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 resolution.
This information covers all the things it’s worthwhile to learn about tenting within the Golden Circle, with sensible suggestions for these touring solo—particularly ladies—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. In contrast to inflexible excursions, you may select the place to cease, keep longer at your favourite sights, and really expertise the peaceable nature of Iceland. Moreover, tenting is likely one of the most cost-effective methods to journey by means of 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 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 enormous profit is the flexibility. You’ll be able to 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 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: House to Strokkur, a geyser that erupts each jiffy, and the dormant Nice Geysir.
- Gullfoss Waterfall: Certainly one 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 might be price visiting. These embody:
- Kerið Crater: A volcanic crater lake with putting purple slopes and blue-green water.
- Secret Lagoon: A lesser-known scorching 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 recent, 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 quick 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 might be excellent for camper van vacationers. Listed here are a few of the finest choices:
Þingvellir Tenting Floor (Nyrðri Leirar)
Positioned simply 5 minutes from the Þingvellir Nationwide Park Customer Middle, this campsite is ideal for these eager to discover the park completely. It has fundamental services, and the price is round 1,530 ISK per individual per evening. It’s excellent for nature lovers, as the positioning presents easy accessibility to mountain climbing trails by means of the nationwide park.
Úthlíð Campsite
Centrally positioned close to the Geysir Geothermal Space, Úthlíð presents glorious facilities similar 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 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. Positioned simply 8 km from Reykholt and 10 km from Geysir, it presents lovely views of Faxi Waterfall, and there’s an on-site restaurant to gas 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 area and proximity to mountain climbing trails within the close by Haukadalsskógur Forest. It’s an incredible place to loosen up and recharge earlier than heading to the extra fashionable websites.
Gesthús Campsite in Selfoss
Top-of-the-line-equipped campsites on the Golden Circle, Gesthús presents a kitchen, Wi-Fi, and laundry providers. The close by swimming pool and playground make it excellent for households, and the city of Selfoss is only a quick stroll away for restocking provides. The associated fee is round 3,000 ISK per pitch.
Exploring Lesser-Recognized Gems of the Golden Circle
Past the principle points of interest, the Golden Circle is dwelling to some hidden gems which might be 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 by means of scenic landscapes and luxuriate in a pure scorching spring tub in a heat river. The path to Reykjadalur presents a rewarding expertise with lovely views alongside the way in which, making it an ideal cease for nature lovers.
- Hrunalaug Scorching 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 places 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 is usually a secure and pleasant 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 Gadgets: Whereas Iceland may be very secure, 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 season. Pack thermal layers, a water-resistant jacket, and a windproof hat. Temperatures can drop considerably at evening, so having the fitting gear is crucial.
- Snug Footwear: Sturdy, waterproof mountain climbing boots are a should for exploring the pure terrain.
- Staying Related
Iceland has good cell protection in most areas, however it’s necessary to let somebody know your itinerary in the event you’re tenting solo. Many campsites provide Wi-Fi, so you may simply keep linked and test climate circumstances or path data.
- Necessities for a Solo Journey
- Headlamp or Flashlight: A great headlamp is crucial, particularly throughout the shorter daylight in winter.
- Reusable Water Bottle: Iceland’s faucet water is a few of the purest on the earth, so carry a refillable bottle to remain hydrated.
- Dry Baggage: 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 except you’ve gotten 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 atmosphere and guarantee a respectful tenting expertise, comply with the “Depart No Hint” rules:
- Eliminate 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 natural world 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 preferred time for tenting, with hotter temperatures, lengthy daylight, and the gorgeous Midnight Solar.
Nonetheless, in the event you favor fewer crowds and decrease prices, think about touring throughout 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 also be an possibility, however it requires cautious preparation. Be 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 strategy to expertise a few of Iceland’s most iconic sights whereas having fun with the liberty and adaptability that camper van journey presents. Whether or not you’re touring solo or with others, renting a camper is the proper strategy to discover the fantastic thing about Iceland up shut. With the fitting preparation and planning, your Golden Circle tenting journey can 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 have been the highlights of your journey? Please share your ideas within the feedback beneath.
Eman Khan
Visitor Blogger
I’m an adventurer at coronary heart, at all times on the lookout for the following 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.
