Today we explore the famous Golden Circle, which includes three of Iceland's most iconic sights.
Nattura Yurtel is the ideal base from which to visit the magnificent Gullfoss waterfalls. It's a popular day trip from Reykjavik so we'll have an early breakfast and get there before the crowds arrive. Gullfoss is known locally as the 'Golden Waterfall', due to the way it cascades into a deep gorge with tremendous force. They may be biased but locals regard it as one of the most beautiful falls in the world!
Close by is Haukadalur, home of the Great Geysir. With the claim-to-fame of being the first spouting spring known to Europeans, Geysir has given all such springs their name. However, it is the Strokkur, meaning 'The Butter Churn', which is the main attraction these days, due to its impressive 30 metre eruptions every few minutes.
Continuing the focus on Iceland's incredible landscape we visit Thingvellir National Park, a rare site of both historical and geological importance. Meaning 'Parliament Plains', this was the location of Iceland's first National Assembly for 800 years from 930AD and as such, is hugely significant in the country's cultural heritage. The impressive landscape sits on a unique spot where the Mid-Atlantic Ridge can be seen on dry land before disappearing to the ocean floor. This provides the quirky opportunity to place one foot on the North American tectonic plate and one foot on the Eurasian plate.
We'll return to our accommodation in the afternoon and there'll be a chance to try the most traditional transport method, the Icelandic horse. We'll ride across open land at a relaxed pace, ideal for beginners with the focus being on taking in the vast landscape. If horse riding doesn't appeal then do as the locals do and visit the Secret Lagoon, a natural geo-thermal pool perfect for relaxing in the warm water.
Although each day of the trip is busy, there will be time to spend wandering around the farm, which is home to over 100 horses. The changing weather in Iceland gives a great excuse to relax and watch the changing light on the landscape from the comfort of your yurt.