Golden Circle Premium Tour with Fridheimar Farm

Exploring the Golden Circle with a Premium Touch: An Honest Review

Our review focuses on the highly-rated Golden Circle Premium Tour with Fridheimar Farm, offered by Iceland Horizon. This full-day trip from Reykjavik takes you through some of Iceland’s most famed sights, all while providing extra comfort and unique experiences. With a consistent 5-star rating from 42 reviews and a 95% recommendation rate, it’s clear that many travelers find this tour memorable for all the right reasons.

What we really like about this tour is the seamless balance between iconic sights and personable, off-the-beaten-path moments. The inclusion of the Fridheimar tomato farm, where you get to see a working greenhouse and enjoy a farm-fresh lunch, elevates the experience beyond a typical sightseeing excursion. A potential consideration is the timing—at approximately 8 to 9 hours, it’s a full day that requires some stamina, especially if you’re eager to maximize your Iceland trip.

If you’re someone who appreciates well-organized tours with knowledgeable guides, scenic stops, and the ability to relax without worrying about logistics, this experience could be perfect. It’s especially ideal for those with limited time in Iceland who want a comprehensive, comfortable way to see the highlights without the hassle of driving or planning.

Key Points

• All Highlights Covered: See Kerid Crater, Geysir, Gullfoss, and Thingvellir, plus a visit to a working tomato farm.
• Comfort and Convenience: Included hotel pickup, round-trip transport, and small group sizes enhance the experience.
• Rich in Unique Experiences: The Fridheimar farm stop offers a taste of Icelandic ingenuity with its tomato greenhouse and farm-to-table lunch.
• Expert Guides Make a Difference: Guides like Bjorn, Petra, and Baldvin receive high praise for their knowledge, humor, and engaging storytelling.
• Great for Limited Time: Covering Iceland’s many sights in one day makes it a practical choice for travelers with tight schedules.
• Value for Money: For around $172, you get a full day of sightseeing, insightful commentary, and access to some of Iceland’s top natural wonders.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Transportation & Group Size

The tour operates with a comfortable air-conditioned minibus, making the long day much easier on the legs and back. With a maximum of 18 travelers, you’re far from the crowds of large bus tours, which means more flexibility at each stop and a more intimate experience. Several reviewers highlight how small-group travel allows for spontaneous stops—like an impromptu visit to an ice cream farm or a quick horse seen along the way—that larger tours often skip.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Kerid Crater is the first stop, offering a vivid view of a volcanic caldera filled with a deep blue lake. The 20-minute stop means just enough time to snap photos and appreciate the crater’s unique colors—a striking start to the day. Reviewers mention how the admission is free, and the scenery is worth the brief stop.

Next, the tour heads to Fridheimar, a working tomato greenhouse that doubles as a farm-to-table lunch spot. Here, travelers typically spend around an hour, which allows for strolling through the greenhouse, learning about Iceland’s innovative use of geothermal energy for farming, and enjoying a meal with fresh, locally-grown produce. Many reviews emphasize how much they loved the farm visit, with some calling it a highlight. One reviewer marveled at the greenhouse’s efficiency, noting how it’s a testament to Iceland’s resourcefulness. The farm’s emphasis on sustainable use of natural resources adds a meaningful layer to the experience.

Geysir Geothermal Area is next, where you can watch Strokkur geyser erupt every few minutes, providing excellent photo opportunities. The timing at Geysir is about 80 minutes, allowing visitors to see multiple eruptions and walk around the geothermal area, which is filled with steaming vents and bubbling mud pots. Reviewers rave about watching the geysers—they say it’s just as spectacular as you’d hope, and some mention how it’s fun to see the kids’ faces light up during eruptions.

Then, the visit to Thingvellir National Park offers both scenic beauty and historical significance. Located between two tectonic plates, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The hour-long stop includes views of the rift valley and the historic site where Iceland’s parliament was founded. Visitors report enjoying the walk along the fissures and learning about how the park is a symbol of Iceland’s independence and geological marvels.

Finally, the tour culminates at Gullfoss, arguably Iceland’s most famous waterfall. The 40-minute stop lets you soak in the thunderous cascade and take photos from various viewpoints. Many reviewers mention how awe-inspiring the falls are, especially with the mist and rainbows often present on sunny days.

