Exploring Iceland’s Golden circle
Iceland, a land of otherworldly landscapes and breathtaking natural wonders. Is a dream destination for adventurers and nature enthusiasts. One of the country's most iconic routes is the Golden Circle, a circuit that offers a glimpse into Iceland's incredible beauty. In this blog post, I'll take you on a journey through the Golden Circle, highlighting our memorable experiences along the way.
Best time to go: April-September
Contintent: Europe
Capital: Reykjavik
How to get around: by car
Time: 5 - 6 days
Language: Halló (hello), góðan daginn(goodnight)
Food: Icelandic hotdog, Skyr
Day 1: Selfoss & Bruara trail
Our journey began in Selfoss, a charming town nestled in Iceland's southern region. We started our day with a visit to Sunnlenska Bokakaffeid, a hidden gem where we sipped on fresh brewed coffee and explored the shop for English books. The aroma of coffee and the cozy atmosphere set the perfect tone for our trip.
Our next stop was the Bruara Trail, a hiking route that remains relatively undiscovered by tourists. Iceland can get crowded, but this trail felt like a hidden oasis. Along the way, we encountered three picturesque waterfalls, each more enchanting than the last. The highlight was the breathtaking Bruarfoss, where the crystal-clear ice-blue waters left us in awe. The trail was a bit muddy due to recent rainfall, so hiking shoes are a must if you visit this.
Day 2: Gulfoss Waterfall and Buarhloo
Day two took us to the spectacular Gulfoss waterfall. While the sight was truly magnificent, it was marred by the crowds of tourists who had flocked to also witness its beauty. A word of advice: visit during the low season to fully enjoy this natural wonder. Just before reaching Gulfoss, make a pit stop at Buarhloo, a serene river with emerald-green waters. It's a hidden gem that's often overlooked by tourists, providing a peaceful escape.
Day 2: Geysir
After Gulfoss go to the famous Geysir, an area known for its geothermal activity. This is a 10 mintue drive from the waterfall. While the geysers were impressive, the overwhelming smell of rotten eggs (sulfur) was in the air. Despite the crowds, we couldn't help but wonder at the natural spectacle before us.
Day 3: Thingvellir Park and Reykjavik
Day three brought us to Thingvellir National Park, where we discovered the option to scuba dive. For the adventurous types, this is a opportunity. Or you can explore the park on foot (think it was 5km trail), tracking down Game of Thrones filming locations. The views here are amazing. Our journey then led us to Reykjavik, Iceland's vibrant capital city.
Day 3 Exploring Reykjavik's Charms
The capital Reykjavik welcomed us with its colorful streets and warm vibes. Local coffee shops offered delightful pastries and aromatic brews. Visit vintage shops and artisan jewelers in the center at the Laugavegur street. The famous Hallgrímskirkja church and Harpa concert hall were must-see attractions. And of course, we couldn't resist the allure of Rainbow Street. Go see my other blogpost for more information about Reykjavik.
Day 4 Stormy weather
We settled into the Grandi Hotel, ideally located near the city center. Unfortunately, a storm descended upon Reykjavik, limiting our outdoor activities. But, for those seeking an evening adventure, the Sky Lagoon is highly recommended, offering the Blue Lagoon experience with fewer crowds. Unfortunately, we didn’t do it but I’ve heard it is worth the visit.
Day 5: The Blue Lagoon
Our journey concluded a visit to the Blue Lagoon, the crowning jewel of Icelandic wellness. While it can get crowded, the experience is simply out of this world. The soothing waters, the natural surroundings and the choice of spa treatments left us so relaxed. My skin was so soft after the 3-step skincare routine. Depending on which formula you book ours included three masks and a free consumption. We stayed at the Silica hotel next to the Blue Lagoon. Book the deluxe room for an amazing view on the waters. Now if I can give you a tip: make sure you cover your hair in a lot of conditioner. Because the water makes your hair very dry! They have it available for you before you enter the spa, because you need to wash yourself before you enter.
This itinerary offers an unforgettable adventure in Iceland, spanning four to five days. From hidden trails to iconic landmarks, our Golden Circle journey of the country's diverse beauty left us with lasting memories of this enchanting land.
Tip: if you're planning your trip for five days, the Golden Circle is an ideal choice. However, if you're staying longer in Iceland, we highly recommend exploring the less crowded and more stunning South coast first. But still, the Golden Circle is worth the visit.