Eman Khan shares her expertise of Iceland’s Golden Circle
A Full Information for Camper Vacationers
Iceland’s Golden Circle is without doubt one of the nation’s most iconic journey routes, providing guests a mixture of breathtaking landscapes, geological wonders, and historic websites. For these in search of flexibility, immersion in nature, and an inexpensive approach to expertise this gorgeous area, tenting in a camper van is the right resolution.
This information covers the whole lot you have to find out about tenting within the Golden Circle, with sensible suggestions for these touring solo—particularly girls—and the way renting a camper can improve your Icelandic journey.
Why Select Tenting within the Golden Circle?
Tenting in a camper van means that you can discover the Golden Circle at your individual tempo. In contrast to inflexible excursions, you’ll be able to select the place to cease, keep longer at your favourite sights, and really expertise the peaceable nature of Iceland. Moreover, tenting is without doubt one of the most cost-effective methods to journey via Iceland. Lodging and eating will be costly, however by renting a camper from Motorhome Iceland, you mix transportation, lodging, and cooking amenities into one, making it particularly useful for these on a funds.
One key benefit of a camper van is its consolation and comfort. Whether or not you get up to the sound of waterfalls or have a late night subsequent to a geyser, you’ll have all of the necessities at your fingertips.
One other big profit is the flexibility. You possibly can keep away from crowded tour buses by visiting the favored websites both early within the morning or later within the night. For instance, the busiest occasions at Gullfoss and Geysir are round 9 AM to 2 PM, however tenting close by means you’ll be able to go to these iconic spots outdoors peak hours.
What’s the Golden Circle?
The Golden Circle refers to a 300-kilometer loop that begins in Reykjavík, encompassing three main points of interest:
- Þingvellir Nationwide Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Web site, well-known for its geological significance the place two tectonic plates meet, and its historic significance as the positioning of Iceland’s first parliament.
- Geysir Geothermal Space: House to Strokkur, a geyser that erupts each couple of minutes, and the dormant Nice Geysir.
- Gullfoss Waterfall: Considered one of Iceland’s strongest waterfalls, the place the Hvítá river cascades right into a deep canyon, providing gorgeous views and an exhilarating expertise.
Past these highlights, the Golden Circle options many hidden gems which are price visiting. These embody:
- Kerið Crater: A volcanic crater lake with hanging crimson slopes and blue-green water.
- Secret Lagoon: A lesser-known scorching spring within the village of Flúðir, good for a calming soak.
- Friðheimar Greenhouse: Expertise a meal inside a tomato greenhouse, the place each dish, from appetizers to desserts, is creatively crafted utilizing recent, regionally grown tomatoes.
Whether or not it’s discovering distinctive eating spots just like the tomato greenhouse or stumbling secluded waterfalls, by touring in a camper van, you’ll have the liberty to take quick detours and discover these lesser-known places that provide a extra intimate expertise.
Greatest Campsites within the Golden Circle for Camper Vans
The Golden Circle is well-equipped with designated campsites which are good for camper van vacationers. Listed here are a number of the greatest choices:
Þingvellir Tenting Floor (Nyrðri Leirar)
Situated simply 5 minutes from the Þingvellir Nationwide Park Customer Heart, this campsite is ideal for these desirous to discover the park completely. It has primary amenities, and the fee is round 1,530 ISK per individual per evening. It’s preferrred for nature lovers, as the positioning provides quick access to mountain climbing trails via the nationwide park.
Úthlíð Campsite
Centrally situated close to the Geysir Geothermal Space, Úthlíð provides wonderful facilities equivalent to showers, a scorching tub, a restaurant, and laundry providers. For 2,000 ISK per individual per evening, guests can benefit from the Northern Lights within the winter months, whereas the summer time provides lengthy, vivid days beneath the Midnight Solar.
Faxi Waterfall Campsite
This smaller, extra primary campsite is ideal for vacationers preferring peace and quiet. Situated simply 8 km from Reykholt and 10 km from Geysir, it provides lovely views of Faxi Waterfall, and there’s an on-site restaurant to gasoline up earlier than persevering with your journey.
Skjól Campsite
Located between Geysir and Gullfoss, it is a family-friendly tenting spot with a soccer subject and proximity to mountain climbing trails within the close by Haukadalsskógur Forest. It’s an amazing place to loosen up and recharge earlier than heading to the extra well-liked websites.
Gesthús Campsite in Selfoss
Probably the greatest-equipped campsites on the Golden Circle, Gesthús provides a kitchen, Wi-Fi, and laundry providers. The close by swimming pool and playground make it preferrred for households, and the city of Selfoss is only a quick stroll away for restocking provides. The fee is round 3,000 ISK per pitch.
