Planning a trip to Iceland in winter? Discover the Golden Circle and its natural wonders! This tour enabled us to enjoy the beauty and richness of Icelandic nature. Geysers, snow-capped mountains, fault lines, rivers and waterfalls, you’ll see that the Golden Circle in winter has a lot to offer. It’s a good option, easily accessible from Reykjavik even in the coldest weather.
Here’s our selection of the best attractions around the Golden Circle in winter.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Content
Golden Circle winter attractions: Map
To get you started, here’s a map showing the main attractions listed in this article:
The Golden Circle is a region we love in Iceland, summer and winter alike.
The sites are impressive, with a wide range of experiences and a great diversity of nature, including waterfalls, geysers, ice caves, lakes and much more.
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Tips for visiting the Golden Circle in the snow
How long
A day trip from Reykjavik is perfectly feasible, even in winter, to see the 3 main attractions: Thingvellir National Park, the Haukadalur / Geysir geothermal area with the Strokkur geyser and the Gullfoss waterfall. Note, however, that the roads are more difficult and the days shorter.
If you have 2 or 3 days to enjoy the Golden Circle, even better. You’ll be able to take your time to appreciate the different locations and add stops like Kerid Crater or Secret Lagoon.
By car: Driving in South Iceland in winter
For more freedom and to see what you want, we recommend renting a car and exploring on your own if you’re comfortable driving in snow and ice. The views from the roads over the Golden Circle are enchanting!
Normally, the roads are cleared quickly enough for access. But during snowstorms, roads may be closed at the last minute – always check the status of roads on Umferdin.
Note the following constraints:
- Wind and snowstorms can force you to slow down and take extra care on roads with reduced visibility.
- While most are easily accessible, some attractions are located on trails where driving is more complicated. So it’s wiser to opt for organized excursions.
Find the best deals on our preferred car rental platform: DiscoverCars
Organized tours from Reykjavik
If you don’t want to drive, you can join an organized tour. It’s one of the best options from the capital Reykjavik, just a 1-hour drive from Thingvellir.
There’s less choice than in summer, but you’ll still find interesting programs with almost always a stop at Thingvellir National Park, Geysir and Gullfoss Waterfall.
Almost all tours are done in small groups.
- See day tour options – see availability on your dates
- See 3-day tour options – see availability on your dates
- See 2-day tour options – see availability on your dates
Where to stay in the Golden Circle in winter
In winter, sleeping on site can be a very poetic experience, and waking up amidst these unique landscapes covered in a blanket of white is even more of a change of scenery. It’s also more convenient to take your time and discover the region in winter at your own pace. Here are our suggestions for the area:
- Hotel Litli Geysir, 200m from the hot spring – See prices, photos and availability and make a reservation
- Gullfoss Hotel near the Hvita River, 3km from the waterfall – see prices, photos and book
- The Hill Hotel in Fludir near Secret Lagoon – See prices, photos and availability and make a reservation
Our article on the best hotels to stay at in the Golden Circle will soon be available.
WHERE TO STAY IN Iceland
Our independent picks for the accommodation of your dreams:
- Where to stay in Iceland (coming soon)
- Where to sleep in Reykjavik (coming soon)
- Best 5-star hotels (coming soon)
- Where to sleep on the South Coast (coming soon)
- Where to sleep on the Golden Circle (coming soon)
- Where to sleep on the Snaefellsnes peninsula
Accessibility in winter
The Golden Circle region is quite touristy. Roads are quickly cleared after a snowfall. All roads have one lane in each direction and are identified by yellow posts on each side. Keep in mind that driving in Iceland in winter requires extra caution due to winter conditions.
Normally, the roads are cleared quickly enough for access. But during snowstorms, roads may be closed at the last minute – always check the status of roads on Umferdin.
Be careful, with snow and ice on the ground, it can be slippery. We recommend you always carry cleats with you to add to your shoes. See our article on winter packing (coming soon)
And now we’re sharing some of our favourite spots in the region!
1. Explore Thingvellir National Park
Why we love it
On the Golden Circle circuit, this 24,000-hectare national park is a must-see in our opinion! Stop off at Thingvellir National Park, famous for its geology and historical symbolism. The site is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Did you know that Iceland’s parliament, the oldest in the world, was founded here in the 10th century? Parliamentarians met here right up to the end of the 18th century – fascinating, isn’t it? The tour route is signposted with numerous explanatory panels. The main path is well-maintained and you can easily walk through the fissure and admire the view over the area. It’s one of Iceland’s most popular tourist destinations, with its mountains, rivers, lake, waterfalls and fault lines. In the midst of these enchanting landscapes, you may catch a glimpse of the small 19th-century church of Thingvallakirkja. It’s closed in winter, but adds a poetic dimension to the panorama!
