11 Golden Circle Hidden Gems Nobody Writes About
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The Golden Circle hidden gems are what make this famous route truly exciting. Everyone knows popular Golden Circle stops, but let’s be honest, standing shoulder to shoulder with busloads of tourists can make even Gullfoss waterfall feel less magical.
The real adventure begins when you slip off the main path and discover the little secrets hiding along the way. These are the places that make you feel like you found something special, even if you secretly read about it on the internet.
And here’s the fun part. Sure, you’ll see all the famous sights, but you’ll also discover little surprises that make the experience feel truly special. That mix of well-known spots and hidden gems is what makes a Golden Circle trip unforgettable.
🏔️ Interested in more Iceland hidden gems? Discover Iceland like never before: 13 hidden gems off the beaten path, totally crowd-free, and absolutely jaw-dropping!
Know Before You Go
Before you go, here are some essential things to make planning your trip to Iceland easier. I know planning can feel overwhelming, but a little prep goes a long way in saving you time, money, and stress. Below, I’m sharing my personal recommendations to help you get the most out of your trip.
Beautiful Hotels Nearby
- Fjallsarlon igloo – is a unique igloo on the water, so you’re practically alone on a glacial lagoon, with icebergs drifting by. Definitely a one-of-a-kind stay worth experiencing!
- Hótel Skógafoss – is a cozy, welcoming hotel with amazing views and a great location, perfect for exploring the area!
- Hótel Jökulsárlón – Glacier Lagoon Hotel – is a beautiful hotel with an outdoor hot tub, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring.
Epic Once-in-a-Lifetime Tours You Can’t Miss in This Area
- Northern Lights Hunt & Glacier Lagoon Tour – Chase the Northern Lights and explore the stunning Glacier Lagoon on this unforgettable tour.
- Glacier Lagoon Boat Ride – Take a scenic boat ride through the Glacier Lagoon and take incredible photos.
- Into the Glacier Ice Cave Tour – Go inside an actual glacier on this epic ice cave tour and discover a whole new world beneath the surface!
Stay Connected
I always use eSIM when I travel, and Airlo makes it simple to stay connected without having to remove your current SIM card.
Never Travel to Iceland Without Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is an absolute must when visiting Iceland – the wild weather can completely mess up your plans in minutes!
SafetyWing is an affordable travel insurance designed for travelers who want to explore freely without worrying about the unexpected.
Rent a Car to Explore the Best of Iceland
Renting a car is the best way to explore the stunning landscapes and hidden gems of Iceland at your own pace, and Discover Cars is great for comparing prices and finding the best deal.
How to Choose: Golden Circle vs Ring Road
When it comes to Golden Circle vs Ring road, the experiences are pretty different. The Golden Circle is beautiful and easy to explore from Reykjavik, with highlights like Gullfoss, Geysir, and Thingvellir all close by.
The Ring Road, however, takes you on an epic journey around the entire country, with waterfalls, black sand beaches, glaciers, and tiny remote villages around every corner.
I’ve done both, and honestly, while the Golden Circle is stunning and perfect if your time in Iceland is very limited, you should do the Ring Road adventure at least once in your lifetime to really see everything Iceland has to offer.
✈️ Heading to Reykjavik? Make sure to check out my Reykjavik itinerary will help you explore the city without missing a thing.
Golden Circle Hidden Gems Iceland Map
I created this Golden Circle hidden gems Iceland map to help you discover the spots most tourists miss. It highlights waterfalls, unique viewpoints, and little-known trails along the route.
Exploring these places gives you a chance to see Iceland from a completely different perspective. You might even stumble upon a spot so quiet it feels like it’s all yours.
Make sure to save this Iceland Golden Circle map with spots for your next trip so you don’t miss any of these hidden gems.
In this blog post, I’ll take you off the beaten path to the hidden corners of the Golden Circle that few tourists know about.
🏔️ Make your Iceland trip unforgettable with these one-of-a-kind tours ↓
Kerið Crater
This 6,500-year-old volcanic crater lake looks like a mystical green eye staring up from the Earth. At least that’s what I expected, after looking at all those beautiful pictures on Pinterest before coming there.
Surprise, surprise, when I got there in winter the whole thing was frozen solid, so no green water for my photos, but it still looked pretty amazing (except a few indecent doodles some clever tourists decided to draw on the lake).
Walking around the krater is easy, and the views keep changing as you move. I even tried standing on the edge and imagining the volcano before it collapsed. Visiting the crater costs a small entrance fee of 600 ISK (about $5 USD) per person, which helps keep this incredible place preserved for everyone to enjoy.
Silfra Snorkeling
The fact that you can actually snorkel between the two tectonic plates completely blew me away! I would say this is definitely one of the bucket list experience you must experience in your life.
