{"id":226426,"date":"2026-06-06T19:39:14","date_gmt":"2026-06-06T17:39:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/?p=226426"},"modified":"2026-06-07T07:23:49","modified_gmt":"2026-06-07T05:23:49","slug":"golden-circle-iceland-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/golden-circle-iceland-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"Golden Circle Iceland: The Complete 2026 Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>I remember it like it was yesterday, even though it&#8217;s been a few years since we first set off for Iceland in late September. We were standing by the geysers, a mad wind was howling, and we decided to climb the <strong>nearby little hill of Bjarnarfell<\/strong> to get a better view.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>During the twenty minutes it took us to scramble to the top, we got sunshine, a sudden downpour, hail that stung our faces, and then the sun came out again to dry us off a little \ud83d\ude05. That was the moment I understood that in Iceland <strong>nature does whatever it pleases<\/strong>, and we&#8217;re only there as guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&#8217;re planning a trip to this magical island, the <strong>Golden Circle in Iceland<\/strong> will probably be your <strong>first big stop<\/strong>. It&#8217;s Iceland in a nutshell, where in a relatively small area you&#8217;ll see the best of the local landscape, from tectonic rifts to spouting geysers and breathtaking waterfalls.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this article you&#8217;ll find a <strong>complete guide for 2026<\/strong>. We&#8217;ll look at what to see, how much things cost, where to base yourself smartly, and above all I&#8217;ll tell you what to skip so you don&#8217;t waste precious time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2528\" height=\"1685\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-gc-hero.jpg\" alt=\"The mighty Gullfoss waterfall on the Golden Circle in Iceland\" class=\"wp-image-214195\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-gc-hero.jpg 2528w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-gc-hero-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-gc-hero-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-gc-hero-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-gc-hero-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-gc-hero-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-gc-hero-696x464.jpg 696w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-gc-hero-1392x928.jpg 1392w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-gc-hero-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2528px) 100vw, 2528px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The mighty Gullfoss waterfall on the Golden Circle in Iceland<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_83 ez-toc-wrap-left counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/golden-circle-iceland-guide\/#TLDR\" >TL;DR<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/golden-circle-iceland-guide\/#When_to_go_and_how_to_get_there\" >When to go and how to get there<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/golden-circle-iceland-guide\/#Where_to_stay_and_how_much_the_Golden_Circle_costs\" >Where to stay and how much the Golden Circle costs<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/golden-circle-iceland-guide\/#THingvellir_National_Park_where_history_and_continents_were_made\" >\u00deingvellir National Park: where history and continents were made<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/golden-circle-iceland-guide\/#1_A_walk_through_the_Almannagja_rift_and_Oxararfoss_waterfall\" >1. A walk through the Almannagj\u00e1 rift and \u00d6xar\u00e1rfoss waterfall<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/golden-circle-iceland-guide\/#2_Silfra_snorkelling_in_water_with_100-metre_visibility\" >2. Silfra: snorkelling in water with 100-metre visibility<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/golden-circle-iceland-guide\/#Geysir_and_Gullfoss_geothermal_theatre_and_the_deafening_roar_of_water\" >Geysir and Gullfoss: geothermal theatre and the deafening roar of water<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/golden-circle-iceland-guide\/#3_The_Haukadalur_geothermal_area_and_the_reliable_Strokkur\" >3. The Haukadalur geothermal area and the reliable Strokkur<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/golden-circle-iceland-guide\/#4_Gullfoss_the_Golden_Waterfall\" >4. Gullfoss, the Golden Waterfall<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/golden-circle-iceland-guide\/#Bonus_stops_what_else_to_see_when_you_have_time\" >Bonus stops: what else to see when you have time<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/golden-circle-iceland-guide\/#5_The_Kerid_crater_with_its_turquoise_lake\" >5. The Keri\u00f0 crater with its turquoise lake<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/golden-circle-iceland-guide\/#6_A_soak_in_the_Secret_Lagoon_or_Hrunalaug\" >6. A soak in the Secret Lagoon or Hrunalaug<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/golden-circle-iceland-guide\/#7_Bruarfoss_the_bluest_waterfall\" >7. Br\u00faarfoss, the bluest waterfall<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/golden-circle-iceland-guide\/#8_Faxi_waterfall_and_peace_without_the_crowds\" >8. Faxi waterfall and peace without the crowds<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/golden-circle-iceland-guide\/#9_The_Reykjadalur_hot_river\" >9. The Reykjadalur hot river<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/golden-circle-iceland-guide\/#Where_to_eat_a_paradise_for_vegetarians_and_ice-cream_lovers\" >Where to eat: a paradise for vegetarians and ice-cream lovers<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/golden-circle-iceland-guide\/#10_The_Fridheimar_tomato_farm\" >10. The Fri\u00f0heimar tomato farm<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/golden-circle-iceland-guide\/#11_Finishing_with_homemade_ice_cream_at_the_Efstidalur_farm\" >11. Finishing with homemade ice cream at the Efstidalur farm<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/golden-circle-iceland-guide\/#12_Cheap_shopping_at_Bonus_and_the_classic_hot_dog\" >12. Cheap shopping at B\u00f3nus and the classic hot dog<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/golden-circle-iceland-guide\/#13_Warm_soup_in_the_warmth_at_Gullfoss_waterfall\" >13. Warm soup in the warmth at Gullfoss waterfall<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/golden-circle-iceland-guide\/#Where_to_go_next_in_Iceland\" >Where to go next in Iceland<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/golden-circle-iceland-guide\/#Frequently_asked_questions\" >Frequently asked questions<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/golden-circle-iceland-guide\/#What_is_the_Golden_Circle_in_Iceland\" >What is the Golden Circle in Iceland?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/golden-circle-iceland-guide\/#How_long_does_it_take_to_drive_the_Golden_Circle\" >How long does it take to drive the Golden Circle?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/golden-circle-iceland-guide\/#What_is_the_best_order_of_stops\" >What is the best order of stops?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/golden-circle-iceland-guide\/#Can_we_manage_it_in_winter_and_without_a_4%C3%974_vehicle\" >Can we manage it in winter and without a 4&#215;4 vehicle?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-27\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/golden-circle-iceland-guide\/#How_much_do_basic_entries_and_parking_cost\" >How much do basic entries and parking cost?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-28\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/golden-circle-iceland-guide\/#Can_the_circle_be_combined_with_a_visit_to_Blue_Lagoon_in_one_day\" >Can the circle be combined with a visit to Blue Lagoon in one day?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-29\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/golden-circle-iceland-guide\/#What_should_we_be_most_careful_about_on_the_island_and_what_about_accommodation\" >What should we be most careful about on the island and what about accommodation?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"TLDR\"><\/span>TL;DR<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>The <strong>Golden Circle<\/strong> is a roughly 250 to 300 kilometre route starting and ending in Reykjav\u00edk, which you can easily cover in a single day.<\/li><li>Pure driving time is about <strong>3.5 to 4 hours<\/strong>, but with the main stops and photo breaks set aside a full 6 to 8 hours.<\/li><li>The main free (or very cheap) stops are <strong>\u00deingvellir National Park<\/strong>, the Geysir geothermal area and the mighty Gullfoss waterfall.<\/li><li>The roads along the whole route are paved and in excellent condition, so in summer you don&#8217;t need a <strong>4&#215;4 car<\/strong>.<\/li><li>Set off either very early in the morning or late in the afternoon to <strong>avoid the crowds<\/strong> who roll in on big tour buses.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_to_go_and_how_to_get_there\"><\/span>When to go and how to get there<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The Golden Circle is <strong>easily accessible year-round<\/strong> and thanks to the wonderfully smooth, carefully paved roads you really don&#8217;t need to worry about requiring a giant off-road jeep with monster tyres to drive it. Even the <strong>most basic and tiniest little car<\/strong> from the rental company will handle this whole route effortlessly in summer, and the journey itself forms a neat loop that starts and ends in Reykjav\u00edk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&#8217;re heading out to explore the island in the darker winter months, though, keep in mind that <strong>the days here are extremely short<\/strong> \u2014 in December the sun doesn&#8217;t rise until around 11:30 and sets again by 3:30 in the afternoon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The weather can also be incredibly treacherous, so before you leave your hotel always <strong>check websites<\/strong> like <a href=\"https:\/\/safetravel.is\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Safetravel.is<\/a> for important safety warnings and the excellent <a href=\"https:\/\/umferdin.is\/en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Umferdin.is<\/a> for completely up-to-date <strong>information on icy roads<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Luk\u00e1\u0161 and I have long had a genuinely good experience with the <strong><a class=\"thirstylink\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"RentalCars.com\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/doporucujeme\/rentalcars-com\/\" data-shortcode=\"true\">RentalCars<\/a> search engine<\/strong>, which we use reliably all over the world \u2014 just watch out for the new rules and small catches of the local island rental firms. As of January 2026 Iceland has introduced a <strong>brand-new per-kilometre tax<\/strong> for all passenger cars up to 3.5 tonnes, set at exactly 6.95 ISK (roughly \u00a30.04) per kilometre driven.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Different rental companies handle this fee in different ways, so some charge a flat daily rate while others deduct the tax straight from your deposit at the end of the trip based on the actual odometer reading \u2014 it&#8217;s worth budgeting for it in advance. The popular Golden Circle will cost you <strong>roughly 2,000 ISK<\/strong> (about \u00a312) in this specific tax, which is fortunately quite nicely offset by the fact that <strong>fuel has become cheaper<\/strong> across the board after the previous fees at petrol stations were scrapped.