Access and useful tips
- North-western zone of the Golden Circle
- Along route 36
- Heading northeast from Reykjavik near Lake Thingvallavatn
- From Reykjavik = 1h drive
- From Vik = 2h15min drive
- Difficulties: well-maintained paths and main trails, less well-maintained and more tortuous trails such as the one from Oxararfoss to the waterfall, caution with children as the rock is deeply fissured.
- Catering: 2 areas with access to WCs and a café (north of the canyon and lower area near the campsite)
- Prices: free entry to the park but paying parking lots from ISK 1,000 depending on capacity and vehicle size (see latest prices on the official website here) – Car parks P1 and P2 well signposted
- See tour options to visit Thingvellir National Park
2. Diving into the Silfra fault
Why we love it
Would you like to discover the depths of a fissure between 2 tectonic plates? Silence, clear water and rock walls… It’s a truly amazing experience, even in winter! The Silfra Fault in the heart of Thingvellir National Park offers an incredible spectacle all year round. On the program: diving and snorkeling between the Eurasian and American tectonic plates. Did you know that this is one of the world’s most famous cold-water diving locations? You can also combine this activity with the wonders sheltered by the Golden Circle, such as the Geysir geothermal hot springs zone and the Gullfoss waterfall.
Choose to snorkel and dive between the 2 continents in this magical place!
Access and useful tips
- North-west of the Golden Circle
- In Thingvellir National Park
- From Reykjavik = 1h drive
- From Vik = 2h30min drive
- Difficulties: activity not accessible to PRM, age between 12 and 69 (for any health-related questions, consult your doctor beforehand), not suitable for pregnant women.
- Catering: 2 areas in Thingvellir National Park with access to WCs and a café (north of the canyon and lower area near the campsite).
- Book your excursion from Reykjavik now!
WHERE TO STAY IN Iceland
Our independent picks for the accommodation of your dreams:
- Where to stay in Iceland (coming soon)
- Where to sleep in Reykjavik (coming soon)
- Best 5-star hotels (coming soon)
- Where to sleep on the South Coast (coming soon)
- Where to sleep on the Golden Circle (coming soon)
- Where to sleep on the Snaefellsnes peninsula
3. Discover the Geysir / Haukadalur geothermal zone
Why we love it
For us, the Haukadalur geothermal zone is one of the highlights of the Golden Circle. It is home to the famous Geysir, which is dormant, and the Strokkur geyser, which we contemplated as it erupted several times between 15m and 40m high! It was quite impressive! With bubbling mud pools, colorful zones and gushes of water every few minutes, if you’ve never seen a geothermal field before, you’re bound to be surprised. In summer and winter alike, it’s fascinating to stand and watch the water bubble, preparing and guessing whether an eruption will take place or not. You’ll also notice fumaroles, small plumes of steam rising from the earth in a volcanic region.
Access and useful tips
- Northeast Golden Circle zone
- Along Route 35
- From Reykjavik = 1h45min drive
- From Vik = 2h15min drive
- Difficulties: parking facing the road, easy access, good footwear as ground is slippery in summer and winter (and something to cover up or a change of clothes), camera protection, daylight hours recommended for visits.
- Catering: various restaurants facing the Haukadalur geothermal zone (and WC)
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours depending on your interest in the area and your walking time.
- Price: free admission (parking and attractions)
- Opening hours: natural site open all year round, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (except in special weather conditions).
- See Haukadalur and Geysir tour options
4. Admire the mighty Gullfoss waterfall
Why we love it
An intriguingly shaped waterfall surrounded by unspoilt nature, the Gullfoss waterfall is quite original to observe with its 2-stage structure on the Hvítá river. Even in bad weather, you’ll find that this 32m-high waterfall is still impressive, especially with this soft blanket of white snow covering the landscape. Iceland’s iconic waterfall, it is located on the river fed by the Langjökull glacier, the 2nd largest in the country! In fact, it’s one of the best waterfalls to visit in Iceland in winter!
Access and useful tips
- Northeast Golden Circle zone
- Along Route 35
- From Reykjavik = 2h drive
- From Thingvellir = 1h drive
- Difficulties: road, parking lot and paths cleared for access, but risk of ice (bring crampons), path near waterfall on lower level closed in winter, stairs between upper and lower parking lot, WC at reception, daylight hours recommended for visits.
