Private Golden Circle, Sky Lagoon and Friðheimar Greenhouse Lunch

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland and want a tour that mixes renowned sights with some lesser-known gems, this private experience might catch your eye. It promises a well-rounded day exploring iconic landmarks like Gullfoss and Geysir, while also giving you a more relaxed vibe at the Sky Lagoon and a chance to enjoy lunch at a working tomato greenhouse. What makes this tour particularly appealing is the private guide who personalizes the experience, and the luxury transportation that keeps things comfortable.

What we really love about this experience are the thoughtful additions—namely, the Sky Lagoon, which is less crowded than Blue Lagoon, and the chance to have lunch amid tomato plants at Friðheimar, a setting that’s both unique and cozy. Plus, the consistent 5-star reviews suggest that travelers are genuinely satisfied. However, one thing to keep in mind is the price, which is quite steep at nearly $3,000 for a group of two, so this is best suited for those seeking a more exclusive, in-depth experience rather than a budget-friendly option.

This tour feels like a great fit for travelers who want a personalized, relaxed day with plenty of expert insights, stunning scenery, and a bit of Icelandic farm charm. If you’re someone who appreciates high-quality guides, good food, and fewer crowds, this could very well be your ideal Golden Circle experience.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private tour means fewer people, more tailored attention.
• Unique Additions: Sky Lagoon and Friðheimar Greenhouse lunch are standout extras.
• Comfort & Convenience: Luxury vehicle pickup and drop-off from Reykjavík.
• Incredible Variety: Natural wonders, geothermal activity, and cultural insights.
• Excellent Guides: Multiple reviews praise knowledgeable, engaging guides.
• Good Value: Despite the high price, the combination of sights and exclusivity gets strong praise.

Exploring the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Sky Lagoon: A Relaxing Start

Your day begins with a swim at Sky Lagoon, which offers a quieter, less commercial alternative to Blue Lagoon. You’re treated to admission included and a seven-step ritual that’s both calming and invigorating. Expect views of the sea framed by volcanic rocks, adding to the sense of being surrounded by Iceland’s volcanic energy. Reviewers love this stop for its peacefulness and the chance to unwind early in the day—“The Secret Lagoon was much more relaxing and less crowded than Blue Lagoon,” as one guest put it.

The Sky Pass includes private changing facilities, so you can enjoy your soak without the usual bustling crowds. It’s a good way to start your adventure with some warmth and relaxation, setting a mellow tone for the rest of the day.

Friðheimar Greenhouse: Lunch Amongst Tomatoes

Next, you’ll head to Friðheimar, a working tomato farm and horse breeding farm. The experience here is quite different from typical Icelandic sightseeing—it’s an up-close look at sustainable farming and a cozy spot for your included lunch. The greenhouse is filled with tomato plants, and the lunch menu often features tomato soup, home-baked bread, and other farm-fresh delights, making for a memorable meal.

Guests frequently mention how fabulous and unique their food was, and many appreciate the farm’s charming atmosphere. Notably, the reviews highlight how the tomato farm is especially nice on rainy days, making it a cozy refuge when the weather isn’t perfect.

Gullfoss: A Breathtaking Waterfall

Mid-morning or early afternoon, you’ll stop at Gullfoss, possibly the most famous waterfall in Iceland. It’s free to visit, and the views are often described as “breathtaking”. The water cascades down in two tiers, and you’ll have about 45 minutes to take in the scenery, snap some photos, and enjoy the raw power of Icelandic nature.

Geysir Geothermal Area

Later, it’s time for the Geysir geothermal area, home to erupting hot springs and bubbling hot springs. The star here is Stokkur, a geyser that erupts regularly, shooting boiling water high into the air. It’s a classic Icelandic sight that everyone expects, but seeing it in person still feels special. It’s a quick stop, usually about 45 minutes, but enough to appreciate the geothermal energy that fuels Iceland’s landscapes.

