Golden Circle – Lunch at Friedhamer and Secret Lagoon(Optional)

If you’re planning a trip to Reykjavik and want to see some of Iceland’s most iconic sights without the crowds, this small-group Golden Circle tour might be just what you need. While many visitors settle for large bus rides and rushed stops, this experience focuses on a more intimate, relaxed journey through Iceland’s natural wonders. We haven’t personally taken this tour, but based on detailed descriptions and reviews, it offers a thoughtful way to explore key sites at your own pace.

What caught our eye are the personal touch of a private guide and the chance to visit the Secret Lagoon, a less crowded geothermal spot. Plus, the option to include a delicious lunch at Friedhamer makes the day feel relaxed rather than rushed. On the flip side, the price is a bit steep, especially since lunch and some activities are optional and charged separately. Still, if you value comfort, personalized service, and avoiding the crowds, this tour could be a great fit—perfect for travelers who like a more tailored experience.

Key Points

• Intimate small-group setting means fewer crowds and more personalized attention.
• Flexible options for adding lunch and a bath at the Secret Lagoon.
• Comprehensive itinerary covering all the highlights of the Golden Circle.
• Private transportation and WiFi onboard for comfort and convenience.
• Moderate duration of about 7 to 8 hours, making it a full but manageable day.
• Cost consideration: slightly on the higher side with optional extras charged separately.

A Detailed Look at the Tour

How This Tour Stands Out From the Crowd

Most people who visit the Golden Circle do so via large buses with dozens of strangers, which can often feel rushed and impersonal. This tour, however, offers a small-group, private experience with your own guide, making it easier to ask questions, take your time, and really soak in each site. The price, at around $1,669.69 for up to 3 people, might seem high, but it includes all fees, taxes, private transport, WiFi, and a local guide—factors that add value, especially if you’re after comfort and personalized service.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Secret Lagoon (Gamla Laugin)

We loved the idea of kicking off the day with a visit to Gamla Laugin, or the Secret Lagoon, in Flúðir. It’s one of Iceland’s oldest natural pools, and unlike the more famous Blue Lagoon, it tends to be less crowded and more relaxed. Surrounded by Icelandic wilderness, this geothermal pool offers a peaceful soak with stunning views—think of it as a warm, bubbling embrace before the day’s adventures. Keep in mind, admission isn’t included, so you’ll need to pay on-site, but many find the experience well worth the extra cost.

The hour and a half here gives plenty of time to unwind and snap some photos. If you’re visiting in winter, the contrast of hot water against the cold air can be quite invigorating. It’s an experience you won’t forget, especially if you love natural settings for bathing rather than commercialized spas.

Fridheimar Tomato Farm

Next, we arrive at Fridheimar, a greenhouse farm where tomatoes grow year-round. What makes this stop notable is not just the fresh, vibrant produce but the chance to enjoy a light meal in an eco-friendly setting. It’s a unique experience to dine among the tomato plants, with a menu that features tomato-based dishes. The farm prides itself on sustainability, which adds to its charm.

While admission isn’t included, many visitors rave about the fresh flavors and the chance to learn about greenhouse farming in Iceland. With about 90 minutes here, you can relax, take pictures, and enjoy a bit of downtime in a lush, green environment—an unexpected oasis in the middle of your tour.

Gullfoss Waterfall

Of course, no Golden Circle trip is complete without seeing Gullfoss, the “Golden Falls.” This two-tiered waterfall plunges about 32 meters into a canyon, creating a spectacular display of power and beauty. The turquoise water, fed by the Langjökull glacier, looks especially striking against the surrounding rocky landscape.

From the viewpoint, you get a sense of the sheer force of nature at work. The best part? It’s free, so you can spend as much time as you like admiring the views. We loved how accessible this stop is, with safe walkways and plenty of photo spots.

Geysir Geothermal Area

Next, you’ll visit the Geysir geothermal area, home to bubbling hot springs and erupting geysers. The star here is Strokkur, which erupts every 5-10 minutes, shooting water up to 30 meters high. Watching this natural spectacle is mesmerizing, especially if you’re into geothermal phenomena.

