Self-drive the Golden Circle in Iceland

Essential stops on your Golden Circle itinerary

Þingvellir National Park

Iceland has three national parks, and this is the closest to Reykjavik. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, combining geology and history – this was where the Alþing lawmakers met. Iceland is located on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, and this is one of the most accessible places where the North American and Eurasian plate boundaries can be experienced. While many set out on foot, it’s also possible to snorkel along the plate boundary in the crystal-clear water of the Silfra fissure with a guide.

Less challenging is to take a walk along the well-trodden path through the Almannagjá gorge, which begins beside the visitor center. With steep cliffs on either side, it’s a dramatic introduction to the site. Soon, the view is revealed: gaze out from the Lögberg (Law Rock) across a verdant river towards Þingvallakirkja and Thingvallarbær, the summer residence of the Icelandic prime minister. Finish up your hike at Öxarárfoss waterfall before returning to your car.

Haukadalur Geothermal Area

Many travelers refer to this place as Geysir Geothermal Area because this is where you’ll encounter Iceland’s most powerful geyser. You’ll always see a crowd of people encircling Strokkur as they wait for it to erupt. Watch the pool carefully; it rises to form an immaculate turquoise dome before exploding into the air as a jet of boiling water and steam. You can pretty much rely on Strokkur to perform multiple times during your visit.

Once you’ve watched Strokkur a few times, take a walk around the rest of the area – be sure to look out for Great Geysir, the original geyser that’s no longer active. Hot springs also litter the area, and the ground is spattered with mineral deposits. There’s also a cafe and shop, making this a good pitstop if you’re out for the day.

Gullfoss waterfall

The Golden Circle is marketed as a trio of major destinations, and this is the third. Follow the road into the interior from Geysir, and you’ll come to one of Iceland’s most impressive waterfalls. It tumbles over two steps in the rock before crashing its way through a steep-sided gorge. There’s ample parking, but to see the waterfall head in on foot as the path leads alongside the falls. The volume of water means there’s always some spray, so it’s a good idea to don a waterproof jacket as you approach the edge.

The Hvitá River is fed by meltwater from the Langjökull glacier, and year-round, there’s a lot of water. White water rafting is possible nearby; turn off the 35 onto the 30 about a third of the way between Geysir and Gullfoss to reach the Brúarhlöð canyon and see where the rafting takes place.

Additonal sights and stops surrounding the Golden Circle

As well as the big three there are numerous other places of interest in the Golden Circle, which is why it’s so handy to have your own set of wheels. Let’s take a look at some of the other things to do and see in the area that you might include on your self-drive Golden Circle itinerary.

Laugarvatn Fontana

This geothermal spa isn’t quite as glamorous as the Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon, but its setting overlooking the lake makes it very special indeed. Relax in the hot tubs close to the shore or – if you’re brave enough – take an invigorating dip in the colder waters of the lake before jumping back in the pool to warm up.

There’s another reason to stop here, and it’s food-focused. Rugbrauð (rye bread) is baked in the traditional way in a loaf tin that’s been wrapped and buried in the hot sand. It takes about 24 hours to cook, but each day, it’s dug out and served up to those who sign up for this very unique activity. Spread thick with butter and topped with smoked trout, it’s sure to be one of the most delicious things you’ll taste while in Iceland.  

Kerið crater

Kerið is a volcanic crater. Measuring approximately 55 meters deep, 170 meters wide and 270 meters across, it dates back about 6500 years. One of the reasons it remains so popular is because of the stark and photogenic contrast between the red rock of its flanks, the vivid green of the moss that covers it, and the vibrant turquoise color of the water that fills it.

You’ll often see Kerið referred to as an “explosion crater,” but actually, that’s not quite accurate. It formed as a result of volcanic activity, but rather than being formed by an explosion, the magma chamber beneath it emptied, which caused it to collapse in on itself, leaving this now iconic depression in the landscape.

Skálholt church

The scale of the magnificent place of worship at Skálholt might seem surprising, but when you understand a little of the back story, it will make more sense. This was an Episcopal seat between 1056 and 1785, one of only two in the country, so it has great cultural and political significance. 

In medieval times, you’d not only have found a cathedral here but also a monastery, school, living accommodation and a smithy, not to mention the surrounding farms. It’s also the place where Jón Arason, the country’s last Catholic bishop, was executed in the 16th century. Today, a Lutheran cathedral stands on the site, constructed between 1956 and 1963.

Friðheimar

Friðheimar is a farm that’s made a name for itself growing tomatoes. There’s nothing extraordinary about that, you might think until you consider Iceland’s harsh winters. In fact, this crop owes its existence to another Icelandic success story: the abundance of geothermal energy. 

This makes heating the greenhouses affordable and enables tomatoes to be cultivated as an economically viable crop. There’s a popular cafe here, too, where tomatoes are the star ingredient in an array of delicious dishes. The menu features everything from tomato soup to tomato ice cream, certain to delight. 

Secret Lagoon

Secret Lagoon, also known by its Icelandic name Gamla Laugin, is the oldest pool in Iceland. Located at Hverahólmi, a geothermal area near Flúðir close to the Golden Circle, it was first created in 1891. By the mid-20th century, the place had fallen into disrepair, resurrected in 2005 when the owners recognized its potential as a tourist attraction.

Today, it’s a magnet for visitors, thanks to a water temperature that averages 38 to 40°C year-round. The water is still provided by Vaðmálahver, Básahver, and Litli Geysir. As an added bonus, the latter is active, erupting every few minutes, though not to the height you’ll have seen from Strokkur.

As you can see, the Golden Circle is a must for visitors keen to experience Iceland without straying too far from Reykjavik. Let us fix you up with a rental car so you can explore this fascinating part of the country on your own.

FAQ: Self-driving the Golden Circle

Where is the best base for the Golden Circle Iceland?

Reykjavik is the most convenient base for exploring the Golden Circle. It’s close to the route and offers plenty of accommodations, dining, and rental car options.

Can you do Golden Circle Iceland in one day?

Yes, the Golden Circle can easily be done in one day. The main stops – Þingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss – are close together, and the entire loop is about 230 km.

Do you need 4x4 for Golden Circle Iceland?

No, a 4x4 is not necessary for the Golden Circle. The roads are well-paved and suitable for standard cars year-round, though winter driving may require extra caution.

Is it easy to self-drive in Iceland?

Absolutely! Iceland has excellent roads, clear signage, and breathtaking views. Just be prepared for changing weather and follow local driving rules.

Can you drive the Golden Circle yourself?

Yes, you can! Driving the Golden Circle yourself offers the flexibility to explore at your own pace and discover hidden gems along the way.

How to do the Golden Circle on your own?

Rent a car, grab a map (or use GPS), and plan stops at Þingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss, and other attractions like Kerið Crater or Laugarvatn Fontana.

Is there Uber in Iceland?

No, Uber or similar ride-sharing services are not available in Iceland. Taxis and rental cars are the primary options.

How long is the drive from Reykjavik to Golden Circle?

It’s about 45 minutes to Þingvellir, the first major stop on the Golden Circle, and around 3 hours to complete the loop without long stops.