Golden Circle Day Trip With Fridheimar Greenhouse Visit From Reykjavik

Exploring Iceland’s renowned Golden Circle is a must-do for visitors. This day trip from Reykjavik promises an unforgettable adventure, showcasing the country’s natural wonders. Witness the power of the Geysir geothermal area, marvel at the grandeur of Gullfoss waterfall, and learn about the historic Thingvellir National Park. But the highlight? A visit to the Friðheimar greenhouse, where you’ll indulge in the freshest local produce and uncover the secrets behind Iceland’s sustainable farming practices. Ready to embark on this captivating journey?

Key Points

• The Golden Circle day trip from Reykjavik lasts approximately 8 hours and visits Geysir, Gullfoss, Thingvellir National Park, and Friðheimar greenhouse.
• The tour offers a comprehensive experience of Iceland’s iconic natural wonders, including the Strokkur geyser, Gullfoss waterfall, and the Althing, Iceland’s historic parliament.
• Visitors can explore the Geysir geothermal area, learn about the unique geology and history, and witness the powerful natural forces.
• The tour includes a stop at Friðheimar greenhouse, where visitors can experience geothermal vegetable cultivation and sample locally-grown tomato products.
• Round-trip transportation from Reykjavik is provided for convenience, and a local guide offers insights on the history, ecology, and geology throughout the tour.

Tour Overview

The Golden Circle Day Trip from Reykjavik offers visitors a chance to explore some of Iceland’s most iconic natural wonders.

Over the course of approximately 8 hours, travelers will visit the Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park. Along the way, they’ll learn about the region’s history, ecology, and geology from a knowledgeable local guide.

The tour also includes a stop at the Friðheimar greenhouse, where guests can experience geothermal vegetable cultivation and sample the produce.

With round-trip transportation from Reykjavik, this day trip provides a seamless and immersive way to discover the natural beauty of Iceland’s Golden Circle.

Highlights of the Golden Circle

Three primary highlights make the Golden Circle Day Trip from Reykjavik a must-see for visitors to Iceland.

First, the tour includes a stop at the Geysir geothermal area, where travelers can witness the famous Strokkur geyser erupt up to 30 meters high.

Next, the group visits the majestic Gullfoss waterfall, where the Hvítá river cascades into a 32-meter crevasse.

Finally, the tour stops at Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing the separation of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.

These natural wonders offer a fascinating glimpse into Iceland’s remarkable geology and landscape.

Geysir Geothermal Area

Visitors to the Geysir geothermal area can witness the famous Strokkur geyser erupt up to 30 meters high, providing a thrilling display of Iceland’s volcanic activity.

The Geysir area offers:

• Opportunity to see the iconic Strokkur geyser in action every 5-10 minutes
• Exploration of the surrounding steaming vents, hot springs, and other geothermal features
• Learning about the unique geology and history of this geologically active region
• Experiencing the powerful forces of nature at work in a dramatic landscape
• Spending 1 hour and 30 minutes discovering this remarkable geothermal wonder.

Gullfoss Waterfall

Cascading down the Hvítá River, the mighty Gullfoss Waterfall plunges into a 32-meter deep crevasse, creating a mesmerizing display of raw power.

Visitors have around 50 minutes to admire the thundering cascade and take in the dramatic scenery. The waterfall’s two-tiered drop and the surrounding rugged landscape make it one of Iceland’s most iconic natural wonders.

Guests can walk along the rocky path to the viewing platforms for the best perspectives. The tour then departs for the next stop, allowing travelers ample time to capture the waterfall’s grandeur and learn about its geological history from the knowledgeable guide.

Thingvellir National Park

After marveling at the power of Gullfoss Waterfall, the Golden Circle tour proceeds to Thingvellir National Park.

This unique location marks the boundary between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, with visible rifts and faults in the earth’s surface.

Visitors can:

• Gaze upon the vast rift valley, a tangible representation of continental drift
• Explore the site of the Althing, Iceland’s historic parliament founded in 930 AD
• Hike along the Almannagja gorge, a remarkable geological feature
• Discover the crystal-clear waters of the Silfra fissure, a popular snorkeling spot
• Appreciate the park’s serene natural beauty and rich cultural heritage

Friðheimar Greenhouse

The tour then whisks visitors to Friðheimar, a remarkable greenhouse renowned for its geothermal vegetable cultivation.

Here, guests can spend 40 minutes exploring the facility and sampling its produce. The greenhouse harnesses the heat from nearby hot springs to grow a variety of flavorful tomatoes year-round.

Visitors can delight in the facility’s signature tomato soup and ice cream, both made with the fresh, locally-grown tomatoes.

The Friðheimar stop offers a unique opportunity to learn about sustainable agriculture practices and appreciate the bounty of Iceland’s natural resources.

Transportation and Meeting Details

Round-trip transportation from Reykjavik is included for this Golden Circle day trip.

Travelers can meet the tour at the central BSÍ Bus Terminal in downtown Reykjavik, arriving 30 minutes prior to the 8-hour tour’s departure.

The climate-controlled coach features free WiFi to stay connected during the scenic drive.

Key transportation details include:

• Round-trip transportation from Reykjavik
• Meet at BSÍ Bus Terminal, arrive 30 minutes early
• Climate-controlled coach with free WiFi
• Tour duration: Approximately 8 hours
• Pickup service available

Tour Inclusions and Accessibility

This Golden Circle day trip from Reykjavik includes a professional guide, the bus fare, and admission to the Friðheimar greenhouse.

The tour is carbon-neutral, making it an environmentally-friendly option. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller accessible and near public transportation. Infant seats are available.

The tour can accommodate up to 99 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience. With these inclusions and accessibility details, this guided tour provides a comprehensive way to explore the iconic Golden Circle sights from Reykjavik.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Snacks on the Tour?

You can bring your own snacks on the tour. The tour provides transportation and access to attractions, but personal food items are allowed to be brought along during the excursion.

Is There a Bathroom Stop During the Tour?

Yes, the tour includes bathroom stops during the day. Visitors will have the opportunity to use restrooms at the major sightseeing locations, such as the Geysir geothermal area and Gullfoss waterfall.

Can I Leave the Group and Explore on My Own?

Travelers can explore on their own during allotted free time at each stop, but must rejoin the group by the designated departure time. Wandering off from the group is generally not recommended for safety and logistical reasons.

How Much Time Is Allowed for Photos at Each Location?

The tour allows ample time for photos at each location. Typically, visitors have 30-50 minutes to explore and capture the stunning sceneries at Geysir, Gullfoss, and Thingvellir National Park. This balances sightseeing with the tour’s overall itinerary.

Is There a Discount for Seniors or Children?

There are no discounts offered for seniors or children on this tour. The tour price is the same for all travelers, regardless of age. Infants can be accommodated with available child seats.

The Sum Up

This Golden Circle day trip offers an unforgettable opportunity to explore Iceland’s natural wonders. From the awe-inspiring Geysir and Gullfoss to the historic Thingvellir National Park, the tour provides a comprehensive look at the country’s stunning landscapes. The visit to the Friðheimar greenhouse adds a unique educational and culinary experience, making this an enriching and well-rounded excursion for any traveler.