Silfra is a fissure between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates in Thingvellir National Park, Iceland. And here, you can actually float in glacially clear water between two tectonic plates. Mind-blowing, right?
I would say this is definitely my favorite Golden Circle hidden gem, and not many people know about it.
It’s the kind of experience you can only do in Iceland, and trust me, it’s worth every second, so don’t skip it.
Make sure to book this unforgettable tour and save your spot.
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⏱️ 48 Hours in Reykjavik – The Perfect 2 Day Itinerary
Thorufoss Waterfall
Thorufoss Waterfall is a hidden gem near the Golden Circle that’s totally worth a quick detour. The 18 meter waterfall has a unique trapezoid shape and is tucked away where you can enjoy it without the crowds. It’s perfect for snapping photos or just taking in Iceland’s raw beauty.
Bonus points if you’re a Game of Thrones fan like me. This is the spot where Daenerys’ dragon, Drogon, flies in and eats a goat right in front of a surprised herder.
Brúarhlöð Canyon
Brúarhlöð Canyon is one of those Golden Circle hidden gems that most people completely miss. The water here is some of the greenest you’ll find anywhere in Iceland and a must-see spot on the Golden Circle.
It’s located near the river Hvítá, not far from Gullfoss, and it’s totally free to visit. Brúarhlöð Canyon was formed by lava and volcanic activity thousands of years ago, and walking along the edges you can see these crazy rock formations up close.
The best part is the Brúarhlöð Canyon is almost always empty, so you can enjoy the views in peace. Make sure to bring good shoes because the paths can be rocky, and maybe pack a snack since you’ll want to stay here longer.
Secret Lagoon (Gamla Laugin)
The Secret Lagoon is a natural hot spring located in the village of Flúðir, in Iceland’s Golden Circle region. It’s one of the oldest swimming pools in the country.
The Secret Lagoon is perfect for anyone who wants to relax without the crowds, as it is way calmer than the Blue Lagoon where just relaxing without bumping into someone is a full-on mission.
I could imagine locals soaking here for decades, sharing stories while the water bubbles around them.
This is one of those Golden Circle hidden gems that makes this route truly unforgettable.
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Þorláksbúð Turf House
Þorláksbúð is a hypothetical replica of buildings from the 16th-18th centuries, built after a church fire and named after Bishop Þórhallsson. It’s located right behind Skálholt Cathedral in Iceland.
The original church on the site was built in 1527, and its ruins were discovered decades later. The house is small, with turf-covered walls and a traditional design that shows its historical roots.
The current replica was constructed in 2011-2012. It’s charming, and free to visit, and stepping inside really feels like traveling back in time.
Skálholt Cathedral
Skálholt Cathedral is probably the most important historic church in Iceland and a must-see on the Golden Circle. It’s one of those Golden Circle hidden gems that many visitors overlook.
The current cathedral was rebuilt on the ruins of the medieval church, which was massive for its time at 50 meters long, 12 meters wide, and 14 meters high. It was the largest timber church in the Nordic countries and is considered unique in European architectural history.
Inside, there are very impressive stained glass windows that look absolutely amazing. The church is free to visit, and walking around the site you can imagine the role it played in Iceland’s religious and cultural history.
Baking Underground Rye Bread with Geothermal Heat
Baking underground rye bread with geothermal heat is one of Iceland’s most unique experiences. You get to watch traditional rye dough slowly cook in the natural steam of the earth, a method locals have used for centuries.
The smell is incredible, and tasting the warm, sweet bread fresh from the ground is unforgettable. This is one of the Golden Circle hidden gems you shouldn’t miss.
Friðheimar Tomato Farm
Friðheimar Tomato Farm is a unique greenhouse farm in Iceland where tomatoes are grown year-round using geothermal energy.
Visitors can walk among the green tomato plants, learn about sustainable farming, and enjoy lunch right in the greenhouse.
Their famous tomato soup with warm bread is a must-try, and you can even sample tomato ice cream. The farm shop also sells cute souvenirs like tomato jam, pickled green tomatoes, and many more unique things.
Hrunalaug Hot Spring
Hrunalaug Hot Spring is a tiny, magical natural hot spring near the village of Flúðir, just a short detour from the Golden Circle.
The water is warm and perfect for a relaxing soak after exploring nearby sights. There’s a small stone pool and a couple of benches. And the best thing is that Hrunalaug Hot Spring is completely free to visit.
It’s a quiet spot where you can enjoy the peaceful Icelandic landscape.
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Faxi Waterfall
Faxi Waterfall is located along the Tungufljót River on the Golden Circle. It’s smaller than Gullfoss but still impressive, with a wide cascade and beautiful surroundings.
