Small Group Golden Circle Tour: the # 1 – Lunch at Farm & Luxury Hot Sea Baths

Exploring the natural wonders of Iceland’s renowned Golden Circle route has never been more enticing. The Small Group Golden Circle Tour offers an unparalleled experience, blending the region’s stunning landscapes with immersive cultural encounters. From witnessing the power of Gullfoss waterfall to marveling at the geothermal activity of Geysir Hot Springs, this tour promises a well-rounded adventure. But the true highlight lies in the opportunity to savor a homemade lunch at a charming local farm, followed by a rejuvenating soak in the warm, therapeutic waters of Hvammsvik’s luxury hot sea baths. With a hassle-free experience and a small group size, this tour provides an exclusive glimpse into the heart of Iceland’s captivating natural and cultural heritage.

This experience made our list of the 15 Best Lunch Experiences In Reykjavik.

Key Points

• Comprehensive day-long adventure through Iceland’s natural wonders, including visits to top attractions along the renowned Golden Circle route.
• Opportunity to enjoy a homemade lunch with local delicacies at a charming farm, providing a serene countryside setting.
• Chance to relax and soak in the warm, therapeutic waters of the Hvammsvik hot springs, surrounded by the Icelandic countryside.
• Convenient with hotel pickup service in Reykjavik and small group size (max 12) for a personalized and comfortable experience.
• Accessible for families with young children and those near public transportation.

Overview of the Tour

The Golden Circle tour provides a comprehensive day-long adventure through Iceland’s natural wonders, immersing visitors in the country’s breathtaking landscapes and cultural heritage.

This immersive experience includes visits to the top attractions along the renowned Golden Circle route, such as the Thingvellir National Park, the majestic Gullfoss waterfall, the bubbling Geysir Hot Springs, and the picturesque Kerid Crater.

In addition, travelers will have the opportunity to enjoy a delicious lunch at a local farm, as well as the chance to relax and soak in the warm, therapeutic waters of the Hvammsvik hot springs.

With hotel pickup included and a small group size, this tour offers a convenient and exclusive way to explore Iceland’s natural beauty.

Top Attractions in the Golden Circle

As the tour’s centerpiece, visitors will marvel at the stunning Thingvellir National Park, where the American and Eurasian tectonic plates visibly split the earth’s surface.

Nearby, they’ll witness the majestic Gullfoss waterfall cascade over two tiers, plummeting 32 meters into a rugged canyon.

The tour then takes guests to the Geysir Hot Springs, home to the iconic Strokkur geyser, which dramatically erupts every 5-10 minutes, shooting scalding water up to 30 meters into the air.

Lunch at a Charming Farm

Midway through the tour, travelers indulge in a homemade lunch at a charming Icelandic farm, savoring local delicacies and soaking in the serene countryside setting. The farm’s cozy dining room offers a respite from the day’s activities, allowing guests to refuel and connect with the local culture. The menu features a variety of traditional Icelandic dishes, from hearty lamb stew to freshly baked breads and creamy Skyr, a beloved dairy product. As they dine, visitors are treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, where rolling hills, grazing sheep, and the occasional waterfall create a picturesque backdrop. This farm-to-table experience truly embodies the essence of Icelandic hospitality.

Menu Items	Description
Lamb Stew	Slow-cooked, tender lamb in a rich, flavorful broth
Skyr	Creamy, protein-rich Icelandic dairy product
Homemade Bread	Freshly baked, warm and crusty
Roasted Vegetables	Locally sourced, seasoned to perfection
Icelandic Beer	Craft brew made from pure glacial water

Bathing in Hvammsvik’s Thermal Waters

Travelers enjoy the soothing warmth of Hvammsvik’s thermal waters, an idyllic respite amidst the tour’s action-packed itinerary.

The geothermal pools, fed by natural hot springs, offer a chance to unwind and rejuvenate, with water temperatures ranging from a refreshing 35°C to a blissfully hot 40°C.

Surrounded by the serene Icelandic countryside, the bathing experience provides a tranquil interlude, allowing visitors to soak in the mineral-rich waters and soak up the stunning vistas.

Soaking in the steaming pools, travelers can let their cares melt away, emerging relaxed and refreshed, ready to continue their adventure through Iceland’s magnificent landscapes.