- Catering: accessible restaurant at visitor reception area
- Duration: allow between 1h and 2h to enjoy the different viewpoints and move carefully around the site in case of snow or ice.
- Price: free admission (parking and attractions)
- Opening hours: natural site open all year round, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (except in special weather conditions).
- See tour options including Gullfoss waterfall in winter
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On Route 1, no 4WD required, off Route 1, it depends on your plans.
5. Bathing in the warm waters of Secret Lagoon
Why we love it
Do you know the Secret Lagoon at the entrance to the small Golden Circle town of Fludir? Often compared to the Myvatn Baths in northern Iceland, this hot-water bath is more intimate than some of the more touristy ones in the south, such as the Blue Lagoon. Built in the late 19th century, Secret Lagoon is one of the country’s oldest natural geothermal pools. Would you like to take a dip in an exceptional setting, in water whose natural temperature can reach up to 40°C? Come to the Secret Lagoon for a moment of pleasure amid the enchanting vapors emanating from the pool! Why not include this activity in a tour of the Golden Circle?
Access and useful tips
- Eastern zone of the Golden Circle
- Follow route 359 and turn off at Hvammsvegur
- From Reykjavik = 1h30min drive
- From Thingvellir = 50min drive
- Difficulties: low temperatures, so bring suitable clothing before and after swimming, 4WD car recommended for access by road in winter, showers and changing rooms available, parking lot open to customers during opening hours, towel hire.
- Catering: café and bar in the complex with hot, cold and alcoholic drinks, sweet and savoury snacks
- Duration: the entry ticket gives access to the pool for the whole day, with customers generally staying an average of 1h30 to 2h.
- Book your ticket now
- Price: full adult rate ISK 3600, free for children under 14
- Opening hours: open daily from 10am to 7pm from October to May and from June to September from 10am to 8pm (see official website for updates ).
OUR GUIDE TO PLANNING A Dream trip
- 6 maps that make planning easier
- + 75 pre-selected locations
- Practical advice
- + 115 photos to help you choose
6. Stop off at Kerid Crater
Why we love it
Observing a volcanic crater in the middle of winter is also an experience that has left its mark on us at the Golden Circle! In the heart of the region, the Kerid Crater, over 6 millennia old, features a lake that freezes over in periods of extreme cold. The surface is then sparkling, with a beautiful blanket of snow on the red rock walls all around. In summer, the landscape is very different and more colorful, but the view is well worth a stop even in winter.
Discover the Kerid Crater with a small group on a tour of the Golden Circle!
Access and useful tips
- South of the Golden Circle
- Along Route 35
- From Reykjavik = 1h drive
- From Thingvellir = 30min drive
- Difficulty: open roads in winter, small path at the top for circling the crater
- Catering: no on-site catering option
- Duration: 30min to 1h on site
- Book your excursion to Kerid Crater here!
- Price: one-off ISK 600 per person
- Opening hours: open all year round when it’s daylight (see official website for updates ).
7. Enter the Langjökull ice cave
Why we love it
Surprising light effects, crystal-clear ice, bluish or black landscapes for some… Immersing ourselves in an ice cave was a magical experience during our stay in Iceland during a period of extreme cold. As ice caves are living creatures, these geological wonders change every winter. This is the season when you’ll have the most options for discovering them in complete safety under the supervision of on-site professionals. Did you know that Langjökull is Iceland’s 2nd largest glacier? Snowmobile or jeep excursions, or a visit to the world’s largest artificial ice tunnel – there’s no doubt that discovering this glacial giant will impress you!
Try your hand at snowmobiling on this amazing glacier from Geysir or from Gullfoss!
Access and useful tips
- Heading northeast over the Golden Circle
- From Reykjavik = 2h drive
- From Thingvellir = 1h30min to 2h drive
- From Husafel = 20km on gravel roads and unpaved mountains
- Duration: depending on the tour chosen (between 3 hours and 1 full day)
- Difficulties: natural site open 24/7 but paid excursion with professionals and special vehicle required for access, suitable clothing and crampons, driver’s license required for snowmobiles, gravel tracks and unpaved mountains (F-roads).
- Eating out: no options nearby, need to go to Husafel or back down to the Golden Circle.
- Let yourself be tempted by a snowmobile tour of the Langjökull glacier with wetsuit!
- Opening hours: natural site open all year round 24/7, but accessible only by organized tour with local professionals (find out more on the official Icelandic Tourist Board website here).
Venture into the cave of the Langjökull glacier!
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8. Walking near Lake Laugarvatn
Why we love it
On the road between Thingvellir and Haukadalur, you’ll notice a lake. This is Laugarvatn.
