Monday, March 17, 2014

Iceland's Golden Circle

Our second day in Iceland was just as full as day one, but with a lot less driving and a later start.
Day two consisted of a drive around the Golden Circle.

Iceland's Golden Circle

We woke up to snow but things quickly cleared up as we headed out for an explore.
The roads were clear and there were much more people about.
Again, I was just amazed at the variety of landscapes that we drove through.
Such amazing views throughout the entire day.

Iceland's Golden Circle

Icelandic Horses

Of course we had to stop for the country's welcoming committee.
They're a hardy lot as they would have to be to thrive during Iceland winters.
They came right up to the fence to pose and nuzzle.

Iceland's Golden Circle
 
Iceland's Golden Circle

Iceland's Golden Circle

Gulfoss Waterfall

You can't come to Iceland without stopping at Gulfoss.
Matt hadn't paid much attention to the guidebook and just knew that we were stopping for a waterfall.
We had seen several smaller falls the day before which is what he was expecting.
It's obscured from view and the land is flat all around the falls.
As we got closer, you start to hear the rushing water.
Then this massive gash in the earth appears and there is this amazing sight.

Iceland's Golden Circle

Iceland's Golden Circle

Iceland's Golden Circle
 
 Thingvellir National Park

This area is notable for several reasons, both geographically and historically.
It's where two tectonic plates converge in a rift valley and home to the largest natural lake in Iceland.
The nation of Iceland was founded here with the first meeting of parliament in 930.
It's a popular place for hiking and camping as well as scuba diving within the continental drift.
I've never scuba dived before, but I would love to scuba in Iceland someday.
Watch out for the Scuba Crossing!
 
Iceland's Golden Circle

Iceland's Golden Circle

Iceland's Golden Circle

Iceland's Golden Circle
 
Iceland's Golden Circle

Iceland's Golden Circle

Iceland's Golden Circle

The Golden Circle can easily be done in one day.
There are two more stops from this day, but they each get a post of their very own.
I can't wait to show you.  Here's a hint.  They both involve hot water.

Iceland's Golden Circle

What was your favorite stop on the Golden Circle of Iceland?



43 comments:

  1. Beautiful! I love waterfalls and I love your photos of the frozen water fall :)

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  2. I loved getting to do the Golden Circle this winter, it looks completely different than it does in the summer months. My favorite stop is Gullfoss, and of course the Icelandic horses, we always have to stop and give them some love.

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  3. Thingvellir was one of my favorite spots... we hit it right as sunrise and it was just stunning!

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  4. Brrrr makes me shiver! Love the scuba crossing sign!

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  5. Absolutely outstanding photos! Just beautiful.

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  6. Gorgeous gorgeous gorgeous photos!

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  7. This has been my favorite post of yours about Iceland so far. I love the scenery!

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  8. The Icelandic horses are so beautiful. Such graceful creatures in a beautiful setting!
    http://liveitinerantly.com/

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  9. I've never heard of this place, but man do these pictures make me want to go! Looks like a lovely trip!

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  10. I love the pictures from the national park. They're gorgeous! :)


    Brittny
    www.awrittenjourney.com

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  11. I love these pictures! Can't wait to visit.

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  12. Oh my! Those falls are just amazing :) I recently got scuba certified and my instructor was telling us about cold-water diving in Alaska - apparently Iceland is also on his bucket list. I'm just not sure if I could do it - I'm such a wimp when it comes to cold water!

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  13. Cold - but happy, just as I imagined Iceland would be. Lovely pictures as always Selena. Can't wait to hear about your trip to the Hot Springs!

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  14. Iceland is such an insanely gorgeous place!

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  15. We're definitely planning to drive through the Golden Circle! :) You're Iceland posts make me so incredibly excited for our own adventure! :)

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  16. Gorgeous photos. We are heading to Iceland in July. I can't wait!

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  17. Thanks, Jenn! I wanted to get a bit closer but it was too cold!

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  18. Kaelene, I just loved everything about Iceland. I want to come back during the summer months. I'll just get my fix by reading your blog. :D

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  19. I bet it was stunning! I'm dying to go snorkeling there! Can you imagine?

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  20. I was enjoying the views so much the coldness didn't matter. Thanks for reading & commenting. I've followed on Bloglovin. Can't wait to see more of your photos!

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  21. Thanks so much, Adam & Kate. I'm so glad that you commented. I've connected with you on Twitter and Instagram, as well as bloglovin :D Can't wait to read more about your adventures.

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  22. They are gorgeous. We saw some of them playing and frolicking. Amazing!

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  23. It was one of my very favorite places so far. I think we'll even go back for more.

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  24. Thanks, Brittny. You have to see it in person. Gorgeous!

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  25. Thanks, Muriel. (I love that name.) I really appreciate you reading and commenting. I love connecting with other travelers. I've connected on social media and followed on Bloglovin. That pie is gorgeous, BTW! I look forward to reading more :D

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  26. I never dreamed you would be able to dive Iceland. But it looks magical. I've seen some of the underground shots and they're fabulous! I would love to scuba but I'm too chicken. Do you feel claustrophobic? It must be wonderful.

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  27. Ah! I can't wait to hear about your trip!! So excited for you! :D

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  28. Tina, are you planning a trip to Iceland. I highly recommend it. The little ones would love it!

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  29. Are you counting down?? So exciting!!

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  30. Yes you guys would love it in the summer time as well. As you know Iceland is full of many elements and the summer is full of a diversity all its own!

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  31. Oh my gosh I didn't even know you could do that!!!!

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  32. Oh, I meant Scuba! :D Although it is Spring water. I wonder about in the summer?

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  33. Thanks so much!! Looking forward to connecting too.

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  34. Looking at them, they kind of reminded me of a snowy version of pics from the Fairy Pools in Scotland. :)


    Brittny
    www.awrittenjourney.com

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  35. Thanks Selena! We're following you too, so keep in touch!

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  36. Thanks! we'll do the same :) We are heading to Iceland in Feb / March and really cannot wait!

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Thanks for commenting. I love to hear from you!