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>At the same time, don&#8217;t be lulled into a false sense of security just because you&#8217;re only taking a relatively short trip on luxurious tarmac \u2014 pay real attention to getting the <strong>right insurance<\/strong> for your rental car. Basic insurance (often labelled CDW) unfortunately doesn&#8217;t come close to covering the typical and very expensive Icelandic damage, and given that a lot of inconspicuous turn-offs to cosy accommodation tend to be dusty or gravel tracks, we warmly recommend <strong>paying extra for Gravel Protection<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A chapter all of its own, and a real Icelandic speciality, is the <strong>unpredictable local wind<\/strong>, which routinely has such enormous force that it can rip your car door clean off its hinges if you don&#8217;t hold it firmly with both hands when opening \u2014 and no standard insurance covers that kind of unfortunate damage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Bear in mind, too, that any <strong>off-road driving<\/strong> is strictly and uncompromisingly banned across the entire island, and breaking the rule can land you a <strong>fine of up to 500,000 ISK<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_stay_and_how_much_the_Golden_Circle_costs\"><\/span>Where to stay and how much the Golden Circle costs<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Although plenty of people drive this popular loop straight out of Reykjav\u00edk and back, a far smarter strategy is to <strong>base yourself somewhere along the route<\/strong> itself, which ends up saving you a lot of needless stress and precious time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can get up nice and early and set off for the biggest sights well ahead of time, before the <strong>first giant buses<\/strong> packed with day-trippers from the capital even arrive \u2014 and in the evening you&#8217;ve got a slightly better chance of <strong>spotting the northern lights you&#8217;ve dreamed of<\/strong> right from your window, since you won&#8217;t be as bothered by the strong light pollution of the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The best and most strategic base for thoroughly exploring the circle is the town of Selfoss, where you can relax in the excellent <strong>H\u00f3tel Selfoss spa<\/strong>, or the beautifully located Laugarvatn, sitting right in the beating heart of the whole loop on the shore of a peaceful lake.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Lovely accommodation is also on offer in the charming and very popular Fl\u00fa\u00f0ir at <strong>The Hill Hotel<\/strong> near natural thermal springs, and the absolute top pick for anyone who wants to be first at the sights every time is the slightly more upmarket <strong>H\u00f3tel Geysir<\/strong>, located literally just a few steps from the bubbling thermal fields. For another solid option right on the route, take a look at the <a class=\"thirstylink\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"Blue Hotel Fagrilundur \u2013 On The Golden Circle\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/doporucujeme\/blue-hotel-fagrilundur-on-the-golden-circle\/\" data-shortcode=\"true\">Blue Hotel Fagrilundur \u2013 On The Golden Circle<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Accommodation prices in Iceland have not been exactly wallet-friendly for a long time, and you should be prepared to pay, for a fairly ordinary but decent double room, an average of <strong>30,000 to 50,000 ISK<\/strong> (roughly \u00a3175 to \u00a3290) per single night in the peak summer season.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Beyond the sights and expensive food, don&#8217;t forget to factor in small parking fees, which are absolutely everywhere on the island and are handled today almost exclusively and cashlessly through <strong>handy mobile apps<\/strong> like <a href=\"https:\/\/parka.app\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Parka<\/a> or the old familiar EasyPark.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Just watch out carefully for the fact that at the local self-service terminals at petrol stations and at some barriers you&#8217;ll always need a <strong>physical payment card and its PIN<\/strong>, so relying solely on convenient phone payments via Apple Pay for the whole trip really may not pay off here. <a class=\"thirstylink\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"Booking.com\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/doporucujeme\/booking-com\/\" data-shortcode=\"true\">Booking.com<\/a> is our favourite accommodation search engine, and we definitely recommend <strong>booking popular hotels many months in advance<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83d\udca1 <strong>Specific accommodation tips<\/strong> (check prices and availability on Booking, and book early \u2014 in season and around the 2026 eclipse they vanish months ahead):<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/roam?aid=lukaskonecny&#038;campaign=loudavymkrokemcz&#038;campaign=zlaty-okruh-golden-circle&#038;hotelname=H%C3%B3tel%20Selfoss&#038;address=Selfoss%2C%20Island\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">H\u00f3tel Selfoss<\/a> <em>(Selfoss)<\/em><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/roam?aid=lukaskonecny&#038;campaign=loudavymkrokemcz&#038;campaign=zlaty-okruh-golden-circle&#038;hotelname=H%C3%A9ra%C3%B0ssk%C3%B3linn%20Hostel&#038;address=Laugarvatn%2C%20Island\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">H\u00e9ra\u00f0ssk\u00f3linn Hostel<\/a> <em>(Laugarvatn)<\/em><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/roam?aid=lukaskonecny&#038;campaign=loudavymkrokemcz&#038;campaign=zlaty-okruh-golden-circle&#038;hotelname=The%20Hill%20Hotel&#038;address=Fl%C3%BA%C3%B0ir%2C%20Island\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">The Hill Hotel<\/a> <em>(Fl\u00fa\u00f0ir)<\/em><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/roam?aid=lukaskonecny&#038;campaign=loudavymkrokemcz&#038;campaign=zlaty-okruh-golden-circle&#038;hotelname=H%C3%B3tel%20Geysir&#038;address=Haukadalur%2C%20Island\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">H\u00f3tel Geysir<\/a> <em>(Haukadalur)<\/em><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"THingvellir_National_Park_where_history_and_continents_were_made\"><\/span>\u00deingvellir National Park: where history and continents were made<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>After about forty-five minutes of relaxed driving from central Reykjav\u00edk, your first stop awaits \u2014 and it&#8217;s the geologically most fascinating one of the whole Icelandic adventure. <strong>\u00deingvellir National Park<\/strong> (pronounced softly, like Thingvellir) is quite rightly inscribed on the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage list, and it&#8217;s exactly that unique, magical place where, at a rate of roughly two centimetres a year, the enormous <strong>North American and Eurasian<\/strong> tectonic plates are slowly and steadily drifting apart.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2528\" height=\"1420\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-gc-thingvellir.jpg\" alt=\"Aerial view of \u00deingvellir National Park with the tectonic rift between the continents\" class=\"wp-image-214196\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-gc-thingvellir.jpg 2528w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-gc-thingvellir-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-gc-thingvellir-700x393.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-gc-thingvellir-768x431.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-gc-thingvellir-1536x863.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-gc-thingvellir-2048x1150.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-gc-thingvellir-696x391.jpg 696w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-gc-thingvellir-1392x782.jpg 1392w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-gc-thingvellir-1920x1078.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2528px) 100vw, 2528px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Aerial view of \u00deingvellir National Park with the tectonic rift between the continents<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>You can park your car at one of several cleverly arranged car parks labelled P1 to P5, and the <strong>daily fee of 1,000 ISK<\/strong> (about \u00a36) is fortunately paid just once via a machine or the <a href=\"https:\/\/checkit.is\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Checkit.is<\/a> app \u2014 and the ticket, tied to your number plate, then covers the whole park area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_A_walk_through_the_Almannagja_rift_and_Oxararfoss_waterfall\"><\/span>1. A walk through the Almannagj\u00e1 rift and \u00d6xar\u00e1rfoss waterfall<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>From the large upper car park P1 Haki\u00f0, which lies right by the lovely main visitor centre and modern toilets, follow the well-maintained path straight into the <strong>huge, majestic Almannagj\u00e1 rift<\/strong>, where you&#8217;ll spend the whole time walking through an extraordinary no-man&#8217;s-land set right between two mighty continents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2528\" height=\"1685\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-gc-oxararfoss.jpg\" alt=\"\u00d6xar\u00e1rfoss waterfall in \u00deingvellir National Park\" class=\"wp-image-214198\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-gc-oxararfoss.jpg 2528w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-gc-oxararfoss-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-gc-oxararfoss-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-gc-oxararfoss-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-gc-oxararfoss-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-gc-oxararfoss-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-gc-oxararfoss-696x464.jpg 696w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-gc-oxararfoss-1392x928.jpg 1392w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-gc-oxararfoss-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2528px) 100vw, 2528px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">\u00d6xar\u00e1rfoss waterfall in \u00deingvellir National Park<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2528\" height=\"1685\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-prochazka-trhlinou-almannagja-a-vodopad-oxararfoss-1.jpg\" alt=\"A hiker in front of \u00d6xar\u00e1rfoss waterfall in Iceland\" class=\"wp-image-217202\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-prochazka-trhlinou-almannagja-a-vodopad-oxararfoss-1.jpg 2528w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-prochazka-trhlinou-almannagja-a-vodopad-oxararfoss-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-prochazka-trhlinou-almannagja-a-vodopad-oxararfoss-1-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-prochazka-trhlinou-almannagja-a-vodopad-oxararfoss-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-prochazka-trhlinou-almannagja-a-vodopad-oxararfoss-1-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-prochazka-trhlinou-almannagja-a-vodopad-oxararfoss-1-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-prochazka-trhlinou-almannagja-a-vodopad-oxararfoss-1-696x464.jpg 696w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-prochazka-trhlinou-almannagja-a-vodopad-oxararfoss-1-1392x928.jpg 1392w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-prochazka-trhlinou-almannagja-a-vodopad-oxararfoss-1-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2528px) 100vw, 2528px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A hiker in front of \u00d6xar\u00e1rfoss waterfall in Iceland<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>In person, this place has an utterly incredible and at times almost oppressive atmosphere, framed by the steep walls of black volcanic rock \u2014 something the sharp-eyed makers of the popular series Game of Thrones duly appreciated, setting the <strong>famous Bloody Gate<\/strong> here, very fittingly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In autumn we took a beautiful and surprisingly peaceful stroll through the narrow canyon here and, without much physical effort, walked along the flat path to the <strong>charming \u00d6xar\u00e1rfoss waterfall<\/strong>, beneath which, incidentally, there&#8217;s another very handy <strong>car park labelled P2<\/strong> Efri-Vellir for those who&#8217;d rather not walk far.