Started out with a full buffet breakfast then we were on our way to the countryside to do the Golden Circle. The Golden circle is one of the most popular tours the circle consists of the Thingvellir National Park, the Strokkur Geyser and the Gullfoss Golden waterfall.This was a sunny day so we were able to enjoy the beauty of the rock fissures, the autumn or fall colors as we travelled to the north

• 

• 

• 

This is what most of the scenery looked like as we drove for about an hour to Thingvellir National Park. Rivers, streams, and creeks were often seen as we travelled along with clear flowing water.

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

This was the site of the Iceland Parliament from the 10th to the 18th century. Here you have an amazing geological display of rugged cliffs defined fissures and fall colors from sparse vegetation on display. Walking along the black colored pathway and noticing the rock formations reminded me of my visit to the National parks out west of the United States.

• 

Walking through the park was certainly an opportunity to enjoy nature. We ran into this beautiful waterfall.

• 

• 

Now we are heading to Gullfoss, the Golden waterfall when the sun reflects on the water it assumes a golden color. At my visit the sun was not exactly overhead but one could see the brownish bronze tone.

There are several levels for viewing depending on your capabilities and the amount of time you are spending at the site. There are steps going down with handrails and a pathway leading closer to the falls for a closer view.

There is a store to purchase woolen goods and souvenirs. The woolen goods I found to be a bit course and prices in general are high. Before leaving we spotted a glacier in the distance.

We were on our way to the Strokkur geysers where you can see an explosion about every five minutes. Smaller bubbling geysers could be seen as we walked towards the main geyser.

• 

• 

• 

The main geyser could be seen above the foliage but being up close was better.

We were on our way to the Fridheimer geothermal greenhouse and horse farm. On our way the traffic was stopped for a while as there was a herd of sheep crossing the street.

• 

• 

We arrived at the farm and got a close up view of an Icelandic horse. We got a briefing on the different gaits as well as a full demonstration of the different gaits. The horse was wearing shoes on the front legs and these provided protection from an accident by the hind legs in case there might be an imbalance during riding..

• 

• 

we then moved into the stables after a brief look around we went to the hot house (green house)where folks were seen dinning and tomatoes being grown for Iceland’s use only. They are the main suppliers to the country.

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

There were various products of tomato base that was available for tasting. This was the end of a busy and enlightening day with sunshine much to our delight and while traveling back the rain came down how timely.