Thingvellir National Park

Your final major stop is Thingvellir, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the birthplace of Iceland’s parliament. The scenery here combines striking geology—where you can see the rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates—and historical significance. An hour at this site gives you time to walk around, absorb the landscape, and learn about its cultural importance.

Food, Comfort, and Personal Touches

One of the biggest highlights, according to reviews, is the lunch at Friðheimar. Guests rave about the delicious tomato soup and bread, describing it as “fabulous” and a real treat, especially on cold or rainy days. The farm setting, with its vibrant greenhouses, makes for a memorable meal that contrasts nicely with the natural wonders outside.

The luxury vehicle and private pickup make the day flow smoothly. Travelers appreciate the comfort, especially after long mornings of sightseeing. The small group size (only your party) means your guide can give more personalized insights, and you won’t feel like just another tourist in a crowd.

Guides & Atmosphere

Many reviews praise the knowledgeable and friendly guides—they’re ready to share stories, answer questions, and offer tips about Iceland. Comments like “Levi was a great guide” or “Kristján was funny and entertaining” show that guides often elevate the experience beyond just the sights.

Some reviewers do mention that on rare days, guides can be a bit chatty or overzealous, so if you prefer a quieter day, that’s worth considering. However, overall, the guides get high marks for creating an engaging, informative atmosphere.

Price & Value: Is It Worth It?

At nearly $3,000 for a group of two, this isn’t a cheap outing. But when you factor in private guiding, all entrance fees, the luxe transport, and the included meals, many find it to be a good value—especially if you’re looking for a day that’s relaxed, personalized, and rich in experiences.

Reviews consistently mention that the day feels well-paced—not rushed, but packed with variety. The inclusion of the Sky Lagoon and lunch at Friðheimar sets this apart from standard Golden Circle tours, making it an experience that feels exclusive and thoughtful.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who value comfort and personalized service, and are willing to pay a premium for it. It’s perfect if you want to see the classic sights but in a more relaxed, intimate setting. Those with specific interests in Icelandic culture, farming, or geothermal energy will appreciate the carefully curated stops.

It’s also suited for travelers who prefer early starts (the tour begins at 9:00 am) and don’t mind a full day of exploring. Given that children under 12 aren’t explicitly mentioned as eligible for Sky Lagoon, it’s more suited for older kids or adults.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
While the tour is quite comprehensive, it involves walking around sites like Gullfoss and Thingvellir, which might have uneven terrain. It’s best suited for guests able to handle moderate walking.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes an all-inclusive lunch at Friðheimar Tomato Greenhouse, except for alcoholic beverages. The meal typically features tomato soup and fresh bread.

What is the weather like, and what should I wear?
Weather in Iceland can be unpredictable, so dressing in weather-appropriate, rainproof clothing is recommended. Since part of the day involves outdoor stops, layers are a good idea.

How long is the overall tour?
The tour lasts about 9 hours and 30 minutes, starting around 9:00 am, with pickup and drop-off included.

Can I customize the stops or itinerary?
Because this is a private tour, your guide can tailor the experience to some extent, especially if you communicate your preferences beforehand.

What is the group size?
It’s a private experience for up to 2 people per group, making it a very exclusive way to see Iceland.

In Summary

This tour offers a combination of Iceland’s top sights and lesser-known gems like the Sky Lagoon and Friðheimar Greenhouse, all wrapped up in a private, comfortable package. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a personalized day with expert guides, stunning scenery, and a chance to enjoy Icelandic culture in a relaxed setting. The included meals, private vehicle, and high reviews suggest you’re getting a thoughtful, high-quality experience.

If your ideal Iceland trip involves avoiding crowds, savoring good food, and learning from knowledgeable locals, this might be just the tour for you. It’s a pricier option, but many find the combination of comfort and quality makes it worthwhile.

Feel free to ask more questions or share your preferences—Iceland has so much to offer, and this tour is one way to see a good chunk of it with some added touches that make it special.