Day 3: Þingvellir National Park

A little further along, you’ll encounter the first small waterfall, leading to the iconic Öxarárfoss. Cascading more than 10 meters into the gorge, it is a mesmerizing sight. With a long exposure photo, the waterfall takes on a dreamy, ethereal look—though even a short shutter speed captures its powerful flow.

Today’s highlight on the Golden Circle Iceland itinerary is the legendary Þingvellir National Park, a site of immense historical and cultural significance. For centuries, Þingvellir served as the heart of Icelandic society. In 930, it became home to the Alþingi, Iceland’s first parliament and one of the world’s oldest. In 1944, crowds gathered here once again to celebrate the birth of the Republic of Iceland.

In addition to its rich history, Þingvellir is a breathtaking natural wonder. A walking trail leads past six main highlights of the park. The official map can be found here, but I recommend taking your time—although the loop can be completed in about 1.5 hours, I personally spent nearly 4.5 hours soaking up the spectacular views and landscapes.

Arriving at the main entrance, the first stop is the viewpoint offering panoramic vistas over the park. From there, you descend into the dramatic Almannagjá gorge, marking the eastern boundary of the North American tectonic plate. Walking between its towering rock walls, you truly feel dwarfed by the sheer scale of nature.

The next stop is Lögberg (The Law Rock), a cornerstone of Iceland’s heritage. Before the year 1000, assemblies gathered here to debate laws, deliver rulings, and carry out justice under the authority of the Lögrétta.

Continuing the trail, you pass through Stekkjargjá, part of the 7 km long fissure. Toward the end, a viewing platform offers a sweeping perspective of the gorge. To reach it, you walk through a narrow passage that feels like stepping into a fairytale.

The final stretch leads toward Þingvallavatn Lake, Iceland’s largest natural lake. On a clear day, it is a serene place to watch birds, rest on the shores, and simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings. With that, your loop around Þingvellir comes to an end—leaving you with lasting memories and plenty of time to reflect on the perfect start to your adventure in the Golden Circle.