The area is quite touristy, but since this tour keeps the group small, you’ll likely avoid the hustle typical of bigger bus groups. The 45-minute stop allows enough time to walk around, take photos, and soak in the geothermal activity. It’s an engaging experience that exemplifies Iceland’s volcanic energy.

Þingvellir National Park

Finally, the tour concludes at Þingvellir, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you can walk between the tectonic plates of Europe and North America, which are visibly diverging in the rift valley. It’s also historically significant as the site of the world’s first parliament.

The 45-minute stop is enough to explore the rugged landscape and learn a bit about Icelandic history. The scenery here is less dramatic than waterfalls but offers a different kind of awe—standing on a site that’s both geologically and historically important.

Additional Highlights and Considerations

The Optional Extras

The tour’s flexibility is one of its strengths. You can choose to add a lunch at Friedhamer, which many find delightful for its fresh, tomato-based cuisine. Similarly, a soak at the Secret Lagoon can be booked separately, offering a quiet, authentic geothermal experience away from the crowds.

However, remember these extras are charged separately, so factor that into your budget. The lunch is a great way to relax and enjoy Icelandic flavors, and the Secret Lagoon offers a more intimate alternative to the commercial Blue Lagoon.

Comfort and Convenience

With private transportation, an air-conditioned vehicle, and WiFi onboard, this tour emphasizes comfort. The pickup and drop-off from Reykjavik mean you won’t need to worry about logistics, which can be a relief after a long flight or before heading to other parts of Iceland.

The guide’s presence ensures you get context and answers, making the experience more meaningful. The small group size means you can customize your experience, ask questions, and avoid the feeling of being just another face in a crowd.

Price and Value

At nearly $1,670 for up to three people, this tour isn’t cheap. But when you consider that everything—from private transport, a guide, WiFi, and all taxes—is included, plus the potential for adding extras, it might justify the cost for those wanting a more personalized, relaxed day.

If you’re on a budget or okay with larger groups, there are cheaper options available. But if you value comfort, flexibility, and a quieter experience, this investment could be worthwhile.

What Past Travelers Say

While the overall review is limited, one review praises the tour as “the best in town”, highlighting the guide’s quality and the leisure time offered. The fact that it’s a private tour only for your group means you can take in sights at your own pace, which many travelers find invaluable.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This Golden Circle experience is ideal for adventurers and nature lovers who appreciate a more personalized approach. It’s perfect if you want to avoid the crowds, enjoy comfort, and have the flexibility to include optional activities like a geothermal bath or a leisurely lunch.

Travelers who prefer a set schedule but still want some free time for photos or relaxation will also find this appealing. Keep in mind that the price might be a consideration for budget travelers, but those who prioritize quality over cost will likely feel it’s justified.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, the tour can work for families, especially those who want a more relaxed experience with private transport. Just consider the ages of children, as some stops might involve walking or standing for a while.

What is included in the price?
The main price covers private transportation, an English-speaking guide, all fees and taxes, WiFi onboard, and hotel pickup and drop-off. Extras like lunch and bathing at the Secret Lagoon are charged separately.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, including travel time, site visits, and optional activities.

Can I skip the Secret Lagoon or lunch?
Yes, these are optional add-ons. You can contact the provider to customize your experience and decide whether to include them or not.

Is there free WiFi on the bus?
Yes, WiFi is available onboard for the convenience of guests.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather, but if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How much should I tip?
Tipping isn’t included and is at your discretion. If you enjoyed the guide’s service, a small gratuity is appreciated.

Final Thoughts

This small-group Golden Circle tour offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, comfort, and personalized service. It’s a good choice for travelers who want to see Iceland’s highlights without the hassle of big tour groups and who value a leisurely pace. The flexibility to add a geothermal bath and a hearty lunch, combined with the quiet beauty of sites like the Secret Lagoon and Þingvellir, makes it stand out from more rushed, impersonal options.

While the price is on the higher side, many will find the comfort, privacy, and ability to customize worth the extra cost. If you’re looking for a more relaxed, intimate way to discover Iceland’s Golden Circle, this experience might just be what you’re after.

In short, if comfort, flexibility, and avoiding crowds matter to you, this private tour offers a thoughtfully curated day that balances Iceland’s natural drama with a touch of personal care. It’s especially suited for those who want a stress-free experience and are happy to pay a bit more for it.