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Horseback riding tours
Rides in
Iceland
Intro to Iceland
 East and SouthHighland Tours Iceland Shorts Northern Tours West
Also see:
Hiking Trips
Horseback in:
Norway
Finland
Europe Overview
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Magical and Mysterious Snaefellsnes
West
Iceland
The Snæfellsjökull National Park is where you find one of Iceland´s most beautiful and emblematic sights - the glacier-covered cone volcano Snæfellsjökull. The mystery and spiritual aura of this still active volcano were made famous through Jules Verne’s novel Journey to the Centre of the Earth. Many of the great Sagas are located in this very area. Today the remote beauty and rich bird life draw visitors from all over the world. The peninsula itself is often called “Iceland in a nutshell” because of its diversity of landscape.
Experiencing “tölt”, the unique extra gait of the Icelandic Horse, is made easy for you on this tour when we follow good riding tracks. The long stretches of smooth sandy beaches make this tour a delight for both horses and riders.
This tour takes us through a landscape of extensive lava fields, craters and ash from ancient eruptions in Hítardalur valley. We also enjoy wide-open stretches of light-coloured sand at Löngufjörur beach, where only the tide sets a limit to the freedom of horse and man. The impressive 50-meter deep crater Eldborg is a distinctive landmark, where the light sand turns black once you reach its lava field. On our last riding day we follow the edge of the lava flow along the shore before returning to Stóri-Kálfalækur Farm.
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Camping Ride with vehicle support
Progressive Ride (no camping)
Ride with Gaited Horses
Suitable for riders over 210 lbs
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Meeting:
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Keflavik Airport
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Airport:
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Keflavik Airport
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Transfer:
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Keflavik Airport
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Riders:
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Min
8 riders
Max
18 riders
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Trip Brochure (PDF) 
Trip Rating
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Rates and Dates for 2019
Rates include*:
Accommodations: made up beds in shared rooms, meals, bus drive from Reykjavik to the farm, rain wear, water bottle, saddle bag, riding helmet, 6 riding days - 185 km
| A | 2019 | 8 day trip, AP (High) | 8d / 7n | €2350 | $2820 |
| B | 2019 | 8 day trip, AP (Low) | 8d / 7n | €2190 | $2630 |
* prices are per person based on double/twin occupancy
Transfer and Other Charges:
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2019
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Pick up at BSÍ Bus station or at Reykjavik official bus stops near your accommodation on Day 1
between 18:00-19:00
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Pick up at BSÍ Bus station in Reykjavik or at Reykjavik official bus stops near your accommodation
(see: www.busstop.is) between 18:00-19:00 on Day 1.
Tour Dates for 2019
Check here for details and availability
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| B |
2019
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06/01
- 06/08
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8d / 7n
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8 day trip, AP (Low)
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8
/18
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Sold Out
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| B |
2019
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06/15
- 06/22
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8d / 7n
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8 day trip, AP (Low)
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8
/18
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Sold Out
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| A |
2019
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06/29
- 07/06
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8d / 7n
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8 day trip, AP (High)
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8
/18
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Sold Out
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| A |
2019
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07/13
- 07/20
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8d / 7n
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8 day trip, AP (High)
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8
/18
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Sold Out
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| A |
2019
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07/27
- 08/03
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8d / 7n
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8 day trip, AP (High)
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8
/18
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Sold Out
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| A |
2019
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08/10
- 08/17
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8d / 7n
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8 day trip, AP (High)
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8
/18
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Sold Out
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| B |
2019
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08/24
- 08/31
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8d / 7n
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8 day trip, AP (Low)
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8
/18
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Reserve
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Saturday-Saturday
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Rates do not include:
Alcoholic beverages (can be bought at Duty Free ahead of time)
Sample itinerary - subject to changes
Day 1: Reykjavík – Stóri-Kálfalækur
Pick up at BSÍ Bus station in Reykjavik or at Reykjavik official bus stops near your accommodation (see: www.busstop.is) between 18:00-19:00 where our bus will transfer you and your fellow riders to Stóri-Kálfalækur Farm, where horses and staff are waiting for us. After a lovely introductory meal where we get to know each other, we relax and rest so we are well prepared for the adventure ahead of us.
Day 2. Stóri Kálfalækir - Grímstaðir
After an introduction to the Icelandic horse and its special gaits we start our ride into the mountains through fertile farmlands and along good riding tracks to Grímsstaðir Farm with its proud history dating back to medieval times. Overnight at Stóri-Kálfalækur in made up beds, showers and a hot tub on site.
(approx. 25 km)
Day 3. Grímsstaðir – Hítarhólmur
The ride today leads through multi-coloured mountains and along low bushy hillsides. Hítardalur is a geological paradise. Vast lava fields, soft tracks through ashes and the high palagonite (tuff) mountains give you the impression of taking a ride on the moon! We leave the horses at Hítarhólmur farm and drive back to Stóri-Kálfalækur, where the hot tub is waiting. (approx. 25 km)
Day 4. Hítarhólmur – Kolviðarnes
We continue our ride through this mystical volcanic valley. We stop at the sheep gathering place Hítardalsrétt and if you take a good look you can see the troll woman Hít who was turned into stone returning late from a date. We proceed west across Hítará River and travel through an area well known as the hideout of Iceland’s most famous outlaw, Grettir. At Kolviðarnes Farm we leave the horses and drive back and spend the night at Stóri Kálfalækur. (approx. 45 km)
NB: Next three days we ride on Löngufjörur beach where timings depend on the tide. In some cases we need to start the ride very early in the morning or in the afternoon.
Day 5. Kolviðarnes – Traðir
After rejoining the horses, we start our beach ride on Löngufjörur, the famous horse trail on the seashores of the Snæfellsnes peninsula. View majestic Snæfellsjökull Glacier ahead of you and feel the horses’ excitement and take part in their joy on this extraordinary trail released by the tide. We leave the horses at Traðir Farm and we spend the night at Stóri Kálfalækur. (approx. 30 km)
Day 6. Traðir – Kolviðarnes – Stóri-Kálfalækur
Another day´s ride on the yellow colored, sandy beach. Direction changes and we head back towards mighty Eldborgarhraun lava field. A unique experience for everyone with lava-fields and mountains on one side of the trail and the Atlantic Ocean on the other. We leave the horses at Kolviðarnes Farm and drive to Stóri-Kálfalækur, where we spend the last two nights. (approx. 30 km)
Day 7. Kolviðarnes – Stóri-Kálfalækur Farm
Last day on the beach and yet a new experience. The sand turns black as we follow the outline of Eldborgarhraun lava field. Imagine the black lava still on the move on your way back to dry land. The ride ends at Stóri-Kálfalækur Farm, where we enjoy Ólöf’s farewell dinner. (approx. 30 km)
Day 8. Stóri-Kálfalækur – Reykjavík
Transfer back to Reykjavik to your accommodation. Approx. arrival at 11:30.
--Subject to changes--
Meeting:
Keflavik Airport
Airport:
Keflavik Airport
Transfer:
Keflavik Airport
Pick up at BSÍ Bus station in Reykjavik or at Reykjavik official bus stops near your accommodation
(see: www.busstop.is) between 18:00-19:00 on Day 1.
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Tack:
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Icelandic
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Horses:
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Icelandic Horses
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Pace:
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Daily rides are 4-6 hours (30-50 km). Approx. 185 km total.
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Level:
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(3.5
to
5
out of 5) Strong Intermediate
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Riders:
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Min
8 riders
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Max
18 riders
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A very special experience seldom to be experienced anywhere else but in Iceland - except maybe on some of our horse drives.
On this ride you will be riding each day with a free running herd of horses. You may switch horses from time to time.
The Icelandic Horse
The origin of the horse in Iceland is exactly the same as the arrival of the first settlers from Scandinavia in the ninth century. Clearly, the horse was the catalyst that allowed the settlement of Iceland to go forward and prosper. Since no other breed of horse has ever been imported to Iceland, this special animal is a pure-bred "Viking Horse".
The horse was used for everything. They worked tilling the farmlands from dawn to dusk and provided transportation between the farms as they were settled. They went on scouting expeditions into this new territory in search of everything from water to grazing areas. Strong and sure footed, the Icelandic horse adjusted and adapted to this new land certainly as fast and most likely faster than the new settlers.
Viking battles were fought on horseback and the animal quickly adjusted to any situation that was presented to it. Is it any wonder that many of the slain Vikings warriors of the many battles in earlier times were often buried with their horses as a sign of honor and respect.
The Icelandic horse has many characteristics unique unto itself. Perhaps the most noticeable would be its intermediate size and the mane of shaggy hair. The five gaits of the horse are also one of the special features that sets it apart form all other horses. These gaits are the fetgangur, the walk or step, the brokk or trot, the tölt, which is a faster type of walk, the skeið or the pace and the stökk, or gallop.
On large farm areas, perimeter fences keep in most of the horses, but many are also simply allowed to run free. This most naturally accounts for the spirited nature of the animal. All of them seem to adapt to the personality of their owner. It is essential to establish a trust between the Icelandic horse and the rider. Doing so literally guarantees a friend for life. The passion and spirit of the Icelandic horse is never broken only brought under control. As a result, the Icelandic pure-bred horse remains one the world's most unique animals to this day.
Passport and Visa Requirements:
Passport valid for at least three months beyond length of stay required by all except:(a) 1. nationals of Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherland. more
Reykjavík area
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Month
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Jan
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Feb
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Mar
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Apr
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May
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Jun
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Jul
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Aug
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Sep
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Oct
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Nov
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Dec
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Average High Temperature (°F)
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37
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37
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39
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43
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49
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54
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57
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57
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51
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45
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40
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37
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Average Low Temperature (°F)
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27
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28
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29
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33
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39
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44
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48
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47
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42
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36
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31
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28
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Average High Temperature (°C)
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3
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3
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4
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6
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10
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12
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14
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14
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11
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7
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4
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3
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Average Low Temperature (°C)
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-3
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-2
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-2
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1
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4
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7
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9
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8
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6
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2
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-1
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-2
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Average Precipitation (days of rain)
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13
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13
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14
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11
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10
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9
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9
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12
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12
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12
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12
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14
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Source: NOAA
Seasons
As its name suggests, Iceland is cold, but not as cold as might be expected; thanks to the passing warm waters of the Gulf Stream, which regulate the climate. Its average mid-winter temperatures are no lower than those in New York City. The city's coastal location does, however, also mean it is prone to wind, and gales are common in winter. Reykjavik is also a very wet city, having on average 213 rainy days out of the year, with spring having slightly more sunny days! The south is the wettest part of the country. Coastal areas tend to experience winter gales and are generally windy.
Icelandic weather is known to be unpredictable and changing several times a day. A beautiful day can suddenly turn windy and rainy (and vice versa). Travelers to Iceland should be prepared for anything and dress in layers.
Winter
The average January temperature is 31°F (-0.5°C). From mid-November until the end of January, in the darkness of winter, the country only experiences a few hours of daylight each day.
Summer
The summer temperatures in Reykjavík range from 41°F (5°C) at night to as high as 77°F (25°C) during the day. During the summer months there is almost continuous daylight; early spring and late autumn feature long twilights.
The Northern Lights are often visible in autumn and early winter.
You should be ready for all kinds of weather as it can change very quickly.
We provide you with good rain-clothes, a riding helmet and a saddle bag (where you can keep the picnic lunch, a small camera, extra pair of gloves etc.).
Bring bags rather than hard cover suitcases. Pack light because transport space is limited.
Knee-high rubber boots are recommended for the beach ride!
