Discovering West Iceland in the Silver Circle
Published: September 19, 2026 | Last Updated: September 19, 2026 Author: Lindsey Markwood, MCC, VTA
The Silver Circle ventures into West Iceland in Borgarfjörður. It is a true hidden gem. While the iconic Golden Circle is a fantastic must see for first time visitors, many travelers miss out on the Silver Circle simply because they do not realize it exists.
What is the Best Attraction in the Silver Circle?
Choosing a single highlight is tough because my full day excursion in July was incredible from start to finish. However, the most unique was also my favorite, exploring the largest lava cave in Iceland, Víðgelmir. Part of what makes Iceland so special is experiencing things I have never done before. Víðgelmir was one of the many firsts I had in Iceland. You can read more about the other firsts here. Do note that all tours in the lava require an expert guide, which is a bonus as they explained to us how the lava layers formed in the cave wall, ceiling, and floor took shape. It was truly exceptional and I highly recommend it, especially if you have never explored a lava tube in Hawaii or elsewhere. For safety we all had hard hats on with a flashlight on top. I did bring my trekking poles with me but ended up not using them. Travelers exploring the cavern through early July are rewarded with glistening ice crystals rising from the floor. It is truly beautiful.
Top Points of Interest on the Silver Circle
Langjökull glacier Just beyond Víðgelmir, the lave cave I mentioned above you can view Langjökull glacier which is the second largest Glacier in Iceland. Its name means “Long Glacier”. You can walk in this ice cave year-round but it must be done through an organized tour (which Markwood Magic can seamlessly arrange for you)
Sturlureykir Iceland is famous for their Icelandic horses, which have a fifth gait unique to this breed. Sturlureykir is a delightful family run horse farm where you can ride these beautiful creatures or take a tour of the farm which having geothermally baked rye bread, learning about the history of the farm, and getting close enough for snuggles with one of their iconic Icelandic horses. During our visit, we learned that if an Icelandic horse ever leaves Iceland whether it be for a competition it is never legally allowed to return to Iceland.
Haafell In addition to having a unique horse breed, Iceland is home to the Icelandic goat. The goat population is very low, and the center helps to improve that with community education, artisan goat milk products, and farm tours.
Hraunfossar and Barnafoss Waterfalls I have never seen so many waterfalls in one area. It was truly breathtakingly gorgeous. I say this repeatedly when I talk about the waterfalls in Iceland, they truly must be experienced in person. The water comes from the Langjokull glacirer.
Husafell Canyon Baths Iclandiers know how to take full advantage of the geothermal hot springs in Iceland. The water is fed by the Selgil hot springs which originates from the Selgil canton. Visting here can be a trip of its own, or combined with other attractions and activities in the Silver Circle.
Deildartunguhve This site is home to the most powerful geothermal spring in Iceland. To protect guests, there is a fence sounding the boiling water and steam. I remember the distinct sulfur aroma in the air, which is part of the natural geothermal process.
Glanni and Paradísarlaut
Glanni Water fall is fiercely connected with Iclandic folklore for both trolls and elves. It was formed from an old lava tunnel. Pro tip: As you approach at the cliffs. Your tour guide will point out the face of a troll.
Reykholt Snorri Sturluson, a 13th century poet and politician lived here. Snorralaug, also known as Snorri’s Pool, is one of the oldest structures in Iceland.
Which Attractions Should I Choose For One Day to the Silver Circle?
The Silver Circle offers more than what you can explore on a day trip. It impossible to see everything in one day. This is why I partner directly with you to curate the exact combination of excursions that fits your pace, ensuring every itinerary Markwood Magic designs is completely custom. You are going to have a wonderful time in Iceland and I cannot wait to help you design it.
Who is the Ideal Traveler for the Silver Circle?
The Silver Circle is best for second time visitors to Iceland, cruise guests looking for a less crowded shore excursions, or travelers looking to venture beyond the popular Golden Circle and South Coast.
Is Self Drive or Small Group Tour Better for the Silver Circle?
If you are exploring the Silver Circle as a cruise day excursion, I highly recommend letting Markwood Magic arrange a guided tour rather than driving yourself. This is what I did for ten hour my trip. While we had a wonderful time, it is a long day of sightseeing. I was so thankful that we had somebody else back to Reykjavik and could just enjoy ourselves during the trip.
Let Markwood Magic Plan Your Islandic Journey
Whether you are stepping inside an ancient lava cave, unwinding in geothermal stone baths, or meeting rare Icelandic horses and enjoying the geothermal rye bread, the Silver Circle is a fantastic day excursion without the heavy tourist crowds. Markwood Magic will plan the perfect excursion to compliment your land only or cruise trip to Iceland that we curated for you. Ready to experience the secret side of West Iceland? Schedule your complimentary travel consultation with Markwood Magic here.
Lindsey Markwood is the founder and principal travel advisor at Markwood Magic, a boutique travel agency based in Marietta, Georgia. Specializing in ocean, river, and expedition cruising, Lindsey crafts seamless, highly personalized itineraries for travelers who value comfort, authentic cultural immersion, and stress-free planning.
