
Hotels & Accommodation in the Golden Circle
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The best hotels & accommodation in the Golden Circle
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Golden Circle in Iceland: Hotels and Accommodations
The Golden Circle contains some of Iceland’s most popular attractions, with iconic landmarks like Thingvellir National Park, Geysir, and Gullfoss waterfall. While many travelers explore the route on a day trip from Reykjavik, staying at a hotel near the Golden Circle offers unique advantages.
The top-listed Golden Circle hotels in Iceland offer the chance to stay closer to the route's famous sites, making it easier to explore without the crowds. With options ranging from luxury hotels to cozy cottages, the Golden Circle offers accommodations to suit every travel style.
Why Stay on the Golden Circle Route?
Staying near the Golden Circle offers an unparalleled experience. Whether you prefer luxury or budget-friendly stays, being close to the action offers several advantages.
Here are the reasons why you should stay on the Golden Circle route.
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Accessibility to popular attractions - Stay close to Iceland’s iconic sights and avoid the stress of fitting everything into one day.
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Explore with smaller crowds - Visit attractions during quieter hours, like early morning or late evening.
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Away from the city lights - Increase your chances of seeing the northern lights during the autumn and winter nights.
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Convenient for self-drive tours in Iceland - Never worry about long trips to Reykjavik while immersing in the Golden Circle's beauty.
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Ideal base for day trips - Hotels near the Golden Circle also offer the perfect base for exploring the attractions of Iceland's South Coast.
Types of Accommodation on the Golden Circle
There's a variety of Golden Circle hotels and accommodations in Iceland to suit every traveler's needs. Travelers can choose from luxurious hotels, cozy cottages, welcoming guesthouses, and convenient apartments. Each option allows just as easy access to Iceland's most iconic sightseeing route.
Top-Rated Golden Circle Hotels in Iceland
Hotels in Iceland provide comfortable stays and convenient amenities, making them a great choice for those looking to relax and unwind near the Golden Circle.
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Efstidalur Farm Hotel is a popular two-star hotel in the Golden Circle. It's only a 15-minute drive to the Geysir Geothermal Area.
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Hotel Geysir is a 4-star hotel in Iceland's Golden Circle. It has a modern and chic design and is only ten minutes away by car from Gullfoss waterfall.
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Litli Geysir Hotel is a 3-star hotel in the Haukadalur valley. It's only a 4-minute walk to Geysir or the hot spring, Blesi.
Top-Rated Golden Circle Cottages in Iceland
Cottages in Iceland provide a cozy and private stay. They're often surrounded by nature and are ideal for families, couples, or small groups on a Golden Circle vacation.
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Braedraborg Summerhouse is a family-friendly stay near the Golden Circle. It has a kitchen, dining table, living area, and hot tub.
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House in Laugarvatn is a spacious vacation home for up to eleven people. It has a playground for outdoor activities and a hot tub on the balcony.
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Voerdubrunir Cottage is a semi-private stay. It has a stunning view of Hekla and Eyjafjallajokull, its own hot tub, and a fully equipped kitchen.
Top-Rated Golden Circle Guesthouses in Iceland
Guesthouses in Iceland offer a warm and welcoming atmosphere for those on a budget. Often run by locals, visitors can ask them for insights and tips about the area.
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Brekkugerdi Guesthouse is only 25 miles (40 kilometers) from Gullfoss waterfall. It has a shared lounge and barbecue facilities.
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Lambastadir Guesthouse is only 15 miles (24 kilometers) away from Kerid crater. It's on a family-run farm with its own hot tub.
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Sel Guesthouse is only 20 miles (32 kilometers) away from Thingvellir National Park. It has a sun terrace and spacious rooms.
Top-Rated Golden Circle Apartments in Iceland
Rental Apartments in Iceland often have fully equipped kitchens and spacious living areas. These are perfect for independent travelers who prefer the vibe of a home away from home.
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Heima Holiday Homes is located just outside of Selfoss. It has spacious studio apartments, fully equipped kitchens, and a private viewing deck.
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South Central Country Apartment is near the Golden Circle and the South Coast. It has a kitchenette and a spacious living room.
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Nortia Apartments is a luxury accommodation in Fludir with a kitchen and barbecue facilities. It's near the Secret Lagoon.
Stay On the Golden Circle for the Best Experience
Discover the charm of Golden Circle hotels, offering a convenient base to explore Iceland's most famous route. Book your stay at one of the incredible cottages, guesthouses, apartments, or hotels along the Golden Circle and enjoy a seamless experience.
For the ultimate adventure, check out our Golden Circle tours and travel packages. These tours promise well-planned journeys, including itineraries, accommodations, and a rental car or guide plus transport.
If you need help booking your accommodation in Iceland, contact us at info@guidetoiceland.is. We’ll help match your needs with the best available options at the best price guaranteed.
Frequently asked questions
What part of the Golden Circle should I stay in?
Alternatively, choose accommodations around Haukadalur Valley if you want to be closer to the Geysir hot springs.
If you'd rather be near the beautiful Gullfoss waterfall, choose accommodations in the area around the Hvita River. This allows you to enjoy the magnificent views and the power of the waterfall without traveling far.
What are the best hotels to stay at near the Golden Circle in Iceland?
Another great hotel in the Golden Circle is the Torfhus Retreat. It's close to the town of Selfoss and is built in the style of a traditional Icelandic turf house, but with all modern facilities inside.
For a perfect stay near the iconic Gullfoss waterfall, you should stay at the popular Hotel Gullfoss.
What is the best cottage to stay in near the Golden Circle?
This cottage is perfect for a small group of friends or family on a cozy stay in Iceland.
It also offers convenient access to popular attractions of the Golden Circle, including the Fontana Spa, Gullfoss waterfall, and the Thingvellir National Park.
What is the best guesthouse to stay in near the Golden Circle?
It’s near the Kerid craters, Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park. Brekkugerdi guesthouse’s location is also the perfect base for day trips to Vik, Thorsmork, and the colorful Landmannalaugar area.
Are there luxury hotels available in the Golden Circle of Iceland?
These hotels often provide unique experiences and activities. There are guided tours, horseback riding, or northern lights viewings, to enhance your stay.
Check out Landhotel, which is a beautiful 4-star luxury hotel in South Iceland. It has the on-site restaurant Tindur and a luxurious spa.
Can I find budget-friendly accommodations in the Golden Circle?
Can I find accommodations with on-site dining options in the Golden Circle?
Is it possible to find accommodations with geothermal hot tubs or pools in the Golden Circle?
What popular attractions are close to the Golden Circle?
1. Secret Lagoon in Fludir. This natural hot spring has a beautifully landscaped pool area. It is located approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles) east of the Golden Circle.
2. Skalholt is a historic site that was also the religious center of Iceland during the Middle Ages. It is around 40 kilometers (25 miles) south of the Golden Circle.
3. Kerid Crater is a stunning volcanic crater lake located approximately 10 kilometers (6 miles) north of Selfoss, making it easily accessible from the Golden Circle.
4. Laugarvatn Fontana, a geothermal spa and wellness center, is situated on the shores of Laugarvatn Lake, approximately 18 kilometers (11 miles) east of Geysir.
5. Hveragerdi, a town in the southwest of Iceland, known for its geothermal activity and hot springs, is approximately 45 kilometers (28 miles) east of the Golden Circle.
What are the top things to do in the Golden Circle?
Staying near this famous route allows you to easily visit its sites, and enjoy activities any time of the day. Here are some of the top things to do in the Golden Circle:
1. Explore the UNESCO Heritage Site of Thingvellir, and immerse in Iceland’s beauty and history.
2. See boiling water shoot high at the Geysir geothermal area and witness the powerful eruptions of Strokkur.
3. Marvel at the majestic beauty of the Gullfoss waterfall and watch it cascade in two tiers.
4. Swim between tectonic plates by snorkeling in Silfra.
5. Relax in the soothing geothermal waters of the Secret Lagoon in Fludir or visit Fontana Spa in Laugarvatn.
Are the hotels and accommodations in the Golden Circle close to the main attractions?
A great option to stay at the center of the Golden Circle is the 360 Hotel, which boasts incredible views and a thermal bath.
Are there hotels near the Golden Circle that offer tours to nearby attractions?
Will staying at a hotel near the Golden Circle provide opportunities to explore lesser-known attractions in the area?
Can staying at a hotel near the Golden Circle help me avoid the crowds at popular attractions?
How can staying at a hotel near the Golden Circle enhance my sightseeing experience in Iceland?
How far in advance should I book my accommodation in the Golden Circle?
To secure the best options and availability, book at least three to six months before your stay in Iceland.
Can I stay near the Golden Circle if I’m traveling with kids?
What type of transportation is available near Golden Circle accommodations?
What is the best time of the year to stay near the Golden Circle?
Is staying at a hotel near the Golden Circle beneficial for photography enthusiasts?
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