden Circle visit to ensure you make the most of your time in this scenic region.
The Best Times to Visit to Avoid Crowds
There’s no reason why you can’t visit the Golden Circle at any time of year. Road closures in the region are a rarity except in extremely bad weather, so this is as much a winter destination as it is a summer one. Winter is the quietest season, though it can bring inclement weather. Some path closures are to be expected at Gullfoss waterfall but you can still access some of the viewpoints even when that’s the case.
But even in the peak of the tourist season you can find somewhere off the beaten track and have a slice of the Icelandic landscape all to yourself. In summer, if you’re keen to skip the crowds, opt for a bespoke private tour where you can set your own pace and work out your own itinerary so you can mix in hidden gems with the main three attractions. The long days mean that if you stay within the Golden Circle, you can visit very early or very late in the day when the tours have departed.
Another option is to visit during the shoulder season – spring or autumn. There’s a better chance of fine weather at this time than in winter, yet the bulk of Iceland’s annual visitors prefer to visit from June to August.
There’s another bonus: around the time of the spring and autumn equinoxes, the Northern Lights are most likely to make an appearance and this coming season is expected to bring intense displays as we approach the solar maximum.
Preparing for the Icelandic weather
At any time of year, Iceland’s weather can be notoriously changeable and hard to predict. It’s best to prepare for all conditions; you can always leave layers you don’t need in the vehicle as you head off for some sightseeing. As a guide, you’ll be glad you brought warm and waterproof layers. When it’s cold, bring thermal undergarments; layer up with fleeces or woollens – the traditional Icelandic lopapeysa is a useful souvenir.
There’s little point in trying to hold up an umbrella – rain showers are often accompanied by strong winds. In this kind of weather, jeans aren’t a good idea. If they get wet, they’ll stay wet. Instead look for high quality outdoor gear, such as from Icelandic brand 66°North. And don’t forget your extremities, keeping them cosy with a snug fitting hat which won’t blow off in the wind, gloves and scarf. You’ll also appreciate a decent pair of boots that are waterproof and have a thick tread for extra grip; make sure they’re well worn in before you arrive.
Unique spots for photography
While there are plenty of opportunities for photography at the three main sites of the Golden Circle, a number of rewarding yet underrated spots might also catch your eye. On a bespoke private tour of the region , you might choose to customise your itinerary to spend time at these photogenic locations off the beaten track:
Helgufoss and Thurufoss waterfalls
Bring your tripod and practice those long exposures to blur flowing water at Helgufoss, located in the Mosfellsdalur Valley. Situated on the Laxá í Kjós River, pretty Thurufoss waterfall also sees relatively few visitors, yet both of these waterfalls make a delightful detour thanks to their natural setting.
Kerið
The vivid colours of this volcanic explosion crater make it a must-stop for snappers. The rock is a rich red and rises steeply from the aquamarine water that fills this sizeable hollow. On a sunny day the colours really pop; walk around the crater rim to find the best orientation for the light conditions during your visit.
Thingvallakirkja
Iceland’s isolated rural churches are often the perfect complement to the breathtaking scenery that surrounds them. Thingvallakirkja was constructed in 1859; its simple white exterior – which is especially lovely amid a snowy winter landscape – contrasts with the soft paint colours of its interior.
Private tours within the Golden Circle
When it comes to getting around the Golden Circle , the absence of regular public transport means you have a couple of options: drive yourself or let someone else take the wheel. One of the big advantages of renting a car is the flexibility it offers compared to group tours to set your own itinerary and deviate from your schedule if something unexpected catches your attention. Yet without a guide, you’ll miss out on some of the context that adds an extra dimension to your sightseeing and helps you make sense of what you’re looking at.
On one of our private tours, you have the best of both worlds. Your driver can keep their eyes on the road, leaving you to concentrate on the scenery around you, as well as answering any questions you might have about the Icelandic landscape and culture.
Whether you choose to explore only the Golden Circle or venture further afield, we believe you’ll find our tours rewarding and fun. Why not get in touch and discuss your requirements?