You should be ready for all kinds of weather as the weather can change very quickly. We recommend that the following items are included when preparing for our longer tours.
• Knee high riding boots - water resistant/ waterproof
• Warm jacket or overcoat.
• Warm (woolen or fleece) sweater.
• Warm socks and gloves, at least two pairs, scarf and a cap or hat.
• Warm underwear, long if possible (protects also against chafing).
• For the ladies – sports bra.
• Riding trousers.
• Track suit.
• A pair of slippers to wear in the accommodation (Icelanders take off their shoes when entering a house).
• Swim suits, towels, soap etc.
• A small camera to take with you on the ride.
• Band aids and second skin plasters for chaffing.
• Insect repellent, gnat net head cover.
• Chocolate or glucose sweets for strenuous riding days.
• Sun lotion for face and lips (with high sun factor).
• Sunglasses.
• For those with sensitive eyes/contact lenses, goggles.
• Ear plugs. Some people snore!
Disinfecting of the riding gear
It is important to follow the regulation regarding the disinfecting of used riding clothes. Riding gear (riding trousers, jackets, etc.) needs to be washed (40°C) or dry cleaned. Items which can not be washed or dry cleaned (riding boots, riding hats) need to be disinfected at least five days prior to arriving in Iceland. The Icelandic Veterinary Authority recommends the broad-spectrum disinfectant Virkon S for disinfection. Used riding gloves, whips, saddles, bridles and other used leather gear may not be brought into the country. Please understand that these precautions are necessary because there are no contagious animal diseases in Iceland. Horses are not vaccinated and are therefore susceptible to infectious agents from abroad. Please help us to protect Iceland's fragile nature! For further information please take a look at: www.mast.is
Cameras:
We recommend to bring a small camera that can be taken in a pocket, a waist/hip bag or in the saddle bag.
Large camera equipment we can not allow on the horses for security reasons. Tours are operated with a free running herd - at speed of tölt or trot for most of the day. We take breaks to relax the horses and then it is possible to take pictures. While on the horse taking pictures is rather difficult since the horses are constantly moving. Because of the herd instinct it is not possible to stop an individual horse, they all will follow each other.
You can leave larger Digital SLR with your luggage at the farm or put it in their luggage that will be transferred to the new accommodation.
Sorry, no video is currently available for this tour.
*Important Notice: The following ratings have been submitted by guests and do not necessarily represent the views of Hidden Trails, its partners or employees.
Every care is taken to ensure accuracy but Hidden Trails is not liable for any errors or omissions.
..view other reports for different trips
Accommodations
Accommodation in made up beds in shared rooms during the ride
Stóri-Kálfalækur Farm
The home of Sigurður Jóhannsson (Siggi) and Ólöf Guðbrandsdóttir is situated in rich farmland close to the ocean and the wonderful beaches of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. It’s a renovated farmhouse with a sleeping up to 24 persons so it’s plenty of space for everybody. . Large kitchen and a spacious dining room. Together with the well known hospitality of your hosts this will make an excellent place to stay.
•Number of rooms: 8 (2-4 bedded)
•Number of beds: 18
•Outdoor jacuzzi: Yes
•Number of showers: 5
•GSM connection: Yes
•WiFi: No
•Made up beds: Yes/No
•Number of WC: 5
Meals
Vegetarian meals are available upon request. During the ride all meals are provided. Our menu consists of a large breakfast and traditional Icelandic meals (fish or lamb). Vegetarian meals are available if requested in advance. All riders make their own packed lunch from the breakfast table.
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Tack:
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Icelandic
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|
Horses:
|
|
Icelandic Horses
|
|
Pace:
|
|
Daily rides are 4-6 hours (30-50 km). Approx. 185 km total.
|
|
Level:
|
|
(3.5
to
5
out of 5) Strong Intermediate
|
|
Riders:
|
|
Min
8 riders
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Max
18 riders
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|
A very special experience seldom to be experienced anywhere else but in Iceland - except maybe on some of our horse drives.