It’s attracting more and more attention because hot water flows here, and in fact, a thermal spa has been established on its shore.
It’s a fun stop to watch the vapors rise from the lake. We loved the enchanting, picturesque atmosphere around us in winter. The low temperatures attract fewer tourists in winter, which is very pleasant, especially if you opt for the on-site geothermal baths!
Book your ticket now to be sure of a place!
Access and useful tips
- Golden Circle center zone
- Along Route 37
- From Reykjavik = 1h15min drive
- From Thingvellir = 30min drive
- Duration: if you just want to see Lake Laugarvatn, allow 30 minutes to 1 hour for a stroll; if you want to enjoy the thermal complex, allow 2 hours.
- Difficulties: reduced visibility, snowy or icy roads, more practical 4WD car
- Catering: Laugarvatn Spa features a restaurant with local produce.
- Book your ticketed excursion to the spa complex now
- Thermal complex price: adult price from 17 to 66 5490 ISK, child price from 10 to 16 3490 ISK, free for children under 10.
- Spa complex opening hours: open daily from June to September, 10am to 9pm, and from October to May, 11am to 9pm (see official website for updates ).
- Try a surprising geothermal bread-baking experience in Laugarvatn!
9. Horseback riding
Why we love it
Icelandic horses can be found in many parts of the country! Did you know that it was the direct descendants of Viking mounts who settled on the island? For a walk on the lava fields or simply between the snow-covered landscapes, we found them charming and very cute!
Some farms have set up feeding stations where you can buy a little food from them. This is the case not far from Haukadalur on the road to Gullfoss.
Ride a Viking horse through the Golden Circle in winter!
Access and useful tips
- Duration: from 1 full day to a few hours, depending on the option chosen
- Difficulties: sometimes extreme weather conditions in winter, shorter days, warm, waterproof clothing for riding, no riding experience required.
- Book your winter horseback ride at the Golden Circle now!
10. Visit the Fridheimar eco greenhouse / tomato farm
Why we love it
Another lovely discovery in the region is the Fridheimar eco greenhouse and tomato farm in Reykholt, just a 15-minute drive from the town of Fludir. It was quite original to see how operators use geothermal energy to grow tomatoes! On site, like us, you can choose to simply visit the greenhouse, dine in the restaurant or watch the equestrian shows. The on-site delicatessen will also allow you to pack local products such as sauces, soups and jams made from locally-grown tomatoes. Enjoy!
Access and useful tips
- Eastern zone of the Golden Circle
- Along Route 35
- From Reykjavik = 1h30min drive
- From Thingvellir = 40min drive
- Catering: on-site restaurant and bar.
- Include a visit to this amazing farm in a guided tour of the Golden Circle!
- Opening hours: greenhouses open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., kitchen from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. – (see official website for updates ).
RENTING A CAR IN Iceland
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On Route 1, no 4WD required, off Route 1, it depends on your plans.
Activities at Le Cercle d’Or
In summer and winter alike, you’ll find plenty to do at Le Cercle d’Or:
- tour of the main activities in the Golden Circle and Northern Lights – see program see program
- discover unique winter landscapes along the route
- helicopter tour to see the beauty of the mountains – more
- snowmobile excursions – See prices, photos and availability
- explore other lesser-known Golden Circle waterfalls such as Helgufoss and Thorufuss
- 19th-century Thingvallakirkja church (closed in winter, but visible on walks)
- Skálholt Cathedral and Museum on an attractive hillside to soak up the local history
If you’re visiting the Golden Circle with children, most of the activities listed above are suitable for them:
- Fridheimar tomato farm and geothermal greenhouse
- horseback riding from age 8 upwards
- walks in Thingvellir National Park
- Gullfoss waterfall
- Secret Lagoon hot springs
- Lake Laugarvatn
- short hikes in the region
Cities of the Golden Circle
Laugarvatn
We loved Laugarvatn in the heart of the Golden Circle between Thingvellir National Park and the Gullfoss waterfall. It’s a picturesque little town on the shores of the lake of the same name. Renowned for its geothermal springs, we enjoyed a relaxing experience with hot baths and natural saunas. The town is charming, surrounded by peaceful countryside. The lake, the typical little houses and the surrounding snow-capped mountains make for a picture-postcard setting!
Fludir
Close to the Secret Lagoon natural thermal bath on the eastern edge of the Golden Circle, the small town of Fludir appealed to us. You’ll notice that the commune isn’t very big, but it plays an important role in the region. It is home to several geothermal greenhouses, which produce vegetables all year round. We visited one between Fludir and Reykholt to learn more about growing tomatoes using geothermal energy in winter. In our opinion, Fludir is also a good place to stay if you want to sleep in the Golden Circle during your road-trip.
