Private Silver Circle Tour: West Iceland's Waterfalls, Hot Springs, and Medieval Heritage
A full-day private journey through the landscapes, history, and geothermal wonders of the Borgarfjörður region.
The Private Silver Circle Tour offers a quieter, more personal way to experience West Iceland, moving through geothermal sites, dramatic waterfalls, and historically significant villages over the course of a full day. This tour covers the Borgarfjörður region at a relaxed pace, making it well suited for travellers who prefer depth over crowds.
The route passes through some of Iceland's most geologically and culturally layered landscapes, from lava fields and glacier-fed rivers to medieval church ruins and traditional lifting stones. Each stop contributes a distinct perspective on the forces — natural and human — that have shaped this part of the country.
Unlike the more heavily visited routes closer to Reykjavík, the Silver Circle draws on a region where geothermal energy, Norse literary history, and rural Icelandic traditions intersect in a way that feels unhurried and authentic. The tour also includes time near café and restaurant facilities, allowing for a comfortable lunch break mid-journey.
With its combination of powerful natural phenomena, local folklore, and well-preserved cultural sites, this private tour provides a well-rounded introduction to western Iceland without the congestion that typically accompanies more popular circuits.
Tour Highlights
Witness Deildartunguhver, Europe's most powerful hot spring, releasing approximately 180 liters of near-boiling water per second in a dramatic display of geothermal force.
Explore Hraunfossar, where countless clear streams filter through ancient lava rock and flow gently into the Hvítá river over a stretch of several hundred meters.
Stand beside Barnafoss, a turbulent glacial canyon where the Hvítá river carves through narrow rock channels, accompanied by a striking piece of Icelandic folklore.
Visit Reykholt, the historic village associated with medieval scholar Snorri Sturluson, and view Reykholtkirkja alongside the remains of its older church foundations.
Encounter the famous lifting stones at Húsafell, traditional tests of strength that remain a living symbol of Iceland's rural heritage and physical culture.
Pass through the scenic lava fields and forests surrounding Húsafell, an area with deep ties to Icelandic art, craftsmanship, and centuries of traveller tradition.
Stop at Glanni waterfall on the Norðurá river, a calm and accessible cascade over lava steps that reflects the volcanic character of the Borgarfjörður region.
Itinerary
The tour begins at Glanni, a wide and gentle waterfall on the Norðurá river near the Grábrók lava field. Water cascades over a series of volcanic lava steps framed by dark rock and surrounding greenery. The site is calm and accessible, offering an early introduction to the region's volcanic geology.
The journey continues to Deildartunguhver, Europe's most powerful hot spring, where approximately 180 liters of near-boiling water emerge from the ground every second. Steam rises continuously from the site, and lush moss grows in the moisture-rich surroundings. A viewing platform allows visitors to safely observe this remarkable example of Iceland's active geothermal landscape.
In the historic village of Reykholt, the tour explores the site most closely associated with Snorri Sturluson, the medieval Icelandic writer and historian. Reykholtkirkja stands beside the remains of an earlier church built on medieval foundations, reflecting the village's long role as a spiritual and cultural center. Entry into the church interior may be possible depending on conditions at the time of visit.
Two contrasting waterfalls occupy the next stage of the tour. Hraunfossar forms as glacier-filtered water seeps from beneath a lava field and spreads across a wide, delicate cascade into the Hvítá river, while Barnafoss nearby channels the same river through a narrow, forceful canyon. The area includes café and restaurant facilities, making it a natural point for a lunch break.
The tour concludes at Húsafell, a historically significant area surrounded by lava fields, forests, and glacier-fed rivers. Here, travellers encounter the famous lifting stones used in traditional Icelandic strength tests, as well as an artist's house that reflects the creative heritage of the area. Húsafell has served as a gathering and resting point for travellers for centuries, and its combination of natural beauty and cultural depth makes it a fitting final stop.
What's Included and Excluded
Included
- Private guided tour of the Silver Circle
- Transportation throughout the full-day itinerary
- Visits to Glanni, Deildartunguhver, Reykholt, Hraunfossar, Barnafoss, and Húsafell
- Guide commentary at all stops
Not Included
- Meals and beverages
- Personal travel insurance
- Gratuities
- Any entrance fees where applicable
Important Information
Book Your Private Silver Circle Tour
Secure your private guided day tour through West Iceland's most rewarding landscapes and cultural landmarks. Availability is limited — reserve your spot to guarantee your preferred date.
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