Golden Circle & Secret Lagoon & Friðheimar – PRIVATE TOUR

Exploring Iceland’s Golden Heart: A Review of the Private Golden Circle & Secret Lagoon Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland and want a more personal, thoughtfully curated experience, a private tour like the one offered by Travelling Iceland might be just what you need. This 9-hour adventure takes you through some of the country’s most iconic sights—think waterfalls, geysers, and historic national parks—plus a relaxing dip in the Secret Lagoon and a unique lunch at Friðheimar greenhouse.

What makes this tour appealing? First, the private group setting guarantees a more flexible, intimate experience, free from the hustle and bustle of larger coach tours. Second, the local guide can offer insights and personalized attention that you simply don’t get with bigger groups. On the flip side, one possible downside is the price point—at $902 per person, it’s not cheap, but for many, the tailored experience, included meals, and exclusive visits might justify the cost.

This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate a more curated, in-depth look at Iceland’s natural beauty and are happy to spend a full day exploring with someone who knows the ins and outs. If you enjoy comfortable, private arrangements and want to tick off the major highlights in style, this could be a great pick.

Key Points

• Private, guided experience with a personal touch.
• Includes transportation, meals, and entrance fees, making it a convenient all-in-one package.
• Covers top attractions: Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir, Þingvellir National Park, Friðheimar greenhouse, and Secret Lagoon.
• Flexible and customizable guided tour tailored to your group.
• Ideal for travelers who value comfort, personalized attention, and in-depth sightseeing.
• Not suitable for children under 3 due to the nature of the activities.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Private Tour Setup

Starting from Reykjavík, this tour offers the benefits of a private group, meaning you won’t be sharing your experience with strangers. The guide is local, which adds authenticity, and they’re available in several languages—including English, French, German, Portuguese, and Spanish—making the tour accessible to a wide audience. The flexibility of a pay-later reservation means you can plan your Iceland trip with less stress, knowing you can cancel up to 24 hours ahead for a full refund.

The Golden Circle: Iceland’s Must-See Loop

The core of this experience is the Golden Circle, which covers three major highlights: Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir geothermal area, and Þingvellir National Park.

• Gullfoss, often called the “Golden Falls,” is a thunderous two-tiered waterfall that offers spectacular views, especially if the weather’s clear. We loved the way the water crashes down with such power, and it’s a sight that sticks in your memory.
• Geysir is home to the famous erupting hot spring, Geysir, alongside other bubbling geothermal features. Watching the geyser spout is fascinating, and the guide usually shares insights about the geothermal activity that fuels Iceland’s unique landscape.
• Þingvellir, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet—a geological marvel and a site of significant history for Icelanders.

Lunch at Friðheimar Greenhouse

One of the tour’s highlights is the lunch at Friðheimar, a greenhouse dedicated to tomato cultivation. Here, you’ll enjoy a very unique meal in a lush, green environment, surrounded by tomato plants. It’s not just about the food—though it’s quite good—it’s about the experience of eating amid the greenery and understanding how Icelanders grow their own produce despite the cold climate.

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Relaxation at the Secret Lagoon

After the sightseeing, it’s time to unwind at the Secret Lagoon, a geothermal hot spring that’s less commercialized than the Blue Lagoon but equally relaxing. Expect to soak for about two hours, enjoying the warm waters that naturally bubble up from Iceland’s volcanic activity. It’s a perfect way to relax after a busy morning of sightseeing, and the inclusion of towels makes it convenient for travelers.

The Return Journey

The tour wraps up with a scenic two-hour drive back to Reykjavík, giving you time to reflect on the day’s adventures or ask your guide questions about Iceland’s culture, geography, or hidden gems.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $902 per person, this tour is certainly an investment. But when you consider it includes all transportation, entrance fees, a hearty lunch, and a guide, it becomes easier to see the value. Private tours usually cost more, but the intimacy and flexibility often make them worthwhile, especially if you’re eager for a tailored experience rather than a crowded bus tour.

What We’ve Heard from Others

Reviewers appreciate the personalized attention and the effortless logistics of the trip. One mentioned how “the guide made all the difference, sharing stories and local insights that I wouldn’t have gotten otherwise.” Others liked the comfort of the private group, saying it was “a stress-free way to see Iceland” and that the lunch at Friðheimar was a highlight.

Practical Tips

• Bring warm clothing and sturdy shoes; Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, and you’ll be walking on uneven surfaces at waterfalls and geothermal sites.
• Pack swimwear if you want to enjoy the Secret Lagoon, and don’t forget a towel, which is included.
• The duration is 9 hours, so be prepared for a full day. This is not a tour for those wanting a quick look—it’s a comprehensive experience.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This private Golden Circle tour is best suited for travelers who want an intimate, flexible, and comprehensive Iceland experience. If you prefer personalized guides and are willing to pay a premium for comfort and exclusivity, this tour fits the bill. It’s particularly attractive for those who value culinary experiences and relaxing geothermal baths, along with seeing the essentials of Icelandic nature.

However, if your budget is tight or if you prefer more spontaneous or budget-friendly options, there are plenty of other ways to see these sights, but they might not offer the same level of comfort and personalization.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 3 years old, mainly due to the activities involved, such as walking and swimming. For older children, it could be enjoyable if they’re comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and outdoor activities.

What languages are available for the guide?
Guides are available in English, French, German, Portuguese, and Spanish.

What should I bring?
Warm clothing, swimwear, and warm shoes are recommended. The tour provides towels for the Secret Lagoon, but bringing your own can be helpful.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 9 hours, including travel, sightseeing, lunch, and relaxation time at the lagoon.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving you flexibility if plans change.

Does the price include everything?
Yes, the price covers guided tour, transportation, lunch at Friðheimar, entrance to the Secret Lagoon with a towel, national park fees, a welcome package, and Icelandic chocolate.

What is the benefit of a private tour over group tours?
A private tour offers personalized attention, flexibility to customize stops or timing, and a more relaxed experience without sharing the guide or bus with strangers.

Is lunch included?
Yes, lunch at Friðheimar greenhouse is part of the package, and it’s a memorable experience beyond just a meal.

How crowded are the attractions?
Because it’s a private tour, you’ll avoid the crowds common on larger coach tours, making for a more intimate visit to each site.

In the end, if you’re after a well-rounded, personal Iceland experience that combines iconic sights with relaxing moments, this tour offers a lot. It’s a bit of an investment, but for many, the comfort, personalized service, and seamless logistics make it a worthwhile choice to truly enjoy Iceland’s natural beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: