Fontana Geothermal Spa and Golden Circle Tour From Reykjavik

Explore Reykjavik’s Best with the Fontana Geothermal Spa and Golden Circle Tour

This guided tour from Reykjavik offers an ideal way to see Iceland’s most iconic sights in a single day. Priced at $126.88 per person and lasting approximately 9 hours 30 minutes, it combines the famous Golden Circle route with a rejuvenating visit to Fontana Geothermal Spa. The tour departs at 10:00 am from Reykjavik Terminal and includes hotel pickup (for select locations), free onboard Wi-Fi, and a local guide providing insights in 10 languages.

What makes this tour stand out is its efficient schedule—covering Þingvellir National Park, Geysir, and Gullfoss—plus a generous hour at the Fontana Spa to relax in geothermal waters. A key advantage is the all-in-one experience that saves travelers from organizing multiple visits and transportation. The downside: hotel pickup isn’t available for all Reykjavik hotels**, and some reviews highlight communication issues around pickup times. Still, for those eager to combine sightseeing with relaxation, this tour offers a practical, well-organized option.

Key Points

• Includes a visit to Fontana Geothermal Spa for relaxing in natural warm waters.
• Comprehensive stops at Þingvellir National Park, Geysir, and Gullfoss.
• Hassle-free pickup from select Reykjavik locations, with onboard Wi-Fi and USB charging.
• Tour duration of around 9.5 hours suits travellers with limited time.
• Guided commentary available in 10 languages enhances understanding of each site.
• Cost-effective, combining sightseeing and spa relaxation in one tour.

Starting Point and Tour Duration in Reykjavik

This guided tour begins at the Reykjavik Terminal, located at Skógarhlíð 10, 105 Reykjavík. The tour starts promptly at 10:00 am, giving participants plenty of time to enjoy each stop. With a total duration of about 9 hours 30 minutes, it’s designed to fit into a full-day schedule. The end point is the same as the start, making logistics straightforward.

Pickup is offered, but only for specific hotels or locations within Reykjavik. The tour simplifies planning by providing hotel drop-off, depending on the arrangement. Travelers should note that extra charges apply for some pickup options, and confirmation is received immediately upon booking.

The Highlights of the Golden Circle: Þingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss

The first major stop is Þingvellir National Park, where the first Icelandic parliament was established. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features dramatic landscapes and significant historical importance. Visitors get 45 minutes to walk around and appreciate the geological formations and historic sites without feeling rushed.

Next, the tour visits the Geysir Hot Spring Area, home to the active Strokkur geyser. Every few minutes, Strokkur erupts with water reaching 30 meters (100 feet) into the air. The area also has bubbling mud pits and steaming hot springs, creating a vivid geothermal landscape. This stop lasts 45 minutes, offering enough time to observe the natural spectacle and take photos.

The last major stop on the Golden Circle is Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls. The Hvítá River plunges in three distinct steps into a canyon, producing a breathtaking roar and powerful spray. On clear days, the Langjökull glacier can be seen in the distance, adding to the scenic panoramic views. Visitors spend 45 minutes here, enjoying the scenery and capturing memorable photos.

Relaxing at Fontana Geothermal Spa

After the sightseeing, the tour shifts to Laugarvatn, home of Fontana Geothermal Spa. Over the course of one hour, visitors can soak in natural warm pools of varying temperatures, enjoy the sauna, or dare to dip in the cool Laugarvatn lake. The spectacular lake view and the natural geothermal heat make Fontana a perfect spot for relaxation.

Unique to this experience is the surreal sound of boiling water bubbling beneath the spa floors, giving a tangible sense of geothermal power. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own swimsuit and towel, though towel rentals are not included, and some reviews suggest bringing extra towels as one was pinched during a visit. The natural surroundings and serene atmosphere contribute to a refreshing escape from busy sightseeing.

