Golden Circle with Tomato Farm and Secret Lagoon(Optional)

Travelers often hear about Iceland’s stunning landscapes—volcanoes, waterfalls, and geothermal springs—and wonder what makes a private tour so special. This particular experience, offered by Iceland Paradise Tours, combines the iconic Golden Circle with some unique additions like a visit to a Tomato Farm and the Secret Lagoon, all while enjoying the comfort of a private guide. We’ve gathered insights and details to help you decide if this tour fits your Iceland adventure plans.

What draws us in about this tour? First, the chance to enjoy a more personalized experience away from the crowds. Second, the opportunity to taste fresh, farm-grown tomatoes in a greenhouse setting—something you won’t find on every tour. Third, the inclusion of an intimate soak in the Secret Lagoon, offering a quieter alternative to the Blue Lagoon. On the flip side, one thing to consider is that the Blue Lagoon admission is not included, so you’ll need to budget for that separately.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a flexible, immersive way to see Iceland’s highlights without the busy crowds. It suits those who appreciate authentic experiences, good scenery, and a touch of luxury. If you’re eager for a blend of natural wonders, local flavors, and geothermal relaxation, this might be just the tour for you.

Key Points

• Private Guided Experience: More personalized, flexible, and less crowded than group tours.
• Iconic Golden Circle: Visits to Thingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss showcase Iceland’s geological and natural marvels.
• Unique Additions: Optional stops at a tomato farm and Secret Lagoon elevate the experience.
• Taste of Local Cuisine: Lunch at Friðheimar offers fresh, tomato-based dishes in a greenhouse setting.
• Separate Blue Lagoon Fee: Admission isn’t included, so plan for additional costs.
• Comfort and Convenience: Transportation with pickup and drop-off ensures a hassle-free day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown

The Golden Circle Highlights

The core of this tour revolves around the classic Golden Circle route, which is a must-do for anyone visiting Iceland. It covers three main sights:

Thingvellir National Park stands out for its geological significance—it’s where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, creating a noticeable rift valley. This site also holds historical weight as the birthplace of Iceland’s parliament, Althing, making it a fascinating blend of nature and history. Travelers often comment on the breathtaking scenery and the feeling of walking through a place where Earth’s tectonic forces are visible.

Geysir Geothermal Area is all about the steam and eruptions. The famous Strokkur geyser erupts every few minutes, shooting boiling water high into the sky. Watching this natural spectacle, especially with bubbling hot springs and mineral-rich deposits around, is a thrill. Many reviews mention the area as a “photographer’s dream,” with vibrant mineral colors and dynamic eruptions.

Gullfoss Waterfall is a sight no visitor forgets. Known as the “Golden Falls,” it features a double cascade plunging into a deep canyon, with rainbows often appearing in the mist. It’s a powerful display of Iceland’s raw natural force, and the views are consistently praised for their dramatic impact.

A Special Lunch at Friðheimar Tomato Farm

One of the tour’s standout features is the lunch at Friðheimar, a farm where tomatoes are grown year-round inside a greenhouse. Guests enjoy dishes like freshly made tomato soup, hearty bread, and other tomato-inspired delicacies. Reviewers love the setting—surrounded by thriving plants, with warm, vibrant vibes that make the meal memorable. It’s a real farm-to-table experience that combines culinary delight with a glimpse into Iceland’s innovative agriculture.

The Secret Lagoon: A Hidden Gem

Adding to the allure is an optional visit to the Secret Lagoon in Flúir. This geothermal pool predates the Blue Lagoon and is a quieter, less commercial option for relaxation. Surrounded by bubbling hot springs and steaming vents, it offers a genuine taste of Iceland’s geothermal bathing culture. Guests have raved about the serenity compared to the busy Blue Lagoon, and many find it a more authentic and peaceful soak.

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Why the Tour May Appeal to You

Travelers who opt for this tour appreciate the personalized approach that private guides offer. We loved the way the itinerary can be slightly adjusted depending on weather or preferences, providing a more tailored experience. The inclusion of optional stops means you can choose to explore the farm and lagoon if they appeal to your interests, or skip them if you prefer a more streamlined day.

However, keep in mind that the Blue Lagoon admission is not included. If this iconic spot is a must-visit, you’ll need to book and pay for it separately, which could add to your overall costs.