On this ride you will be riding each day with a free running herd of horses. You may switch horses from time to time.
The Icelandic Horse
The origin of the horse in Iceland is exactly the same as the arrival of the first settlers from Scandinavia in the ninth century. Clearly, the horse was the catalyst that allowed the settlement of Iceland to go forward and prosper. Since no other breed of horse has ever been imported to Iceland, this special animal is a pure-bred "Viking Horse".
The horse was used for everything. They worked tilling the farmlands from dawn to dusk and provided transportation between the farms as they were settled. They went on scouting expeditions into this new territory in search of everything from water to grazing areas. Strong and sure footed, the Icelandic horse adjusted and adapted to this new land certainly as fast and most likely faster than the new settlers.
Viking battles were fought on horseback and the animal quickly adjusted to any situation that was presented to it. Is it any wonder that many of the slain Vikings warriors of the many battles in earlier times were often buried with their horses as a sign of honor and respect.
The Icelandic horse has many characteristics unique unto itself. Perhaps the most noticeable would be its intermediate size and the mane of shaggy hair. The five gaits of the horse are also one of the special features that sets it apart form all other horses. These gaits are the fetgangur, the walk or step, the brokk or trot, the tölt, which is a faster type of walk, the skeið or the pace and the stökk, or gallop.
On large farm areas, perimeter fences keep in most of the horses, but many are also simply allowed to run free. This most naturally accounts for the spirited nature of the animal. All of them seem to adapt to the personality of their owner. It is essential to establish a trust between the Icelandic horse and the rider. Doing so literally guarantees a friend for life. The passion and spirit of the Icelandic horse is never broken only brought under control. As a result, the Icelandic pure-bred horse remains one the world's most unique animals to this day.
Passports
Passport valid for at least three months beyond length of stay required by all except:
(a) 1. nationals of Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Portugal, Spain and Sweden who are only required to produce national identity cards issued by the competent authorities in their countries of origin.
Passport Note
Iceland is a signatory to the 1995 Schengen Agreement.
Visas
Not required by all nationals of referred to in the chart above for stays of up to 90 days.
2. EU nationals staying longer than 90 days will need to apply for a residence permit from the directorate of immigration in Iceland.
Note: Nationals not referred to in the chart above are advised to contact the embassy to check visa requirements (see Contact Addresses).
Visa Note
A stay in another Schengen-Zone country counts as the same as a stay in Iceland.
| Passport Required? |
| British |
Yes |
| Australian |
Yes |
| Canadian |
Yes |
| USA |
Yes |
| Other EU |
Yes/1 |
| Visa Required? |
| British |
No |
| Australian |
No |
| Canadian |
No |
| USA |
No |
| Other EU |
No |
| Return Ticket Required? |
| British |
No |
| Australian |
Yes |
| Canadian |
Yes |
| USA |
Yes |
| Other EU |
No |
This information is not being updated on a regular basis. Hidden Trails does not
take any responsibility for the accuracy of the above information. Please, consult
the embassy or consulate for updated info.
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Magical and Mysterious Snaefellsnes
Tour Code:
IT-ICRT05
8 days /
7 nights
~$2,820.00
Dates :
June to Sept
Trip Rating :
Difficulty :
Riding Level Explained | A | Beginner
 | Beginner A rider who has limited experience, is unable to post the trot and does not canter. | | B | Novice
 | Novice A rider who is capable of mounting and dismounting unassisted, capable of
applying basic aids, comfortable and in control at the walk, moderate length posting
trots, and short canters. | | C | Intermediate
 | Intermediate A rider who has a firm seat, is confident and in control at all paces
(including posting trots, two point canters and gallops), but does not ride regularly. |
| D | Strong Intermediate
 | Strong Intermediate An intermediate rider who is currently riding regularly and is comfortable in the saddle for at least 6 hours per day. | | E | Advanced
 | All of the above, plus an independent seat, soft hands, and capable of handlinga spirited horse in open country. |
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