The Golden Circle
The Golden Circle is a scenic round of Iceland highlights: Thingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss. All wrapped in a pretty drive.
Iceland
Reykjavik
We didn’t have time see any of Reykjavik on our Ring Road trip so we stopped over for 3 nights on the way home to see the Golden Circle and some of Reykjavik itself.
Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss
Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss were our last stops on the Ring Road returning to Reykjavik. Seljalandsfoss is more scenic; Skogafoss is more powerful.
Reynisfjarna Black Sand Beach
We almost didn’t go to Reynisfjarna; we weren’t sure if there was that much to see. There was, so we were glad we went.
Dyrholaey Peninsula
Puffins! Puffins galore! Oh, and some dramatic cliffs too. But they had me at puffins.
Skaftafell
Skaftafell has several hiking trails. We chose the easy walk to the glacier. It was fairly flat through nice if barren scenery.
Diamond Beach
No, Diamond Beach is not your typical beach. Usually the ice is in a glass, not strewn on the beach!
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
The glacier lagoon was a unique experience. We enjoyed the boat tour and watching the icebergs float down the river was almost as fun. (And free.)
Dettifoss
Dettifoss is one of the most powerful waterfalls in Europe. It’s a longish detour to get there but worthwhile, and on a day when there weren’t many detours.
Pseudocraters
The pseudocraters at Skútustaðir on the south end of Lake Mývatn are scenic in themselves and also offer views of the surrounding area.