Iceland Adventures: Day Two – Gullfoss Waterfall, the Secret Lagoon, and a Night Under the Stars
After soaking in the urban charm of Reykjavik, Day Two of our Icelandic journey was all about nature and relaxation. From the thundering majesty of Gullfoss Waterfall to the tranquil warmth of the Secret Lagoon, the day was a perfect balance of adventure and serenity. And to top it off, we ended the night in the dreamiest way possible—stargazing at the Bubble Hotel in Hrosshagi.
Gullfoss Waterfall: Nature’s Power on Display
Our first stop of the day was Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls. Known as the "Golden Falls," it’s part of the famous Golden Circle route, and it’s every bit as breathtaking as we imagined.
The sheer power of the cascading water was mesmerizing, roaring into the canyon below with an energy that left us speechless. The mist from the falls created shimmering rainbows in the sunlight, making for some truly magical photos. Pro tip for photographers: Bring a lens cloth and a waterproof camera bag—between the spray from the falls and Iceland’s unpredictable weather, you’ll need it!
The Secret Lagoon: Iceland’s Oldest Hot Spring
After the intensity of Gullfoss, we craved something more relaxing, and the Secret Lagoon delivered. Nestled in the small town of Flúðir, this natural hot spring is the perfect spot to unwind. Unlike the more famous Blue Lagoon, the Secret Lagoon has a quieter, more intimate vibe.
Soaking in the warm, mineral-rich waters while surrounded by Iceland’s stunning landscapes was an experience we’ll never forget. The steam rising from the water and the lush greenery around us created a surreal atmosphere—like stepping into a fairytale.
Pro tip: Book your time slot in advance to ensure a peaceful experience. And don’t forget to bring a towel and flip-flops for comfort!
A Night at the Bubble Hotel: Sleeping Under the Stars
The highlight of our day (and maybe the entire trip!) was spending the night at the Bubble Hotel in Hrosshagi. Imagine sleeping in a transparent bubble surrounded by nature, with nothing but the stars above you. It was pure magic.
As night fell, we cozied up in our bubble, which was heated and surprisingly comfortable despite Iceland’s cool temperatures.
Being immersed in nature like this was an unforgettable experience. We could see the trees gently swaying in the wind and, when the clouds parted, the twinkling stars and faint hints of the northern lights dancing in the sky.
Pro tip: Pack light for your bubble stay and bring layers to stay warm if you want to step outside for stargazing. If you’re lucky, you might even catch the aurora borealis!
Looking Ahead
Day Two was an incredible mix of adventure, relaxation, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. From the powerful beauty of Gullfoss to the calming waters of the Secret Lagoon and the surreal Bubble Hotel, it was everything we dreamed Iceland would be—and more.
Next, we’ll be heading deeper into Iceland’s wild landscapes, so stay tuned for more from our journey. For now, enjoy some of my favorite photos from Day Two!
Follow Along: Want to see more of Iceland and other travel photography adventures? Head to my Instagram at wildrosestravelphotography and check out the stories behind the photos!
