Iceland : Golden Circle

Completing Iceland’s famous trio of sights is Thingvellir National Park, located on the shores of Lake Thingvellir. The site of the country’s first parliament, founded in 930 AD, a dramatic rift valley runs through the park revealing the drifting tectonic plates of Europe and America.

The trek begins at Fossnes Farm situated in the rolling pastures that surround the glacial river Thjorsa. The perfect place to become acquainted with the Icelandic horses and their special gaits. Spend your first afternoon at the farm in relaxed fashion riding along the pleasant trails of the Gnupverjahreppur countryside with its deep valleys and mountainous backdrop.

The following 5 days will be spent exploring Iceland’s glorious natural landscape on horseback. Led by the guides, spare horses accompany the ride allowing you to change your mount a couple of times a day and maintain a comfortable speed throughout. Ride across mountain rivers and through wide valleys, exchange beaten tracks for fine bridle paths that run alongside deep canyons, climb through heathland with wild mountain flowers to a highland plateau and enjoy great views of mountains and glaciers. Follow the path of the Hvita River along the ever-deepening canyon on to the impressive two-tiered waterfall Gullfoss before reaching the Geysir geothermal area for a two night stay. The most reliable geyser on the site is Strokkur, which erupts every five minutes or so, sending a column of water and steam dramatically into the air.

Though you do not need to be an expert rider for this tour, during the last two days you'll ride with free running horses and riding days can be long so you should be in good physical condition and have a basic knowledge of horsemanship.

Based in comfortable accommodation throughout, spend 3 nights at Fossnes Farm, 2 nights in the Geysir area and 2 nights in a guesthouse in Reykjavik. An outdoor hot tub is available on each night of the trek.