Overview
The history of the Icelandic horse can be traced all the way back to the settlement of the country in the late 9th century. Vikings, settling in Iceland, brought their livestock with them and no horse has been imported since. As a result, the Icelandic purebred horse remains one the world's most unique animals to this day.
One of the main attractions of the Icelandic horse is its versatility. It is a five-gaited horse, making it exceptional in comparison with other breeds. In addition to the three basic gaits, the walk, the trot and the canter, the Icelandic horse masters both tölt (a smooth four-beat running walk) and pace (a two-beat lateral gait used for racing).
Riding the Icelandic horse in its home country is made easy by Íshestar Riding Tours, a leading and fully licensed tour operator in Iceland. They offer riding tours in every part of this beautiful country.
Multi-day highland rides lead into spectacular areas. Volcanic activities have shaped the landscape you visit on the Northern Exposure ride. Multi-colored mountains and black lava fields surround the Landmannalaugar area in the South of Iceland. Sandy beaches on the Snaefellsnes peninsula in the west make it easy for the horses to perform the special gait tölt at their best. Follow the historic trail Kjölur that Icelanders used for centuries when traveling across the central highland. On the Egilsstadir ride in the East you experience untouched nature, rarely to be found anywhere else. Accommodations on theses tours are traditional and simple, in mountain cabins and community centers in sleeping bags. On the new tour Diamond Circle, Íshestar is able to combine an adventurous highland ride with accommodations in made up beds in double and single rooms. Herding along free running horses through the highlands, across lava fields, rivers and through bushy vegetation, is the traditional way of riding and a great adventure which you can experience on all these tours.
For those who prefer to stay in made up beds throughout the ride, Íshestar offers tours in rural countryside. Each tour emphasizes a special highlight. On their popular Golden Circle, ride to Geysir hot spring area and Gullfoss Waterfall. In September and October you can participate in rounding up sheep and horses. Other tours of two to four riding days are available upon request. From the Riding Center close to Iceland’s capital Reykjavík, Íshestar offers a variety of day tours. Even though your schedule is tight, Íshestar makes it possible for you to enjoy the Icelandic Horse in great surroundings.
All tours published on Gordon’s Guide include full service. Íshestar takes care of you from the time you set foot on Iceland until you leave their country again. Airport transfers, accommodations, most meals and English speaking guides are included in these tours. Take a look at the variety of tours offered and find the one you have been dreaming about.
Travel & Industry Awards
- 2001 Environmental Award by the Icelandic Tourist Board
Affiliations
- GREEN GLOBE 21 Affiliate
- Founding Member of the Icelandic Travel Industry Association
Payments Accepted
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