The Golden Circle is a popular tourist route in Iceland that covers some of the country’s most stunning natural attractions. This circular route is located in the southwestern part of Iceland, not far from the capital city, Reykjavik. The Golden Circle is renowned for its accessibility, making it a great option for those with limited time to explore Iceland’s diverse landscapes.
Here are the key geographical features and attractions along the Golden Circle:
- Thingvellir National Park (Þingvellir National Park):
- Location: Thingvellir is located about 40 kilometers (25 miles) northeast of Reykjavik.
- Geography: This national park is situated in a rift valley, and it’s one of the few places in the world where you can see the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates slowly drifting apart. The park features a massive fissure called Almannagjá and the serene Thingvallavatn Lake.
- Attractions: Visitors can explore historical sites related to Iceland’s early parliamentary history and enjoy various outdoor activities, including hiking and diving in the Silfra Fissure.
- Geysir Geothermal Area:
- Location: Geysir is approximately 87 kilometers (54 miles) east of Reykjavik.
- Geography: This geothermal area is known for its geysers, hot springs, and bubbling mud pools. The most famous geyser, Geysir, has given its name to all other geysers worldwide.
- Attractions: The most active geyser in the area is Strokkur, which erupts every few minutes, delighting onlookers. Visitors can also enjoy the surreal landscapes created by the geothermal activity.
- Gullfoss Waterfall:
- Location: Gullfoss is situated near the Geysir Geothermal Area.
- Geography: Gullfoss is a powerful and stunning two-tiered waterfall on the Hvítá River. Its name means “Golden Falls” due to the golden hue of its waters.
- Attractions: You can follow a walking path to various viewpoints to get up close to the waterfall and witness its immense power as it cascades into a narrow canyon.
The Golden Circle provides a relatively short and accessible route to explore Iceland’s diverse geography, including rift valleys, geothermal areas, and dramatic waterfalls. The region is well-connected by roads and is a must-visit for those looking to experience some of Iceland’s most iconic natural wonders. Additionally, there are many other attractions and activities in the vicinity, making it a great starting point for an Icelandic adventure.
Author: Kirill Shrayber, Ph.D.