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The walk to the waterfall itself is completely <strong>easy and manageable for children<\/strong> without any trouble, as it largely follows comfortable, well-kept wooden boardwalks, and the little waterfall tumbling wildly down the dark basalt cliffs looks fantastic in any weather.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What&#8217;s more, it was in this very carefully protected area that some of the most important and fateful moments in the whole rugged island&#8217;s history played out, because <strong>in the year 930<\/strong> the powerful and respected Vikings founded the famous Al\u00feingi here, in a perfect natural acoustic amphitheatre by the L\u00f6gberg rock.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>That makes it one of the <strong>oldest functioning parliaments<\/strong> in the entire world, and long ago chieftains from all over Iceland would gather regularly at this sacred place to settle bloody disputes, arrange wealthy marriages and loudly recite brand-new laws before the assembled crowds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Silfra_snorkelling_in_water_with_100-metre_visibility\"><\/span>2. Silfra: snorkelling in water with 100-metre visibility<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you really love a slightly more extreme and considerably more unusual experience, just plug the lower car park P5 Valh\u00f6ll into your sat nav \u2014 of all the ones mentioned, it lies by far the closest to the world-famous, <strong>flooded Silfra fissure<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1880\" height=\"1253\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-silfra-1.jpg\" alt=\"Silfra fissure\" class=\"wp-image-217204\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-silfra-1.jpg 1880w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-silfra-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-silfra-1-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-silfra-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-silfra-1-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-silfra-1-696x464.jpg 696w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-silfra-1-1392x928.jpg 1392w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1880px) 100vw, 1880px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Silfra fissure<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>This at-first-glance fairly inconspicuous crack in the earth is filled to the brim with utterly <strong>crystal-clear water<\/strong> coming from the enormous Langj\u00f6kull glacier, which trickles down here very slowly and, over decades, is naturally filtered through the porous underground lava on its way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The result of this lengthy natural process is breathtakingly transparent water without a single flaw, in which you can <strong>see up to a hundred metres<\/strong> underwater without the slightest trouble \u2014 and diving or <strong>daring snorkelling<\/strong> here quite rightly counts among the great, sought-after wonders of the world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I have to warn you honestly in advance, though, that this incredibly clean water sits at a chilly <strong>2 to 4 \u00b0C<\/strong> year-round. But you really needn&#8217;t worry about your health, because professional operators like DIVE.IS, Arctic Adventures or Troll Expeditions first bundle you into an extremely warm undersuit before zipping you into a very thick <strong>neoprene drysuit<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You&#8217;ll feel a bit clumsy and comical for a while, like the famous Michelin Man, and the thick rubber around your neck may seem a little tight at first, but the moment you first dip your face below the surface and an <strong>endless, glowing blue abyss<\/strong> opens up beneath you, you&#8217;ll only feel a bit cold on your exposed face and fingertips.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is, however, a fairly pricey and exclusive treat, as prices for basic snorkelling start at the best agencies at <strong>roughly 21,000 ISK<\/strong> (about \u00a3125) if you have your own transport, on top of which a further compulsory 1,500 ISK is added on site as a <strong>small national park fee<\/strong> per swimmer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Be sure to <strong>book your spot many weeks in advance<\/strong> to be safe, and always keep in mind that to be allowed to dive, you and your children (who must be at least 12) have to meet strict and precisely set <strong>weight and height limits<\/strong>, so that the suit seals safely in the water.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83d\udca1 <strong>Tip:<\/strong> It&#8217;s worth buying tickets and organised tours (around the Golden Circle and beyond) in advance online via <a class=\"thirstylink\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"GetYourGuide\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/doporucujeme\/getyourguide\/\" data-shortcode=\"true\">GetYourGuide<\/a> \u2014 in season they fill up fast.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Geysir_and_Gullfoss_geothermal_theatre_and_the_deafening_roar_of_water\"><\/span>Geysir and Gullfoss: geothermal theatre and the deafening roar of water<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>From \u00deingvellir National Park, an easy, empty road takes us about sixty kilometres further east, straight to the amazing <strong>Haukadalur geothermal area<\/strong>, which literally bubbles and hisses underfoot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2528\" height=\"1685\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-gc-geysir.jpg\" alt=\"The Strokkur geyser erupting in the Geysir geothermal area\" class=\"wp-image-214197\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-gc-geysir.jpg 2528w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-gc-geysir-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-gc-geysir-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-gc-geysir-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-gc-geysir-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-gc-geysir-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-gc-geysir-696x464.jpg 696w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-gc-geysir-1392x928.jpg 1392w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-gc-geysir-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2528px) 100vw, 2528px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Strokkur geyser erupting in the Geysir geothermal area<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Here you&#8217;ll see up close, with your own eyes, just how enormous and wild a force this restless land hides just beneath its thin surface, and then, only a few kilometres further downstream, you&#8217;ll be utterly deafened by one of the <strong>most impressive and mighty waterfalls<\/strong> in all of Europe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These two stunning stops are <strong>really close together<\/strong>, so getting between them takes just a moment and you can focus fully and stress-free on the unbelievable, untamed natural beauty all around you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_The_Haukadalur_geothermal_area_and_the_reliable_Strokkur\"><\/span>3. The Haukadalur geothermal area and the reliable Strokkur<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>From a fair distance away as you arrive, you&#8217;ll safely see <strong>mighty columns of hot white steam<\/strong> rising into the sky, and the moment you step out of the car you&#8217;ll catch that characteristic sulphurous odour strongly reminiscent of rotten eggs, which somehow belongs inseparably and romantically to Iceland&#8217;s raw nature.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2528\" height=\"1685\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-geotermalni-oblast-haukadalur-a-spolehlivy-strokku-1.jpg\" alt=\"Steam rising from the geysers in the Geysir area in Iceland\" class=\"wp-image-217205\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-geotermalni-oblast-haukadalur-a-spolehlivy-strokku-1.jpg 2528w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-geotermalni-oblast-haukadalur-a-spolehlivy-strokku-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-geotermalni-oblast-haukadalur-a-spolehlivy-strokku-1-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-geotermalni-oblast-haukadalur-a-spolehlivy-strokku-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-geotermalni-oblast-haukadalur-a-spolehlivy-strokku-1-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-geotermalni-oblast-haukadalur-a-spolehlivy-strokku-1-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-geotermalni-oblast-haukadalur-a-spolehlivy-strokku-1-696x464.jpg 696w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-geotermalni-oblast-haukadalur-a-spolehlivy-strokku-1-1392x928.jpg 1392w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-geotermalni-oblast-haukadalur-a-spolehlivy-strokku-1-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2528px) 100vw, 2528px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Steam rising from the geysers in the Geysir area in Iceland<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>This huge, bubbling, colourful area is the original home of the majestic Great Geysir, which in its best years spouted boiling water to a tremendous height and ultimately gave its proud name to <strong>every spouting geyser<\/strong> in the world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Today, though, this legendary old gentleman rests quietly most of the time, waking from his deep sleep only very rarely and unexpectedly after really large local earthquakes, so the biggest and most photographed star of the whole fenced enclosure is his considerably smaller but all the more reliable and energetic <strong>brother named Strokkur<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Strokkur really won&#8217;t keep you waiting impatiently for his show, because roughly <strong>every five to ten minutes<\/strong> he forms a huge, glowing turquoise bubble in the quiet crater, which then explodes with a tremendous roar and hurls boiling water a full <strong>fifteen to thirty metres high<\/strong> into the air, to the amazement of everyone watching.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Be sure to position yourself cleverly and <strong>downwind in good time<\/strong>, though, or after a moment you&#8217;ll be in for a very unwanted and rather unpleasant hot shower \u2014 and please, under all circumstances, properly respect the safety ropes lining all the paths.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The water in the inconspicuous nearby pools routinely reaches <strong>temperatures above 80 \u00b0C<\/strong>, and the weary local rescuers apparently treat needlessly burned, overly curious tourists here every single year \u2014 people who foolishly thought it was a good spot for a <strong>quick temperature test<\/strong> with a bare finger.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Parking at the nearby modern visitor centre, as well as access to the viewing area by the springs, are fortunately <strong>completely free, no exceptions<\/strong> \u2014 just keep a tight grip on your wallet in one of the largest and by far most expensive gift and souvenir shops on the island, which you&#8217;re forced to wander slowly through on the way to the warm toilets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Gullfoss_the_Golden_Waterfall\"><\/span>4. Gullfoss, the Golden Waterfall<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Just <strong>ten minutes of brisk driving<\/strong> from the bubbling geysers, the true and utterly spectacular finale of the classic Golden Circle awaits you obediently \u2014 and it&#8217;s also my huge, lifelong personal favourite.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2528\" height=\"1685\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-gullfoss-aneb-zlaty-vodopad-1.jpg\" alt=\"Panoramic view of Gullfoss waterfall in Iceland\" class=\"wp-image-217207\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-gullfoss-aneb-zlaty-vodopad-1.jpg 2528w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-gullfoss-aneb-zlaty-vodopad-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-gullfoss-aneb-zlaty-vodopad-1-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-gullfoss-aneb-zlaty-vodopad-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-gullfoss-aneb-zlaty-vodopad-1-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-gullfoss-aneb-zlaty-vodopad-1-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-gullfoss-aneb-zlaty-vodopad-1-696x464.jpg 696w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-gullfoss-aneb-zlaty-vodopad-1-1392x928.jpg 1392w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-gullfoss-aneb-zlaty-vodopad-1-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2528px) 100vw, 2528px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Panoramic view of Gullfoss waterfall in Iceland<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The incredibly mighty and deafening <strong>double waterfall Gullfoss<\/strong>, lovingly nicknamed the Golden Waterfall by locals, plunges in two stunning, steep cascades straight into a thirty-two-metre-deep, incredibly narrow rocky canyon carved by the fierce Hv\u00edt\u00e1 river.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The sight, from right up close, of that enormous, unstoppable mass of glacial water \u2014 whose monstrous flow reaches an unbelievable and frankly terrifying <strong>140 cubic metres<\/strong> per second in summer \u2014 simply takes the breath away from every newcomer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The air throughout the valley is constantly and densely filled with refreshing spray because of the enormous impact of the water, so a <strong>quality waterproof jacket<\/strong> will come in extremely handy even when the sun is shining beautifully (which, incidentally, is why you&#8217;ll almost always see a gorgeous, vivid rainbow here through the dense droplets).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When you stand here today in utter awe and feel the whole soaked earth literally vibrating beneath your tired feet, it&#8217;s very hard to believe the sad fact that at the very start of the twentieth century, wealthy foreign investors wanted to destroy this <strong>unique natural waterfall<\/strong> forever and build a giant, ugly commercial hydroelectric plant here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It was saved single-handedly by the incredibly <strong>brave local farmer&#8217;s daughter<\/strong> Sigr\u00ed\u00f0ur T\u00f3masd\u00f3ttir, who boldly and loudly threatened to throw herself straight into the roaring, freezing water \u2014 and with the expert help of the enthusiastic lawyer Sveinn Bj\u00f6rnsson, who, as it happens, eventually became the very first president of an independent Iceland, she miraculously won that long and extraordinarily complex court battle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Today, two main, well-maintained paths lead very comfortably and safely to the stunning waterfall from <strong>two free, spacious car parks<\/strong>. The more comfortable one takes you to a breathtaking upper panoramic viewpoint by the restaurant, while the other, slightly more adventurous one, leads down wet steps right to the very edge of the roaring water, where you&#8217;re guaranteed to get a fair bit wetter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Bonus_stops_what_else_to_see_when_you_have_time\"><\/span>Bonus stops: what else to see when you have time<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&#8217;ve set off on your dream trip really sensibly and smartly, nice and early in the morning, or if you&#8217;ve planned a whole long summer day with plenty of daylight for this fantastic excursion, it would be a huge shame to limit yourself to just the famous <strong>big three sights<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>On the way back to the busy capital you can quite easily add a <strong>few more fantastic places<\/strong> to your packed itinerary, where the ubiquitous crowds aren&#8217;t nearly so dense and you can enjoy captivating, raw Iceland in much greater, more pleasant peace.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_The_Kerid_crater_with_its_turquoise_lake\"><\/span>5. The Keri\u00f0 crater with its turquoise lake<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Right by the main, busy road number 35 you&#8217;ll come across the utterly stunning, almost three-million-year-old <strong>Keri\u00f0 volcanic crater<\/strong>, which unfortunately, unlike many other natural wonders, isn&#8217;t entirely free \u2014 but the entry fee fortunately sits at just a <strong>symbolic 700 ISK<\/strong> (about \u00a34), which you&#8217;ll pay without batting an eye at the little wooden hut by the entrance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2048\" height=\"1150\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-den2-thingvellir.jpg\" alt=\"The Keri\u00f0 volcanic crater with its turquoise lake on the Golden Circle\" class=\"wp-image-213215\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-den2-thingvellir.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-den2-thingvellir-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-den2-thingvellir-700x393.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-den2-thingvellir-768x431.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-den2-thingvellir-1536x863.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-den2-thingvellir-696x391.jpg 696w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-den2-thingvellir-1392x782.jpg 1392w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-den2-thingvellir-1920x1078.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Keri\u00f0 volcanic crater with its turquoise lake on the Golden Circle<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1880\" height=\"1253\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-krater-keri-s-tyrkysovym-jezirkem-1.jpg\" alt=\"The Keri\u00f0 crater with its turquoise lake\" class=\"wp-image-217210\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-krater-keri-s-tyrkysovym-jezirkem-1.jpg 1880w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-krater-keri-s-tyrkysovym-jezirkem-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-krater-keri-s-tyrkysovym-jezirkem-1-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-krater-keri-s-tyrkysovym-jezirkem-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-krater-keri-s-tyrkysovym-jezirkem-1-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-krater-keri-s-tyrkysovym-jezirkem-1-696x464.jpg 696w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-krater-keri-s-tyrkysovym-jezirkem-1-1392x928.jpg 1392w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1880px) 100vw, 1880px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Keri\u00f0 crater with its turquoise lake<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The crater is utterly fascinating and exceptional at first glance because its remarkably deep-red, sharp volcanic walls contrast so strikingly with the deep, completely opaque, <strong>aquamarine-blue colour of the still little lake<\/strong> resting peacefully and motionless at its very bottom.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We stopped here with undisguised enthusiasm on the second tiring day of our trip together, and the whole easy, relaxed walk right along the high upper rim of the majestic crater took us <strong>about twenty minutes<\/strong>, full of amazing views over the landscape.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Anyone with a much greater urge to explore and who doesn&#8217;t mind a bit of effort on the way back can confidently head down the well-maintained wooden steps and <strong>go all the way down<\/strong> right to the calm surface of the colourful water.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A hugely interesting and unexpected curiosity of this mystical place is the fact that, thanks to the perfect shape and complete enclosure of the whole space, the acoustics inside are so fantastic and powerful that occasional, very rare chamber concerts are held on the little lake \u2014 and in the past, to the great delight of fans, even the famous <strong>Bj\u00f6rk sang here<\/strong> from a small raft floating right in the middle of the icy water.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<!