Eman Khan shares her expertise of Iceland’s Golden Circle
A Full Information for Camper Vacationers
Iceland’s Golden Circle is likely 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 reasonably priced method to expertise this beautiful area, tenting in a camper van is the proper answer.
This information covers every little thing you want to learn about tenting within the Golden Circle, with sensible ideas 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 may select the place to cease, keep longer at your favourite sights, and actually expertise the peaceable nature of Iceland. Moreover, tenting is likely 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 services into one, making it particularly useful for these on a price range.
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 large 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 may 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 Web site, well-known for its geological significance the place two tectonic plates meet, and its historic significance as the location 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 every of Iceland’s strongest waterfalls, the place the Hvítá river cascades right into a deep canyon, providing beautiful 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 putting crimson slopes and blue-green water.
- Secret Lagoon: A lesser-known sizzling spring within the village of Flúðir, excellent for a soothing soak.
- Friðheimar Greenhouse: Expertise a meal inside a tomato greenhouse, the place each dish, from appetizers to desserts, is creatively crafted utilizing contemporary, 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 brief detours and discover these lesser-known places that supply a extra intimate expertise.
Greatest 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 here are a few of the greatest choices:
Þingvellir Tenting Floor (Nyrðri Leirar)
Situated simply 5 minutes from the Þingvellir Nationwide Park Customer Middle, this campsite is ideal for these desirous to discover the park completely. It has fundamental services, and the price is round 1,530 ISK per individual per night time. It’s ultimate for nature lovers, as the location presents easy accessibility to mountain climbing trails via the nationwide park.
Úthlíð Campsite
Centrally situated close to the Geysir Geothermal Space, Úthlíð presents wonderful facilities reminiscent of showers, a sizzling tub, a restaurant, and laundry providers. For 2,000 ISK per individual per night time, guests can benefit from the Northern Lights within the winter months, whereas the summer season presents lengthy, shiny days below the Midnight Solar.
Faxi Waterfall Campsite
This smaller, extra fundamental campsite is ideal for vacationers preferring peace and quiet. Situated simply 8 km from Reykholt and 10 km from Geysir, it presents 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, this can be a family-friendly tenting spot with a soccer discipline and proximity to mountain climbing trails within the close by Haukadalsskógur Forest. It’s a terrific place to calm down and recharge earlier than heading to the extra well-liked websites.
Gesthús Campsite in Selfoss
Among the best-equipped campsites on the Golden Circle, Gesthús presents a kitchen, Wi-Fi, and laundry providers. The close by swimming pool and playground make it ultimate for households, and the city of Selfoss is only a brief stroll away for restocking provides. The associated 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 number of price mentioning embody:
- Reykjadalur: This geothermal valley is a must-visit spot the place you may hike via scenic landscapes and revel in a pure sizzling spring tub in a heat river. The path to Reykjadalur presents a rewarding expertise with stunning views alongside the way in which, making it an ideal cease for nature lovers.
- Hrunalaug Sizzling Springs: A peaceable sizzling 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 by way of a scenic hike.
These lesser-visited places will be explored extra simply with the freedom and suppleness {that a} camper van offers.
Ideas for Girls Tenting Solo within the Golden Circle
For solo feminine vacationers, tenting within the Golden Circle is usually a secure and gratifying expertise. Iceland is thought for being a secure nation with low crime charges, however there are nonetheless a number of issues you are able to do to make sure a clean journey:
- Packing the Proper Gear
- Private Security Objects: Whereas Iceland may be very secure, 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 night time, 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, nevertheless it’s necessary to let somebody know your itinerary for those who’re tenting solo. Many campsites provide Wi-Fi, so you may simply keep related and examine climate situations or path data.
- Necessities for a Solo Journey
- Headlamp or Flashlight: An excellent headlamp is crucial, particularly through the shorter daylight in winter.
- Reusable Water Bottle: Iceland’s faucet water is a few of the purest on the planet, so carry a refillable bottle to remain hydrated.
- Dry Luggage: These are helpful to maintain garments and kit dry throughout wet or moist situations.
Laws and Etiquette for Camper Tenting in Iceland
Iceland has strict tenting laws to guard its fragile ecosystem. Wild tenting is not permitted until you may have 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, comply with the “Depart No Hint” ideas:
- Eliminate waste correctly: Most campsites have designated waste and recycling bins.
- Keep on 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 season months (June to August) are the most well-liked time for tenting, with hotter temperatures, lengthy daylight, and the attractive Midnight Solar.
Nevertheless, for those who desire fewer crowds and decrease prices, think about touring through 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, nevertheless it requires cautious preparation. Be sure that your camper van is provided 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 technique to expertise a few of Iceland’s most iconic sights whereas having fun with the liberty and suppleness that camper van journey presents. Whether or not you’re touring solo or with others, renting a camper is the proper technique to discover the fantastic thing about Iceland up shut. With the appropriate preparation and planning, your Golden Circle tenting journey might 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 beneath.
