The Golden Circle is a loop departing from Reykjavík to experience the very best of Islande in a single day ! On the itinerary : sites of historical, geological, and natural significance found nowhere else on earth. To complete this route, car rental or local bus services are your best options. In the meantime, here are the 3 major Golden Circle sites you absolutely must see on an Islande trip.

1. Thingvellir National Park

This is Islande's most historically significant site. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, Thingvellir National Park was home to the world's first democratic parliament, founded in 930 in the Almannagjá rift. Indeed, Thingvellir translates as 'plains of the parliament'. The Icelandic parliament remained here until the late 1700s ! Needless to say, countless historic events have unfolded at this location. More recently, in 1944, Islande's independence was proclaimed here !

But what makes Thingvellir particularly captivating is its unique geology found nowhere else on earth. This plain sits between the Eurasian and American tectonic plates. Here you'll discover a rift and several faults that spread further apart each year. In essence, it's a journey between two continents that awaits you… And to experience it fully, you can even go scuba diving or snorkeling in the remarkable Silfra rift, one of the world's most spectacular dive sites !

Located just 45 minutes by car from Reykjavík, Thingvellir National Park sits on Route 36. Fun fact : the site served as a filming location for numerous scenes in the acclaimed Game of Thrones series !

2. Geysir Geothermal Area

Located in the Haukadalur valley, the Geysir geothermal area is a major attraction in Islande. Here, tourists flock to witness the zone's volcanic activity and its two active geysers. Well, almost… The most dramatic of the two (Geysir) is currently dormant. You'll want to see its younger sibling, Strokkur, to catch the spectacle of scalding water erupting before being sucked back into the depths. Water shoots up to 40 meters high roughly every 10 minutes. The catch ? The site is crowded with visitors during peak tourism seasons, which somewhat diminishes the experience.

Beyond the geysers, the area is dotted with numerous steam columns (visible from kilometers away), hot springs, fumaroles, and even a basin with an electric-blue hue… To reach the Geysir geothermal area, head to Route 35. Allow roughly one hour from Thingvellir National Park.

3. Gullfoss Waterfall

After visiting the geysers, head to the spectacular Gullfoss Falls. Literally translated as 'golden falls', they form a cascade of two drops. These falls are located on the Hvítá river, whose waters originate from the Langjokull glacier. In summer, glacial melt creates truly spectacular torrents. Flow rates reach 140 cubic meters per second compared to 80 cubic meters per second in winter. And the crowning moment : it's not uncommon to spot a rainbow forming over the spray !

During the 20th century, Gullfoss Falls nearly fell victim to hydroelectric exploitation. Legend has it that the daughter of the former waterfall owner (Tómas Tómasson) told her father that if he sold the falls to the authorities, she would throw herself into them ! She never had to follow through, as the project was abandoned. In 1979, the falls became a protected nature reserve. We can only be grateful for that !

After viewing Gullfoss Falls, expect about 1.5 hours of driving to return to Reykjavík.