Embarking on an Icelandic adventure is like stepping into a landscape crafted by a master artist. With raw, untamed beauty around every corner, your Icelandic journey will undoubtedly be filled with awe-inspiring moments. Here’s a detailed account of our first day exploring the Golden Circle and discovering some of Iceland's most iconic natural wonders.
The Golden Circle Tour is one of Iceland’s most famous tourist routes, and for good reason. It offers a compact yet comprehensive experience of the country’s geological and natural wonders.
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Állmannagjá Gorge
Our first stop was Állmannagjá Gorge, located within the Þingvellir National Park. This rift valley is a dramatic testament to the powerful forces of tectonic plate movement. Walking through the gorge felt like stepping into a natural cathedral, with its towering cliffs and rugged terrain. The park itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site, rich in both geological history and cultural significance, as it was the site of the ancient Icelandic parliament, Alþingi.
Be prepared to do a lot of walking. But you won't even realize it because as you walk you will be enjoying your beautiful surroundings. There were some people who were using a
walking stick and I realized that was a really smart idea, since there are places where the road is not so smooth.
Öxarárfoss
A short stroll from Állmannagjá led us to Öxarárfoss, a stunning waterfall cascading over the rugged rocks of the gorge. The falls are not particularly large but possess a unique charm with their crystal-clear waters tumbling down into a serene pool below. It was the perfect spot for some tranquil moments and photographs.
This was the first waterfall we came to and we loved it. But as you will see later in this blog and in my future blogs this was probably the smallest waterfall we came across.
Brúarfoss
Next on our list was Brúarfoss, often dubbed the “Blue Waterfall” due to its striking azure hue. The hike to Brúarfoss is relatively short but somewhat challenging, with a series of winding trails and bridges. However, the effort was well worth it. The waterfall’s vibrant blue waters contrasted beautifully with the surrounding dark rocks, creating a scene straight out of a fantasy.
Absolutely STUNNING!! There are no words....
Geysir at Strokkur
Continuing our journey, we arrived at the Geysir geothermal area, home to the famous Strokkur geyser. Strokkur is known for its impressive eruptions, which occur approximately every 5 to 10 minutes. Watching the geyser shoot a jet of boiling water high into the air was nothing short of exhilarating. The surrounding geothermal landscape, with its bubbling hot springs and steam vents, added to the otherworldly experience.
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Golden circle Iceland
Explore Iceland's iconic Golden Circle on this immersive tour, where you'll marvel at the explosive Geysir geothermal area, the breathtaking Gullfoss waterfall, and the rift valley of Thingvellir National Park. Experience the raw beauty and geological wonders of Iceland in a single unforgettable day.
Gullfoss
A short drive from Geysir brought us to Gullfoss, or the “Golden Falls,” one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls. The falls are a spectacular sight, with their two-tiered drop creating a powerful and thunderous cascade. The mist rising from the falls created shimmering rainbows in the sunlight, adding to the majestic atmosphere. We spent a considerable amount of time taking in the view from various vantage points along the paths.
As close to Niagara Falls as you can come to in Iceland. We trekked all the way up and had the most unbelievable view. You do have to be very careful at the top as it is very wet and windy due to the mist of the falls and there are alot of rocks. Make sure you are wearing the proper foot gear, like the Columbia Hiking Shoes. Then we went all the way down to see the lower level of the falls. Make sure you don't miss this waterfall.
Kerið Crater
Our final stop on the Golden Circle was Kerið, a volcanic crater lake. The vibrant red and black slopes of the crater contrasted sharply with the striking blue water of the lake at its base. The walk around the rim offered breathtaking views, and the reflections in the lake created a perfect mirror image of the surrounding landscape.
The weather in Iceland is really unpredictable. We were there in August and I was so surprised that I had to wear my Northface Parka the entire trip. Between the cold, the rain and the wind - It's always best to be prepared.
As the sun began to set, we made our way to our accommodation for the night, Seljalandsfoss Horizons. Nestled near the famous Seljalandsfoss waterfall, this place offered a cozy and welcoming retreat. The sound of the waterfall in the distance provided a soothing backdrop as we settled into our rooms.
The cabin had everything we could possibly need and offered us our privacy at the same time. The hotel’s location made it easy to explore Seljalandsfoss and its nearby neighbor, Gljúfrabúi, a hidden gem of a waterfall tucked away in a canyon.
The evening was spent reflecting on the day’s adventures, enjoying the serene surroundings, and preparing for the next leg of our journey. Iceland’s Golden Circle had left us spellbound, and we couldn’t wait to see what other wonders awaited us.
Follow along as I post more blogs about the rest of our vacation touring Iceland.
Conclusion
From the dramatic landscapes of Þingvellir National Park to the powerful cascades of Gullfoss and the geothermal spectacle at Strokkur, the Golden Circle is a treasure trove of Icelandic natural beauty. Our experience, starting from the moment we touched down at Keflavík Airport to our restful night at Seljalandsfoss Horizons, was truly unforgettable. Iceland’s allure lies in its ability to continually surprise and captivate, making it a destination that beckons for exploration and discovery.
Travel Essentials for Iceland
Northface Womens Parka
The North Face Women's Arctic Insulated Parka combines style and functionality with its sleek design and premium insulation. Perfect for braving cold winter days while staying warm and chic.
Columbia Mens Waterproof Hiking Shoe
The Columbia Men's Granite Trail Mid Waterproof Hiking Shoe offers rugged durability and all-day comfort with its waterproof protection and supportive mid-height design. Ideal for tackling diverse trails in any weather.
TREKOLOGY Trekking Poles Collapsible Nordic Hiking Poles
TrekoLOGY Collapsible Nordic Hiking Poles ensure stability and ease on Iceland's
rugged landscapes. Lightweight and adjustable, they're ideal for exploring waterfalls,
geysers, and volcanic terrain.
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See you soon,
Lea
"The Golden Circle: Where Iceland shows off its coolest features and reminds you that nature is way better at throwing a party than you are."
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