Iceland, the stunning volcanic island in the North Atlantic, offers a variety of natural wonders to captivate every visitor. Along with the Ring Road, travelling the Golden Circle is one of the most unforgettable adventures. This legendary journey takes in some of the country’s most impressive sights and promises unforgettable moments in spectacular scenery.
Fast Fact
The original name of the route is Gullni hringurinn.
The origin of the Golden Circle
The Golden Circle is a 230 kilometre circular route that starts in the capital, Reykjavik, and takes in three main attractions: Thingvellir National Park, the geothermal area around Geysir and the impressive Gullfoss waterfall. These sites form the heart of the route and represent Iceland’s unique geological and geographical features.
Þingvellir National Park: Where history meets nature
The Golden Circle begins at Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is not only scenic but also historically significant. The National Park is famous for the Althing, Iceland’s parliament from the 10th to the 18th centuries, the Öxarárfoss and the remains of old stone houses. Walk through the impressive Silfra Rift, where the Eurasian and North American continental plates meet, and experience Iceland’s unique geology first hand.
Geothermal area: Where the earth awakens
Next stop is the Haukadalur Valley, home to the Great Geyser, after which all hot springs of this type are named. While the Geyser itself rarely erupts these days, its neighbour, Strokkur, is extremely active and shoots an impressive fountain of hot water into the air every 10 minutes. This natural spectacle is a must for any visitor to the Golden Circle.
Gullfoss: Iceland's majestic waterfall
The golden waterfall Gullfoss is another highlight of the Golden Circle. The mighty river Hvítá cascades into a deep gorge, creating a rainbow that adds to the impressive spectacle. The power and beauty of this waterfall make Gullfoss one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Iceland.
Practical travel tips
To get the most out of your Golden Circle trip, here are some practical tips:
- Weather preparation: The weather in Iceland can be unpredictable. Pack clothing for all weather conditions, from rain jackets to warm layers.
- Travel time: The Golden Circle is accessible all year round, but the best conditions are in summer. The long hours of daylight make it possible to enjoy the attractions to the full. However, the Northern Lights are not visible then.
- Car hire: The best way to explore the Golden Circle is to hire a car. This gives you the freedom to drive the route at your own pace and explore off the beaten track. Four-wheel drive is not necessary.
Need more travel tips for Iceland? Read our Iceland Guide!
The Golden Circle not only offers the opportunity to experience some of Iceland’s most breathtaking natural wonders, but also to delve deep into the country’s history and geology. From historic sites and geothermal wonders to majestic waterfalls and colourful craters, this route is a gift for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
