The Silver Circle: Private Borgarfjörður Day Tour from Reyk.

The Silver Circle: Private Borgarfjörður Day Tour from Reykjavik
Location: Northeastern Region, Iceland
Price: $1,649 per group (up to 4 people)
Rating: 4.9/5 from 7 reviews
Supplier: Gravel Travel

This tour offers a carefully curated taste of Iceland’s rugged beauty and legendary past, all within a day from Reykjavik. For around $1,649, you and up to three travel companions get a private guide, a comfortable vehicle, and a well-planned itinerary that highlights some of Iceland’s most iconic sights. It’s an excellent option if you’re after a personalized experience, away from large crowds but still eager to soak up the country’s stories and scenery.

What we really like about this tour are two things: first, the chance to walk through landscapes that inspired the Icelandic Sagas, with storytelling woven into the visit to Deildartunguhver, Hraunfossar, and Barnafoss. Second, the seamless combination of adventure (like the optional glacier experience) and relaxation (in the geothermal Krauma Spa).

A potential consideration is the cost—at over $1,600, it’s on the pricier side for a full-day tour. However, with private transport and personalized attention, many travelers find it worth the expense. It’s especially suited for those who value a flexible schedule, comfort, and in-depth storytelling, as reflected in glowing reviews praising knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery.

Key Points

• Authentic Icelandic landscapes: Visit waterfalls, hot springs, and glaciers, each with their own unique stories and visuals.
• Rich storytelling: Learn about Viking legends and Icelandic sagas tied to each site.
• Flexibility and comfort: Private vehicle and guide ensure a personalized, relaxed experience.
• Optional extras: Glacier inside the Langjökull ice cap and Krauma Spa provide memorable add-ons.
• Good value for the experience: Private tours tend to be more costly but offer tailored attention and less crowding.
• Ideal for history lovers and nature enthusiasts: The tour balances myth, natural beauty, and adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Journey

Starting Point: Reykjavik and the Drive Into Borgarfjörður

The adventure begins with a hotel pickup in Reykjavik, where you’ll meet your guide and hop into a private vehicle. The route takes you away from the city’s hustle into the quieter, expansive landscapes of West Iceland. As we leave the Ring Road behind, we wind through fields and lava plains, catching glimpses of Icelandic horses grazing amid mossy rocks—an immediate reminder that this is a land shaped by fire and ice.

The drive itself sets the tone for the day: peaceful, scenic, and filled with opportunities for your guide to share local stories. This part of the journey might be less dramatic than the stops but is essential in building anticipation for what’s ahead.

First Stop: Deildartunguhver Hot Spring

Our first major destination is Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring. Here, water emerges from the earth at a bubbling 97°C (207°F), steaming as it hits moss-covered rocks. The sight of such raw geothermal power is striking and underscores Iceland’s reliance on renewable energy.
You’ll love the way the hot water supply supports local spas like Krauma—an idea that combines Iceland’s natural resources with wellness. The guides often share insights about how this hot spring heats much of West Iceland, giving you an understanding of Iceland’s geothermal ingenuity.

Authentic tip: Many visitors find the sight of the steam and the smell of sulfur calming, and it’s a great chance to appreciate how Iceland turns nature into everyday life.

Hraunfossar and Barnafoss: Waterfalls with a Legend

Next, we visit the Hraunfossar (“Lava Falls”), where clear rivulets flow gently from beneath the vast Hallmundarhraun lava field into the Hvítá River. It’s a surreal scene—water that seems to emerge from nowhere, creating a shimmering curtain of streams. Many reviewers comment on how peaceful and photogenic this spot is, making it perfect for a leisurely walk and photos.

Close by is Barnafoss, or “Children’s Falls,” a powerful waterfall with a haunting legend. According to folk tales, two children fell to their deaths here, giving the falls their tragic name. The surrounding landscape, with a natural stone arch and turbulent waters, offers a mix of natural beauty and storytelling that sticks with visitors.
One reviewer shared, “The landscape, with its natural stone arch and turbulent waters, evokes both beauty and mystery,” which captures the feeling many have here.

