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 means to expertise this gorgeous area, tenting in a camper van is the right answer.
This information covers the whole lot it’s essential learn 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 lets you discover the Golden Circle at your individual tempo. Not like inflexible excursions, you possibly can 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 by way of 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 finances.
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 enormous profit is the flexibility. You may 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 instances at Gullfoss and Geysir are round 9 AM to 2 PM, however tenting close by means you possibly can go to these iconic spots exterior 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 Website, 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: Residence to Strokkur, a geyser that erupts each couple of minutes, and the dormant Nice Geysir.
- Gullfoss Waterfall: One in all 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 value visiting. These embrace:
- Kerið Crater: A volcanic crater lake with hanging purple slopes and blue-green water.
- Secret Lagoon: A lesser-known scorching spring within the village of Flúðir, excellent 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 contemporary, domestically 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 brief detours and discover these lesser-known areas that provide a extra intimate expertise.
Finest Campsites within the Golden Circle for Camper Vans
The Golden Circle is well-equipped with designated campsites which are excellent for camper van vacationers. Listed below are a few of the finest choices:
Þingvellir Tenting Floor (Nyrðri Leirar)
Positioned simply 5 minutes from the Þingvellir Nationwide Park Customer Heart, this campsite is ideal for these eager to discover the park completely. It has primary amenities, and the fee is round 1,530 ISK per particular person per evening. It’s best for nature lovers, as the positioning affords quick access to mountain climbing trails by way of the nationwide park.
Úthlíð Campsite
Centrally positioned close to the Geysir Geothermal Space, Úthlíð affords glorious facilities comparable to showers, a scorching tub, a restaurant, and laundry companies. For 2,000 ISK per particular person per evening, guests can benefit from the Northern Lights within the winter months, whereas the summer season affords lengthy, vibrant days below the Midnight Solar.
Faxi Waterfall Campsite
This smaller, extra primary campsite is ideal for vacationers preferring peace and quiet. Positioned simply 8 km from Reykholt and 10 km from Geysir, it affords stunning 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 area and proximity to mountain climbing trails within the close by Haukadalsskógur Forest. It’s an awesome place to calm down and recharge earlier than heading to the extra standard websites.
Gesthús Campsite in Selfoss
Probably the greatest-equipped campsites on the Golden Circle, Gesthús affords a kitchen, Wi-Fi, and laundry companies. The close by swimming pool and playground make it best for households, and the city of Selfoss is only a brief stroll away for restocking provides. The price is round 3,000 ISK per pitch.
Exploring Lesser-Recognized Gems of the Golden Circle
Past the primary points of interest, the Golden Circle is house to some hidden gems which are simply accessible with a camper van. A number of value mentioning embrace:
- Reykjadalur: This geothermal valley is a must-visit spot the place you possibly can hike by way of scenic landscapes and revel in a pure scorching spring tub in a heat river. The path to Reykjadalur affords a rewarding expertise with stunning views alongside the best way, making it an ideal cease for nature lovers.
- Hrunalaug Sizzling Springs: A peaceable scorching spring close to Flúðir that provides 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 areas will be explored extra simply with the freedom and adaptability {that a} camper van supplies.
Ideas for Ladies Tenting Solo within the Golden Circle
For solo feminine vacationers, tenting within the Golden Circle could be a protected and satisfying 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 moveable cellphone charger for peace of thoughts.
- Heat Layers: The climate in Iceland will be unpredictable, even in summer season. Pack thermal layers, a water-resistant jacket, and a windproof hat. Temperatures can drop considerably at evening, so having the appropriate gear is crucial.
- Comfy Footwear: Sturdy, waterproof mountain climbing boots are a should for exploring the pure terrain.
- Staying Related
Iceland has good cell protection in most areas, but it surely’s vital to let somebody know your itinerary in the event you’re tenting solo. Many campsites provide Wi-Fi, so you possibly can simply keep related and test climate situations or path info.
- Necessities for a Solo Journey
- Headlamp or Flashlight: A great headlamp is crucial, particularly in the course of the shorter sunlight hours in winter.
- Reusable Water Bottle: Iceland’s faucet water is a few of the purest on this planet, so carry a refillable bottle to remain hydrated.
- Dry Baggage: These are helpful to maintain garments and equipment dry throughout wet or moist situations.
Rules and Etiquette for Camper Tenting in Iceland
Iceland has strict tenting laws to guard its fragile ecosystem. Wild tenting is now not permitted except you’ve gotten specific permission from a landowner. Subsequently, it’s important to remain at designated campsites when touring the Golden Circle.
To protect the atmosphere and guarantee a respectful tenting expertise, observe the “Go away No Hint” ideas:
- Eliminate waste correctly: Most campsites have designated waste and recycling bins.
- Follow marked trails: Keep away from creating new paths that may harm vegetation.
- Keep away from disturbing wildlife: Iceland’s natural world are delicate, and it’s important to respect their pure habitat.
Finest Time to Camp Alongside the Golden Circle
The summer season months (June to August) are the most well-liked time for tenting, with hotter temperatures, lengthy sunlight hours, and the attractive Midnight Solar.
Nonetheless, in the event you desire fewer crowds and decrease prices, contemplate touring in the course of the shoulder seasons in April-Could or September-October. These instances provide cooler climate however fewer vacationers, and also you would possibly even catch the Northern Lights within the fall.
Winter tenting can be an possibility, but it surely requires cautious preparation. Make sure that your camper van is provided with winter tires and heating, and at all times test 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 technique to expertise a few of Iceland’s most iconic sights whereas having fun with the liberty and adaptability that camper van journey affords. Whether or not you’re touring solo or with others, renting a camper is the right technique to discover the great thing about Iceland up shut. With the appropriate 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.