Golden Circle Review: Tomato Farm & Secret Lagoon Option

Thinking about visiting Iceland’s famous Golden Circle? It’s truly more than just geysers and waterfalls; it’s almost like a chance to sample some of the heart of Iceland, you know? I recently had the opportunity to do a twist on the typical route, adding a visit to a quirky tomato farm and the bliss of the Secret Lagoon. And I have to say, it kind of made the entire day something quite memorable. This review pretty much lays out the experience, the things I thought were awesome, and also some bits that you, arguably, ought to keep in mind if you’re mapping out your own adventure.

The Allure of the Golden Circle

Okay, so the Golden Circle is pretty much Iceland’s greatest hits album, very condensed into a day trip. It’s very popular, as a matter of fact, for perfectly valid reasons. You’ve got Þingvellir National Park, is that not where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, putting you smack-dab in a spot of both natural beauty and massive historical relevance? Then, too, Geysir Geothermal Area boasts Strokkur, which is basically a geyser that puts on a show every few minutes – it’s definitely an amazing thing to watch. And then, of course, there’s Gullfoss waterfall, which is like a powerful, two-tiered cascade that demonstrates the raw force of nature in a big, beautiful display.

The standard Golden Circle circuit will give you a hefty dose of Iceland’s remarkable landscapes, which, basically, might be enough for some folks. Still, adding a stop at Fridheimar Tomato Farm and a dip in the Secret Lagoon is almost a chance to turn the dial up a little bit. Are you after a journey that has something a little unusual alongside some deep relaxation? If that is the case, this alternative route could be exactly the thing for you. I can go over what the experience had to offer in detail here.

Fridheimar: A Tomato Farm with a Twist

So, Fridheimar Tomato Farm; what’s the story there? Well, it might sound a bit random, yet trust me, that is truly quite a delightful detour. Situated within a greenhouse that’s toasty all year round, you will find yourself within rows upon rows of, very obviously, tomato plants, all basking under, apparently, some artificial sun. What makes it kind of exceptional is that they really do embrace sustainability. They depend on geothermal energy, plentiful in Iceland, to warm the greenhouses and grow all those lovely tomatoes.

I took the chance to get lunch there, and honestly, it was almost an amazing experience. Everything on the menu, arguably, contains tomatoes in one way or another – from the heavenly tomato soup (served with fresh bread, sour cream, and basil) to the green tomato jam and the tomato ice cream (yes, that is truly a thing!). You too get to learn all about the cultivation process, the ways that they use beneficial insects instead of, like, pesticides, and the ways that the family running it have gotten everything set up. Basically, it is not just a tasty lunch; it is almost an education into innovative agriculture in Iceland. After a few hours running round in the chilly Iceland air, that warmth and cozy lunch did the trick.

Soaking Bliss at the Secret Lagoon

Then it was off to the Secret Lagoon near Fludir, which I have to say is arguably an ideal spot to relax after touring. The Secret Lagoon, quite honestly, offers a less touristy and, more or less, intimate take on Iceland’s geothermal bathing spots. While the Blue Lagoon is maybe way more well-known, the Secret Lagoon does offer you that somewhat similar experience at, maybe, a slightly better price and it is, typically, less crowded.

The warm, mineral-rich waters there sit at a cozy 38-40°C (100-104°F) throughout the year, so they feel magnificent, especially when the surrounding air is crisp. I unwound in the steamy pool, so that would be something, while enjoying the tranquil landscapes all around. A few small geysers around the perimeter kinda added a nice touch. There certainly is something incredibly soothing about settling in such heat when you are literally surrounded by the gorgeous landscapes of Iceland.

Planning Your Golden Circle Adventure: Things to Know

Okay, so you want to get moving, so that would be the thing. But here are, kind of, some points worth considering when putting together your very own Golden Circle excursion.

Timing Is Everything: The Golden Circle is usually done as a day trip out of Reykjavik, the country’s capital. If you are thinking of including Fridheimar and the Secret Lagoon, then I’d advise setting aside a full day. Starting early will not only allow you time for all your planned adventures, but too it’s almost more likely that you will bypass the tour bus crowds, particularly during peak seasons.

Booking in Advance: If you are definitely wanting to eat at Fridheimar, then it’s generally advisable to book a table ahead of time. It’s very popular, I think, plus booking secures you a table in the warm environment, mostly when you are showing up around lunch. Also, consider pre-booking your entry to the Secret Lagoon. Although it’s less intensely crowded than the Blue Lagoon, booking gets you to sidestep any, potential, lines and secures your spot.

What to Pack: Don’t forget, obviously, the essentials! That includes swimwear for the Secret Lagoon, a fast-drying towel, plus a waterproof jacket. Also, bear in mind that the climate in Iceland could be quite unpredictable. Dressing in layers makes certain that you’re comfortable, pretty much, irrespective of the conditions.

Driving vs. Tours: You might opt to either drive the Golden Circle all by yourself, or perhaps you can join a guided tour. Renting a car provides flexibility. You may stop where you would like, whenever you like. That stated, you could truly relax when you are traveling on a tour; they handle all of the details, plus they even provide some insights regarding the background to each site. Still, should you consider a tour, make sure that you find one which actually includes both Fridheimar and the Secret Lagoon. This may, seemingly, have an effect on availability and price.

What Makes this Golden Circle Option Special?

What’s it to you, though? Very well, for a start it provides, what one may refer to as, balance. Yes, the must-see spots are certainly terrific. But there are, I suspect, times that large scale nature could prove to be very overpowering. You might consider a greenhouse filled with tomato plants, very bathed in some geothermal warmth. Too you could unwind from such natural grandeur for some time to wallow about inside naturally warmed geothermal water, away from every other tourist. That contrast – in environment, sensation, along with activity – gives depth.

As well as relaxation; let us not neglect the instructional elements. Yes, a tomato themed meal will always be delicious and extremely welcomed. However the insight into the way in which Iceland has adopted geothermal energy and sustainability for farming might change how one sees Iceland’s agriculture forever. I had no idea I was planning to experience, what felt like, a mini farming masterclass with my soup and bread!

My Honest Recommendations

So, as someone who’s done the Golden Circle with the bonus round, I’ve, in a way, gained some insights to share:

• Must-Do for Foodies: Even in case you’re only remotely serious about food, then you definately can’t skip Fridheimar. It’s not merely eating; it’s almost appreciating Iceland’s modern farming.
• Secret Lagoon Is Bliss: Should you ever wish to evade crowds, then the Secret Lagoon has a far more genuine, quieter vibe than the very popular Blue Lagoon. Bring your camera; capturing the mist emerging as you bathe, seemingly, is amazing.
• Timing Matters: Leave Reykjavik at, such as, 8 or 9 am. In this way, that makes certain you don’t feel too pressured to speed all the way to places. Additionally, it ups the chances you’re there before too many other visitors, particularly throughout summer.
• Driving Yourself = Independence: If you are a confident driver and do want a lot of time to spare to go checking places in depth, or for a while to unwind, very well; hire a car. Being on my own meant I spent nearly an hour taking photographs around Gullfoss. That just will never have taken place with tour guides, as a matter of fact.

So the standard Golden Circle will tick every one of those landmark boxes. Adding Fridheimar plus the Secret Lagoon means taking a standard tourist jaunt and spinning it into, possibly, some thing that resonates slightly more deeply – a bit that combines seeing things together with enjoying them a great deal better. Enjoy the planning, have an enjoyable trip!