Blowing off Steam: Haukadalur Valley

Haukadalur Valley is a geothermal area right along the Golden Circle in Iceland. Hello, boiling mud pots, exploding geysers, and loads of steam similar to when you unscrew the top of an instapot.

The bigger geyser, Strokkur, resembles Yellowstone's Old Faithful and is the main attraction. It erupts every 10 to 15 min so most people linger around that area and let out a big "ooooo" when it goes off. Who doesn't love a good explosion?

Parking and entry are both free of charge. The pathways are easy and flat, as well as handicap accessible. There is a very nice new building with a sit-down restaurant, grab and go items, clean bathrooms, and of course a massive gift shop. Gotta get those tourist dollars. We ate Fish&Chips at the sit down restaurant and it was some of the best I've had. Only down side is prepare for crowds, since this is a main tour bus stop along the Golden Circle.

Next stop: The mighty Gullfoss