Iceland lies just south of the Arctic Circle and is one of only two places on the planet where a mid-oceanic ridge (where magma wells up from deep in the earth providing the driving force for continental drift) rises above sea level. As such Iceland is very geothermically active with the landscape dominated by volcanoes, geysirs, young mountains and glaciers. This provides a stark and beautiful backdrop for an Icelandic horse riding holiday. The two most well know outfitters for horseback riding vacations in Iceland are Ishestar and Hestasport.
The majority of Iceland horseback riding holidays are trail rides, the most well-known of which is the Kjolur, which follows an ancient trail from the North of the island to the South (or vice versa). There are trail rides all over the island, some of which are only suitable for experienced riders and others which can accommodate intermediate riders. Visit the Snæfellsnes peninsula for a fascinating horse trek across old lava fields, through lovely green valleys and onto open beaches. Join a Golden Circle ride in southern Iceland or a Highland Escape in the north of the country. Maybe journey on horseback on an Absolute Iceland adventure. One of the great delights of an Icelandic riding holiday is the herds of loose horses which run with the group, enabling riders to swap horses regularly so that their mount is always eager. In September visitors can also join one of the great Icelandic cultural experiences, rounding up sheep and horses, on horseback.
Equestrian vacations in Iceland are all about the Icelandic Horse. These small horses of around 13 to 14hh come in a multitude of coat colours – in fact there are over 100 words for the various colours and patterns in the Icelandic language! The Icelandic horse is famous for its fifth gait, the tolt, which is a four beat gait like the walk but which can be performed at a variety of different speeds up to as fast as a normal canter. The tolt is known to have explosive acceleration but also to be very comfortable and enables riders to cover the ground quickly.
Icelandic horses have not been exposed to the diseases that other European horses suffer from, and as such have no resistance to these diseases. For this reason there are strict laws preventing horses from being transported into the country, and any riders visiting Iceland need to ensure that all riding equipment is brand new or has been thoroughly cleaned and disinfected.
Riding Holiday
Riding Holidays | Iceland