-- LKM_GYG_CARD start 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b{font-size:15px}\n\n\/* CTA \u2014 tepl\u00e9 ak\u010dn\u00ed tla\u010d\u00edtko *\/\n.lkx-cta{display:inline-flex;align-items:center;justify-content:center;text-decoration:none!important;font-weight:700;color:#fff!important;background:linear-gradient(135deg,#f6743f,#e8552a);border-radius:10px;box-shadow:0 6px 16px rgba(232,85,42,.32);transition:box-shadow .2s}\n.lkx-cta-hero{font-size:15px;padding:13px 22px}\n.lkx-hero:hover .lkx-cta-hero{box-shadow:0 8px 22px rgba(232,85,42,.45)}\n.lkx-cta-sm{font-size:12.5px;padding:9px 14px;width:100%;margin-top:2px}\n.lkx-hero-bottom{margin-top:auto;padding-top:18px;display:flex;align-items:center;justify-content:space-between;gap:14px;flex-wrap:wrap}\n\n\/* BADGE \u2014 jeden v\u00fdrazn\u00fd na fotce *\/\n.lkx-badge{position:absolute;top:12px;right:12px;font-size:10.5px;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:.3px;padding:5px 10px;border-radius:16px;color:#fff}\n.lkx-badge.badge-urgency{background:rgba(214,40,40,.92)}\n.lkx-badge.badge-new{background:rgba(54,133,252,.92)}\n.lkx-badge.badge-top{background:rgba(195,159,118,.95)}\n.lkx-badge.badge-info{background:rgba(40,40,40,.78)}\n\n\/* SECONDARY GRID *\/\n.lkx-grid{display:grid;grid-template-columns:1fr 1fr;gap:14px}\n.lkx-card{background:#fff;border:1px solid #ece7df;border-radius:14px;overflow:hidden;text-decoration:none!important;color:inherit;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,.05);display:flex;flex-direction:column;transition:box-shadow .2s,transform .2s}\n.lkx-card:hover{box-shadow:0 10px 24px rgba(0,0,0,.1);transform:translateY(-2px)}\n.lkx-card-img{position:relative;aspect-ratio:16\/10;background-size:cover;background-position:center;background-color:#eee}\n.lkx-card-body{padding:14px 16px 16px;display:flex;flex-direction:column;gap:7px;flex:1}\n.lkx-card-bottom{margin-top:auto;padding-top:10px;display:flex;align-items:center;justify-content:space-between;gap:8px}\n\n\/* DISCLOSURE \u2014 drobn\u00e1, kv\u016fli d\u016fv\u011b\u0159e\/z\u00e1konu *\/\n.lkx-disclosure{font-size:11px;color:#a7adb3;text-align:center;margin-top:14px;line-height:1.6}\n.lkx-disclosure a{color:#c39f76;text-decoration:none}\n\n@media(max-width:680px){\n  .lkx-hero{grid-template-columns:1fr}\n  .lkx-hero-img{min-height:180px}\n  .lkx-grid{grid-template-columns:1fr}\n  .lkx-head-meta{margin-left:0;width:100%}\n  .lkx-head-title{font-size:19px}\n}\n\n<\/style>\n<div class=\"lkx-module\" data-query=\"golden circle\">\n  <div class=\"lkx-head\">\n    <div class=\"lkx-head-main\">\n      <span class=\"lkx-head-accent\"><\/span>\n      <span class=\"lkx-head-title\">Experiences &amp; tickets<\/span>\n    <\/div>\n    <span class=\"lkx-head-meta\">traveler-rated \u00b7 <a class=\"thirstylink\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"GetYourGuide\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/doporucujeme\/getyourguide\/\" data-shortcode=\"true\">GetYourGuide<\/a><\/span>\n  <\/div><a class=\"lkx-hero\" href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/en-us\/reykjavik-l30\/grand-golden-circle-tour-t67012\/?partner_id=MKZ64IS&amp;utm_medium=online_publisher&amp;cmp=golden-circle-iceland-guide\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"sponsored noopener nofollow\">\n    <div class=\"lkx-hero-img\" style=\"background-image:url('https:\/\/cdn.getyourguide.com\/img\/tour\/2a355a5246981467.jpeg\/132.jpg')\" role=\"img\" aria-label=\"Reykjavik: Golden Circle Full-Day Tour with Kerid Crater\">\n      <span class=\"lkx-pick\">\u2605 Our pick<\/span><\/div>\n    <div class=\"lkx-hero-body\">\n      <div class=\"lkx-title\">Reykjavik: Golden Circle Full-Day Tour with Kerid Crater<\/div>\n      <div class=\"lkx-proof\">\n      <span class=\"lkx-stars\">\u2605\u2605\u2605\u2605\u2605<\/span>\n      <b>4.8<\/b> \u00b7 25 858 reviews\n    <\/div>\n      <div class=\"lkx-hero-bottom\"><div class=\"lkx-price\">from <b>\u20ac71<\/b><\/div><span class=\"lkx-cta lkx-cta-hero\">I want this experience \u2192<\/span>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/a><div class=\"lkx-grid\"><a class=\"lkx-card\" href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/en-us\/reykjavik-l30\/reykjavik-golden-circle-day-tour-with-local-surprise-t1207930\/?partner_id=MKZ64IS&amp;utm_medium=online_publisher&amp;cmp=golden-circle-iceland-guide\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"sponsored noopener nofollow\">\n      <div class=\"lkx-card-img\" style=\"background-image:url('https:\/\/cdn.getyourguide.com\/img\/tour\/81d05e0a608069368d6de84704cbdc669e43f34d88d8f7d26439ec86f3d90e51.jpg\/132.jpg')\" role=\"img\" aria-label=\"Reykjavik: Golden Circle Day Tour with Local Surprise\"><\/div>\n      <div class=\"lkx-card-body\">\n        <div class=\"lkx-title lkx-title-sm\">Reykjavik: Golden Circle Day Tour with Local Surprise<\/div>\n        <div class=\"lkx-proof lkx-proof-sm\">\n      <span class=\"lkx-stars\">\u2605<\/span>\n      <b>4.8<\/b> \u00b7 275\n    <\/div>\n        <div class=\"lkx-card-bottom\"><span class=\"lkx-price lkx-price-sm\">from <b>\u20ac73<\/b><\/span><span class=\"lkx-cta lkx-cta-sm\">See dates \u2192<\/span>\n        <\/div>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/a><a class=\"lkx-card\" href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/en-us\/reykjavik-l30\/reykjavik-golden-circle-afternoon-tour-t396783\/?partner_id=MKZ64IS&amp;utm_medium=online_publisher&amp;cmp=golden-circle-iceland-guide\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"sponsored noopener nofollow\">\n      <div class=\"lkx-card-img\" style=\"background-image:url('https:\/\/cdn.getyourguide.com\/img\/tour\/970725f87f8ddad73355ec763b7edd6b679f7fdbf64781d4f62a175859c248fa.jpg\/132.jpg')\" role=\"img\" aria-label=\"Reykjav\u00edk: Golden Circle Afternoon Small Group Tour\"><\/div>\n      <div class=\"lkx-card-body\">\n        <div class=\"lkx-title lkx-title-sm\">Reykjav\u00edk: Golden Circle Afternoon Small Group Tour<\/div>\n        <div class=\"lkx-proof lkx-proof-sm\">\n      <span class=\"lkx-stars\">\u2605<\/span>\n      <b>4.7<\/b> \u00b7 1 246\n    <\/div>\n        <div class=\"lkx-card-bottom\"><span class=\"lkx-price lkx-price-sm\">from <b>\u20ac91<\/b><\/span><span class=\"lkx-cta lkx-cta-sm\">See dates \u2192<\/span>\n        <\/div>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/a><\/div><div class=\"lkx-disclosure\">\ud83d\udd17 These are affiliate links \u2014 they don&#39;t change your price and help us create content. \u00b7 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/en-us\/s\/?q=golden+circle&amp;partner_id=MKZ64IS&amp;utm_medium=online_publisher\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"sponsored noopener nofollow\">All experiences \u2192<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<!-- LKM_GYG_CARD end -->\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"lk-stays-module\">\n<style>\n\/* \u2500\u2500\u2500 RESET PRO GUTENBERG \u2500\u2500\u2500 *\/\n.lk-stays-module * { box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0; padding: 0; }\n\n\/* 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 text-align: center;\n  box-shadow: 0 4px 12px rgba(54, 133, 252, 0.25);\n}\n.lk-stay-cta:hover {\n  background: linear-gradient(135deg, #2a6fd9 0%, #1e5bc4 100%);\n  transform: translateY(-1px);\n  box-shadow: 0 6px 16px rgba(54, 133, 252, 0.35);\n}\n.lk-stay-cta svg { flex-shrink: 0; }\n\n\/* \u2500\u2500\u2500 FOOTER \u2500\u2500\u2500 *\/\n.lk-stays-footer {\n  padding: 18px 36px;\n  background: linear-gradient(to bottom, #fdfaf5 0%, #f9f4ed 100%);\n  border-top: 1px solid rgba(195, 159, 118, 0.15);\n  display: flex;\n  align-items: center;\n  justify-content: space-between;\n  flex-wrap: wrap;\n  gap: 12px;\n}\n.lk-stays-footer-note {\n  font-size: 11.5px;\n  color: #6b7280;\n  font-weight: 300;\n  line-height: 1.5;\n}\n.lk-stays-footer-note a {\n  color: #c39f76;\n  text-decoration: none;\n  font-weight: 400;\n}\n.lk-stays-footer-note a:hover {\n  text-decoration: underline;\n}\n.lk-stays-all-btn {\n  display: inline-flex;\n  align-items: center;\n  gap: 6px;\n  font-size: 12.5px;\n  font-weight: 500;\n  color: #c39f76;\n  text-decoration: none;\n  border: 1px solid rgba(195, 159, 118, 0.35);\n  padding: 8px 18px;\n  border-radius: 8px;\n  transition: all .2s ease;\n}\n.lk-stays-all-btn:hover {\n  background: rgba(195, 159, 118, 0.08);\n  border-color: rgba(195, 159, 118, 0.5);\n}\n\n\/* \u2500\u2500\u2500 RESPONSIVE \u2500\u2500\u2500 *\/\n@media (max-width: 600px) {\n  .lk-stays-grid { grid-template-columns: 1fr; }\n  .lk-stays-header { padding: 24px 20px; }\n  .lk-stays-footer { padding: 16px 20px; }\n  .lk-stay-card { padding: 22px; }\n  .lk-stays-title { font-size: 20px; }\n}\n<\/style>\n\n  <!-- HEADER -->\n  <div class=\"lk-stays-header\">\n    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/lukas-a-lucka.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"width: 75px; height: 75px; border-radius: 8px; flex-shrink: 0; object-fit: cover; display: block; margin: 4px 0;\" title=\"\">\n    <div class=\"lk-stays-header-text\">\n      <div class=\"lk-stays-eyebrow\">Luk\u00e1\u0161 and Lucie recommend<\/div>\n      <div class=\"lk-stays-title\">Where to Stay on the Golden Circle in Iceland<\/div>\n      <div class=\"lk-stays-subtitle\">6 accommodations \u2014 hotels, wellness hotels and other lodging options<\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n  <!-- CARDS -->\n  <div class=\"lk-stays-grid\">\n\n    <a class=\"lk-stay-card featured\" href=\"https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/roam?aid=lukaskonecny&#038;campaign=loudavymkrokemcz&#038;campaign=zlaty-okruh-golden-circle&#038;hotelname=H%C3%B3tel%20Selfoss&#038;address=Selfoss%2C%20Island\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">\n      <span class=\"lk-stay-badge badge-top\">\u2b50 TOP CHOICE<\/span>\n      <span class=\"lk-stay-badge badge-nature\">\ud83c\udfe8 Hotel<\/span>\n      <div class=\"lk-stay-name\">H\u00f3tel Selfoss<\/div>\n      <div class=\"lk-stay-desc\">Hotel in the town of Selfoss, which is the best and most strategic base for thoroughly exploring the circle. Excellent spa hotel for relaxation.<\/div>\n      <div class=\"lk-stay-meta\">\n        <span class=\"lk-stay-stars\">\u2605\u2605\u2605\u2605<\/span>\n        <span class=\"lk-stay-price\">Check prices<\/span>\n      <\/div>\n      <span class=\"lk-stay-cta\">\n        <svg width=\"14\" height=\"14\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\"><path d=\"M18 13v6a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H5a2 2 0 0 1-2-2V8a2 2 0 0 1 2-2h6\"\/><polyline points=\"15 3 21 3 21 9\"\/><line x1=\"10\" y1=\"14\" x2=\"21\" y2=\"3\"\/><\/svg>\n        Check availability\n      <\/span>\n    <\/a>\n\n    <a class=\"lk-stay-card\" href=\"https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/roam?aid=lukaskonecny&#038;campaign=loudavymkrokemcz&#038;campaign=zlaty-okruh-golden-circle&#038;hotelname=H%C3%A9ra%C3%B0ssk%C3%B3linn%20Hostel&#038;address=Laugarvatn%2C%20Island\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">\n      <span class=\"lk-stay-badge badge-nature\">\ud83c\udfe1 Hostel<\/span>\n      <div class=\"lk-stay-name\">H\u00e9ra\u00f0ssk\u00f3linn Hostel<\/div>\n      <div class=\"lk-stay-desc\">Accommodation in picturesque Laugarvatn, located right in the beating heart of the entire circle on the shore of a peaceful lake.<\/div>\n      <div class=\"lk-stay-meta\">\n        <span class=\"lk-stay-stars\">\u2605\u2605\u2605\u2605<\/span>\n        <span class=\"lk-stay-price\">Check prices<\/span>\n      <\/div>\n      <span class=\"lk-stay-cta\">\n        <svg width=\"14\" height=\"14\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\"><path d=\"M18 13v6a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H5a2 2 0 0 1-2-2V8a2 2 0 0 1 2-2h6\"\/><polyline points=\"15 3 21 3 21 9\"\/><line x1=\"10\" y1=\"14\" x2=\"21\" y2=\"3\"\/><\/svg>\n        Check availability\n      <\/span>\n    <\/a>\n\n    <a class=\"lk-stay-card\" href=\"https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/roam?aid=lukaskonecny&#038;campaign=loudavymkrokemcz&#038;campaign=zlaty-okruh-golden-circle&#038;hotelname=The%20Hill%20Hotel&#038;address=Fl%C3%BA%C3%B0ir%2C%20Island\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">\n      <span class=\"lk-stay-badge badge-nature\">\ud83c\udfe8 Hotel<\/span>\n      <div class=\"lk-stay-name\">The Hill Hotel<\/div>\n      <div class=\"lk-stay-desc\">Beautiful accommodation in picturesque and very popular Fl\u00fa\u00f0ir near natural thermal springs.