Private Golden Circle with Friðheimar Farm Lunch & Kerið Crater

If you’re planning a trip to Reykjavik, a tour of Iceland’s famed Golden Circle is practically a must. This private experience, offered by Hidden Iceland, promises a more personalized, relaxed way to see some of the country’s most iconic sights – with the added bonus of a delicious lunch at Friðheimar Tomato Greenhouse and a peek into Iceland’s volcanic past at Kerið Crater. Based on glowing reviews and a carefully designed itinerary, this tour seems like a wonderful choice for those who want a more intimate, flexible, and engaging day out.

What we really like about this experience: First, it offers a private guide, meaning your day is tailored to your interests and pace. Second, the lunch at Friðheimar isn’t just a meal; it’s a chance to dine amongst tomato plants in a working greenhouse. Third, the combination of natural wonders and cultural sights—from waterfalls to historic sites—makes for a well-rounded adventure. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that this tour is quite full-day and might be less ideal for those seeking a more leisurely pace or with very young children. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a deep, engaging experience with a small group or private arrangement.

Good To Know

• Personalized Experience: Only your group participates, providing flexibility and a more tailored tour.
• All-Inclusive Lunch: Dine amidst tomato plants at Friðheimar, with dietary options available.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Highlights include Þingvellir, Gullfoss, Geysir, Kerið Crater, plus Reykjavik pickup and drop-off.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable, friendly guides enhance your understanding of each stop.
• Good Value for a Private Tour: The price includes transport, admission fees, lunch, and guiding.
• Ideal for Curious Travelers: Suitable for most age groups; weather-appropriate clothing recommended.

The Itinerary: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Starting Point: Reykjavik

The tour kicks off from Reykjavik at 9:00 AM, with a convenient pickup at your hotel or designated bus stop. The luxury transport ensures comfort, especially for the long day ahead. This initial moment is your chance to meet your guide, who will be your companion for the day. Expect a friendly greeting and a quick overview of what’s planned.

Friðheimar Tomato Greenhouse & Horse Farm

One of the tour’s special highlights is the lunch at Friðheimar, where you’ll dine among the thriving tomato plants in a working greenhouse. The setting is as unique as the menu—bright, greenhouse-lit, and surprisingly cozy. The meal is included, catering to various dietary needs like gluten-free or vegetarian options. Reviewers have commented on the deliciousness of the food and the authenticity of the experience—one even described it as “lunch amongst all the tomato plants.” It’s not just about the food; the farm is also a horse breeding operation, so you might catch a glimpse of Icelandic horses, which adds a charming touch.

Þingvellir National Park

Next, you’ll visit Þingvellir, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the site of Iceland’s first parliament. Here, the fascinating geology is on display—think rift valleys, tectonic plates slowly drifting apart, and ancient landscapes. This stop offers plenty of photo opportunities, and your guide will likely share stories about Iceland’s political history and the geological marvels. Expect about an hour here, enough to walk around and absorb the scenery without feeling rushed.

Gullfoss Waterfall

A visit to Gullfoss — one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls — is a must. The sheer power of the cascading water combined with the scenic overlook makes it a memorable experience. You’ll have roughly 45 minutes to stand near the falls, take photos, and listen as your guide explains the glacier-fed river’s story. Reviewers highlight the beauty of this spot, noting how accessible and awe-inspiring it is.

Geysir Geothermal Area

Next, it’s time to witness Geysir, the geothermal area where hot springs and erupting geysers create an otherworldly landscape. The iconic Strokkur geyser erupts approximately every 5-8 minutes, shooting hot water high into the air. This area is quite lively and offers excellent photo ops—your guide will tell you about the geothermal activity underpinning Iceland’s energy and landscape.

Kerið Crater

The tour then takes you to Kerið, a volcanic crater lake with striking red and black slopes and a turquoise pond at its base. You can walk around the crater’s edge and peer down into the volcanic basin, which is around 3,000 years old. Many travelers enjoy this stop for its vivid colors and the chance to stand on volcanic history—one reviewer noted it as a “snapshot of Iceland’s volcanic past.” Expect about 30 minutes here; it’s a short but sweet visit.

Return to Reykjavik

The day winds down with a relaxed drive back to Reykjavik, where you’ll arrive around 5:00 PM. The 1.5-hour final stop gives you time to reflect on the day or grab a quick dinner in the city.

The Practicalities: What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour covers nearly everything you need for a fulfilling day. The price includes:

• All transport by luxury vehicle
• Pickup and drop-off in Reykjavik
• An all-inclusive lunch at Friðheimar
• Guiding by a professional, friendly guide
• Entrance fees to Þingvellir, Kerið, and other sites
• Coffee and/or tea during the day

Not included are alcoholic beverages and additional snacks, so plan accordingly if you want something extra. The tour is designed for most travelers, with accommodations for different abilities and a flexible walking pace.

Weather and Clothing

Since Iceland’s weather can be changeable, bringing rainproof clothing is advisable—these can often be borrowed free of charge if you give advance notice. Expect some walking at each stop, but the guide can adjust the pace if needed.

Authentic Experiences Mentioned in Reviews

A family of seven described the tour as “action-packed,” highlighting how the guide, Ingi, made the day special with his knowledge and friendly demeanor. Commenters also emphasized the delicious food at Friðheimar and how the tour covered not just the usual sights, but also insightful details that made the experience more meaningful.

Travelers appreciated the small-group or private format—allowing for a more relaxed atmosphere and genuine engagement from the guide. The flexibility and personalized attention seem to be a big draw.

Final Thoughts: Is this Tour Worth It?

This private Golden Circle tour offers a thoughtfully curated experience that balances iconic sights with authentic Icelandic culture. The inclusion of a farm-to-table lunch at Friðheimar makes it stand out, turning a simple sightseeing trip into a memorable culinary adventure. The knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and flexible itinerary mean you can focus on enjoying each moment without feeling rushed.

At around $2,810 for up to two people, the cost is on the higher side, but many travelers find the value justified by the exclusivity and depth of the experience. If you’re keen to explore the Golden Circle with a personalized touch—especially if you enjoy good food and insightful commentary—this tour is a solid choice.

However, keep in mind the full-day duration and be prepared for some walking and variable weather. It’s best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, intimate look at Iceland’s natural and cultural highlights, with the convenience of private transport and guided commentary.

FAQs

• Can I book this tour for more than two people?

Yes, the tour is available as a private experience for groups larger than two. For over 12 guests, contact the provider for arrangements.

• Is the lunch suitable for dietary restrictions?

Yes, Friðheimar offers catering for most dietary requirements, including vegetarian and gluten-free options.

• What is the pickup time?

Pickup begins at 9:00 am from your Reykjavik hotel or designated bus stop.

• How long does the entire tour last?

The tour is approximately 8 hours, returning to Reykjavik around 5:00 pm.

• Is this tour suitable for children?

Most travelers can participate, but some stops may require extra care for little ones. It’s flexible regarding walking and timing.

• What should I wear?

Weather-appropriate clothing is recommended, especially rainproof gear, which can be borrowed if notified in advance.

In Summary

This private Golden Circle tour by Hidden Iceland strikes a wonderful balance between sightseeing, cultural insight, and culinary delight. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you’ll get deep into Iceland’s volcanic, historical, and natural highlights, all while enjoying a unique farm-to-table lunch experience. Best suited for curious travelers seeking a more exclusive, immersive tour, it offers genuine value for those wanting to blend comfort with authenticity. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this experience promises a memorable day exploring the best of Iceland in a relaxed, engaging manner.