Description
Without a doubt, one of the most popular routes to travel in Iceland is the Gullni hringurinn or the Golden Circle. It leads through the southwestern and southern parts of Iceland and is the perfect route for a day trip, starting in Reykjavik, Iceland's capital city. You only need nine hours to do the entire tour and visit the most known sights in this part of Iceland.
Sights along the Golden Circle
Among the sights are the Thing site Þingvellir (Thingvellir) and the national park of the same name, the Haukadalur geothermal area with the Great Geyser, the namesake of all geysers, the Strokkur geyser and the Blesi hot spring, as well as the Gullfoss waterfall, whose name (translated: Golden Waterfall) has coined the term Golden Circle. The volcanic crater Kerið, the hot springs around Laugarvatn, and the former bishopric of Skálholt are also often included in the route.
How to get there
By car or coach
Most tours offered start at the Gullni hringurinn in Reykjavik, Iceland's capital city, located in the southwest of the country. Even if you wish to do the tour on your own, it's recommended to start in the southwest of Iceland. Þingvellir is the next sight and is around 31 mi (50 km) eastwards of Reykjavik. Keeping on the same direction, you get to the geothermal area Haukadalur with the famous geysers. If you head further 6 mi (10 km) eastwards, you sooner or later arrive at Gullfoss waterfall.
By bicycle
You may also do the Golden Circle tour by bicycle. Either you participate in one of the guided tours or you explore the fascinating route on your own.