Islandia Sur en Coche · Círculo Dorado y Glaciares

About the destination: Reykjavik is not your typical capital city, it has no magnificent buildings, or a historic city centre or grand monuments, this city is much more than that. Iceland’s capital is different, full of life and very close to nature. Its location, at the fringe of the Atlantic Ocean, between two fjords and surrounded by a lunar volcanic framework, makes the city, which name literally means Bay of Smokes, incomparably special. The world’s northernmost capital is the perfect place for outdoor and wildlife lovers. Surrounded by sea, whale watching is one of the most popular touristic activities. The city has plenty of open spaces: parks, pedestrian areas, a lake situated next to the city hall and Nauthólsvik geothermal beach just 15 min away from the city centre. Throughout the city there are 7 municipal geothermal pools where locals go to socialize and relax after work. Other activities like cycling, hiking, horse riding, sailing and fishing can all be enjoyed on the doorsteps of the capital. Aside from all its natural wonders, Reykjavik has always something to offer. It is a cosmopolitan and dynamic city full of museums, art galleries and cosy coffee shops. Its nightlife is exciting and outrageous, during a night out, it seems locals are making up for the prohibition on beer that was in force till 1989 and nightspots tend to stay open until the early hours of the morning. During the day, the capital is a much more relaxed place, with its trim colourful houses, rubbish-free streets and an easygoing pace of life. Reykjavik is considered the one of the cleanest, greenest and safest cities in the world. Getting lost in this city is almost impossible: Hallgrímskirkja church and Öskjuhlíð hill are visible from most places in the city centre and are essential landmarks for orientation. Reykjavik is dynamic, creative, modern, cosy and very special. Its peculiar personality and magnetic surroundings will make you agree that there’s no better city in the world.

About the destination: Nestled in the heart of Iceland's Golden Circle, Laugarvatn is a hidden gem that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, relaxation, and cultural experiences. This charming village is located on the shores of Lake Laugarvatn, surrounded by stunning landscapes of rolling hills, geothermal springs, and lush greenery. Whether you are seeking adventure or tranquility, Laugarvatn has something for everyone. A must-visit attraction in Laugarvatn is the Fontana Geothermal Baths. Here, you can soak in the warm, mineral-rich waters while enjoying breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The baths are complemented by steam rooms that are naturally heated by hot springs beneath the surface, providing a unique and rejuvenating experience. Don't forget to try the traditional “hot spring bread,” which is baked underground using the geothermal heat. For those who love outdoor activities, Laugarvatn offers numerous opportunities for hiking, fishing, and birdwatching. The nearby Laugarvatnshellar caves are also worth exploring, providing a glimpse into Iceland’s rich history and folklore. In winter, the area transforms into a snowy wonderland, perfect for snowshoeing and enjoying the Northern Lights. Laugarvatn’s central location makes it an excellent base for exploring the Golden Circle’s other iconic sites, such as the Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park. After a day of adventure, the village offers cozy accommodations and local eateries where you can savor Icelandic cuisine. Whether you are planning a short visit or an extended stay, Laugarvatn promises an unforgettable Icelandic experience.

About the destination: Inhabitants in Rangárþing ytra (westen Rangárþing) are 1526 (year 2016). The borders of the district are by Ásahreppur district, from the river Þjórsá in the west, to the glacier Vatnajökull in the north. The south borders are from the glacier Mýrdaljökull to the river Eystri-Rangá. In Rangárþing ytra are extensive agricultural productions. In the area you can find many well known nature resources and historical places for example Hekla, Landmannalaugar and the sagatrail of Njáls saga. The district's most populated area is the town Hella with 823 inhabitants(year 2016). Hella's primary businesses are service for the agriculture, inhabitants and the tourism industry. At Hella you can find, a bank, a post office, a tourist information center, a hotel, guesthouses, camping sites, restaurants, shops, a pharmacy, a healthcare center, a sport center, a swimming pool, primary school, car services, rescue team, gas stations and other businesses and public services.

About the destination: Hofn is the only urban nucleus that can be found after passing Kirkjubaejarklaustur. It is a gray town and not too attractive but it serves to stay overnight because of its proximity to the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon (78 km) and the great Vatnajokull. Hofn is situated on a peninsula in the south-east of Iceland and is surrounded by several small islands, the largest of which is Mikley, followed by Krókalátur and Hellir to the east of the city The name Hofn means port and is one of the few fishing ports in southern Iceland. In it, navigation has to be cautious due to the formation of sandbanks which must be dredged frequently to maintain a minimum depth of 7-8 meters. This port can be frozen during the harshest winter months. Hofn also has an airport that only domestic flights operate. It is located on the Ring Road, accessing the route 99. The most important cultural event of Hofn is the famous lobster festival which is held on the first weekend of July. Hofn contains several museums, including the Glacier Museum, the Museum of Folklore and the Nautical Museum among others. We spent the night in Hofn for two nights as we made a round trip to the south of Iceland (Iceland: Organizational Data). During our stay we took several walks through the streets, went to supermarkets, gas stations and dined in the restaurants of the port that were very close to our apartment, we could do little more after arriving in the village in the afternoon and with almost everything closed. The most remarkable thing about Hofn is the wild nature that surrounds it. I leave you some samples of landscapes near this town.

About the destination: The name of this pretty village of Iceland derives from HVER = Aguas Calientes and that is precisely what it has in abundance: Hots Springs. Hveragerdi is known as the greenhouse because its benevolent microclimate caused by the hot springs and the abundance of minerals on the ground make it possible to plant a great diversity of vegetables, fruits and flowers. Visiting the geothermal park of Hveragerdi is a good option if you pass through this locality because although it is not as flashy as Gunnuhver or Krysuvik well worth a walk. It is located 45 km from Reykjavik and is situated at the foot of a volcano. Its intense geothermal activity was increased after the earthquake of 2008. After this emerged more thermal zones, even in the middle of the town. The view of Hveragerdi from the road leading to Reykjavik is spectacular and you can see the entire valley full of greenhouses and fumaroles. It is a town full of color, with streets and gardens intensely adorned. The inhabitants use these hot waters for heating, cooking, baking and washing clothes. For more information about this beautiful village you can consult with your Tourist Office Hveragerdi The jewel of the city of Hveragerdi is its Geothermal area, perhaps not as spectacular as Gunnuhver or Krisuvik but flirty after all. It has a very central location and opens from June 1 to September 15. Its entrance is free and is located in Hveramörk 13, 810. From the information office there are guided tours (inquire there). In one of the many holes in the park, the locals bake the famous black bread. The visit to the whole area is quite short but you can observe very well the constant gorgoriteo of the hot springs as well as the infinity of colors of its waters and stones due to the mineral sediments.