Hidden Gems Along the Golden Circle Route

The Golden Circle is a must-see for any traveler to Iceland, offering an iconic loop filled with natural wonders and breathtaking sights like Þingvellir, Gullfoss, and Geysir. However, beyond these headline attractions, the route is brimming with hidden gems that add depth and variety to your adventure. These lesser-known stops provide unique experiences that showcase even more of Iceland's remarkable beauty, history, and culture.

If you’re someone who prefers venturing off the beaten path, this guide is for you. Below, we’ll uncover five hidden gems along the Golden Circle route — Kerið, Laugarvatn Fontana, Brúarfoss, Friðheimar, and Skálholt — and share tips for seamlessly weaving them into your itinerary.

1. Kerið – A Volcanic Crater with a Stunning Twist

What Makes Kerið Unique?

Kerið is an ancient volcanic crater that stands out for its vibrant and dramatic features. This 6,500-year-old marvel showcases a vivid, turquoise lake nestled within the red and black slopes of the crater. Its striking color palette makes it an ideal spot for photos, and the geological history behind its formation provides a captivating insight into Iceland's volcanic past.

Unlike many craters that explode during their formation, Kerið is a "caldera," formed when the magma chamber below the surface gradually emptied and collapsed. What's left is an awe-inspiring natural feature that feels both otherworldly and welcoming.

Practical Tips for Visiting Kerið

• How to Get There: Kerið is located just off Route 35, about a 15-minute drive from Laugarvatn or a 30-minute drive from Gullfoss.
• Best Time to Visit: Visit during midday for the best lighting, which enhances the striking contrasts of the crater's colors.
• Don’t Miss: Walk the rim for panoramic views and take the trail down to the lake itself. There is a small entrance fee, which helps maintain the site.

---

2. Laugarvatn Fontana – Relaxation with a View

Why Visit Laugarvatn Fontana?

Laugarvatn Fontana is a geothermal spa and wellness retreat that sits on the tranquil shores of Lake Laugarvatn. What makes this spot unique is its natural steam baths, a rarity even in geothermal-rich Iceland. The soothing combination of warm mineral waters and stunning lakeside views makes it perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.

Additionally, Laugarvatn Fontana offers something for food lovers — a chance to try geothermal-baked bread, a local delicacy. The bread is buried in the hot sand and cooked by the earth's geothermal heat, resulting in a rich, slightly sweet flavor you won’t forget.

Practical Tips for Saying Yes to Relaxation

• How to Get There: Laugarvatn Fontana is only 20 minutes from Þingvellir National Park, making it a convenient stop early in your Golden Circle adventure.
• Best Time to Visit: Afternoon or evening is ideal for a relaxing soak, especially if you plan to watch the northern lights during winter months.
• What to Bring: Pack your swimwear and make a reservation ahead of time, especially during peak travel seasons.

---

3. Brúarfoss – The Hidden Blue Waterfall

What Makes Brúarfoss Special?

Known as the "Blue Waterfall," Brúarfoss is one of Iceland’s stunning yet lesser-visited waterfalls. What sets it apart is its uniquely vivid blue water, which flows gently through a series of rocky channels. Smaller and more intimate than Gullfoss, Brúarfoss offers an enchanting experience for anyone who loves raw, untouched nature.

Despite its beauty, Brúarfoss is considered a hidden gem because it takes a bit of effort to reach. The winding trail leading to the waterfall is an adventure in itself, often passing through scenic landscapes that make the trek worthwhile.

Practical Tips for Finding Brúarfoss

• How to Get There: Head towards Brekkuskógur, around 40 minutes from Laugarvatn. Be prepared for a short hike of around 30–45 minutes each way.
• Best Time to Visit: Summer (June to August) offers the easiest trail conditions, but winter provides fewer crowds and magical snowy landscapes.
• Don’t Forget: Wear sturdy hiking boots and download an offline map to avoid getting lost on the trail.

---

4. Friðheimar – An Icelandic Greenhouse Wonderland

What Makes Friðheimar Unique?

Friðheimar is a working greenhouse farm and restaurant that sits at the intersection of innovation and tradition. Specializing in tomatoes and cucumbers, this eco-friendly farm uses Iceland's geothermal energy to produce fresh produce year-round.

What makes Friðheimar a real gem, however, is its dining experience. Imagine sitting among the lush rows of tomato plants as you enjoy homemade tomato soup, fresh-baked bread, and even tomato-based desserts. It’s a delicious and educational stop that feels like a warm hug in the middle of your adventure.

Practical Tips for a Flavorful Stop

• How to Get There: Located near Reykholt, Friðheimar is just a 15-minute drive from Geysir.
• Best Time to Visit: Lunch hours are the most popular, so make a reservation to secure your spot.
• What to Try: Don’t miss their signature Bloody Mary cocktail or the tomato ice cream — both unexpectedly delightful!

---

5. Skálholt – A Glimpse into Iceland’s Religious History

Why Visit Skálholt?

History enthusiasts will find Skálholt fascinating. Once the cultural and religious center of Iceland, Skálholt played a vital role in the country’s development for centuries. This historic site was home to one of Iceland's first dioceses, established in the 11th century. Today, Skálholt is marked by a beautiful modern church surrounded by remnants of its storied past.

The area also serves as a peaceful retreat, with its idyllic countryside setting offering both inspiration and tranquility.

Practical Tips for Exploring Skálholt

• How to Get There: Skálholt is located just south of Laugarvatn, making it an easy stop on the way to—or from—other Golden Circle highlights.
• Best Time to Visit: Summer months are ideal for exploring the site and its surrounding area, with longer daylight hours for wandering.
• What to See: Admire the striking stained glass windows and explore the small museum underneath the church.

---

Maximizing Your Golden Circle Experience

How to Incorporate These Gems into Your Route

To make the most of your trip, consider adding one or more of these stops between the main Golden Circle attractions:

• Start your day at Þingvellir National Park, then head to Laugarvatn Fontana for a late-morning soak. After a short drive, explore Friðheimar for lunch.
• Continue your adventure by hiking to Brúarfoss before arriving at Gullfoss.
• End your day with a visit to Skálholt or save it for the next day if you’re taking a more leisurely approach.

Plan for Extra Time

While the Golden Circle can be driven in a day, exploring these hidden treasures may tempt you to slow down and really savor your experience. If possible, set aside extra time in your itinerary—perhaps even staying overnight in Laugarvatn, Reykholt, or Selfoss.

Travel Pro Tips

• Dress in layers and pack essentials like maps, snacks, and a camera.
• Keep an eye on road conditions at road.is and weather forecast at vedur.is if traveling in winter.
• Make reservations for Laugarvatn Fontana or Friðheimar if visiting during peak times.

Step Off the Beaten Path

The main sights of the Golden Circle are breathtaking, but taking the time to visit these hidden gems will elevate your Icelandic adventure to a whole new level. Whether you’re marveling at the vibrant waters of Kerið, unwinding at Laugarvatn Fontana, or walking through Iceland’s history at Skálholt, these stops bring richness and variety to your trip.

There’s nothing better than discovering something unexpected and unforgettable. Explore beyond the obvious, and your Golden Circle experience will become uniquely yours.

Höldur is proud to be Iceland's largest car rental provider, with a fleet of over 8,000 vehicles and convenient rental locations nationwide. As the official Europcar franchisee in Iceland, we offer professional and dependable service you can count on.

 

Search for a car!