Golden Circle

Heading out for Reykjavik, we did the Golden Circle on July 1 - (O Canada!!) first to Thingvellir National Park - the birthplace of the Icelandic nation. It is the country's first national park and as well commemorates both the political and natural foundations of Iceland. Iceland's parliament or Althing was founded at Thingvellir in AD930. By mutual agreement, it was determined that form of government would be a commonwealth. All the local councils or 'things' would meet one a year to make judgements, discuss current events and pass new laws. Today this national park is not only beautiful but also represents a divergent rift valley within the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where two plates are pulling apart in opposite directions - about 7 mm per year.

Unfortunately, my photos do not depict how beautiful and awe inspiring Iceland really is but here are a few.

Thingvellir National Park

Me at Thingvellir

This is where, once judgement was passed - drownings took place - hey - very few trees here...

Lesley at Thingvellir

We then visited Geysir - to see the geysers - and we got caught in the rain without our rain gear (it was in the car...) so we towelled ourselves off and donned our gear to head to Gulfoss.  After that we made our soggy way to our hotel - ahhhh....

 Here are some photos. 

Geysir

Gulfoss in the rain

Gulfoss