The Practicalities: What You Should Know

Transportation and Group Size

With a private tour, transportation is comfortable and door-to-door, with pickup and drop-off at your accommodation. This beats the hassle of public transport or large bus pickups, especially if you’re staying in a remote area. The small group size ensures more individualized attention and flexibility, which many travelers find enhances the experience.

Duration and Timing

The entire experience typically lasts around a full day, with the Blue Lagoon’s site stay around 4 hours. Timing can vary based on weather and other factors, but the flexible itinerary allows guides to optimize your day and avoid crowds or unfavorable conditions.

Cost and Value

At $1,173 for a group of up to three, the cost might seem steep at first glance. But when you break it down, you’re paying for a personal guide, private transportation, and exclusive access to unique locations. The farm lunch and optional lagoon visit add value, especially considering the personalized service. Remember, the Blue Lagoon’s separate fee means budgeting ahead is wise.

Language and Booking

The tour is available in multiple languages, including English, Hindi, Spanish, French, and Dutch, making it accessible for many travelers. Booking is flexible—reserve now and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What We Loved About This Tour

The highlights are the stunning views at each stop, especially the dramatic waterfalls and geothermal activity. The small group setting makes it easier to ask questions and enjoy a relaxed pace. The lunch at Friðheimar is a delightful surprise—fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. And the Secret Lagoon offers a peaceful, authentic bathing experience that stands out from more commercial options.

Some useful insights from reviews:

• “The private guide made the difference—more flexibility and personal attention.”
• “The tomato farm lunch was surprisingly delicious and a fun experience.”
• “The Secret Lagoon was a peaceful retreat, a nice change from the busy Blue Lagoon.”
• “The scenery was just as breathtaking as I hoped, especially Gullfoss and Geysir.”

Potential Downsides

The main consideration is the additional cost for Blue Lagoon, as admission isn’t included. Some travelers also mention that the tour’s timing can be affected by weather—so be prepared for some surprises. Also, the price might be higher than group tours, but many feel the personalized experience is worth it.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who value customized, intimate adventures over crowded group tours. It suits those keen on authentic Icelandic experiences like farm visits and geothermal bathing, combined with iconic sights. If you’re interested in local cuisine and quieter hot springs, this tour ticks those boxes. It’s a particularly good pick for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a more relaxed, flexible day exploring Iceland’s highlights.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For anyone wanting to see the Golden Circle with a more personal touch, this tour offers a blend of scenic beauty, cultural experiences, and geothermal relaxation that’s hard to beat. The optional stops at a tomato farm and Secret Lagoon add unique layers to the classic route, making your trip richer and more memorable. While the price is on the higher side, the value comes in the comfort, flexibility, and exclusive access you get.

If you’re after a well-rounded, authentic Iceland experience with a personal touch, this tour delivers. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate good scenery, local flavors, and a peaceful hot spring escape.

FAQ

Is the Blue Lagoon included in the tour price? No, the Blue Lagoon admission is not included and must be booked separately.

Can I add the Tomato Farm and Secret Lagoon to this tour? Yes, both are optional and can be added by contacting the tour provider; they are charged separately.

How long is the Blue Lagoon stay? The Blue Lagoon site stay duration is approximately 4 hours.

What languages are available for the tour? The tour can be booked in English, Hindi, Spanish, French, and Dutch.

Is transportation comfortable? Yes, the tour includes comfortable transportation with pickup and drop-off at your accommodation.

Can I cancel this tour? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for families? While it’s not explicitly stated, the flexible, private nature makes it suitable for families who enjoy sightseeing with a relaxed pace.

How much does the tour cost for a group of three? The price is $1,173 for up to three people.

Are meals included? No, meals and drinks during the tour are not included, except for the lunch at Friðheimar if you choose to visit.

What makes this tour stand out? Its private, flexible approach combined with unique stops like the Tomato Farm and Secret Lagoon offers a more authentic and intimate Iceland experience.

To sum it up, this private Golden Circle tour with optional visits to a Tomato Farm and Secret Lagoon offers a thoughtful, personalized way to enjoy Iceland’s highlights. It balances breathtaking scenery with local charm and geothermal relaxation, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking comfort, authenticity, and a memorable Icelandic adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: