Iceland Horse Riding

The Viking horse is a pure breed, descended from those brought over by Iceland's first settlers, more than 1100 years ago. Since then, stringent import controls have restricted other breeds entering the country, maintaining the lineage of this unique horse as the purest in the world.

Once the only means of getting around in a land of swift rivers, rugged mountains and great glaciers, the role of the horse in modern Icelandic culture is less central than it once was, though they still play a significant part in rural communities especially during the annual sheep and horse round ups. More commonly however, they are used for recreational riding by Icelanders and the growing numbers of visitors who are discovering the merits of these efficient horses.

Extremely sure-footed, keen and friendly, Icelandic horses prove to be delightful mounts for every level of rider. Able to navigate tough terrain, they are incredibly strong and spirited, yet are also responsive and very comfortable. Visually distinctive, they are blessed with beautiful long shaggy manes and thick coats that range in colour from white, beige, gold, tan, dark brown to black as well as skewbald and piebald.

Icelandic horses are on average only 13 hands, though the locals never refer to them as ponies and their performance both in terms of strength and comfort, would suggest that they are a match for their larger cousins and are more than capable of carrying a rider of 110 kg. In addition to the usual walk, trot and canter that most breeds have, these horses possess two unique gaits - the tolt and the flying pace. Not all Icelandic's possess the latter, which is a two-beat lateral gait used for racing and, though exhilarating, is demanding for both horse and rider. Incredibly comfortable, the tolt is a flowing 4-beat lateral gait where the rider stretches down in the stirrup, sits back and enjoys the sensation of floating, while seated firmly on the back of an athletic horse.

Particularly suited to the country’s glacially shaped landscape, secure high steps allow the Icelandic horse to move easily over rough terrain that would stop other 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.

Quite simply, the Icelandic horse is a wonder of the equine world. Even the most accomplished rider cannot consider to have done it all until they have ridden one of these magnificent animals and been mesmerised by the experience. Only in Iceland can you experience riding this native horse in a landscape that is both challenging and entirely suited to their incredible endurance and unique movement.

The holidays offered are divided into two grades of riding ability - intermediate and experienced. Please see below for a definition of each.

Intermediate Riders
Suitable for riders that are comfortable and in control at a walk, moderate length trots and short canters.

Experienced Riders
Suitable for riders comfortable and in control at all paces, firm seat and in the saddle for up to 7 hrs per day.

Experienced riders looking for a greater challenge may like to consider combining tours to create the ultimate Icelandic riding holiday.