<\/div>\n      <div class=\"lk-stay-meta\">\n        <span class=\"lk-stay-stars\">\u2605\u2605\u2605\u2605<\/span>\n        <span class=\"lk-stay-price\">Check prices<\/span>\n      <\/div>\n      <span class=\"lk-stay-cta\">\n        <svg width=\"14\" height=\"14\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\"><path d=\"M18 13v6a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H5a2 2 0 0 1-2-2V8a2 2 0 0 1 2-2h6\"\/><polyline points=\"15 3 21 3 21 9\"\/><line x1=\"10\" y1=\"14\" x2=\"21\" y2=\"3\"\/><\/svg>\n        Check availability\n      <\/span>\n    <\/a>\n\n    <a class=\"lk-stay-card\" href=\"https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/roam?aid=lukaskonecny&#038;campaign=loudavymkrokemcz&#038;campaign=zlaty-okruh-golden-circle&#038;hotelname=H%C3%B3tel%20Geysir&#038;address=Haukadalur%2C%20Island\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">\n      <span class=\"lk-stay-badge badge-nature\">\u2b50 Luxury<\/span>\n      <div class=\"lk-stay-name\">H\u00f3tel Geysir<\/div>\n      <div class=\"lk-stay-desc\">More luxurious hotel located literally just steps away from the bubbling thermal fields. Absolute top choice for anyone who wants to be first at the attractions.<\/div>\n      <div class=\"lk-stay-meta\">\n        <span class=\"lk-stay-stars\">\u2605\u2605\u2605\u2605<\/span>\n        <span class=\"lk-stay-price\">Check prices<\/span>\n      <\/div>\n      <span class=\"lk-stay-cta\">\n        <svg width=\"14\" height=\"14\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\"><path d=\"M18 13v6a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H5a2 2 0 0 1-2-2V8a2 2 0 0 1 2-2h6\"\/><polyline points=\"15 3 21 3 21 9\"\/><line x1=\"10\" y1=\"14\" x2=\"21\" y2=\"3\"\/><\/svg>\n        Check availability\n      <\/span>\n    <\/a>\n\n    <a class=\"lk-stay-card\" href=\"https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/roam?aid=lukaskonecny&#038;campaign=loudavymkrokemcz&#038;campaign=zlatyokruhgoldencircle&#038;address=Zlat%C3%BD+okruh+%28Golden+Circle%29+na+Islandu&#038;hotelname=Hotel+Selfoss+spa&#038;search=Hotel+Selfoss+spa&#038;category=accommodation\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">\n      <span class=\"lk-stay-badge badge-nature\">\ud83c\udfe8 Hotel<\/span>\n      <div class=\"lk-stay-name\">Hotel Selfoss spa<\/div>\n      <div class=\"lk-stay-desc\">Excellent spa hotel in the town of Selfoss where you can relax. One of the best bases for exploring the Golden Circle.<\/div>\n      <div class=\"lk-stay-meta\">\n        <span class=\"lk-stay-stars\">\u2605\u2605\u2605\u2605<\/span>\n        <span class=\"lk-stay-price\">from 30,000 to 50,000 ISK\/night<\/span>\n      <\/div>\n      <span class=\"lk-stay-cta\">\n        <svg width=\"14\" height=\"14\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\"><path d=\"M18 13v6a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H5a2 2 0 0 1-2-2V8a2 2 0 0 1 2-2h6\"\/><polyline points=\"15 3 21 3 21 9\"\/><line x1=\"10\" y1=\"14\" x2=\"21\" y2=\"3\"\/><\/svg>\n        Check availability\n      <\/span>\n    <\/a>\n\n    <a class=\"lk-stay-card\" href=\"https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/roam?aid=lukaskonecny&#038;campaign=loudavymkrokemcz&#038;campaign=zlatyokruhgoldencircle&#038;address=zlat\u00fd%20okruh%20(golden%20circle)%20na%20islandu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">\n      <span class=\"lk-stay-badge badge-nature\">\ud83d\udd0d Search<\/span>\n      <div class=\"lk-stay-name\">View all accommodations on the Golden Circle in Iceland<\/div>\n      <div class=\"lk-stay-desc\">Explore all available accommodation options on the Golden Circle in Iceland and find the best one according to your preferences and budget.<\/div>\n      <div class=\"lk-stay-meta\">\n        <span class=\"lk-stay-stars\">\u2605\u2605\u2605\u2605<\/span>\n        <span class=\"lk-stay-price\">Compare prices<\/span>\n      <\/div>\n      <span class=\"lk-stay-cta\">\n        <svg width=\"14\" height=\"14\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\"><path d=\"M18 13v6a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H5a2 2 0 0 1-2-2V8a2 2 0 0 1 2-2h6\"\/><polyline points=\"15 3 21 3 21 9\"\/><line x1=\"10\" y1=\"14\" x2=\"21\" y2=\"3\"\/><\/svg>\n        Check availability\n      <\/span>\n    <\/a>\n\n  <\/div>\n\n  \n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"6_A_soak_in_the_Secret_Lagoon_or_Hrunalaug\"><\/span>6. A soak in the Secret Lagoon or Hrunalaug<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Warming your thoroughly chilled, frozen bones after a full day of demanding, exhausting walking in the cold, relentless wind is an absolute evening necessity in Iceland \u2014 and instead of the unbelievably overpriced and usually hopelessly overcrowded Blue Lagoon, we warmly and sincerely recommend heading for the <strong>inconspicuous little village of Fl\u00fa\u00f0ir<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2528\" height=\"1685\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-koupani-v-secret-lagoon-nebo-hrunalaug-1.jpg\" alt=\"The Hrunalaug hot spring with its Viking-style roof in Iceland\" class=\"wp-image-217211\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-koupani-v-secret-lagoon-nebo-hrunalaug-1.jpg 2528w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-koupani-v-secret-lagoon-nebo-hrunalaug-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-koupani-v-secret-lagoon-nebo-hrunalaug-1-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-koupani-v-secret-lagoon-nebo-hrunalaug-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-koupani-v-secret-lagoon-nebo-hrunalaug-1-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-koupani-v-secret-lagoon-nebo-hrunalaug-1-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-koupani-v-secret-lagoon-nebo-hrunalaug-1-696x464.jpg 696w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-koupani-v-secret-lagoon-nebo-hrunalaug-1-1392x928.jpg 1392w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-koupani-v-secret-lagoon-nebo-hrunalaug-1-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2528px) 100vw, 2528px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Hrunalaug hot spring with its Viking-style roof in Iceland<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>This is where the fantastic <strong>Secret Lagoon, or Gamla Laugin<\/strong>, is cleverly hidden \u2014 the very oldest swimming pool on the entire island, built from stone way back in 1891, where the crystal-clear water sits at a wonderfully pleasant and relaxing <strong>38 to 40 \u00b0C<\/strong> all year round.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Around the large pool, several more very small hot springs \u2014 and even one tiny active geyser \u2014 bubble away cheerfully and loudly, so it ends up being a far more authentic, calmer and more rustic experience than any sterile, luxurious modern spa on the coast. Entry costs, by Iceland&#8217;s hard standards, a <strong>pleasant 3,000 to 4,500 ISK<\/strong>, and for children under fourteen it&#8217;s completely free \u2014 just be sure to buy your tickets in advance on the <a href=\"https:\/\/secretlagoon.is\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">official Secret Lagoon website<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I just sincerely and urgently ask you to remember carefully, and without any back-talk, that sacred and absolutely unbreakable Icelandic cultural rule known as <strong>Sundlaug etiquette<\/strong>, which applies very strictly to all local village pools and hot springs without the slightest exception.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Before you even try to discreetly slip into your favourite swimwear in the corner, it is your absolutely strict and uncompromising duty to shower in the open communal washrooms <strong>completely naked<\/strong> and, using plenty of liquid soap, very thoroughly wash your entire body from head to toe \u2014 something the rather funny and very explicit diagrams hanging on almost every wall of the damp changing rooms will clearly guide you through at every step.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For the sake of health and nature, Iceland&#8217;s traditional pools use the absolute bare minimum of chlorine and chemicals, so the cleanliness of the water depends entirely on the <strong>cleanliness of the bathers themselves<\/strong>. If you try to shyly and secretly shower in your swimwear, the ever-vigilant, no-nonsense local lifeguards will mercilessly chase you out, loudly \u2014 and you&#8217;ll have made an enormous international fool of yourself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"7_Bruarfoss_the_bluest_waterfall\"><\/span>7. Br\u00faarfoss, the bluest waterfall<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you genuinely love a rich turquoise colour and don&#8217;t mind sacrificing a little extra walking and time, definitely mark a stop on your downloaded map at the fascinating Br\u00faarfoss waterfall, which is quite rightly and not at all exaggeratedly nicknamed the <strong>bluest waterfall in all of vast Iceland<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1733\" height=\"1300\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-bruarfoss-aneb-nejmodrejsi-vodopa.jpg\" alt=\"Br\u00faarfoss, the bluest waterfall\" class=\"wp-image-217212\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-bruarfoss-aneb-nejmodrejsi-vodopa.jpg 1733w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-bruarfoss-aneb-nejmodrejsi-vodopa-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-bruarfoss-aneb-nejmodrejsi-vodopa-700x525.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-bruarfoss-aneb-nejmodrejsi-vodopa-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-bruarfoss-aneb-nejmodrejsi-vodopa-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-bruarfoss-aneb-nejmodrejsi-vodopa-80x60.jpg 80w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-bruarfoss-aneb-nejmodrejsi-vodopa-160x120.jpg 160w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-bruarfoss-aneb-nejmodrejsi-vodopa-696x522.jpg 696w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-bruarfoss-aneb-nejmodrejsi-vodopa-1392x1044.jpg 1392w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1733px) 100vw, 1733px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Br\u00faarfoss, the bluest waterfall<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The water here flows incredibly wildly and loudly through a dark, very narrow volcanic rift, and its unusual colour is in fact so <strong>incredibly bright and vivid<\/strong> that after watching for a while you might even start to doubt whether someone local has secretly poured in some very strong, toxic chemical dye in the night.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It used to be reached only by a fairly long, roughly three-and-a-half-kilometre route through unpleasant, often muddy terrain, but today there&#8217;s fortunately, to the great delight of the lazy, a brand-new and much closer maintained car park, where you&#8217;ll pay a <strong>small fee of around 750 ISK<\/strong> after parking, but in return you&#8217;ll save yourself a huge amount of time and plenty of tired, wet steps.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"8_Faxi_waterfall_and_peace_without_the_crowds\"><\/span>8. Faxi waterfall and peace without the crowds<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Just about twelve kilometres of very easy, flat driving from the enormous and sometimes uncomfortably overcrowded Gullfoss, the lovely and fairly wide <strong>Faxi waterfall<\/strong> hides quite inconspicuously. It doesn&#8217;t come anywhere close to the staggering dimensions of its far more famous colleague, but it does offer you something much rarer and more beautiful with certainty \u2014 wonderful calm and a vast, quiet sense of ease.