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Tours in Reykjavik |
For a Half Day
Blue Lagoon: Located in the lunar-like landscape of a lava field, the Blue Lagoon was accidentally created by the run-off water from the Svartsengi power station. The reputed health benefits (particularly for skin ailments) of its mineral-rich, geothermal seawater have made it one of the most visited locations in Iceland. Massages are also on offer at the Blue Lagoon and spa beauty products, including mud from the lake, are also available. The Blue Lagoon (tel: 420 8800; website: www.bluelagoon.is) is situated on the Reykjanes peninsula, about 50km (30 miles) southwest of the city. Bus no. 5 leaves Reykjavik's central bus station (BSÍ) three times a day (journey time - 40 minutes). There are also half-day excursions available (see Bus Tours in Tours of the City). The spa is open daily 0900-2100 in the summer (Mid May-Aug), and 1000-2000 in winter.
For a Whole Day
Golden Circle: The waterfall of Gulfoss, together with the famous geothermal area at Geysir and Thingvellir (the site of the old Icelandic parliament), form the main attractions of a round tour that has become known as the ‘Golden Circle'. Considered to be Iceland's most beautiful waterfall, Gulfoss (‘golden falls') is a two-tier waterfall in a huge gorge carved out by the mighty glacial River Hvítá. The spouting Geysir (the original that gave its name to the world's spouting geysers) ceased to erupt earlier this century but fortunately its faithful stand-in, the nearby Strokker, spouts and sprays every five minutes or so. The site also includes hot springs that are coloured by mineral deposits, steaming vents and warm streams.
A host of operators offer day trips by coach or 4x4 vehicles. You can also add a snow scooter ride, white water rafting or horse riding to the experience with Iceland Total (tel: 585 4300; website: www.icelandtotal.com). For those short of time the Golden Circle can be combined with a visit to the Blue Lagoon, although the combined tour makes for a very long day. It is possible to get to all these destinations by public bus, however, no one bus covers the whole Golden Circle and buses are infrequent so it would not be possible to do the whole round tour in one day. A tour or private transport is much more advisable.