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

If you’re planning to visit Iceland and want to see the iconic sights without being caught in the tourist crowds, this Golden Circle small-group tour from Reykjavik offers an appealing alternative. While most standard excursions can feel rushed and packed with fellow travelers, this tour emphasizes a more intimate, relaxed experience, allowing you to truly soak in the natural beauty and enjoy personalized attention.

We love the way this tour combines flexible options like lunch at Friedhamer and a soak in the Secret Lagoon, giving you the chance to customize your day. The knowledgeable guides and well-planned itinerary promise a comfortable, insightful adventure. However, do keep in mind that the price is on the higher side for Iceland, but the value of avoiding crowds and gaining authentic experiences makes it worthwhile.

This tour is ideal for adventurers, nature lovers, and those who prioritize comfort and personalized service over large bus crowds. If you’re after a more relaxed, tailored experience of Iceland’s iconic sights, this might be just what you’re looking for.

Good To Know

• Small-group experience offers a more personal, less crowded way to explore the Golden Circle
• Flexible options like lunch at Friedhamer and a soak in the Secret Lagoon can be added for extra comfort and enjoyment
• Comprehensive itinerary includes waterfalls, geysers, and UNESCO-listed Thingvellir National Park
• Private transportation with WiFi makes the journey comfortable, scenic, and connected
• Knowledgeable English-speaking guides provide valuable insights and a friendly touch
• The tour’s price reflects its personalized approach, but the authentic experiences and scenic stops justify the expense

Why Choose This Tour? A Deep Dive into the Experience

This private, small-group tour from Reykjavik promises more than just ticking off the major sights — it’s about savoring the journey at a comfortable pace, with opportunities for authentic Icelandic experiences along the way. From the moment you’re picked up in an air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi, you’re set for a day of discovery that balances natural beauty, cultural insight, and leisure.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Secret Lagoon – Gamla Laugin:
Your adventure begins with a visit to the Secret Lagoon in Flúðir, one of Iceland’s oldest geothermal pools. It’s a peaceful spot, far less commercialized than other hot springs like the Blue Lagoon. You’ll love the tranquil surroundings and the chance to relax in steaming waters while soaking in views of Iceland’s rugged landscapes. The guide’s insights help you appreciate this gem’s history and natural surroundings, making it more than just a dip in hot water. Expect about 1.5 hours here — enough time to unwind and take photos, but not so long as to lose the scenic drive.

Friedhamer Greenhouse Farm:
Next, a stop at Fridheimar in Reykholt offers a truly unique experience. This greenhouse farm grows tomatoes year-round using eco-friendly methods. The setting is vibrant, with lush plants surrounding you, and the on-site restaurant serves fresh tomato-based dishes. Reviewers highlight the delicious, flavorful meals and the opportunity to learn about sustainable farming practices. Visitors have noted that the owner or guide shares interesting facts, making this a tasty and educational highlight. The 1.5-hour stop includes a meal, giving you a chance to enjoy Icelandic cuisine in a refreshing, green environment. Keep in mind, admission to the farm is not included, but the experience is well worth the extra cost.

Gullfoss Waterfall:
The iconic Gullfoss — or Golden Falls — is a breathtaking sight. With its two-tiered cascade plunging about 32 meters, you’ll see why it’s one of Iceland’s most photographed waterfalls. The turquoise water, fed by the Langjökull glacier, creates an ethereal glow, especially on sunny days. The viewing platforms allow for spectacular photo opportunities, and the manageable 45-minute stop means you’ll get plenty of time to marvel and snap pictures without feeling rushed.

Geysir Geothermal Area:
Next, the famous Geysir area is a geothermal wonderland. The Strokkur geyser erupts roughly every 8-10 minutes, shooting water up to 20 meters in the air, much to the delight of visitors. Walking around bubbling hot springs and steaming vents offers a fascinating peek into Iceland’s volcanic activity. The 45-minute stop** is enough to witness a few eruptions and take in the other geothermal features, making this a lively and dynamic part of the day.

Thingvellir National Park:
The UNESCO-listed Thingvellir is a highlight — not only for its stunning landscapes but also for its cultural significance. Here, you can walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, which are drifting apart at a rate of about 2 centimeters per year. The park offers incredible views, clear water-filled cracks, and historical sites where Iceland’s parliament was established. The 45-minute visit includes some walking, but the spectacular scenery makes it worthwhile. It’s also the only stop with admission included in the tour price, emphasizing its importance.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Personalized Experience and Small Group Size:
Unlike large buses, this tour limits participation to your group, often up to three people. That means your guide can tailor the experience, answer questions more thoroughly, and share stories that you might miss in a larger group.