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1880\" height=\"1253\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-vodopad-faxi-a-klid-bez-turistu-1.jpg\" alt=\"Faxi waterfall and peace without the crowds\" class=\"wp-image-217214\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-vodopad-faxi-a-klid-bez-turistu-1.jpg 1880w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-vodopad-faxi-a-klid-bez-turistu-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-vodopad-faxi-a-klid-bez-turistu-1-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-vodopad-faxi-a-klid-bez-turistu-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-vodopad-faxi-a-klid-bez-turistu-1-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-vodopad-faxi-a-klid-bez-turistu-1-696x464.jpg 696w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-vodopad-faxi-a-klid-bez-turistu-1-1392x928.jpg 1392w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1880px) 100vw, 1880px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Faxi waterfall and peace without the crowds<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The vast majority of large, time-bound coach tours from Reykjav\u00edk completely and gladly <strong>ignore this amazing, magical place for timing reasons<\/strong>, so you can stroll the paths here at your own pace and in peace, take gorgeous, original photos from up close, and enjoy the babbling, falling water without anyone constantly and accidentally elbowing you while trying to grab the best possible selfie.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A short stop at the water here will take you barely ten to fifteen relaxed minutes of actual time, and as another huge, not-insignificant bonus you won&#8217;t pay <strong>any entry fee or annoying parking charge<\/strong> at all \u2014 which, in the middle of very expensive Iceland, is always a real pleasure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"9_The_Reykjadalur_hot_river\"><\/span>9. The Reykjadalur hot river<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If at the very end of a long, packed day you still have plenty of energy left in your legs and really don&#8217;t fancy paying hefty sums to enter the artificially enclosed, crowded commercial thermal baths with their tiles, you can happily make a fantastic detour a little further to the town of Hverager\u00f0i, from where a stunning and at times steep trail leads straight to the <strong>wild hot river called Reykjadalur<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2528\" height=\"1685\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-horka-reka-reykjadalur-1.jpg\" alt=\"Hikers walking the trail into the Reykjadalur valley in Iceland\" class=\"wp-image-217216\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-horka-reka-reykjadalur-1.jpg 2528w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-horka-reka-reykjadalur-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-horka-reka-reykjadalur-1-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-horka-reka-reykjadalur-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-horka-reka-reykjadalur-1-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-horka-reka-reykjadalur-1-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-horka-reka-reykjadalur-1-696x464.jpg 696w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-horka-reka-reykjadalur-1-1392x928.jpg 1392w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-zlaty-okruh-golden-circle-sec-horka-reka-reykjadalur-1-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2528px) 100vw, 2528px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Hikers walking the trail into the Reykjadalur valley in Iceland<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The hike, climbing steadily over picturesque and occasionally windy hills, will reliably take you <strong>about an hour and a half<\/strong> of brisk walking one way, but at its very end a genuine, unspoiled natural fantasy awaits you for sure \u2014 a wild and beautiful river, steadily and strongly warmed at the bottom by nearby geothermal activity, into which you can <strong>plunge completely free of charge<\/strong> any time, without a worry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Luk\u00e1\u0161 and I absolutely love and adore that unrepeatable feeling of total freedom when you lie wearily in the hot flowing water right in the middle of endless, deep-green hills with the grey island clouds constantly racing overhead \u2014 you just have to brace yourself bravely for the fact that the inevitable change into swimwear happens right outside in the <strong>incredibly freezing wind<\/strong>, and the only place to hide is behind some really flimsy, draughty wooden screens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_eat_a_paradise_for_vegetarians_and_ice-cream_lovers\"><\/span>Where to eat: a paradise for vegetarians and ice-cream lovers<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When Luk\u00e1\u0161 and I were in expensive Iceland for the very first time, we travelled in a really tight <strong>low-budget, student mode<\/strong>, and as committed, dyed-in-the-wool vegetarians we cautiously brought a large part of our non-perishable food from home, or happily cooked cheaply for ourselves on long evenings from our modest shopping done right after landing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Today, though, the amazing and ever-growing food scene along the sprawling Golden Circle offers several absolute culinary gems you mustn&#8217;t accidentally miss, which will reliably satisfy both keen lovers of fragrant vegetables and those still vainly searching for those <strong>classic meaty delights<\/strong> at an at least somewhat reasonable, acceptable price.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"10_The_Fridheimar_tomato_farm\"><\/span>10. The Fri\u00f0heimar tomato farm<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>This incredibly fragrant, warm and magical place is simply an utter, genuine <strong>gourmet dream<\/strong> for just about every enthusiastic vegetarian travelling the world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The wonderful family farm <a href=\"https:\/\/fridheimar.is\/en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Fri\u00f0heimar<\/a> grows beautifully juicy, red tomatoes with enormous love and care in vast, gloriously sunlit greenhouses, which in the harsh climate are heated entirely ecologically and cleanly all year round by the ever-present local geothermal energy \u2014 and right in the middle of this incredible green paradise the owners have cleverly opened an <strong>immensely popular and renowned restaurant<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Their greatest pride and best-known island speciality is the absolutely fantastic, <strong>thick homemade tomato soup<\/strong>, which after paying you ladle into bowls completely unlimited and as you please from the constantly bubbling hot buffet, together with incredibly fresh, crusty, fragrant bread, proper homemade butter and a wonderfully refreshing, delicate cucumber salsa.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The two of us simply can&#8217;t help ourselves in this place and eat so much of the good stuff with such gusto that we can barely roll ourselves down the path to the car afterwards, because the whole unique feast takes place right among hundreds of grown tomato plants, helpful imported bumblebees occasionally buzz cheerfully and loudly past your head, and that <strong>warm, family atmosphere<\/strong> is simply indescribable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The varied menu naturally also offers plenty of fully vegan and excellent vegetarian options, very delicate and wonderful stuffed ravioli, and for the brave they even make highly unusual <strong>desserts from deep-green tomatoes<\/strong>, which taste surprisingly great and fresh.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Just be really careful about the fact that the farm is usually only open for a short window over lunch, from around 11:30 to about 16:00, and without a <strong>timely, confirmed reservation<\/strong> sent via their official email you don&#8217;t stand the slightest chance of getting a table here in summer, because the greenhouses are constantly bursting at the seams under the onslaught of eager tourists from all over the world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"11_Finishing_with_homemade_ice_cream_at_the_Efstidalur_farm\"><\/span>11. Finishing with homemade ice cream at the Efstidalur farm<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Just a short distance from the powerfully bubbling geysers, on a quiet turn-off, lies the incredibly charming and honest family <strong>dairy farm called Efstidalur<\/strong>, where you essentially have to drop in for at least a moment if an unconquerable craving for something really, really good and sweet strikes you along the way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For visitors&#8217; delight, the owners have a lovely, cosy caf\u00e9 cleverly connected to a huge transparent glass window in the floor, through which you can watch \u2014 completely undisturbed and in the dry, right while sipping your hot coffee \u2014 down into the <strong>perfectly clean cow barn<\/strong> and amusedly observe the contented local cows chewing their fresh hay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They make absolutely phenomenal and <strong>one hundred percent genuine homemade ice cream<\/strong> there, produced exclusively from their own fresh milk, and trust me, if you happen to be travelling Iceland with tired and grumpy children, after all those dull geological phenomena and roaring cold waterfalls this will clearly and safely be their absolute favourite stop of the whole long day \u2014 one they&#8217;ll look forward to.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"12_Cheap_shopping_at_Bonus_and_the_classic_hot_dog\"><\/span>12. Cheap shopping at B\u00f3nus and the classic hot dog<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>For all travellers who want to save at least a little on food during their trip, the absolute and essential basic is the huge and very <strong>popular Icelandic supermarket B\u00f3nus<\/strong>, which in towns you&#8217;ll reliably and instantly recognise from a great distance by its giant bright-yellow logo with the odd pink pig, and where you&#8217;ll safely pick up by far the cheapest food supplies on the whole island before you even start the car and set off from Reykjav\u00edk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ordinary, average main meals at the nice classic restaurants dotted along the sights easily start at unpleasant prices <strong>from 2,500 to 4,000 ISK<\/strong>, so your own filled rolls or snacks will save you a really substantial amount of money for your stretched travel budget over the whole trip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Bear firmly in mind, too, that buying overpriced bottled water in plastic is, from both nature&#8217;s and your wallet&#8217;s point of view, an absolute and enormous sin in Iceland, because the perfectly ordinary, clear <strong>local tap water<\/strong> is perfectly clean, purely glacial and tastes a hundred times better than anything stale you&#8217;ll find sitting on the shelves of petrol-station shops.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For meat lovers there&#8217;s of course one absolutely classic, very cheap and immensely popular Icelandic island gastronomic experience with a long tradition \u2014 the simple, quick hot dog proudly known locally as the <strong>pylsa<\/strong>, which here is surprisingly made from a rather interesting mix of proper lamb, pork and beef trimmings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can buy it reliably at essentially every larger, busier petrol station of the well-known local N1 chain along your whole route for an agreeable and <strong>acceptable 820 ISK or so<\/strong>, and all local connoisseurs, and even foreign guides, unanimously claim it&#8217;s best and safest to <strong>order it &#8220;with everything&#8221;<\/strong> (correctly, in Icelandic, &#8220;eina me\u00f0 \u00f6llu&#8221;), which in translation means they&#8217;ll generously bury it on the counter under both fried and crunchy raw onion and douse it lavishly and without warning in thick ketchup, spicy remoulade and traditional sweet Icelandic mustard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"13_Warm_soup_in_the_warmth_at_Gullfoss_waterfall\"><\/span>13. Warm soup in the warmth at Gullfoss waterfall<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>When you&#8217;ve frozen right through to the bone at the railing while frantically photographing that enormous, icy mass of falling water in the mist, there&#8217;s a huge and at first glance very pleasant <strong>self-service heated caf\u00e9<\/strong> with a lovely panoramic view right in the large modern visitor centre by the Gullfoss waterfall itself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the kitchen they specialise mainly in the very traditional, renowned and very thick Icelandic meat-and-vegetable soup, for which crowds of enthusiastic tourists flock straight in from the cold, but as committed vegetarians we treated ourselves with great joy and gratitude in the corner to at least some fragrant fresh soft bread, a giant cup full of hot tea and absolutely delicious sweet fresh pastries, which instantly and reliably gave us the <strong>missing, much-needed energy<\/strong> for further hours of demanding scurrying about outside in the wind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_go_next_in_Iceland\"><\/span>Where to go next in Iceland<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The Golden Circle is a beautiful start and the perfect place to learn how <strong>travelling in Iceland works<\/strong>. Once you&#8217;ve got it behind you, I recommend heading further south or exploring the capital. Here are some more of our articles that will come in handy:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/reykjavik-iceland-things-to-do\/\">What to see in Reykjav\u00edk: 15 places worth visiting<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/?p=215591\">Iceland&#8217;s South Coast: what to see and experience<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/hot-springs-iceland\/\">16 of the best hot springs in Iceland (that are truly worth it)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/iceland-october\/\">When to go to Iceland? A big guide to the climate<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_asked_questions\"><\/span>Frequently asked questions<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n<div id=\"rank-math-faq\" class=\"rank-math-block\">\n<div class=\"rank-math-list \">\n<div id=\"faq-question-1781200000000\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_the_Golden_Circle_in_Iceland\"><\/span>What is the Golden Circle in Iceland?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>The Golden Circle is a roughly <strong>250 to 300 kilometer long<\/strong> and incredibly popular tourist route located not far from Reykjav\u00edk itself, which combines into one large and neat package <strong>three of the most famous attractions<\/strong> including the beautiful and historic \u00deingvellir National Park, the massive and bubbling geothermally active Geysir area, and the thundering and enormous Gullfoss waterfall.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1781200000001\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_long_does_it_take_to_drive_the_Golden_Circle\"><\/span>How long does it take to drive the Golden Circle?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>The actual pure drive by car from Reykjav\u00edk and safely back takes approximately <strong>3.5 to 4 hours<\/strong> on smooth asphalt without stops. For the three main and most famous stops with walking around, reliably set aside another 5 to 6 hours, and if you like to add some magical bonus spots along the way such as the volcanic Keri\u00f0 or the hot and relaxing Secret Lagoon, this incredibly rich trip will take you a beautiful and exhausting <strong>8 to 10 hours<\/strong>, making it a full day program.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1781200000002\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_the_best_order_of_stops\"><\/span>What is the best order of stops?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>The <strong>most common and classic order<\/strong> on the map, which almost all huge tour buses mindlessly follow, is to start in the morning at \u00deingvellir, continue to the Geysir springs, and ceremoniously finish at Gullfoss waterfall. Our great and repeatedly tested tip, however, is to get up very early in the morning and <strong>drive the entire circle completely in reverse<\/strong>, so you start from the back at the more distant Gullfoss, where you&#8217;ll have the attraction absolutely and entirely to yourself at sunrise, and thus beautifully and elegantly avoid the massive uncompromising crowds from the capital during the day.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1781200000003\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_we_manage_it_in_winter_and_without_a_4%C3%974_vehicle\"><\/span>Can we manage it in winter and without a 4&#215;4 vehicle?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Yes and absolutely without major concerns, since all main and secondary roads connecting the attractions on the circle are carefully paved and <strong>very well maintained by road crews<\/strong>. A big and heavy 4&#215;4 drive really isn&#8217;t an absolute and bare necessity here, although it does come in very handy in deep winter for logical reasons. Rather, don&#8217;t forget to check the current weather at <a href=\"https:\/\/en.vedur.is\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">en.vedur.is<\/a> and remember that in cold December and January the <strong>days are truly incredibly short<\/strong> with only a few hours of precious daylight, and on windy roads, transparent and extremely dangerous black ice often and very quickly forms unnoticed.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1781200000004\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_much_do_basic_entries_and_parking_cost\"><\/span>How much do basic entries and parking cost?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>At the enormous Gullfoss waterfall and in the wide active area of the famous Geysir, the actual pedestrian entry including parking is to the great joy of wallets <strong>still completely free<\/strong>. At the majestic \u00deingvellir National Park, however, you must pay an all-day parking fee for the entire vast territory of 1,000 ISK (approximately \u20ac7), entry to the edge of the colorful volcanic Keri\u00f0 crater costs about a symbolic 700 ISK (approximately \u20ac5) per person, a short walk and stop at Br\u00faarfoss waterfall will cost you about 750 ISK (approximately \u20ac5) at the parking lot, and the hot Secret Lagoon thermal baths cost depending on age and season roughly around <strong>3,000 to 4,500 ISK<\/strong> (approximately \u20ac21-31) per bathing visitor.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1781200000005\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_the_circle_be_combined_with_a_visit_to_Blue_Lagoon_in_one_day\"><\/span>Can the circle be combined with a visit to Blue Lagoon in one day?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Theoretically, it is of course feasible and possible from a time and logistics perspective, especially in the bright summer months when clear daylight in Iceland is beautifully visible until late at night, and such a very hectic and accelerated combined car trip takes <strong>around 11 demanding hours<\/strong>. However, we happily recommend to all enthusiastic travelers to rather relax in complete peace at the much smaller and considerably <strong>quieter countryside Secret Lagoon<\/strong>, which best of all lies absolutely perfectly and conveniently directly on the marked route of your circle tour and is moreover diametrically cheaper and less crowded.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1781200000006\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_should_we_be_most_careful_about_on_the_island_and_what_about_accommodation\"><\/span>What should we be most careful about on the island and what about accommodation?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>The main and most frequent treacherous enemy on the roads across all of wide Iceland isn&#8217;t exactly the cold and frost, but rather the completely unpredictable and in places truly <strong>extremely strong gusting wind<\/strong>. Therefore, always please hold your doors firmly and with both hands when opening car doors after stopping, so that the wind doesn&#8217;t unfortunately <strong>rip them straight off the hinges<\/strong> with enormous force, which rental companies unfortunately deal with absolutely every day, and no standard insurance policies usually cover this quite frequent but very costly and extremely dangerous damage at all. The water when diving in the popular Silfra fissure is an icy 2 to 4\u00b0C, but with quality clothing this admirable activity after prior booking is very popular, absolutely safe, and can be handled without problems even by enthusiastic <strong>swimming children over twelve years old<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>\u00deingvellir, the Strokkur geyser and Gullfoss in a single day from Reykjav\u00edk. How to plan the Golden Circle, where to eat and which bonus stops not to miss.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":214195,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":"","rank_math_title":"Golden Circle Iceland: Complete 2026 Guide","rank_math_description":"Plan the Golden Circle in Iceland for 2026: \u00deingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss, costs, where to stay and the best bonus stops. Read the full guide and start planning!","rank_math_focus_keyword":"golden circle iceland","rank_math_seo_score":""},"categories":[326,347,320],"tags":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-226426","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-europe","8":"category-iceland","9":"category-travel"},"acf":[],"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/island-gc-hero.jpg","author_info":{"display_name":"Lucie Kone\u010dn\u00e1","author_link":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/author\/lucie-konecna\/"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/226426","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=226426"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/226426\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":227178,"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/226426\/revisions\/227178"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/214195"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=226426"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=226426"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=226426"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}