one of the key reason iceland is such a popular tourist destination is the well preserved and diverse natural landscape and that is most noticeable on a iconic golden circle day tour. the golden circle route is composed of three major stops: thingvellir national park, gullfoss waterfall, and the haukadalur geothermal region, home to the famous strokkur and the great geysir. accessible on a day trip from reykjavik or a self-drive trip, the golden circle combines together iceland's gorgeous waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, and rift valleys. the golden circle can also include the fontana geothermal baths - an alternative to the popular blue lagoon - the multi-colored kerid crater lake, the langjokull glacier - popular for snowmobiling - silfra lake, where you can dive between the continental plates; and skalholt, considered to be iceland's first town.