Golden Circle in Iceland primarily consists of natural attractions rather than urban amenities. The Golden Circle is a popular tourist route that includes three main stops:
- Þingvellir National Park (Thingvellir): This area is historically significant as the site of Iceland’s first parliament, Alþingi, established in 930 AD. It is also geologically fascinating as it is situated on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet.
- Geysir Geothermal Area: Home to the famous geysers, including the now less active Great Geysir and the highly active Strokkur, which erupts every few minutes, shooting water into the air.
- Gullfoss Waterfall: A stunning two-tiered waterfall on the Hvítá River, known for its power and beauty.
While these locations offer breathtaking natural landscapes, there aren’t significant urban amenities along the Golden Circle route. However, there are visitor centers and facilities at some of these sites, providing information, restrooms, and sometimes food and souvenirs.
For urban amenities, you might want to consider nearby towns like Selfoss or Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, which is the starting point for many Golden Circle tours. Reykjavik offers a range of urban amenities, including hotels, restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions.
Author: Kirill Shrayber, Ph.D.