Tenting in Iceland’s Golden Circle

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 resolution.

This information covers every thing you’ll want to find out 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. In contrast to 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 without doubt one of the most cost-effective methods to journey via Iceland. Lodging and eating could 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 big 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 positioning of Iceland’s first parliament.
• Geysir Geothermal Space: Dwelling to Strokkur, a geyser that erupts each jiffy, 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 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 placing pink slopes and blue-green water.
• Secret Lagoon: A lesser-known scorching spring within the village of Flúðir, good 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 quick detours and discover these lesser-known areas 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 good for camper van vacationers. Listed here are a number 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 totally. It has fundamental amenities, and the fee is round 1,530 ISK per particular person per evening. It’s perfect for nature lovers, as the positioning provides quick access to mountain climbing trails via the nationwide park.

Úthlíð Campsite

Centrally situated close to the Geysir Geothermal Space, Úthlíð provides wonderful facilities reminiscent of showers, a scorching tub, a restaurant, and laundry providers. For 2,000 ISK per particular person per evening, guests can benefit from the Northern Lights within the winter months, whereas the summer season provides lengthy, vivid days underneath 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 provides 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 discipline and proximity to mountain climbing trails within the close by Haukadalsskógur Forest. It’s an incredible place to calm down and recharge earlier than heading to the extra fashionable websites.

Gesthús Campsite in Selfoss

The most effective-equipped campsites on the Golden Circle, Gesthús provides a kitchen, Wi-Fi, and laundry providers. The close by swimming pool and playground make it perfect for households, and the city of Selfoss is only a quick 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 dwelling 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 may hike via scenic landscapes and luxuriate in a pure scorching spring bathtub in a heat river. The path to Reykjadalur provides a rewarding expertise with stunning views alongside the way in which, making it an ideal cease for nature lovers.
• Hrunalaug Sizzling Springs: A peaceable scorching spring close to Flúðir that gives 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 could be explored extra simply with the freedom and suppleness {that a} camper van supplies.

 

 

Ideas for Girls Tenting Solo within the Golden Circle

 For solo feminine vacationers, tenting within the Golden Circle is usually a protected and pleasant expertise. Iceland is understood for being a protected nation with low crime charges, however there are nonetheless a couple of issues you are able to do to make sure a easy journey:

1. 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 telephone charger for peace of thoughts.
• Heat Layers: The climate in Iceland could 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 important.
• Comfy Footwear: Sturdy, waterproof mountain climbing boots are a should for exploring the pure terrain.

 

2. Staying Related

 Iceland has good cell protection in most areas, but it surely’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 related and test climate situations or path data.

 

3. Necessities for a Solo Journey

• Headlamp or Flashlight: A superb headlamp is important, particularly in the course of the shorter daytime in winter.
• Reusable Water Bottle: Iceland’s faucet water is a number of the purest on the earth, so carry a refillable bottle to remain hydrated.
• Dry Luggage: These are helpful to maintain garments and kit dry throughout wet or moist situations.

 

Rules and Etiquette for Camper Tenting in Iceland

 Iceland has strict tenting rules to guard its fragile ecosystem. Wild tenting is now not permitted except you’ve 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 “Depart No Hint” rules:

• 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 preferred time for tenting, with hotter temperatures, lengthy daytime, and the attractive Midnight Solar.

Nonetheless, in the event you choose fewer crowds and decrease prices, think about touring in the course of the shoulder seasons in April-Could or September-October. These occasions provide cooler climate however fewer vacationers, and also you would possibly even catch the Northern Lights within the fall.

Winter tenting can be an choice, but it surely requires cautious preparation. Be certain that your camper van is supplied with winter tires and heating, and at all times test the climate forecast earlier than setting out, as roads could 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 provides. 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 fitting 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? If that’s the case, what have been the highlights of your journey? Please share your ideas within the feedback beneath.