Gullfoss > Geysir Geothermal > Brúarfoss > Friðheimar Tomato Farm > Þingvellir National Park > Reykjavík

Gullfoss : The Golden Falls

Gullfoss, which means “Golden Falls,” is fed by the Hvítá River and is famed for its powerful cascade that plunges into a dramatic canyon in two distinct drops.

We arrived early in the morning, just in time to witness the sunrise glowing directly behind the waterfall, casting golden light through the mist and creating a magical scene. Surrounding us was the dramatic Gullfossgjúfur Canyon, its rugged cliffs framing the falls in all their glory. Frost had formed along the edges of the waterfall, adding a sparkling touch to the already stunning view. Some walking paths were closed due to icy conditions, a reminder of the raw and untamed nature of Iceland in winter.

Geysir Geothermal Area : Iceland Natural Fountain Show

The Geysir Geothermal Area is one of Iceland most popular attractions, with Strokkur Geyser as its star. As you step into the area, you are greeted by pillars of steam rising from the ground, a surreal sight against the cold air. The heat from the geothermal vents mingles with the crisp winter atmosphere, making the area feel surprisingly warmer than the surrounding landscape.

Crowds naturally gather around the famous Strokkur, cameras ready, waiting to capture the perfect moment. Strokkur erupts every 5 to 10 minutes, shooting a jet of boiling water up to 20 meters, and occasionally reaching as high as 40 meters. Each eruption draws gasps and cheers, the height and force never failing to impress. We watched several eruptions, each one as thrilling as the last, a spectacular show put on by nature itself.

Travel Tip: Switch your phone to slow motion mode when filming a geyser eruption, it makes the moment even more dramatic when played back.

Brúarfoss : The Blue Waterfall

Brúarfoss, meaning “Bridge Falls,” is a hidden gem along Iceland Golden Circle. While not the largest or most powerful waterfall, it has a charm all its own and its famed for being one of the bluest waterfalls in Iceland. Fed by the Brúará River, whose waters originate as glacial melt from the Langjökull Glacier, Brúarfoss flows in delicate cascades over a series of rocky ledges, creating frothy white ribbons against its striking turquoise blue waters. Best of all, the falls are easily accessible, just a few minutes’ walk from the nearby car park, making it a rewarding stop for anyone exploring the area.

Friðheimar Tomato Farm : Dining in a Greenhouse

For lunch, we enjoyed a truly unique experience; dining right inside a working greenhouse at Friðheimar Tomato Farm, a charming family run business. Thanks to electrically lit greenhouses and Iceland natural resources, the farm is able to harvest tomatoes every day of the year, even during the country’s long, dark, and freezing winters. The operation is powered sustainably, using hot water and electricity from Iceland hydroelectric and geothermal power stations. To pollinate the plants, bumblebees are imported from the Netherlands, a fascinating example of nature lending a hand to modern farming. This place is very popular, so advance online reservations are highly recommended. Walk-ins may be possible, but there is no guarantee for a table. On the menu, mocktails and cocktails made with fresh green or red tomato juice, but the star of the show is their signature tomato soup, served with gigantic, freshly baked homemade bread. Enjoying a warm meal in the cozy comfort of the greenhouse, surrounded by rows of thriving tomato plants, is an experience as memorable as the food itself.

Þingvellir National Park : Where Two Continents Meet

Next, we visited another truly one of a kind destination: Þingvellir National Park, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. Here, Iceland is literally split by the Mid-Atlantic Rift and this is the only place on Earth where the rift rises above sea level, allowing you to see the divide so clearly and up close. At Almannagjá Gorge, you can walk right between the two tectonic plates, an awe-inspiring experience that brings geology to life. The park also offers scenic trails around the lake, leading to spectacular viewpoints where Iceland dramatic landscapes stretch out before you.

Fun Fact: Tiny earthquakes occur here almost every day, though they are far too small to be felt.

With that, our Ring Road adventure reached its final page, a journey filled with waterfalls, glaciers, volcanoes, and endless skies, all etched into our memory like chapters in the most beautiful book we have ever read. From here, we returned to the city for the last two days of our trip, spending our time sightseeing the city and soaking in every final moment.

Overnight at Hotel Reykjavík Grand