Iceland's Golden Circle in Depth

SUMMARY

Experience the highlights of Iceland’s Golden Circle on a five-day loop from Reykjavik. When we say you’ll see the hotspots, we mean it – whether you’re soaking in the steamy geothermal waters of the Secret Lagoon or marvelling at the eruptions of the Strokkur Geysir. But this is the land of not only fire, but ice too – and where better to experience the latter than Solheimajokull Glacier, and the south coast's series of pristine waterfalls? In between all these adventures – led by an expert local leader – you’ll stay on a sustainable working farm to learn what rural life is like on this majestic isle.

TOTAL DURATION : 5 Days

GROUP SIZE : MIN 1 MAX 12

TOUR ITINERARY AND DATES

START : Reykjavik

END : Reykjavik

COUNTRIES VISITED : Iceland

Validity : 01 JAN 2023 To 31 DEC 2024

Day :1

Location : Reykjavik

Welcome to Iceland! Your adventure begins in Reykjavik, the world’s northernmost capital and an eclectic place full of charm. At 6 pm you’ll meet your local leader and travel companions at an important welcome meeting at your hotel. If you arrive in Reykjavik with time to spare, why not hit the streets and explore the city's quirky boutiques and cosy cafes. After your welcome meeting, you may like to head into town with the group and get to know each other over dinner.

Day :2

Location : Reykjanes Peninsula / Hvolsvollur Valley

Wake up and take a moment to breathe in the fresh Icelandic air before heading out towards the Reykjanes Peninsula. Make a stop at the Bridge between Continents, a footbridge that spans a fissure between the North American and Eurasian continental plates, and visit the eerie mud pools and steam vents of Gunnuhver, named for the angry ghost that is believed to have been trapped in the hot springs 400 years ago. As you continue towards your accommodation for the night, visit Strandarkirkja, a Lutheran church that has been a landmark for seafaring travellers since the 12th century. Finish your day at a sustainable farm that doubles as a hotel. This farm is the leader in responsible tourism and sustainability in Iceland. Share a nourishing farm-to-table dinner made using ingredients grown right here on the farm.

Day :3

Location : Golden Circle / Hvolsvollur Valley

Today is all about exploring Iceland’s famous Golden Circle. Head to the Geysir geothermal area to check out Strokkur and watch as the geyser swells with blue water before erupting and shooting some 20-30 metres in the air. Marvel at the immense beauty and sheer power of the Gullfoss double waterfall on the Hvita River. After witnessing these natural wonders, it’s time to reap the benefits of Iceland’s geothermal activity for yourself, with a soak in the warm waters of the Secret Lagoon. Fed by various hot springs in the surrounding area, this spot is the oldest pool in Iceland – though it’s had a facelift since first opening in 1894. And as the name suggests, it sees fewer visitors than its blue counterpart, meaning you can truly unwind, without the crowds. Once you're fully destressed (or before your fingertips start to prune), return to your farmstay accommodation for the night.

Day :4

Location : South Coast / Hvolsvollur Valley

Start the day by visiting the magical Seljalandsfoss waterfall and take a walk behind its cascade for a different perspective, followed by the powerful Skogafoss waterfall, one of Iceland's biggest at a width of 25 metres and a drop of 60 metres. From here embark on a short hike to another breathtaking waterfall, Kvernufoos, hidden in a nearby valley, and unbeknownst to most. The waterfall is framed by moss-coated cliffs of lava rock, adding to its otherworldly appearance. After you’ve had your fill of gorgeous waterfalls, prepare to take a walk on one of Europe's biggest ice caps – the mighty Solheimajokull Glacier. No experience is necessary to partake in the hike – your guide will brief you on all you need to know so you can explore the icy caves and crevasses safely.

Day :5

Location : Thingvellir National Park / Reykjavik

Say goodbye to your farmstay hosts and head back to Reykjavik. En route, stop at Thingvellir National Park to see the Parliament Plains, the site of Iceland’s first parliament. Thingvellir also contains the Silfra fissure, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are slowly pulling apart, the resulting gap partly filled with fresh water and clearly visible. Once you get back to Reykjavik, your leader will take you out on a walking tour to discover more of the history and culture of this fascinating city. Once this concludes, you will say your goodbyes and your adventure will come to an end.

Need more info?

Tel: 01268 735301

Iceland's Golden Circle in Depth

  • See the sights that make Iceland’s famous Golden Circle so celebrated, from Gulfoss Waterfall to Strokkur Geysir and Thingvellir National Park.
  • There are few things more quintessentially Icelandic than soaking in a geothermal pool – experience it for yourself during a visit to the lesser-known Secret Lagoon.
  • Spend a few nights at an eco-hotel that’s part of a sustainable, family-run farm and enjoy a planet-friendly, farm-to-table meal.
  • Stand in the spray of Iceland’s most iconic south coast cascades – from the thundering Skogafoss to the enchanting Seljalandsfoss.
  • Explore one of Europe’s largest ice caps on an adventurous walk over the alien landscape of Solheimajokull Glacier.
  • Prices based on land only basis,
    Packages with flights, car hire or transfers are available. All prices and details are subject to change and availability.  Terms and conditions apply.
    Prices start from £1,472

    Holiday Name : Iceland's Golden Circle in Depth 
    Reference : IT
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