Practical Logistics and Onboard Amenities

This tour provides convenient amenities to enhance the experience. Each seat is equipped with a USB charger, and free Wi-Fi is available onboard, allowing travelers to share photos instantly. The guided commentary in 10 languages offers insights on each site, making the experience educational as well as scenic.

Pickup is available for some Reykjavik locations, but communication about specific pickup points may be inconsistent, as some reviews note. The tour does not include hotel pickup for all accommodations, and travelers should check the details or prepare for a meeting point at the Reykjavik Terminal.

What to Bring and How to Prepare

Participants are advised to dress warmly and waterproof due to Iceland’s unpredictable weather. Bringing a waterproof jacket and pants, headwear, and gloves is recommended. Since the spa visit involves swimsuits and towels, travelers should bring their own or be prepared to purchase these onboard. Comfortable outdoor shoes are essential for walking around the stops.

Earphones for the audio guide are recommended, though they can be purchased on board if forgotten. Children can participate but must be accompanied by an adult.

Guided Tour with a Family-Friendly Vibe

The guided commentary enhances the experience, with some reviews highlighting funny and informative guides. The small group size and timed stops make the tour manageable and engaging. Despite some comments about rushed pacing, the itinerary allows for a comprehensive visit to the main Golden Circle sights plus a relaxing break at Fontana Spa.

Potential Drawbacks and Tips

While the tour offers excellent value for combining sightseeing and relaxation, some reviewers mention communication issues regarding pickup arrangements and inconsistent pickup times. Towel rentals at Fontana are not included, so bringing your own or planning to purchase is advisable. Be prepared for weather changes and dress accordingly.

Since hotel pickup isn’t available everywhere and additional charges might apply, confirm your pickup details prior to the tour day. The rushed schedule may not suit those seeking a slow, unhurried experience but works well for travelers with limited time.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This combination tour suits first-time visitors eager to see key Icelandic sights efficiently while also enjoying a peaceful soak in geothermal waters. It is ideal for those who appreciate guided commentary, convenience, and a blend of adventure and relaxation. The short duration and group size make it suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a well-organized day.

Active travelers should note the need for warm, waterproof clothing and comfortable walking shoes. Those seeking more in-depth exploration of each site may prefer longer, dedicated visits, but for a rundown, this tour hits the main highlights succinctly.

Fontana Geothermal Spa and Golden Circle Tour: Final Thoughts

This tour offers a solid, practical way to experience Iceland’s highlights without the hassle of planning transportation or multiple bookings. The combination of scenic stops—Þingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss—paired with relaxing at Fontana makes it a balanced day for sightseeing and unwinding.

While some logistical limitations exist, particularly around pickup communication and towel rentals, the value, convenience, and scenic beauty make this a strong choice. It is best suited for travelers wanting a well-organized, guided day with the added bonus of geothermal relaxation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
Pickup is offered for certain Reykjavik locations, but not all hotels are included. Confirm your pickup point upon booking.

What is the tour duration?
The entire experience lasts approximately 9 hours 30 minutes, starting at 10:00 am and ending back at the meeting point.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included in the tour price.

Should I bring my own towel and swimsuit?
It’s recommended to bring your own towel and swimsuit, as towel rentals are not included but can be purchased onboard.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.

What languages are the audio guides available in?
The onboard audio guide is available in 10 languages, including English, French, German, Dutch, Italian, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Finnish.

How crowded does the tour get?
The tour can accommodate up to 60 travelers, but some reviews mention small groups, especially at Fontana Spa, which can feel quite intimate.

Can I purchase snacks or drinks during the stops?
Yes, some stops like Fontana Spa have cafes where you can buy snacks and drinks.

What should I wear?
Dress in warm, waterproof clothing, and bring good outdoor shoes suitable for walking.

Is the tour physically demanding?
The stops involve walking but are generally manageable; active participation depends on personal comfort with outdoor conditions.

How do I book this tour?
Bookings can be made online through the provider’s website, with confirmation issued immediately.