Begin your day trip with a pickup from your Reykjavik hotel or a bus terminal in the city. Then, set off on your Golden Circle tour by air-conditioned vehicle while learning about Iceland’s geology and history.
Stop to take in the spectacular Gullfoss waterfall. This double-tier fall crashes 105 feet (32 meters) into a rock gorge, and begs to be captured on camera.
Head into the lunar-like landscapes of Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2004. View the geological rift where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates meet, and see Iceland’s age-old parliamentary site — the Althing. It was here in 930 AD that the country’s, and the world’s, first parliament assembled, and continued to convene until the late 18th century.
Visit the Geysir geothermal area, home to hot springs, streams and waterspouts. Stroll around the bubbling pools and watch the famous Strokkur geyser. This towering geyser shoots water high in the sky every six minutes or so, and makes an unforgettable sight.
Lastly, travel on to the Fontana spa and wellness center, where pools and steam baths have been built above natural hot springs beside Lake Laugarvatn. The original sauna was constructed in the 1920s and was orginally little more than a shack set above the springs.
Enjoy free time here for an optional bathe in the naturally heated pools and steam cabins. Alternatively, relax over a coffee (own expense) at the café or enjoy the lake views from the rooftop area.
Then, savor some traditional Icelandic rye bread slow-baked in the natural hot springs. Watch as the bread is dug from the ground, and sample a slice slathered in butter.
Later, return to Reykjavik where your tour ends at the start point; your hotel or the bus terminal.
Please note: guests are advised to bring swimwear and a towel for their visit to Fontana. Swimwear and towels can also be rented (own expense) on site.
