This breathtaking picture showcases a magnificent Icelandic horse standing proudly against a backdrop of the stunning green mountains of Iceland. The horse's striking white and grey coat shines in the sunlight, while its long mane and tail dance in the wind, creating a sense of movement and freedom. The image perfectly captures the unique and rugged beauty of Iceland, and the majestic spirit of its beloved horses.
A Guide to the Best Horse Riding Tours in Iceland
Icelandic horses from Fagrafell Hostel
15 km · Eyjardalsá · 1 h river or up to 4 h Goðafoss · beginners welcome
Fifteen minutes on Route 1 to the family farm. Book at eyjardalsa.is. Helmets supplied. Then a shower in your private bathroom and the barbecue.
Horse Riding in Iceland: Discovering the Unique Icelandic Horses
Iceland is known for its breathtaking natural landscapes, and there's no better way to explore them than on horseback. Horse riding in Iceland is an incredible experience that allows you to connect with nature, soak in the peacefulness of your surroundings, and learn about the unique Icelandic horse breed. In this article, we'll delve into the history of Icelandic horses, their distinct gaits, and the best places to go horse riding in Iceland.
History of Icelandic Horses
Icelandic horses are a breed of horse that has been around for over 1,000 years. These horses were brought to Iceland by the Vikings in the 9th century, and due to the isolation of Iceland, the breed has remained purebred for centuries. The horses were originally used for transportation, farm work, and warfare. Due to their small size, they were perfect for navigating the rough terrain and crossing rivers. The Icelandic horses also played a significant role in Iceland's cultural heritage, with their iconic appearance appearing in Icelandic folklore and legends.
Horse riding 15 km from Fagrafell Hostel
River tours, Godafoss rides and the Icelandic tölt
Unique Characteristics of Icelandic Horses
Icelandic horses are known for their distinct features, which set them apart from other horse breeds. One of the most notable characteristics of the Icelandic horse is its small size, with an average height of just 13-14 hands. Despite their size, Icelandic horses are strong and sturdy, making them perfect for carrying adults. They also have a unique double coat that keeps them warm during Iceland's harsh winters.
But perhaps the most interesting feature of the Icelandic horse is its gaits. Icelandic horses have five gaits, which is more than any other horse breed. The gaits include the walk, trot, canter, tölt, and flying pace. The tölt is a four-beat gait that is unique to the Icelandic horse and is incredibly smooth and comfortable for riders. The flying pace is a two-beat gait that can reach speeds of up to 30 miles per hour. These gaits make Icelandic horses ideal for long rides and enable them to cover a lot of ground in a short amount of time.
Best Places for Horse Riding in Iceland
When it comes to horse riding in Iceland, the closest and finest place from Fagrafell is the family farm Eyjardalsá, only 15 km from the guesthouse in Bárðardalur, North Iceland. The farm sits close to Route 1 (the Ring Road), between Akureyri, Húsavík, Lake Mývatn and Godafoss, so you can ride after breakfast and be back at Fagrafell for the evening barbecue.
Icelandic horse riding is a must, even for beginners. These horses are unique: friendly, sure-footed and famous for the tölt, a smooth four-beat gait you will not find on other breeds. For a thousand years the Icelandic horse was the traditional way of moving through this landscape. Riding one is still the most authentic way to discover Iceland's valleys, rivers and waterfalls.
At Eyjardalsá you can choose a gorgeous river tour of about one hour along the Eyjardalsá river, or larger tours toward Godafoss of up to 4 hours. They organise rides for beginners and for advanced horse riders. Their guides match the pace to your level and share the story of the land and the horses.
Horse riding in Iceland is an unforgettable experience that allows you to connect with nature and these magnificent creatures. The unique Icelandic horse breeds with their different gaits and personalities make the ride even more special. Riding through the diverse landscapes of Iceland, from the lush green valleys to the rocky highlands, is an incredible adventure that will leave you in awe of the natural beauty of this country. It's a perfect way to experience the Icelandic countryside and its breathtaking views.
Explore the beauty of this magical country on horseback with Eyjardalsá
The one-hour river ride is perfect if you have never sat on a horse: short, scenic and unforgettable. The longer Godafoss tour is for riders who want more time in the saddle, crossing open farmland with the waterfall of the gods as the destination. In both cases you feel the tölt, meet exceptionally friendly horses, and travel the way Icelanders did for a thousand years.
How to ride from Fagrafell Hostel
From the guesthouse, drive about 15 minutes (15 km) on Route 1 into Bárðardalur to Eyjardalsá. You do not need a 4x4. Park at the farm, meet the horses, and ride. Come back to Fagrafell for a shower in your private bathroom and an evening barbecue.
What to wear and who can ride
Long trousers, closed shoes or boots, gloves if you have them, and a windproof layer. Helmets are supplied. Children and complete beginners are welcome on the 1-hour river tour; the Goðafoss ride (up to 4 hours) suits confident beginners and advanced riders. The Icelandic horse is small, sure-footed and famously friendly — that is why riding here is a must even if you have never ridden before.
The tölt, in practice
Other breeds walk, trot and canter. The Icelandic horse adds the tölt (a running four-beat gait, very smooth) and the flying pace. On the river tour you feel the tölt on the flat; on the Goðafoss tour you use it for longer stretches. It is the traditional Icelandic way to cover ground without bouncing in the saddle.
Book your ride at www.eyjardalsa.is. Stay at Fagrafell Hostel, only 15 km from the farm, on Route 1 in the Godafoss valley.