The area is easy to access, and the views are stunning. You can walk along the edges and get close enough to hear the water rushing over the rocks.
This beautiful waterfall is one of the Golden Circle hidden gems that’s definitely worth a visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Golden Circle include?
If you’re wondering what does the Golden Circle include, that would be all the famous spots like Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall, and the Geysir geothermal area. There are also smaller Golden Circle hidden gems along the way, and little surprises around every corner. You never know what you’ll stumble upon.
What should I not miss on the Golden Circle in Iceland?
If you’re asking what you should not miss on the Golden Circle in Iceland, in my opinion, snorkeling between two tectonic plates at Silfra is a must. It is a bucket list experience you will never forget. The water is unbelievably clear, and floating in glacier water between the tectonic plates feels completely surreal. Of course, Gullfoss and Geysir are amazing, but this experience is something that stays with you long after the trip.
Is the Golden Circle worth it?
A lot of people ask is the Golden Circle worth it, and my answer is a big yes. Standing near Gullfoss or watching a geyser erupt in person is nothing like the photos online. You can do it in a day, but adding a few of the Golden Circle hidden gems from this list makes it a way more memorable trip.
What is the Secret lagoon in the Golden Circle?
If you’re curious what is the Secret Lagoon in the Golden Circle, it’s a natural hot spring near Flúðir. The water is warm and calm, and it’s much less crowded than the Blue Lagoon. It’s perfect for relaxing, taking a little break from sightseeing, and just enjoying some quiet time in nature.
Are there free hot springs in Iceland?
If you’re asking are there free hot springs in Iceland, yes, there are a few. Hrunalaug is a Golden Circle hidden gem tucked near Flúðir. The pool is small with a few benches, simple but relaxing, and visiting it feels like discovering a quiet secret spot.
How long to spend at Hrunalaug hot springs?
People often wonder how long to spend at Hrunalaug hot springs. I’d say 30 to 60 minutes is perfect. The pool is tiny, but the warm water and beautiful surroundings make you want to stay longer. Bring a towel, maybe a snack, and just enjoy.
Where is the best hidden place in Iceland?
A common question is where the best hidden place in Iceland is. For me, it’s Brúarhlöð Canyon. The turquoise river weaving through jagged volcanic rock is stunning, and the quiet, tucked-away location is perfect for taking some amazing photos.
How to choose: Golden Circle vs South coast?
If you’re trying to figure out how to choose Golden Circle vs South coast, it depends on what you want. The Golden Circle is easy to get to with some iconic sights. The South Coast has giant waterfalls, black sand beaches, and glaciers that make your jaw drop. If you are short on time, I’d suggest doing the Golden Circle. If you have more time and are feeling adventurous, head down to the South Coast.
How to choose: Golden Circle vs Ring Road?
People often ask how to choose Golden Circle vs Ring Road. The Golden Circle is doable in a day and gives you a little taste of Iceland. The Ring Road takes you all around the country, glaciers, fjords, and tiny villages included. Everyone should do the Ring Road once, but if it’s your first trip, the Golden Circle is perfect to start with.
Golden Circle Hidden Gems Things to do
If you’re wondering what to do in the Golden Circle, it’s not just about the main stops. Silfra snorkeling lets you float between two tectonic plates in crystal-clear water, an experience that feels completely otherworldly. Then there’s the Secret Lagoon, a warm and crowd-free hot spring that’s perfect for a break. And you can’t miss baking underground rye bread with geothermal heat, or lava bread, which comes out perfectly baked and unlike anything you’ve ever tasted. These are the kind of Golden Circle hidden gems that you literally can’t find anywhere else in the world.
Final Thoughts on Golden Circle Hidden Gems
The Golden Circle hidden gems are what make this route really special. Quiet hot springs, tucked-away canyons, and historic churches all give you a chance to see Iceland in a way most people miss.
You can wander, take your time, and enjoy spots like a lake in a volcanic crater or glacier waters at Silfra.
Whether it’s trying lava bread or exploring quiet corners, these spots make the Golden Circle way more unique than regular spots.
If you enjoy discovering hidden spots, you’ll want to check out my post on 13 Iceland Hidden Gems You Have to See to Believe. Many of these places are absolutely incredible and completely crowd-free!
Have you discovered any hidden gems in Iceland or tried something unforgettable on the Golden Circle? Share your experiences in the comments. I’d love to hear your stories!
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Hi, I’m Vladana! I’m always on the lookout for unique travel experiences and destinations that are a little different from the usual. I love sharing my adventures on my blog with people who are looking for something they won’t find in typical travel guides. I also have a thing for unique boutique and luxury hotels that are an experience in themselves, not just a place to sleep.