Convenience and Hassle-Free Experience

The tour’s hotel pickup service in Reykjavik eliminates the hassle of driving or navigating public transportation, allowing travelers to simply sit back and enjoy the scenic journey without the burden of logistics. No need to worry about transportation – the small group size ensures a comfortable and personalized experience throughout the day. The tour’s accessibility and convenience make it an ideal choice for visitors looking to make the most of their time in Iceland.

Feature	Benefit
Hassle-free hotel pickup	Eliminates need to drive or use public transit
Small group size (max 12)	Personalized and comfortable experience
Stroller accessible	Suitable for families with young children
Near public transportation	Easy to reach for those not staying in Reykjavik
No logistics worries	Focus on enjoying the sights and activities

Exploring Thingvellir National Park

At the heart of the Golden Circle tour lies Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich history, dramatic landscapes, and geological significance. This protected area serves as the first stop on the day’s itinerary, offering visitors a chance to enjoy Iceland’s natural wonders.

Travelers will stroll along the Almannagja gorge, a rift valley that marks the boundary between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. They’ll marvel at the stunning vistas of the Thingvallavatn, Iceland’s largest natural lake, and learn about the site’s importance as the location of the Althingi, the oldest continuously running parliament in the world.

This captivating introduction sets the stage for an unforgettable exploration of Iceland’s renowned Golden Circle.

Marveling at Gullfoss Waterfall

Next, visitors marvel at Gullfoss, the ‘Golden Falls,’ a magnificent two-tiered waterfall that plunges 105 feet into a rugged canyon. Its thundering waters cascade over the rocky cliffs, creating a mesmerizing display of power and grace. The waterfall’s name, meaning ‘Golden Falls,’ refers to the golden hue of the water as it reflects the sunlight. Visitors have the opportunity to stand at the edge of the falls, feeling the mist on their faces and hearing the thunderous roar of the water.

Gullfoss Waterfall
Height	105 feet	32 meters
Tiers	2	–
Origin	Hvítá River	–

Visiting Geysir Hot Springs

From Gullfoss, the tour continues to the Geysir Hot Springs area, where visitors are captivated by the region’s geothermal activity.

Geysir, the namesake of all geysers, regularly erupts steam and boiling water up to 230 feet (70 meters) high, putting on an impressive display.

Nearby, Strokkur geyser erupts every 5-10 minutes, delighting onlookers with its spectacular bursts of steaming water.

The group has ample time to explore the steaming fumaroles, bubbling mud pots, and other geothermal features that dot the landscape.

Guides share insights into the science behind these natural wonders, enriching the experience.

Visitors can even try their hand at cooking eggs in the boiling springs, a unique culinary adventure in this otherworldly setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The cancellation policy allows participants to cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are subject to a cancellation fee. Specific terms and conditions are provided upon booking.

Can I Book Private Transportation for This Tour?

Yes, private transportation can be arranged for this Golden Circle tour. Travelers can request private pickup and transportation to explore the sights at their own pace with a dedicated driver-guide. Additional fees may apply for private transportation.

Is There an Option to Upgrade the Tour Experience?

Yes, there may be opportunities to upgrade the tour experience. Travelers could inquire about adding activities like horseback riding, glacier hiking, or upgrading transportation to a private vehicle. Additional fees may apply for these enhancements.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Towels for the Hot Springs?

No, you don’t need to bring your own towels for the hot springs. The tour includes access to the Hvammsvik thermal waters, and towels are provided for guests to use during their bathing experience as part of the included amenities.

How Much Time Is Allocated for Each Attraction on the Tour?

The tour allocates approximately 1 hour at each major attraction, allowing ample time for visitors to explore and experience the natural wonders of Thingvellir, Gullfoss, Geysir, and Kerid Crater. The lunch stop at a local farm is around 1-2 hours.

Recap

The Small Group Golden Circle Tour offers a comprehensive and hassle-free experience, showcasing Iceland’s stunning natural wonders.

From the breathtaking Thingvellir National Park to the awe-inspiring Gullfoss waterfall and Geysir Hot Springs, this tour provides an exclusive adventure.

Guests can also savor a homemade lunch at a local farm and indulge in the therapeutic waters of the Hvammsvik hot springs, seeing the serene Icelandic countryside.