Flexible Options:
You can opt for lunch at Friedhamer and a soak at the Secret Lagoon — both highly praised by previous travelers. The lunch experience at Friedhamer, set in a lush greenhouse setting, is a chance to enjoy Icelandic flavors in an eco-friendly environment. Many reviewers mention how delicious and fresh the food is.

Comfort and Connectivity:
Transportation is in an air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi, making the long drives comfortable and connected. Pickup and drop-off from Reykjavik ensure a hassle-free start and end to your day.

Knowledgeable Guides:
According to reviews, guides are well-informed and friendly. One reviewer mentioned, “I had an amazing tour with them. Surely the best in town,” highlighting how guides add value through their insights and personable approach.

Authentic, Less Crowded Spots:
While many tours rush through popular sights, this experience’s slower pace and smaller group size mean you’re less likely to be pushed for time or jostled by crowds. The Secret Lagoon is a perfect example — more peaceful than the Blue Lagoon, and just as photogenic.

Value for Money

At approximately $1,670 for up to three people, this tour isn’t cheap. But considering private transportation, a dedicated guide, and the potential for customized experiences, it offers good value. The ability to include lunch and a relaxing soak further enhances the experience, especially for travelers who appreciate the extra comfort and authenticity.

While the cost may seem high compared to larger, bus-based tours, the personalized attention and less crowded stops can make this worth it, particularly for those celebrating a special occasion or seeking a more relaxed exploration.

Summary and Who It’s Best For

This tour is perfect for small groups or intimate travelers who want to avoid the hustle of large tours and enjoy a more authentic, personalized Iceland experience. If you value comfort, flexibility, and expert guidance, this trip provides a well-rounded, scenic overview of Iceland’s Golden Circle with some added touches like lunch and a geothermal soak.

It’s especially suited for adventurers, nature lovers, and those seeking a more relaxed pace that allows you to truly appreciate each stop. The inclusion of a peaceful lagoon and fresh farm-to-table food options makes it stand out from more generic packages.

However, paying nearly $1,700 means you’re investing in quality, personalized service, so it’s best for travelers who prioritize experience over budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off from Reykjavik, making it very convenient to start and end your day.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, with most of that time spent traveling between and exploring the stops.

Can I add lunch and a bath?
Yes, both are optional extras. You can contact the tour provider to add lunch at Friedhamer and a soak at the Secret Lagoon, but these are charged separately.

What is the tour’s group size?
It’s a private tour, so only your group will participate, typically up to three people, ensuring a more personal experience.

Is there an admission fee for the Secret Lagoon?
Admission to the Secret Lagoon isn’t included, so you’ll need to pay upon arrival. It’s a small extra that many find worth the peaceful, less crowded atmosphere.

What stops are included in the itinerary?
Stops include the Secret Lagoon, Friedhamer greenhouse farm, Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir geothermal area, and Thingvellir National Park.

How do I pay for optional extras?
Extras like lunch and the lagoon bath are paid separately, often upon booking or upon arrival at each site. Confirm with your guide for seamless arrangements.

Is the tour suitable for all weather conditions?
Most travelers can participate, but since Iceland’s weather is unpredictable, it’s wise to dress in layers and be prepared for rain or wind. If weather cancels the tour, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What makes this tour different from larger bus trips?
The small-group size, private transportation, and optional personalized experiences make this tour more flexible, relaxed, and intimate.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. The stops—especially Gullfoss and Thingvellir—offer incredible photo opportunities, and the fewer crowds mean you can take your time capturing the perfect shot.

Choosing this Golden Circle private tour means opting for a more relaxed, personalized, and authentic experience of Iceland’s most famous sights. Its smaller group size and flexible options allow for a deeper connection to the landscape and culture, making it perfect for those who want quality over quantity.

If you’re after stunning views, delicious local food, and tranquility away from the crowds, this tour ticks all those boxes. While it’s pricier than standard bus trips, the comfort, personalized attention, and unique stops make it a worthwhile investment.

Whether it’s your first visit to Iceland or you’re returning for a deeper exploration, this tour offers a thoughtfully curated way to experience the iconic Golden Circle at your own pace.