After a much-needed rest from our first day's hectic adventures in Reykjavik, we were back on the road, ready for the next leg of our journey. Our first stop of the day was Thingvellir National Park, located about 40 kilometers (25 miles) from Reykjavik. As a family, we always jump at the chance to visit national parks, having explored over 30 across the U.S. and Canada. However, this visit was special—it marked our first adventure in a national park outside of North America.

Arriving at Thingvellir, we were immediately struck by its vast, rugged beauty. This UNESCO World Heritage site holds immense historical and geological significance. It was here, in 930 AD, that Iceland’s first parliament, the Althing, was established, making it one of the oldest democratic meeting places in the world. Beyond its historical importance, the park’s dramatic landscapes were mesmerizing—deep fissures, lava fields, and crystal-clear springs surrounded us.

One of the most awe-inspiring sights was Silfra Fissure, a rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, where the continents are slowly drifting apart. The clarity of the water in the fissure was unbelievable, making it a world-renowned spot for snorkeling and diving. We also took a short hike to Öxarárfoss Waterfall, a hidden gem nestled within the rocky terrain, where the cascading water created a peaceful, almost otherworldly atmosphere.

Walking through Thingvellir felt like stepping into a living history book, where nature and Iceland’s heritage intertwine seamlessly. It was the perfect start to our Golden Circle adventure.

Our visit to Öxarárfoss Waterfall was nothing short of magical. As we made our way through Thingvellir National Park, the anticipation grew with every step. The short yet scenic hike took us through rugged terrain, where the distant sound of rushing water hinted at the beauty waiting ahead. When we finally arrived, we were met with a breathtaking sight—a 20-meter cascade tumbling down over striking basalt rock formations into a tranquil pool below. The contrast between the smooth flow of water and the jagged volcanic rocks created a scene that felt almost otherworldly.

Often called Iceland’s hidden gem, Brúarfoss Waterfall was one of the most mesmerizing sights we encountered on our journey. Unlike the towering and thunderous waterfalls we had seen before, Brúarfoss was more subtle in its beauty, captivating us with its brilliant turquoise waters as they tumbled over a series of rocky ledges. The vivid blue hue, caused by glacial meltwater, made the falls look almost unreal, as if they belonged in a painting rather than in the rugged Icelandic landscape.

The name Brúarfoss, meaning “Bridge Falls,” originates from a time when a natural stone bridge once spanned the river above the waterfall. Though the bridge is long gone, the magic of the place remains. Reaching Brúarfoss required a scenic but slightly off-the-beaten-path hike, adding to its sense of exclusivity. As we stood before the cascading waters, surrounded by untouched Icelandic wilderness, we felt a profound sense of tranquility.

Our final stop on the Golden Circle—and yet another breathtaking waterfall of the day—was the mighty Gullfoss Waterfall. From the moment we arrived, we were struck by the sheer power and grandeur of this natural wonder. As we walked closer, the thundering roar of cascading water grew louder, reverberating through the rugged canyon walls. The waterfall, fed by the glacial Hvítá River, plunged in two dramatic stages into a deep gorge, creating a mesmerizing spectacle of mist and sunlight dancing in the air.

Standing at the edge of the viewing platform, we were completely captivated by the raw energy of the falls. The surrounding landscape, vast and untouched, made the scene even more surreal. Watching the water crash down with relentless force, we felt both humbled and inspired—a powerful reminder of Iceland’s untamed beauty and nature’s incredible might. Gullfoss was not just a sight to see; it was an experience to feel.