The Value of an Expert Guide

The tour’s guides, such as Bjorn, Petra, Baldvin, and others, are consistently praised for their friendly demeanor and wealth of knowledge. Their storytelling turns a sightseeing day into a memorable journey, often including little stories and facts that you wouldn’t find on your own. For example, one reviewer notes how their guide shared not only the history but also fun tidbits that enriched the experience, like Iceland’s innovative farming practices or lesser-known local sights.

The Food & Additional Experiences

The lunch stop at Fridheimar is a definite highlight. Not just a meal, but an insight into Icelandic ingenuity, the farm produces tomatoes using geothermal heating, and the food reflects the freshness of farm-to-table ingredients. The reviews mention the farm’s gastronomic flair, with some describing the gelato and ice cream as the best they’ve ever had—flavors like rhubarb and Biscoff adding a unique twist. The farm also offers an opportunity to see Iceland’s use of natural resources firsthand.

Practicalities: Timing, Cost, and Comfort

The 8 to 9-hour duration might seem long, but most travelers find it flows smoothly thanks to the engaging guides and the variety of stops. The tour’s price of approximately $172 per person might seem steep at first glance, but considering it includes transportation, park fees, and a memorable farm visit, the value is quite good. The small-group format enhances comfort, allowing for spontaneous extra stops, which many reviewers appreciated.

Pickup from Reykjavik hotels is included, simplifying logistics. The tour operates rain or shine, but since it relies on outdoor stops, weather conditions can affect the experience. A few reviews mention how the guides often go the extra mile, adding stops or sharing additional insights, which adds to the overall value.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This Golden Circle tour is perfect for those short on time but eager to see as much as possible of Iceland’s iconic sights. It’s well-suited for travelers who value small-group comfort and are keen on learning from enthusiastic, knowledgeable guides. Food lovers will appreciate the farm visit and the opportunity to sample fresh Icelandic produce. Families with children find the itinerary manageable, especially since walking is gentle and there’s plenty to keep kids entertained—like geyser eruptions and waterfalls.

If you’re looking for a comprehensive, comfortable, and engaging day trip from Reykjavik that balances natural beauty with authentic local experiences, this tour ticks the boxes. Be prepared for a full day of walking, sightseeing, and storytelling, with plenty of opportunities for photos and relaxing breaks.

The Sum Up

The Golden Circle Premium Tour with Fridheimar Farm offers a thoughtfully curated experience that combines Iceland’s most renowned sights with unique local touches. The small-group format, expert guides, and inclusion of a farm visit make it stand out among many similar tours, delivering both educational value and visual awe.

This tour is especially suitable if you want to maximize your time in Iceland without sacrificing comfort or authenticity. The price reflects the quality of transport, guided narration, and special stops—delivering a well-rounded day that won’t leave you feeling rushed or underwhelmed.

Travelers who enjoy engaging guides, scenic outdoor stops, and a taste of Icelandic innovation will leave with plenty of lasting memories—and perhaps even a new favorite ice cream flavor.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes all park fees, transportation by air-conditioned minibus, parking fees, and hotel pickup. Food and drinks are not included but are available at the farm stop.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 8 to 9 hours, from about 9:00 am start until late afternoon.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome when accompanied by an adult. The walking is manageable, and there are plenty of interesting sights for kids.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera. The guides often add spontaneous stops, so be prepared for some extra walking or photos.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. Cancellations less than 24 hours before are non-refundable.

How many people are in each group?
The tour has a maximum of 18 travelers, providing a more intimate experience compared to larger bus groups.

What is the tour guide like?
Guides such as Bjorn, Petra, and Baldvin are highly praised for their friendliness, humor, and extensive knowledge. They often go above and beyond to make the trip memorable.

Does the tour operate in all weather conditions?
Generally, yes. Since it’s an outdoor-focused tour, poor weather can affect the experience, but guides will adapt and seek alternative stops or activities if needed.

Is the tour worth the price?
Based on reviews, the combination of scenic sights, farm visit, expert guides, and comfort makes it a good value, especially for travelers wanting a comprehensive day without stress.

In essence, if you’re looking for a well-organized, authentic, and scenic introduction to Iceland’s Golden Circle, this premium tour offers just that—comfort, insight, and unforgettable views rolled into one memorable day.