Reykholt
Greenery and a warm atmosphere, even in winter, are the words we’d use to describe the Golden Circle town of Reykholt. Note that there is another town of the same name in Iceland near Husafel, but further north. Here, we’re talking about Reykholt between Fludir, Laugarvatn and Geysir. The village is also home to one of the country’s most renowned tomato eco-farms: the Fridheimar farm, which we also visited.
Skálholt
Did you know that Skálholt, located in the south-east of the Golden Circle, is a historic town of religious and cultural importance in the country? In winter, you’re sure to be charmed by the snow-covered landscape that enhances its iconic cathedral! The commune is also home to several archaeological remains. Beyond its local spiritual importance, Skálholt also attracts visitors for its rich natural, architectural and historical heritage.
Selfoss
Situated south of the Golden Circle on the way to the coast, Selfoss is a small town appreciated for its ideal location. It lies at the crossroads of several routes, including the famous main road 1, which circles Iceland. Here you’ll find accommodation, restaurants and a geothermal-heated municipal swimming pool. It’s a good starting point for exploring the region via the main Route 1 or Route 35, which takes you to Kerid Crater, for example.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Golden Circle worth a visit in winter?
Completely! The scenery is truly unique, with a wide variety of natural sites including volcano craters, lakes, mountains, rock fissures, hot springs and waterfalls. Many activities remain open and accessible in winter, allowing you to see the other side of Iceland at this time of year. We really enjoyed discovering the region at this time of year. The roads are quickly cleared and maintained in winter if you want to drive. You can also opt for an organized excursion for greater peace of mind – there’s a wide choice of options! Even if the days are shorter, the experience is still interesting and well worth the detour.
It’s also a good time to see the aurora borealis at night, an extraordinary natural phenomenon!
The Golden Circle is also an area where you’ll find many charming accommodations in its small towns if you spend several days exploring at your own pace. Note also that tourist numbers are lower at this time of year.
When is the best time to visit the Golden Circle in winter?
It all depends on what you’re looking for and how much time you have to spend there. If you only have 1 day at the Golden Circle, we recommend going in November or March on an organized tour from Reykjavik. The days are shorter, with a few more hours of sunshine.
Otherwise, all winter long, the scenery is enchanting. The snow sublimates the mountains and creates a striking contrast with the coloured rocks. Even though extreme cold conditions can be less forgiving, most winter activities are still accessible.
Are the roads safe for winter driving on the Golden Circle?
Normally, the roads are cleared quickly enough for access. But during snowstorms, roads may be closed at the last minute – always check the status of roads on Umferdin.
What to wear in winter in the Golden Circle
If you’re traveling to the Golden Circle in winter, remember to take waterproof clothing that will keep you warm, such as boots, a warm jacket, several layers of clothing, gloves, a hat… Be aware that the weather can change rapidly in Iceland, so plan to be able to add or remove layers of clothing easily. On organized tours, equipment such as snow crampons or complementary windproof or waterproof suits can be provided. Please check with the tour operators when booking your trip.
Be careful, with snow and ice on the ground, it can be slippery. We recommend you always carry cleats with you to add to your shoes. See our article on winter packing (coming soon)
Are there any seasonal restrictions or closures to take into account?
Most activities at Le Cecrle d’Or are accessible in winter. With the weather more changeable and cold conditions sometimes extreme, caution is doubly important on the roads. Some activities can only be enjoyed as part of an organized tour. Some trails and sites close in winter, such as Thingvallakirkja Church, but it can be seen in the landscape from Thingvellir National Park. Check the opening times and days of the main attractions mentioned in this article by consulting the details above.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO iceland IN WINTER
- Best of
Iceland’s winter landscapes
Best things to do in Iceland in winter
The most beautiful waterfalls
Ice caves
Best excursions from Reykjavik
- Practical advice
Getting around (coming soon)
How to rent a car in Iceland
Winter driving tips
Where to stay in Iceland in winter
Itineraries: 3 days – 4 days – 5 days – 1 week – 10 days (to come)
- The must-dos
Reykjavik in winter
Golden Circle in winter
South coast in winter
Snaefellsnes in winter
Silver Circle in winter (coming soon)
Lake Myvatn in winter
Eastern Fjords in winter
Seljalandsfoss in winter
Jokulsarlon in winter
SHE MADE THE TRIP Claire