Exploring Lesser-Identified Gems of the Golden Circle
Past the primary points of interest, the Golden Circle is residence to some hidden gems which are simply accessible with a camper van. A couple of price mentioning embody:
- Reykjadalur: This geothermal valley is a must-visit spot the place you’ll be able to hike via scenic landscapes and revel in a pure scorching spring bathtub in a heat river. The path to Reykjadalur provides a rewarding expertise with lovely views alongside the way in which, making it an ideal cease for nature lovers.
- Hrunalaug Sizzling Springs: A peaceable scorching spring close to Flúðir that gives a extra secluded bathing expertise in comparison with the bigger, extra touristy lagoons.
- Brúarfoss Waterfall: A hidden waterfall with turquoise-blue water that’s accessible through a scenic hike.
These lesser-visited places will be explored extra simply with the freedom and adaptability {that a} camper van offers.
Suggestions for Ladies Tenting Solo within the Golden Circle
For solo feminine vacationers, tenting within the Golden Circle is usually a protected and fulfilling expertise. Iceland is understood for being a protected nation with low crime charges, however there are nonetheless just a few issues you are able to do to make sure a clean journey:
- Packing the Proper Gear
- Private Security Gadgets: Whereas Iceland could be very protected, it’s at all times good to hold a whistle, a private alarm, and a transportable cellphone charger for peace of thoughts.
- Heat Layers: The climate in Iceland will be unpredictable, even in summer time. Pack thermal layers, a water-resistant jacket, and a windproof hat. Temperatures can drop considerably at evening, so having the best gear is crucial.
- Comfy Footwear: Sturdy, waterproof mountain climbing boots are a should for exploring the pure terrain.
- Staying Linked
Iceland has good cell protection in most areas, however it’s vital to let somebody know your itinerary when you’re tenting solo. Many campsites provide Wi-Fi, so you’ll be able to simply keep linked and examine climate circumstances or path data.
- Necessities for a Solo Journey
- Headlamp or Flashlight: A great headlamp is crucial, particularly in the course of the shorter daylight in winter.
- Reusable Water Bottle: Iceland’s faucet water is a number of the purest on the earth, so carry a refillable bottle to remain hydrated.
- Dry Luggage: These are helpful to maintain garments and equipment dry throughout wet or moist circumstances.
Rules and Etiquette for Camper Tenting in Iceland
Iceland has strict tenting laws to guard its fragile ecosystem. Wild tenting is now not permitted until you may have express permission from a landowner. Due to this fact, it’s important to remain at designated campsites when touring the Golden Circle.
To protect the surroundings and guarantee a respectful tenting expertise, observe the “Depart No Hint” rules:
- Get rid of waste correctly: Most campsites have designated waste and recycling bins.
- Stick with marked trails: Keep away from creating new paths that may injury vegetation.
- Keep away from disturbing wildlife: Iceland’s wildlife are delicate, and it’s important to respect their pure habitat.
Greatest Time to Camp Alongside the Golden Circle
The summer time months (June to August) are the preferred time for tenting, with hotter temperatures, lengthy daylight, and the attractive Midnight Solar.
Nevertheless, when you want fewer crowds and decrease prices, take into account touring in the course of the shoulder seasons in April-Might or September-October. These occasions provide cooler climate however fewer vacationers, and also you may even catch the Northern Lights within the fall.
Winter tenting can be an choice, however it requires cautious preparation. Be sure that your camper van is supplied with winter tires and heating, and at all times examine the climate forecast earlier than setting out, as roads will be icy or snowy.
Embrace the tenting journey!
Tenting within the Golden Circle is an unforgettable option to expertise a few of Iceland’s most iconic sights whereas having fun with the liberty and adaptability that camper van journey provides. Whether or not you’re touring solo or with others, renting a camper is the right option to discover the fantastic thing about Iceland up shut. With the best preparation and planning, your Golden Circle tenting journey shall be an journey of a lifetime.
Your ideas on Iceland’s Golden Circle?
Have you ever ever visited Iceland and traveled alongside the Golden Circle? In that case, what had been the highlights of your journey? Please share your ideas within the feedback under.
Eman Khan
Visitor Blogger
I’m an adventurer at coronary heart, at all times on the lookout for the subsequent alternative to be taught one thing new. I spend my summers days in Iceland.
I spend my evenings and summers growing new hobbies and being outside as a lot as potential. I get pleasure from tenting, mountain climbing, cross nation snowboarding, and biking.
