Silver Circle, Iceland

Start in Reykjavik and head to Borgarnes, the gateway to West Iceland. Make your first stop at Deildartunguhver, the most powerful hot spring in Europe, which is so strong that it provides hot water and power for the locals for miles around. Spend some time walking amongst the steaming clouds of vapor. Move onto Hraunfossar, also known as the "Lava Waterfalls." Take in the sight from several viewing platforms and see how the water stretches for nearly a kilometer over ancient lava fields, with meltwater from the Langjokull glacier pouring into the Hvita river. Just a few yards away is Barnafoss, also known as “the waterfall of the children,” named after the tragic tale of two local children. Your next stop is Husafell, a breathtaking woodland oasis and a historical site with traditional turf houses and even some “elf huts” to delight the children, too. See intriguing works by local artists, as well as the famous “Lifting Stone of Husafell.” From Husafell, be transported in 4x4 cars further inland to the Deildargil Canyon, where you’ll see Langifoss, a towering two-tiered waterfall off the beaten path and which few people know of. Continue to the highlight of the tour, the Canyon Baths, for a traditional Icelandic hot spring experience at a sustainable, remote location found deep in the magnificent Hringsgil canyon. Bathe in 3 geothermally-heated stone pools of varying temperatures (30-41°C or 86-105°F), along with a cold-water pool and a cooling waterfall. Feel relaxed in the peaceful atmosphere, thanks to the limited capacity of 20 visitors at a time. Imagine what it was like for the early settlers to bathe in the same way. Make your final stop at Reykholt, which used to be the medieval home of Snorri Sturluson, a famous Icelandic historian and chieftain. Visit Snorralaug (Snorri’s Pool), another traditional natural hot spring, where locals have bathed since the 12th century. From there, return to the capital city, after a day of wonder and exploration in the wilds of West Iceland.

Day 1: After being picked up in Reykjavik, your tour begins by driving on the scenic route 1 to the town of Borgarnes. From there, continue to the Borgarfjodur area, where you will visit the unique Lava Waterfalls called Hraunfossar and nearby Barnafossar waterfalls. Visit Glanni Watefall, Deildartunguhver - the most powerful hot spring in Europe and the Reykholt historic site. The last stop will be at Husafell - the woodland oasis. From here you can choose your next adventure. You can either go inside the biggest Lava Cave in Iceland called Vidgelmir or go on 4WD tour to visit relaxing Canyon Baths, stopping on the way to soak in the view of the two-tiered Langifoss Waterfall. You will then spend the night in Borgarnes - the capital of West Iceland sitting in the fjord. You will find there charming coffee houses and restaurants, as well as turf houses. The Northern Lights are also famous for playing their incredible symphony of lights in this area if the conditions are favorable. Day 2: On the second day, travel first to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, where you will enjoy watching seals play on the beach and take in some amazing sights at the many beautiful creations of nature in the area. See the Snæfellsnesjökull glacier looming as your tour continues around the peninsula. Admire the beautiful and photogenic mountain of Kirkjufell. Snæfellsnes is also home to the big seal colony that you will have a chance to see at Ytri-Tunga Beach, before heading back to Reykjavik.

Embark on a journey through West Iceland's Silver Circle tour route, where breathtaking landscapes, intriguing history, and authentic local experiences await. This carbon-neutral day tour unveils the hidden gems of Iceland, showcasing its diverse beauty with stops guaranteed to amaze and inspire. After a pickup in Reykjavík, drive through beautiful landscapes along the seacoast, where you’ll enjoy views of Reykjavík in the distance and the majestic mountains on the other side. Stop at Akranes, a charming coastal town that sets the tone for this incredible journey. Visit Akranesviti, a historic and active lighthouse, and climb its narrow stairs to the top for stunning panoramic views of the ocean and surrounding landscapes. Continue to the Settlement Center in Borgarnes, housed in two of the town’s oldest buildings. Explore an included exhibition about Iceland’s early settlers or the legendary Egil Skalla-Grímsson from the Icelandic sagas. Feeling hungry? Enjoy an optional buffet at the cozy café or browse the charming souvenir shop before moving on. A major highlight of this tour is the enchanting Hraunfossar, a series of crystal-clear waterfalls that emerge from beneath lava rocks, cascading gracefully into a vibrant blue river. Just a short walk away, you’ll find Barnafoss, a dramatic series of water rapids with a somber history that adds depth to its striking beauty. Next, step into Iceland’s medieval past at Reykholt, the historic home of Snorri Sturluson, a celebrated historian, poet, and chieftain. Visit Snorralaug, Iceland’s first man-made hot spring bath, for a captivating glimpse into the country’s history and geothermal heritage. Meet the friendly Icelandic horses at Sturlureykir Horse Farm. Get the chance to pet and feed these iconic animals while learning about their unique characteristics and cultural importance. Taste traditional rye bread baked under the ground in a geothermal hole—a deliciously authentic experience. Feel the power of nature at Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring. Conclude your day with your choice of activity—either a relaxing soak or a leisurely nature walk. For those who love the outdoors, enjoy two easy but rewarding walks: climb the Grábrók volcanic crater for stunning panoramic views, then take a short stroll to Glanni Waterfall, a peaceful spot surrounded by nature and folklore. If relaxation is more your style, unwind at Krauma Spa, where you can soak in soothing geothermal baths fed by the powerful Deildartunguhver hot spring. No matter your choice, it's the perfect way to end your Silver Circle adventure.