Iceland Horse Riding Holidays

Once the only means of getting around in a land of swift rivers, rugged mountains and great glaciers, today they still play a part in the annual sheep round up. Mostly, however, the are used for pleasure by the many Icelanders and increasing number of visitors, who enjoy riding.

Extremely sure-foorted, keen and friendly, the horses are a joy to ride and very beautiful, with unusual colours and long, shaggy manes and thick coats. The come in a range of colours too - white, beige, gold, tan, dark brown and black.

The Icelandic horse are very small - although suggesting to an Icelander that they are ponies is not a good idea! In addition to the usual walk, trot and canter that most breeds have, these horses possess two unique gaits - the tolt and the pace, a faster version of the tolt for more experienced riders.

The tolt is a flowing 4-beat gait where the rider stretches down in the stirrup, sits back and enjoys the sensation of floating, while seated firmly in the back of an atheletic horse.

Particulary suited to Iceland's glacially shaped landscape, its secure high steps allow the Icelandic horse to move easily over rough terrain that would stopother breeds in their tracks. Combined with a gentle, friendly disposition and calm manner the Icelandic horse is a delight for anyone to ride, no matter what the level of experience.