Why it matters: These waterfalls are not just picturesque—they embody Iceland’s volcanic forces and the stories that bring these landscapes to life.

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Optional: Into the Glacier at Langjökull

For those craving a bit more adventure, the “Into the Glacier” add-on is a highlight. Riding a specially adapted vehicle up Langjökull’s icy slopes, and then walking through a tunnel carved into the glacier, offers a surreal peek into Iceland’s frozen heart. This experience highlights Iceland’s ongoing relationship with its glaciers—both as water reservoirs and symbols of climate change.

Note: Entrance to the glacier is not included in the base tour price, and you’ll want to book this in advance if you’re interested.

Relaxation and Reflection at Krauma Spa

After a day of sightseeing, many guests choose to unwind at Krauma Spa, fed by the same geothermal waters that power Deildartunguhver. The spa’s outdoor pools, cooled with glacial meltwater, provide stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
You can soak in the warm waters, try the invigorating cold plunge, or lounge by the fire in the minimalist Icelandic-designed relaxation room.
Reviewer feedback: “The spa was the perfect way to end the day,” and “the natural warmth and beautiful setting made it worth the extra cost.”

Tip: Entrance to Krauma isn’t included, so plan accordingly.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

This private tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate storytelling and personalized attention. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making complex Icelandic history accessible and fun. The flexible schedule allows for stopping at sites you’re most interested in, and the private vehicle ensures comfort and convenience.

The combination of natural wonders—hot springs, waterfalls, glaciers—and mythic stories provides a comprehensive Iceland experience without the crowds of larger tours. Many reviewers highlight the stunning scenery and friendly guides as key reasons to choose this tour.

Value and Practicality

While the price might seem high at $1,649, remember that it covers a private vehicle, a guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, and optional extras. For travelers seeking a comfortable, in-depth, and customizable day, it offers excellent value. The smaller group size (up to 4 people) also means more flexibility and a personal touch—a significant advantage over larger bus tours.

Who Should Join?

This tour appeals most to those who want to combine culture, history, and nature in a relaxed setting. It’s ideal for travelers who value expert guidance and are willing to pay a premium for a curated experience. It’s also suitable for travelers who appreciate premium comfort and personalized service.

Final Thoughts

The Silver Circle tour from Reykjavik delivers a well-rounded Iceland experience, blending magnificent scenery with engaging storytelling. You’ll travel through landscapes that inspired the sagas, see waterfalls that have shaped local legends, and have the optional thrill of entering a glacier’s icy depths. All this, combined with the opportunity to unwind at a geothermal spa, makes for a memorable day.

If you’re after a detailed, flexible, and thoughtfully curated adventure that captures both the natural beauty and mythic spirit of Iceland, this tour is a strong contender. It offers a chance to see the country’s highlights in comfort, guided by knowledgeable locals who are eager to share their stories.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, especially since it’s a private tour. However, the glacier experience and walking around waterfalls and geothermal areas might be more enjoyable for those comfortable with moderate activity.

How long is the tour?
It’s a full-day experience, typically lasting around 8 hours including pickup, sightseeing, and optional activities.

What should I bring?
Bring sturdy hiking shoes, and dress according to the weather—layered clothing is recommended since Icelandic weather can change quickly.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or lunch if desired.

Can I customize the tour?
Yes, the private nature of the tour allows for some flexibility, especially if you want to include or skip certain stops.

Is the Glacier visit worth it?
Many reviews highlight the glacier experience as a “once-in-a-lifetime” opportunity, especially for those interested in icy landscapes and learning about glaciers’ role in Iceland’s environment.

What is the group size?
The tour is private for up to 4 people, ensuring personalized attention and comfort.

In the end, this tour offers a genuine chance to connect with Iceland’s wild landscapes and legendary past, all while enjoying the comforts of private transport and expert guidance. It’s a well-balanced adventure for those eager for stories, scenery, and a touch of luxury—without sacrificing authenticity.

You can check availability for your dates here: