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Excellent 2.5-Hour Horse Riding Tour in Raudholar Volcanic Countryside with Transfer from Reykjavik

Fantastic Horseback Ride on a Black Sand Beach with Transfer from Vik

Easy 2-Hour Horse Riding Tour through Lava Fields with Optional Transfer from Reykjavik

Scenic 8-Hour Horse Riding & Whale Watching Day Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik

Excellent 10-Hour Golden Circle & Horse Riding Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik

Exciting 5-Hour Horse Riding & Hot Springs Tour of Gufudalur Valley

Family-Friendly 1-Hour Horseback Riding Tour Through the Stunning Countryside

Scenic 5-Hour Horse Riding Tour for Experienced Riders with Transfer from Reykjavik

1 Hour Horse Riding Tour over the Mountains & Meadows of South Iceland Departing from Skeidvellir

Scenic 1.5-Hour Horseback Riding during Winter in the Countryside of North Iceland

Family-Friendly 30 Minute Horseback Riding Tour on a Black Sand Beach with Transfer from Vik

Family-Friendly 1-Hour Horse Riding Tour through Iceland's Countryside

Scenic 9-Hour Horse Riding Tour in the South Coast of Iceland with Transfer from Reykjavik

Scenic 5-Hour Horseback Riding & Icelandic Heritage Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik

Lava Caving and Horseback Riding Day Tour from Reykjavik

Silfra Snorkeling & Horseback Riding | Free Underwater Photos

Classic 11 Hour Golden Circle & Horse Riding Tour with an Audio Guide and Transfer from Reykjavik

Adventurous 6-Hour Horse Riding & Northern Lights Boat Combo Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik

Charming 1 Hour Horse Riding Tour through the Countryside of Hveragerdi

Exceptional 9 Hour Horseback Riding Tour with Geothermal Pool and Transfer from Reykjavik

Family-Friendly 1 Hour Horse Riding Tour with Lunch & Geothermal Pool Bathing

Magical 2 Hour Horseback Riding Tour of Icelandic Elves & Mysteries

Exciting 4.5 Hour Horse Riding Tour near Hekla Volcano with Lunch with Transfer from Skeidvellir

Family-Friendly 40 Minute Icelandic Horse Stable Visit with Hot Drinks at Skeidvellir

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BEST HORSE RIDING TOUR IN ICELAND

Tour highlights.

• Meet, learn about and ride the beautiful Icelandic horses
• Experience scenic lava landscapes, pseudo craters and mountain views
• Enjoy complimentary coffee, tea and hot chocolate after the tour
• Trained guides who speak multiple languages (English, Scandinavian and German).
• The stables/meeting location is a short 20-minute drive from Reykjavik’s city center. Possible to add pick up and drop off

Tour Details

• Duration : 1,5-2 hours on horseback. With transfer, introduction, preparation total time is 4 hours.
• Availability : Daily at 10:00 and 14:00
• Pick up : From hotels within Reykjavik. Pick up arrives 60 minutes before tour departure, see more info in FAQ below!
• Riding skill : Easy. This tour is perfect for both beginners as well as more experienced riders.
• Age limit : 8 years age limit. Children 14 years or older need written parental permission to ride alone.

Tour description

Are you ready to make new furry friends? Meet the beautiful Icelandic horses and enjoy a scenic horseback riding tour in the breathtaking Icelandic nature. The best part? It’s located only 20 minutes away from downtown Reykjavik!

We took the lava field trail ride with pick up in Reykjavik. Pick up was easy (as it was for all tours we did- Reykjavik and the tour companies have it down to a science!). Helmets were provided. Winter gear was available if you weren't dressed warmly enough. We were divided into 'beginner' and 'advanced' to put us on the right level of (cooperative) pony. The ponies were very easy to handle and we were given a choice whether we wanted to go fast (tolt pace) or slow (we went fast). Icelandic ponies and saddles are a heck of a lot more comfortable than US Western or English riding and horses! Beautiful scenery and a nice opportunity to experience the Icelandic pony!

Only me and my partner attended, we had a lovely chat with the guide, both our horses Ást and Stármur were incredible friendly, while Stármur liked to veer left a bit he was very cooperative at getting back in line, it was incredibly cold but we were well wrapped up and we’re offered more layers, the walk was nice and long and the staff were kind enough to let us say bye to the horses during their feeding time after we finished

Highly recommend ! No matter the time of year! We went in the winter so it was cold but we wore heated vests and snow suits and we were fine! Molly was our guide on this amazing horse back riding adventure! She was knowledgeable and taught us all the things we needed to know to have a fun ride! Our horses were well mannered and sweet. We loved everything about it!

Frequently Asked Questions

• What do I need to bring with me on this tour? We recommend that you bring warm gloves and a thin hat that can fit under the riding helmet. Included in the price is that you can borrow a helmet, warm overall or rain coat and rain pants as well as rubber boots.
• What's included in this horse riding tour? *Riding helmets, rubber boots, and rain-wear/warm outfit during the ride. *Trained guides who speak multiple languages (English, Scandinavian and German). *1.5-2 hour horse riding tour *Possible to arrive in your own car or add transfers to your booking
• I'm arriving by my own transport. When/where should I go? Please be at the Íshestar stables at least 30 minutes before tour departure if you are arriving by your own transport. Sörlaskeið 26, 220 Hafnarfjörður GPS coordinates: 64°02'35.8"N 21°54'51.2"W (ISN93: 357665.7101, 396626.1977) Íshestar 26 Sörlaskeið, Hafnarfjörður, Iceland If you have any trouble call +354 555 7000.
• When does my pick up arrive? Pick up for departure at 10:00 is at 09:00, Pick up for departure 14:00 is at 13:00, Pick up for departure 16:00 is at 15:00. Pick up from all pick up points in Reykjavik.
• Duration of tour 1,5-2 hours on horseback. With transfer, introduction, preparation total time is 4 hours. Tours can take shorter or longer time depending on group size and how much preparations is needed, for example it can take slightly more time to prepare in the winter time than summer etc.
• Weather We ride in sun, rain, snow and other regular weathers here in Iceland. We cancel rarely, but when we do it’s usually because of high winds, which can be unsafe for riding. In case of weather cancellation on our behalf, we would let you know as early as possible (sometimes it can be in the last minute, as the weather can be unpredictable here in Iceland) and we would try to find a solution for a reschedule or refund.
• Weight limit The weight limit for one person is about 110 kg (approx. 240 lbs).
• Age limit 8 years age limit. Children 14 years or older need written parental permission to ride alone.
• Clothes and shoes We have overalls and rain clothes if that should be necessary. We also have some gloves and boots which can be borrowed. But over all, visitors should dress according to weather. Most of our visitors have sneakers or boots on, and that’s in most cases just all right, but especially in the wintertime it can in some cases be good to have something more appropriate on.

Is your question not listed above?

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Price: 16,900 ISK

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Horse Riding Experiences

There are a variety of unique experiences tailored to every rider’s desires here in Iceland.

Whether you’re a beginner, who is looking for gentle rides through stunning landscapes, allowing you to soak in the beauty of Iceland’s rugged terrain at a relaxed pace or a seasoned rider who enjoys more challenging routes that take you through volcanic fields, lush valleys, and along the picturesque coastline.

Our tours promise an unforgettable connection with Iceland’s otherworldly nature.

If you have exhausted all the walking tours Reykjavik has to offer and tire of the bustling city, letting someone else take the reins (get it?) and take you out into the countryside maybe just what you need.

Whether amidst the tranquil waters aboard a cosy yacht or the excitement of a speedboat tour. It’s a perfect alternative way to experience some of Iceland’s most treasured attractions.

Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions about our Iceland tours and experiences.

Red Lava Horse Riding

Horseback Riding Lava Tour

Horse Riding from Heydalur in Mjóifjörður

Horseback Riding Viking Tour

Reykjavik Odyssey: Walk, Talk, and Ride

Black Beach Horseback Family Riding Tour

Black Beach Horseback Riding Tour

Why your friend in reykjavik, hundreds of five star reviews.

We have hundreds of online reviews from people all over the world that have loved our experiences.

No Booking Or Payment Fees

We do not add any supplemental fees related to your booking

Free Cancellation Up To 24 Hours In Advance

If you have to cancel for any reason, just let us know.

A Unique Experience

We guarantee you’ll have a great time – if not, we’ll refund your tour!

Combo Tours

Horse riding & spa: Sky Lagoon

There is just nothing better than relaxing combo tours in the warmth of a geothermal spa after a horse riding adventure out in the nature.

Horse riding & Fly Over Iceland

Terms and conditions.

BOOKING AND PAYMENT

You can choose if you pay the full amount during booking or on arrival. After booking, you will receive a booking confirmation and a voucher. If you choose to pay in the booking process, you will also receive a receipt of a payment sent according to the contact information given by you in the booking.

The prices quoted are based on current purchasing price in Iceland. Prices are in ISK (Icelandic Kronur). Prices are guaranteed after full payment has been made. Our prices include VAT and taxes.

CANCELLATION

Please contact us as early as possible in case your plans change so we can assist you. All cancellations must be written and sent to us via e-mail,  [email protected] 24 hours prior to the tours start. In conformity with business practices within the Icelandic travel industry, we at Viking Horses or a Travel Agent is obliged to charge cancellation fees to the participant(s) as follows:

CANCELLATION CHARGES

Cancellation received less than 4 days prior to departure will be charged full price. Cancellation received less than 1 week prior to departure are charged 50% of the total price. The cancellation fee for cancellations made less than 2 week prior to the departure is 20% of the total price.

If the day tour is canceled by us, for example due to bad condition considering the weather, if the minimum number of clients required for a tour is not fulfilled or for other major reasons, we will inform you as soon as possible and you will be offered another date for the tour, or be refunded according to the tour price.

We strongly advise all our clients to have travel insurance against costs and losses, including compensation for medical costs and cancellation fees.

SAFETY RULES & RESPONSIBILITY OF PARTICIPANTS

The age limit for all tours is 10 years for beginners and 8 years for experienced young riders. Excluded are Private Family Tours for families with younger children.

Due to possible damage to unborn children and the woman herself in the case of an accident pregnant women are not permitted to join the riding tours.

People under the influence of alcohol or intoxicating drugs are not permitted on the riding tours.

Please note that the weight limit for all tours is 110 kg (240 lbs).

All participants must participate in the riding tour by their own free will and are aware of that each trip can involve some risk and danger.

It is the responsibility of each rider to assess whether he is physically able to take part in the trip, including getting on and off the horse by his own strength. Each participant is obliged to inform the tour guide of any condition that might affect their ability to participate in the tour.

The staff at Viking Horses reserve the right to advise participant(s) against horseback riding if they believe it may be dangerous to their health or the health of those around them.

In order to ensure the security of each participant, every rider agrees to follow safety rules provided by the staff of Viking Horses. In the case of failure in that respect by the participant and/or he gives the staff wrong information, that will entail loss of rights to make claim against Viking Horses. Each participant shall bear all responsibility for damage caused by him due to his carelessness or failure to follow set/given/published instructions by Viking Horses and its staff.

Backpacks or bags cannot be taken on the ride but valuables can be stored in the tack room on the farm. All luggage and personal equipment are, at all times, at your own risk. We will not be responsible whatsoever for any loss, damage to your luggage and/or personal equipment.

Every participant has to agree to the safety rules by signing the “Rider’s release and indemnity agreement” prior to the riding tour.

All complaints must reach Viking Horses within one week from departure from Iceland. Otherwise, possible compensation is not valid.

Note: Viking Horses reserve the right to alter tours and itineraries due to weather or road conditions. All programs can be changed or cancelled at any moment during the trip to assure the safety of the clients and staff of Viking Horses.

No responsibility is accepted for losses, expenses due to delays, changes of flights, or other services or because of strikes, accidents, sickness, damage, negligence, weather, war, changes in schedules, or other similar causes. Viking Horses and other partners do not assume responsibility for accidents or death that can be traced to the participant´s negligence, acts of third parties or exterior circumstances such as weather, natural occurrences, war or other similar causes.

CHOICE OF LAW AND JURISDICTION

The interpretation and application of the purchase shall be in accordance with Icelandic law. Both parties hereby agree that the only jurisdiction and venue for any dispute with Viking Horses or in any way relating to the use of this website, www.vikinghorses.is, or to products purchased from Viking Horses is before the district court in Reykjavík, Iceland.  

PRIVACY STATEMENTS AND PERSONAL DATA

The collection and processing of personal data collected are for purposes of credit card verification, issuing of booking confirmations and tickets and direct marketing through Viking Horses. Viking Horses do not give any of your Personal data to third parties.

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The following are not Strictly necessary but are required to provide you with the best user experience and also to tell us which pages you find most interesting (anonymously).

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[email protected]

Tel: +354 5379590 / +354 6609590

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Lava Field Horseback Riding from Reykjavik

• Duration 2 hours and 30 minutes
• Pickup Optional
• Difficulty Easy
• Minimum age 10 years
• Starting from Reykjavik

What will you do?

Ride the Icelandic horse through the amazing lava field in Heidmork Nature Reserve, located just outside Reykjavik. The best way to enjoy the Icelandic horse is by riding through its natural habitat, just like the original Viking settlers did. Get the best price with our Last-minute deals. Family owned and operated horse ranch since 2010

I went on the Lava field horseback riding tour in Reykjavik, and I've got to say it's one of my favourites. Even though I have limited experience I had a great time. Take a sneak peak in my video below.

Why book with us?

• Concierge Service in Iceland
• Reykjavik Tours
• Golden Circle
• South Coast
• Blue Lagoon
• Akureyri Shore Excursions
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• Ísafjördur shore excursions
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Contact Info

Úlfarsbraut 113, Reykjavík

• Email: [email protected]

Horseback Riding from Reykjavik

Experience the magic of iceland on horseback: horseback riding tour from reykjavík, embark on a memorable icelandic horseback adventure.

Discover the unique thrill of riding an Icelandic horse, a breed known for its reliability and friendly demeanor, making it perfect for riders of all ages and skill levels. Our Horseback Riding Tour from Reykjavík offers a fantastic way to explore Iceland’s stunning landscapes while forming a bond with these charming and intelligent creatures.

Convenient Pickup and Full Equipment Provided

Your adventure begins with a convenient pickup from your accommodation in Reykjavík, followed by a short, scenic drive to our local farm just 20 minutes away. Upon arrival, we equip you with all the necessary gear, including boots, helmets, and appropriate rain or snow attire, ensuring you’re fully prepared for your riding experience.

Tailored Riding Experience

Before setting off, we’ll assess your riding ability to pair you with the perfect horse, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable ride. Whether you’re a seasoned equestrian or a first-time rider, our goal is to provide a safe and memorable experience tailored just for you.

Scenic Trail and Mythical Waterfalls

The tour typically lasts two hours, or one and a half hours during the winter months, taking you on an enchanting journey through the farm’s verdant valley. Revel in the beauty of our favorite summer trail, which meanders up the hillside behind the farm to the mystical Tröllafoss waterfall—rumored to be a favorite bathing spot for trolls under the midnight full moon.

Key Highlights of the Horseback Riding Tour from Reykjavík

• Duration: Approximately 2 hours (1.5 hours in winter).
• Route: Journey through lush valleys to the magical Tröllafoss waterfall.
• All-Inclusive: Includes transportation, horse, and all riding gear.
• Accessibility: Perfect for all ages and experience levels.
• Cultural Touch: Immerse yourself in local legends and the natural beauty of Iceland.

Reserve Your Spot on This Enchanting Tour Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to connect with nature and Icelandic culture. Book your Horseback Riding Tour from Reykjavík today and prepare to capture unforgettable memories on the back of a gentle Icelandic horse!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you pick me up.

Depending on where you are staying in Reykjavik, we can pick you up either directly from your hotel or at the bus stop closest to your accommodation.

Can I meet you at the farm?

Yes, the online booking system displays the pricing assuming no pickup by default.

Do I need a riding experience for this tour?

We have structured our daily tour such that it suits everyone. There are multiple guides available for every trip to ensure that everyone has a pleasant and entertaining day. Usually, the excursions begin gently while everyone gets acclimated to their horses, and then the speed increases. We then divide the group into smaller groups if certain riders would prefer to walk alone, or we extend the group out altogether. The leading guide will ultimately make this decision, and factors like the overall weather and the state of the route will be taken into consideration.

What is the Cancellation Policy for this tour?

We will charge a cancellation fee of 96.5% if the booking is canceled 48 hours or less before the event.

The 3.5% Merchant Fee is included in this total.

• Departure Time 10 AM & 2 PM
• Included Helmet Raingear / Winter Overall Boots
• Not Included Food and Drinks

Got a question?

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Monday to Friday

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Iceland Highlights Travel Agency

VAT: 129034 Phone:  +354 556 6868 Email:  [email protected]

Privacy Overview

Eldhestar has offered the largest variety of horse-riding tours in Iceland since 1986, the tours have always been operated by Eldhestar. From half-day, day and combo tours to multi-day tours ranging from 2-8 days with accommodation and meals at our cozy countryside hotel.

We are located just 30 minutes´ drive from the Reykjavík Capital area and we have tour guides from around the world who all speak English. All of our guides have been trained before we entrust them with guiding tours, so you can be sure you are in good hands. Scandinavian and German-speaking guides, as well as some other languages, might be available on request. We try our best to find a guide that speaks your language. We also have 350 amazing horses, so we promise that we will find a horse that suits your riding skills and makes you happy!

This formula is how we maintain a high level of service for all aspects of our tours and operations.

ELDHESTAR RIDING TOURS

Experience the unique Icelandic horse on a half-day tour. Regardless of experience, time or budget, there’s a perfect ride available.

Tour 1A – Countryside Charm  / 1 hour riding Tour 2A – The Heritage Tour  / 1,5 – 2 hours riding Tour 2B – The Siggi Tour  / 1,5 – 2 hours riding Tour 2C – Speciality of the Season  / 1,5 – 2 hours riding Tour 2D – Midwinter Warmth  / 1 hour riding & 1 hours in the pool Tour 2E – The Elf Tour  / 1,5 – 2 hours riding Tour 2G – Icelandic Diversity  / 1,5 – 2 hours riding Tour 3A – Meadows and Mountains  / 2,5 – 3 hours riding Tour 3B – Soft River banks  / 2,5 – 3 hours riding Tour 3C – Horses and Hot Springs  / 2,5 – 3 hours riding

Eldhestar offers a variety of day tours for riders of all experience levels. Our day tours usually range from 4 – 6 hours. We ride through stunning landscapes and enjoy the serenity of the Icelandic Nature.

Tour 5A – The Hot Springs Tour  / 5 – 6 hours incl. riding, breaks and bathing Tour 5B – Below the mountains  / 5 – 6 hours riding with breaks Tour 5C – Riding and Relaxation  / 2,5 – 3 hours riding & 2 – 2,5 hours in the pool Tour 5D – Riding and Hiking in Reykjadalur Valley  / 1,5 – 2 hours riding & 2 – 2,5 hours hiking Tour 6A – The Beach Ride  / 4,5 – 5,5 hours riding Tour 6C – The Valley of Horses – Maradalur  / 5 – 6 hours incl. transportation, riding and breaks

Our combo tours are a great way to combine horse riding with other activities. We partner with verified tour companies to create action-packed tours for those who want to make the most of their stay in Iceland.

Tour 4B – The Sea Horse / 1,5 – 2 hours riding & 3 hours whale watching Tour 4C – Riding and rafting / 1,5 – 2 hours riding & 1 – 1,5 hours rafting Tour 4D – Riding and Golden Circle / 1,5 – 2 hours riding & 4.5 hours Golden Circle Tour 4F – Horses and Puffins / 1,5 – 2 hours riding & 1 hour puffin watching

Eldhestar specialises in adventurous multi-day riding tours. The multi-day tours are perfect for those who are looking for an authentic riding experience.

• Winter tours

Tour 7 – Volcano Contrasts / 3 days – 2 nights – 2 days on horseback. Tour 8A/B – Nature’s Treasures and Rider’s Pleasures / 8A: 4 days – 3 nights and 3 days on horseback / 8B: 5 days – 4 nights and 4 days on horseback Tour 8C – The Best of Eldhestar / 5 days – 4 nights and 4 days on horseback Tour 8F – Eldhestar Exclusive / 5 days – 4 nights and 4 days on horseback Tour 9 – Around the Volcano / 4 days – 3 nights and 3 days on horseback Tour 9A – Around the Volcano & Beach Ride / 5 days – 4 nights and 4 days on horseback Tour 10 – Thórsmörk / 5 days – 4 nights and 4 days on horseback Tour 10A – Thórsmörk & Beach Ride  / 6 days – 5 nights and 5 riding day on horse back. Tour 11 – Krýsuvík and the Blue Lagoon / 5 days – 4 nights and 4 days on horse back. Tour 12 – Thingvellir and around Lake Thingvallavatn / 6 days – 5 nights and 5 days on horseback

Tour 13 – The Golden Highlights of the South / 8 days – 7 nights and 7 days on horseback Tour 14 – Snæfellsnes peninsula / 7 days – 6 nights and 6 days on horseback Tour 15 – The Volcano Hekla / 6 days – 5 nights and 5 days on horseback Tour 16 – Treasures of Borgarfjörður / 7 days – 6 nights and 6 days on horseback Tour 17 – Landmannalaugar / 7 days – 6 nights and 6 days on horseback Tour 19 – Sprengisandur / 7 days – 6 nights and 6 days on horseback Tour 20 – Kjölur / 7 days – 6 nights and 6 days on horseback

Tour 7 – Volcano Contrasts Winter Program / 3 days – 2 nights and 2 days on horseback Tour 8A/B – Nature’s Treasures and Rider’s Pleasures – Winter / 8A: 4 days – 3 nights and 3 days riding & activities / 8B: 5 days – 4 nights and 4 days riding & activities Tour 8D – Northern Lights tour / 4 days – 3 nights and 3 days riding & activities Tour 8E – Northern Lights Grand Tour / 6 days – 5 nights and 5 days riding & activities Tour 30 – Winter Riding Course / 30A: 4 days – 3 nights and 3 days riding lessons & activities / 30B: 6 days – 5 nights and 5 days riding lessons & activities Tour 31 – Breeding and Riding / 4 days and 4 nights Tour 32 – Culture and Riding / 4 nights – 3 days of riding & activities Tour 33 – Family Vacation /33A: 4 days – 3 nights and 3 days riding & activities / 33B: 6 days – 5 nights and 5 days riding & activities

ELDHESTAR lodging

You are welcome to download our riding tour brochure! Now available in 4 languages. Choose yours: English Deutsch Dansk Svenska 

Hotel Eldhestar offers single, twin, double, triple and one large family room, all with private bathroom facilities. The hot tub and on-site restaurant are perfect to relax after a day of horse riding or other activities.  

Guesthouse Eldhestar offers 19 beds in twin, triple or quad rooms and is ideally positioned on the property to provide convenience, as well as quality service to meet your needs. The guesthouse is cosy and offers an eating area and shared bathroom facilities.

@hoteleldhestar

THE GOLDEN CIRCLE & HORSES

Price from kr 23,990 approx € 157

11 Hours 1h horseback riding

STARTING POINT

Pickup available

Guiding language

Guided language, in-bus-audio guide.

Available in

On this tour you will explore the world famous Golden Circle & get to know the unique Icelandic horse.

Golden Circle and Horse Tour

WATERFALLS, GEYSERS, LAVA CANYONS AND HORSES

The Golden Circle Classic is our bestselling day tour, audio guided in 10 languages! You will see the world-famous erupting geyser & hot springs, experience the magnificent Gullfoss Waterfall and follow in the footsteps of the Vikings of old as you walk down the lava canyon at Þingvellir. The day will end with horse-riding through meadows and lava fields.

The tour starts with a stop in Þingvellir National Park , a UNESCO World Heritage Site listing and the birthplace of the oldest existing parliament in the world. This is also where the gigantic tectonic plates of America and Eurasia have pulled apart and the resulting rift valley is right there before your eyes on the shores of Iceland’s biggest lake.

The next stop is at Geysir Hot Springs , the home of the one-and-only original geyser and Iceland’s most iconic natural attraction. Here the ground trembles and steaming hot water spouts spectacularly skywards from the famous Strokkur Geyser every few minutes.

Now for a leisurely walk down to Gullfoss Waterfall , which is an awesome sight to behold. Here a powerful glacial river cascades down 32 meters on two levels and into a narrow canyon with a thunderous roar.

The horse riding tour will take us through meadows, lava fields, and a small river. We will enjoy the picturesque scenery of volcanic mountains and farmland , passing several farms, giving us an idea of how Icelandic agriculture has developed in the last decades. The trails are good for horse riding, giving us an opportunity to experience the special gait of the Icelandic horse “tölt”.

• Þingvellir : the rift valley and the site of the oldest modern parliament.
• Geysir : hot spring & geothermal area and home to Strokkur, the erupting geyser.
• Gullfoss Waterfall: the powerful glacial waterfall known as the 'Golden Waterfall' in English.
• Horse Riding tour  in Icelandic scenic landscape 
• GPS synced audio guide : will give you all the information you need for your journey.

Reykjavik Terminal

Tours depart from the Reykjavik Terminal located at Skógarhlíð 10. Please be sure to arrive 15 minutes prior to departure along with a printed or digital copy of your ticket/voucher.

If you have booked a hotel pickup with SmartBus™, please be at your chosen pickup location 30 minutes before the departure of the tour. Look for the Green SmartBus™ which will be outside your accommodation within 30 minutes of pickup. 

Þingvellir National Park

Located on the northern shores of Þingvallavatn (Iceland's largest lake), Þingvellir (anglicized as 'Thingvellir') is the national pride of Iceland and our first National Park. It is, for one, a key location in Icelandic history as the oldest existing parliament in the world was first assembled there in 930 AD. For this reason, Þingvellir has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is, therefore, a protected national park due to its unique geology and natural features. From the viewing area, the Almannagjá canyon between two tectonic plates can be seen, a visual representation of continental drift.

As the first stop along the tour, you will have an opportunity to walk through the park and use the restroom if needed.

Geysir Geothermal Springs

A favorite stop along the Golden Circle is the highly active Geysir Hot Spring Area with boiling mud pits and the lively Strokkur which spouts water 30 meters (100 ft) into the air every few minutes. The area became active more than 1000 years ago and comprises more than a dozen hot spring holes. Although one can only see steam emerging from the surface of Geysir these days, its name was adopted to represent spouting hot springs all over the world.

Along the tour, the newly opened Geysir Center offers guests and travelers a chance to use the restroom and to catch some refreshments as well as lunch.

Gullfoss Waterfall

As one of the most popular attractions in all of Iceland, Gullfoss is a waterfall located in the canyon of Hvítá river in the southwest of the country. The beautiful Hvítá river rushes southward in three steps into a narrow canyon with a breathtaking roar and grandeur. Furthermore, on clear days the magnificent Langjökull glacier, Iceland's second largest glacier, can be seen in the distance.

Guests and Travelers may use the restroom and purchase food and refreshments at this location as well.

Horseback Riding at Eldhestar

Eldhestar horseback riding center offers a variety of horses and is suitable for riders of all abilities.

The last stop along the tour will be at Eldhestar, where you will have the chance to get closer to these majestic animals. Along with getting acquainted with the Icelandic horse, you will also have a taste of the countryside around Hveragerði. Children can be led by staff at Eldhestar if needed. Enjoy the day with Iceland's famous and charming animal. After a 1 hr ride, you will be brought back to Reykjavik by the Eldhestar staff.

Important information

• Please show up at our Reykjavik Terminal (located at Skógarhlíð 10) 15 minutes prior to the departure time. We kindly ask you to be ready at your pick-up point with your voucher, either in digital or printed form. 
• If you have booked a hotel pickup with Smartbus™, please be at your chosen pickup location 30 minutes before the departure of the tour. Look for the Green Smartbus™ which will be outside your accommodation within 30 minutes of pickup. 
• You will be traveling in a coach that holds approximately 40-65 people, but is very spacious and comfortable. The bus offers free wifi and USB charging ports.
• Lunch is not included, In Geysir & Gullfoss there are shops where you can buy food and drinks.
• Available all year round (depending on weather)
• The age limit is 7 years
• Prices: Children 7-14 years discount price 
• Bring with you: Dress according to the weather. In Iceland, it is always wise to dress in warm, waterproof clothes. Weather changes can be sudden so expect the unexpected. Bring a waterproof jacket and pants, headwear and gloves. Good outdoor shoes are recommended.
• In-Bus-Audio-Guide: Bring your own headphones. Otherwise, we sell earphones for ISK 1000.-
• Duration: Approx. 11 hours including a minimum 30-minute stop at Geysir Hot Springs, Gullfoss Waterfall and Þingvellir National Park. In Geysir & Gullfoss there are shops where you can buy food and drinks.
• Important information: You cannot be pregnant for the horse riding tour and if you weigh more than 110 kg, please contact us.

What’s included

• In bus audio guide with a choice of 10 languages   (English, French, German, Dutch, Italian, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, Korean and Finnish)
• Knowledgeable local guide
• Admission to the sights
• Free Wi-Fi and usb charger for each seat
• 1 hour horse riding tour with a professional guide

Friendly cancellation & refund policy

Full refund if cancelled due to weather. Cancellation fee can be witheld if cancelled with short notice.

• 1 day notice: 100% charge

Check availability

Date of travel, we accept these major credit cards..

• No booking fees or any hidden cost.
• Instant booking directly from supplier.
• Best price guarantee!

Why book with us?

• Stable Visits
• Private Riding Experience
• Longer Trail Rides
• Private Rides
• Reiðnámskeið fyrir fullorðna
• Reiðklúbbur
• Hestur í fóstur
• Fyrirtækjaferðir
• Barnaafmæli hjá Íshestum

1,5-2 hour riding tour

RIDING SKILLS

Daily at 10:00 & 14:00

Pick up is at 09:00 and 13:00 from major pick up points in Reykjavik.

7 years old

HORSEBACK RIDING TOUR IN THE REYKJAVIK AREA!

Experience the Icelandic horse surrounded by amazing nature right outside Reykjavík’s city center. Our friendly horses and specially trained guides will take you on a ride on excellent riding paths where you can experience the unique Icelandic horse while enjoying beautiful scenery full of lava fields and green hillsides.

When we arrive back at the stables enjoy complimentary coffee, tea, and hot chocolate and feel free to ask our staff any questions about the Icelandic horse. This tour is ideal both for beginners and more experienced riders and is a fantastic choice for a day-tour in Reykjavík.

We recommend that children under the age of 12 stay in the slower group with their guardians unless they are used to riding horses. At Íshestar we take pride in our personal service and limit group sizes to 20 or less to ensure a safe and enjoyable tour. Our stables are located a short 20-minute drive from Reykjavik’s city center. This horseback riding tour is a perfect way to experience the diversity of the Icelandic nature in only 2 hours.

Please note; when possible we organise the groups according to riding ability to ensure everyone gets the experience and adventure they want.

The slow group will mostly do the walk and the faster group will ride at a faster pace. If you like to go even faster and even try gallop, we recommend our Viking tour 

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WHATS INCLUDED

• The age limit to ride on this tour is 7 years old. Children 14 years or older need written parental permission to ride alone.
• The weight limit for all our tours is 110 kg/240 lbs.
• It is the responsibility of each rider to assess whether they are physically able to take part in the trip, including getting on and off the horses of their own accord.
• If you are arriving in your own car, please be at our stable 30 minutes before departure.
• Please note that the riding tour is 1,5-2 hours. With transfer total time is 4 hours.
• Riding helmets, rubber boots, and rain-wear/warm outfit during the ride.
• Trained guides who speak multiple languages (English, Scandinavian and German).
• Please note that it is not allowed to ride with backpacks or bags but Íshestar provides complimentary safety boxes at the stables for valuables.

WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING WITH ME ON THE TOUR?

We recommend that you bring warm gloves and a thin hat that can fit under the riding helmet. Included in the price is that you can borrow a helmet, warm overall or rain coat and rain pants as well as rubber boots.

WHAT IS THE MAXIMUM WEIGHT ON A RIDER?

Maximum weight for a rider is 110kg/242lb.

CAN I WEAR MY OWN RIDING CLOTHES?

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 cleaned and 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, chaps 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

HOW DO I BOOK?

You can book online on our website or by contacting Íshestar by email [email protected] or by telephone +354 555 7000

WHEN AM I GOING TO BE PICKED UP?

If you purchased a pick-up it starts at a certain time for each tour (see information box above) the driver has to pick up other guests as well but please be ready at your location at the given pick-up time and if you have any trouble call us +354 555 7000 .

MY PICK UP LOCATION IS NOT ON THE LIST?

Please contact us at daytours@ishestar and we will try to find a pick-up location near you.

HOW FAR IN ADVANCE DO I NEED TO BOOK?

We recommend booking a couple of days in advance just to make sure that we have free spaces on the day you wish to arrive.

WHEN WILL I BE BACK AT MY HOTEL?

Usually, you will be back at your hotel around an hour after the tour ends.

Please note that riding tours at Hraðastaðir, Efri-Úlfsstaðir, and Myrkholt do not include transfer as they are Meet on location only tours.

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN YOUR DAY TOURS?

Included in all our day tours: Riding helmets, rubber boots, rainwear, or a warm outfit during the ride. Our tour guides are English and Scandinavian-speaking, and some speak German. See tour programs for details on what is included in combination tours.

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Sörlaskeið 26 220 Hafnarfjörður Iceland

+354 555 7000 [email protected]

www.ishestar.is

Íshestar | allur réttur áskilinn | 2021.

Your true Icelandic winter adventure awaits. Book your tour now!

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Horseback Riding Tours

Reykjavík Horse Riding Tour

Explore the lava fields surrounding mt.helgafell volcano.

Our horse riding adventure starts at Íshestar stables where we saddle up on the beautiful Icelandic horses. We go for a great stroll into the lava surrounding Mt. Helgafell volcano and continue on through lava fields and across beautiful hillsides to the old Kaldársel sheep corral. As we ride through this majestic scenery you will see different unique formations in the rough lava and the Bláfjöll Mountains towering above on the horizon. The horses follow safe paths through the beautiful countryside to give you a fun and peaceful horseback experience in Iceland.

• The Icelandic Horse
• Mt. Helgafell
• Bláfjöll (Blue Mountains)
• Specially Trained Guide
• 1,5-2 Hour Guided Horseback Riding
• All Required Safety Equipment (Riding Helmets, Rubber Boots, & Rainwear)

What to bring

• Warm outdoor clothing

Tour Snapshot

• Expert Guides
• Small Group Experience
• No Booking Fees
• Fast & Secure Payment
• Best Price Guarantee
• Operated by our trusted partner

Please note : you can add pick-up and drop-off to your Reykjavík accommodation for this tour for an extra charge. If you choose the pickup service, the pickup will start one hour before departure (09:00 AM for the 10:00 departure, and 13:00 PM for the 14:00 departure)

You will not be able to bring any backpacks or bags with you on the ride, but there are safety boxes at the stables where you can store your valuables.

Is there a weight limit to join this tour?

Yes, the weight limit for this adventure is 110 kg / 242 lbs. This is of course with the welfare of the horses in mind.

Will the tour be operated if it's raining?

Normally we do operate the tours if it’s raining. Excellent waterproof jackets and trousers are available, as well as gloves. The Icelandic horses are used to rain and wind.

How is it best to be ready for a pick-up for a tour with Arctic Adventures?

This is a great question. We ask all participants to be ready from the start of the pickup time indicated. This is because you may well be the first pick up of the day. Please be at your assigned location at the start time that you chose when booking the tour.

Here you should wait for your guide.

Have your email and phone number listed with us so we can contact you if we run into any trouble finding you.

View our   pick-up locations   in Reykjavík.

Can I drink alcohol before or during Arctic Adventures tours?

Before and during activities on the multi-day tours consumption of alcohol is prohibited. If we suspect that a participant is intoxicated, we will prohibit them from joining the activity.

After the activities of the day are finished, you are welcome to have a drink and relax.

Do you offer any family friendly tours, for younger children?

Yes, we do. Langjökull Ice Cave is a magical experience, the tour has no minimum age and is a wonderful option for the whole family. Whale Watching with our partner company Elding has been a favourite with families traveling with young children, these guys have a great success rate in seeing whales (upwards of 98% in the summertime).

Another option would be the Landmannalaugar Safari on this tour you get to explore parts of the Icelandic highlands and bathe in natural hot springs. Most of our super jeep tours  are also suitable for children over the age of 6 years old. If you would like a nice and relaxing experience we would also recommend the Golden Circle & Secret Lagoon tour .

Can the itinerary for the tour change?

Your safety is our number one priority! Keeping this in mind, Arctic Adventures reserves the right to adjust the itinerary and/or take different routes depending on conditions. Please read more information in our  cancellation policy .

Is there a guide on each Arctic Adventures tour?

Yes, there is a specially trained and certified guide on each of our tours. The only exception to this is for our   self-drive tours .

All of our tours are guided in English.

Can the guide advise if I am eligible for rescheduling the tour and/or a refund?

No, for all your questions and concerns you would need to contact our customer service.

What type of power outlets are used in Iceland? Do I need to bring an adapter?

The standard in Iceland is 230V and 50Hz and we use F-type power sockets and plugs, so you might have to bring an adaptor if you are visiting from UK, USA, Canada or other countries using a different voltage, Hz or plugs.

How are the tours rated in terms of difficulty?

Our tours are split into four different categories that help participants to understand what to expect from the tour. The categories are Easy, Moderate, Challenging and Demanding. Each tour is rated making it easier to find tours that suit you.

For further information about the   difficulty ratings   and descriptions.

How does carbon offsetting work?

We’ve partnered with the Kolviður Fund in a new carbon offsetting program, which passengers can select to participate in at the time of booking.

The Kolviður Fund   is the oldest, most respected carbon offsetting program in Iceland. With your support, one tree will be planted in special Kolviður forests in Iceland to carbon offset your tour with us.

Kolviður forests are strategically planted to absorb the maximum amount of CO2 and the forests are protected for a minimum of 60 years. During their lifetime the trees absorb carbon and store it in their root system, trunk, and branches. Trees also prevent soil erosion and maintain storage of carbon in the soil.

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Contact us for more information about this tour.

Arctic Adventures offers pick up service from selected Reykjavík pick up points. Note that you can always update your pick-up / drop-off location through our customer portal: https://my.adventures.is You can press the login button in your confirmation email for an easy login to the customer portal. If you experience an error with logging into the customer portal or can't find your booking, please contact us on Facebook Messenger, or send us a message here below. Chat with us on Facebook Messenger

[email protected]

Reykjavik Horseback Riding

No booking fee, best price guarantee, free cancellation, secure payments, fully licensed local tour operators, information.

Pick up, Self Drive

• The Icelandic Horse
• Horseback riding
• The red hills of Reykjavik
• Rauðarvatn Lake
• Lava landscapes & pseudocraters

Iceland’s breathtaking natural wonders, including towering waterfalls, geysers, and vast lava fields, make it a magnet for travelers seeking adventure and environmental enthusiasts from around the globe. For those who love horses or simply want to immerse themselves in Iceland’s natural beauty, it is a must to go on a Horse Riding tour. And the Reykjavik Red Lava Horse Riding Tour is an experience that should not be missed if you are staying in Reykjavik. 

This tour offers the chance to get up close with nature on the back of a friendly Icelandic horse, even if you’ve never ridden before. Icelandic horses are known for their gentleness and sure-footedness, making them ideal for traveling across rough terrain. They’re also the only breed with five different types of gaits, making them a unique and fascinating companion on your ride.

The Reykjavik red lava horse riding tour is a 5-7 km journey that typically takes around 2 hours, but can vary depending on the experience level of the riders. Don’t worry if you’re a beginner; the tour guides are there to help and ensure a comfortable and enjoyable ride for everyone. The route takes you through the smooth-riding path of the Redhills and by the Rauðarvatn, offering stunning views of massive lava landscapes, pseudocraters, and magnificent mountains.

To fully enjoy this experience, be sure to bring warm clothes and sturdy shoes. Whether you’re an experienced rider or a first-timer, the Reykjavik Red Lava Horse Riding Tour is an unforgettable way to experience Iceland’s natural beauty and spend quality time with these majestic animals.

• Outdoor clothing for horse riding.
• Protection helmets
• Professional Horse Riding Guides
• Free Pick up in Reykjavik

What to bring

• Warm clothing

Good to know

• Dress according to weather. 
• Pick up from Reykjavik is available and included in the tour price. 
• If you ask for pick up, we will be at your location 30 minutes before the set riding time. 
• The total duration of the tour is 2,5 hours. You will be spending 1,5 – 2 hours horse riding. 
• This tour is ideal for single travelers, groups, families and children. 
• No prvious horse riding experience is required on this tour. 
• This tour offers small groups and personal services. 

Most frequent questions and answers

The meeting point is at Surtlugata in Reykjavik.

The driving distance from Reykjavik is around 13 kilometers – 16 minutes.

The driving time from Reykjavik to the meeting point is approximately 45 minutes (53 kilometres) in good road condition.

You should schedule to be at our departure point at least 30 minutes before scheduled departure.

This tour is available with a pick up from Reykjavik. The pick up is included in the price of the tour. 

You will be picked up in Reykjavik 60 minutes before the tour starts. 

We offer pick up from ION Adventure hotel for extra fee of ISK 7.000. The pick up starts 60 minutes before set riding time. 

You will be on the horse for 1,5 – 2 hours. 

This is a 5-7 kilometres horse riding tour.

This tour is ideal for beginners. 

If the tour gets cancelled due to weather you can choose between rescheduling the tour for another departure or receiving a full refund. 

• 2 days notice: 100% charge
• 6 days notice: 70% charge
• 8 days notice: 0% charge

Yes, and you definitely should! The setting on the tour is full of amazing, scenic views.

We do not recommend horse riding tours for pregnant women. 

There are plenty of free parking lots next to the meeting point of the tour. 

Do you have a question?

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Hidden Gems

• +354-559-7500
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Red Lava Horse Riding Tour from Reykjavik

• Horseback Riding Tours
• Reykjavik Tours
• Airport Transfers
• ATV & Snowmobile Tours
• Caving Tours
• Combo Tours
• Geothermal Pools
• Glacier Tours
• Golden Circle Tours
• Helicopter Tours
• Hiking & Climbing Tours
• Ice Cave Tours
• Volcano Tours
• Multi Day Tours
• Minibus Tours
• Nightlife & Culture Tours
• North Iceland
• Northern Lights Tours
• Private Tours
• River Rafting
• Sightseeing Tours
• Snæfellsnes Peninsula Tours
• Snorkeling & Diving Tours
• South Coast Tours
• Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) Tours
• Super Jeep Tours
• Tours from Akureyri
• West Coast Tours
• Whale Watching & Wildlife Tours
• Capital Area
• Golden Circle
• South Iceland
• South Coast
• East Fjords
• West Iceland
• Reykjanes Peninsula
• Reykjavík City Area
• Snæfellsnes Peninsula
• Keflavík International Airport
• Lake Mývatn Area
• Icelandic Highlands
• 7 Hours 30 Minutes
• Hotel Pick-up Included
• Hotel Pick-up Possible
• Meet on Location

Can’t find the tour you’re looking for? Contact Us

Availability

2 hours 30 minutes

At additional cost

Minimum Age

ISK 16.000

Tour Highlights:

• Horseback riding
• Redhills or Rauðarvatn
• 1,5 – 2 hours of horseback riding
• Pick-up from Reykjavik
• Winter jumpsuits
• Rain clothing

We ride in small groups and offer personal and friendly service!

This tour is about 5-7 km , depending on the riders’ experience.

It is suitable for beginners and those with more experience as we can choose between routes in the area. We will ride on a beautiful and smooth-riding path along the Redhills or, for a group of more experienced riders, we will ride by Rauðarvatn. On both routes, you will enjoy natural riding paths and a wonderful setting for horseback riding, where you will get to know the friendly Icelandic horse.

The total tour duration is 2,5 hours; 1,5-2 hours riding.

If you need a transfer from Reykjavik, your pick-up starts 60 minutes before departure.

If you have your car, please be at our location 30 minutes before the set riding time. Please check the meeting point on Google Maps HERE .

Frequently Asked Questions

Reservations can be canceled 48 hours prior to departure without penalty. Cancellations received less than 48 hours prior to departure are non-refundable.

Cancellations must be submitted in writing to  [email protected] .

Please be mindful of possible time zone differences. Iceland is in the GMT time zone and cancellations must be submitted at least 48 hours before departure in Icelandic local time (GMT).

If you do need to cancel your tour, we recommend that you contact us as soon as possible. 

Book this tour

Price from 16.000 ISK per person.

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HIDDEN ICELAND

Come & Find the Best of Iceland

RED LAVA HORSEBACK RIDING TOUR FROM REYKJAVÍK

From 16,000 isk, this 1.5 – 2 hour tour will give you the perfect chance to try out the unique icelandic horse while enjoying the rugged volcanic terrain just 30 minutes from reykjavík. this tour caters to all abilities and gives you the chance to try out the smooth tölt gait if you’re confident enough..

Sólhestar’s experienced horseback riding guides will lead you through the incredible red hills on this serene landscape. This trip is lovingly named the Red Lava Horseback Riding Tour because of the bright red rocks that surround you as you ride. The broken and scarred red sculptures that you pass will make you feel like you are riding on Mars. Depending on the confidence of the group, you may be treated to an extended ride past Rauðavatn (the red lake) with its reddish aquatic perennial plants jutting out of the lake when the water levels are low. Quite the sight! In winter, the lake often freezes and there are often ice skaters and cross country skiers taking advantage of a new flat surface.

You will ride for around 1.5 – 2 hours on your own horse. the entire duration of the trip (including pick up and drop off in reykjavík and prep time) is around 2.5 hours. the perfect time scale for a half day out of the city., this trip runs year round., if you are self driving and want to meet on location, you can include that when booking. or reach out to hidden iceland by email at [email protected] . you can request a private upgrade via the same channel., about sólhestar, since their founding in 2010, sólhestar has focused on a personalised feel with safety and quality in mind. they have over 80 horses to choose from and each one is picked with the ability and confidence of the rider in mind. the red hills where sóhestar ride are popular among icelanders who ride and hike recreationally there..

Tour Highlights

Inclusions: all horse riding gear and waterproofs if needed, pick up in reykjavík start location: pick up from various locations in reykjavík. if you ask for pickup, we will be at your pickup place 60 min before set riding time. if you have your own car, please be at our location 30 min before set riding time. excluded:  meals.

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GOOD TO KNOW

Level of difficulty this tour is considered to be easy to moderate difficulty level. the moderate level is for anyone wanting to go a little faster on the horse. the distance is around 7-9km so you are on the horse for a while. you can ask to return to the stables early if the duration is a little long., cancellations due to weather sometimes this tour is cancelled due to winds in the main area. in such an event you are offered two choices: you can re-book your tour at a later date without any additional costs. or you can take a full refund., you will be provided with rain gear if needed and all horse riding safety equipment., as this tour does run all through the year it’s important to dress appropriately for the season. bring warm outdoor clothing like a wool or fleece sweater, some warm headgear and gloves. sturdy shoes are recommended., this tour is operated by our friends at sólhestar ..

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Looking for a New Way to See Iceland? Bring Your Knitting Needles.

In a country with nearly as many sheep as people, a D.I.Y. wool journey — from sheep farms to yarn shops — makes perfect sense. Our writer brushes up on her knitting on a driving trip from Reykjavik.

Sheep graze near the Ring Road in west Iceland. The country is drawing tourists interested in one of the country’s most popular crafts: knitting. Credit... Sigga Ella for The New York Times

Supported by

By Lisa Abend

• Published Sept. 16, 2024 Updated Sept. 18, 2024, 10:06 a.m. ET

I spent my second day in Iceland in a hotel on the outskirts of Reykjavik, trying resolutely to knit. Gathered around a coffee table with me were Ragga Sjöfn Jóhannsdóttir, my instructor, and my friend Lindis Sloan, both experienced knitters who fluidly worked the yarn with barely a glance at their hands.

And then there was me, gripping the needles as I struggled to maintain the proper tension that would allow me to transform two skeins of local wool into something resembling a headband. My progress was excruciatingly slow, but a couple of hours in, a red ring of textile with pink diamonds was beginning to emerge.

Then Ragga noticed a mistake I had made in a previous row. Taking the needles, she began ripping out my hard-earned stitches. “If you can’t unravel,” she said with a jolly laugh, “you can’t knit.”

It was a counterintuitive way of spending a vacation in Iceland. Most people travel to the island nation for steamy soaks in the milky waters of the Blue Lagoon or nighttime treks to see the northern lights. But in a country with a deeply ingrained craft tradition, a climate conducive to sweaters, and nearly as many sheep as people, knitting tourism is on the rise.

Hélène Magnusson is largely responsible for the development. Half-French, half-Icelandic, Ms. Magnussen is a pattern designer known for work that blends traditional Icelandic and modern styles. She also organizes tours that take a deep dive into Icelandic wool culture, including visits to sheep farms, spinning factories and dyeing studios. And because she is both a former hiking guide and a designer inspired by nature, her tours include an outdoor element like hiking or horse riding.

“Why would you come to Iceland and not move?” she said.

But at the core of the tours is the time set aside to sit somewhere cozy and knit. “Three or four hours a day together, knitting, you make some good friends,” Ms. Magnusson said.

A knitting paradise

Ms. Magnusson wasn’t offering tours when I was in Iceland, but she talked me through her itineraries so I could put together a D.I.Y. version. I invited Lindis, who is from Norway, another country that takes wool seriously.

Just how seriously Icelanders take it quickly became clear in Reykjavik, where at least one 24-hour grocery store stocks shelves of yarn for 2 a.m. knitting emergencies. A knit-goods paradise, the capital has plentiful yarn stores and outlets selling finished garments — from contemporary designers to secondhand stores where legions of ungrateful Icelanders consign the Christmas gifts their grandmothers have painstakingly crafted for them.

But the mecca for classic Icelandic sweaters is the Handknitting Association’s shop . With its floor-to-ceiling shelves crammed with fuzzy cardigans and pullovers, it is the embodiment of options paralysis, so I was grateful when Marta Makuchowska, who works there, helped me navigate it.

Ms. Makuchowska, who is from Poland, moved to Iceland to go to university, and ended up not only writing her thesis on the knitters’ cooperatives, but learning to knit “lopepeysa” — the typical Icelandic sweater made from thick, unspun yarn called lopi and knit with an intricate circular pattern at the yoke. “It was a good way to fit into Icelandic culture,” she explained.

A true Icelandic sweater must be handmade, and cooperatives like the Handknitting Association act as a guarantor of quality. Founded in the 1970s to increase the bargaining power of women supplementing the family income, the association requires potential members to audition (with a sweater) and ensures that their work meets strict criteria: It must be made with wool from Icelandic sheep, conform to approved patterns, and be knit in Iceland.

Learning the craft

Based on Ms. Magnusson’s advice, Lindis and I devised a plan: Drive north along the coast to Blönduós, home to the country’s main wool-washing facility and its only textile museum, then cut inland and return south, where there are a handful of wool-related cottage industries.

First, however, I had to learn to knit.

Which is where Ms. Sjöfn Jóhannsdóttir came in. A retired schoolteacher, she holds four-day workshops for experienced knitters and shorter sessions for beginners. I was not a novice, but my technique is terrible, and I’m intimidated by anything more complicated than a purl stitch. I was counting on my Icelandic wool journey to help me overcome those obstacles.

Ms. Sjöfn Jóhannsdóttir had firm ideas about technique but a warm pedagogic style gleaned from decades of teaching math and crafts (Icelandic children learn to knit in school). Starting me on that headband, she showed me how to cast on stitches, and how to unite them on round needles so that, in the typical Icelandic style, the finished garment would have no seams.

I found the work painstaking, and it was difficult to imagine that I would ever achieve the grace with which both she and Lindis were rapidly assembling sweaters. But I managed to reknit a row or two before the end of the workshop, and after a restorative lunch of Icelandic smoothie bowls, I promised my teacher I would keep trying.

Going north

The following day, Lindis and I headed north. In Bogarnes, we stopped at Ljómalind , a cooperative where brightly colored sweaters shared shelf space with jars of rhubarb jam, earrings carved from ram horns and a freezer full of lamb parts.

Later, near the white clapboard church of Hvanneyri, we found the Ullarselid cooperative . Inside, Hugrún Jóhannsdóttir, an avid knitter and Viking re-enactor (with the Runic tattoos to prove it), explained that the cooperative had been founded in 1992 to teach wool-working at the agricultural school, and “to prize women’s work.”

Inside, sweaters are shelved depending on whether the yarn is dyed or “sheep-colored.” Lindis gravitated to the yarn section, where I found her petting a skein of handspun longingly. “I get it,” Ms. Jóhannsdóttir said. “There’s a kind of witchcraft to textiles.”

When we reached Blönduós a couple of hours later, I found myself wondering if the hands that would have fit into the antique mittens on display at the Textile Museum didn’t suffer from another kind of bewitchment: They each had two thumbs. But no, explained the docent, these were Nordic fishermen’s mittens. If the palm got wet, the wearer could simply turn the mitten around and wear it from the other side.

Because shearing season was over, the Istex wool-washing facility, which cleans much of the country’s raw fleece, was closed. With nothing to do until dinner, we retired to the hotel bar, where we ordered wine and watched the steel-colored sea outside the windows for passing whales. When Lindis pulled out her needles, I surprised myself by doing the same. Suddenly, the notion of traveling halfway around the world to sit in a room and knit made a lot more sense.

Coaxing dyes from plants

We returned to the south the next day, and headed toward Selfoss. Our first stop was Hespa , a one-woman dyeing studio in Gudrún Bjarnadóttir’s home. We walked into her kitchen, where a not entirely pleasant aroma wafted from pots overflowing with yarn being steeped in various hues.

Ms. Bjarnadóttir, who also offers workshops, obtains her dyes from nature. As a graduate student researching the historic applications of wild plants in Iceland, she learned they were used to produce colors. “At that point,” she said, “I completely lost control.”

Today, that loss of control manifests itself in the astonishing array of shades she coaxes from plants, many indigenous. The lupine that carpets the countryside in summer yields a strong yellow. Lichen, which Ms. Bjarnadóttir has a permit to forage from a location she keeps secret, produces a range of browns. Green requires extra intervention: The dyer must add copper — a penny or a bit of wire — to get moss’s colors to stay. The excess onion skins the local supermarket saves for her produces yellows and rust. “I dye with the same process as people did in the old days, but with better equipment,” Ms. Bjarnedottir said.

Better, and less stinky. To get the ammonia needed to fix colors, Icelanders traditionally used aged cow urine. “You would need 40 gallons at a time, so they used to tickle the cows to get them to pee,” she said. “Then you had to let it age for three weeks.”

A slow process

The theme of time kept popping up. Wool-working might be a cornerstone of Icelandic culture, and handcrafted textiles might remain an important export, but the vast amount of time required to produce a handmade knit means that the people — mostly women — who produce the work cannot earn enough to ever have it be more than a hobby.

At the Thingborg cooperative, an adult lopi sweater, handmade by one of its 65 knitters, sells for around $250, of which the knitter gets 60 percent. It will have taken her anywhere from 14 to 25 hours to create, and she must buy her own yarn.

“You could knit all day long and would earn wages that are not even close to being legal,” Magret Jonsdottir, who runs Thingborg, said. Some cooperatives have petitioned the Icelandic government to exempt handcrafted textiles from the value-added tax.

You start with the sheep

We had one more stop. At Uppspuni , Hulda Brynjólfsdóttir and her husband, Tyrfingur Sveinsson, process wool from their own sheep into yarn. It is the sheep, Ms. Brynjólfsdóttir explained, that make Icelandic wool so special. The short-legged breed has a double coat, with coarse outer strands that repel water, and a fluffy inner fleece that makes it especially warm. “We always say that the production of our yarn starts when we decide which ewe to breed with which ram,” she said.

From the knitters to the dyers to the millers to the sheep: At each stop it felt as if we were pulling out one layer of Icelandic tradition to reveal the next. By this point in our journey, Lindis had finished her own lopapeysa, knocked out a pair of baby booties and was a third of the way through a navy pullover. I still hadn’t quite finished my slightly lumpy headband.

But when Ms. Brynjólfsdóttir led us upstairs to the small shop where Uppspuni sells its yarns, I decided it was time to commit. I bought a pattern, needles and several skeins of sheep-colored yarn. I might not be a skilled knitter yet, I told myself, but I knew how to unravel.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

An earlier version of this article misstated the ratio of the number of sheep to people in Iceland. There are about as many sheep as people, not 10 times more.

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Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Lima, Peru : The city, with its decade-long dining boom , now holds three places on the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list, as many chefs embrace Indigenous Andean and Amazonian ingredients in the seafood.

Kyoto, Japan :  The Japanese city is famous for its temples and gardens, but it is laced with waterways  that can offer a different, and no less enchanting, view.

Marseille, France :  Get the full flavor of France’s second-largest city through its favorite street food — pizza  — whether it’s topped with raw garlic, sweet Corsican sausage, Emmental cheese or anchovies.

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BMW PGA Championship: DP World Tour Fantasy ones to watch 

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Fantasy Insight : In the early stages of players picking their teams, Adam Scott, who will represent the International Team at the Presidents Cup next week, is currently most chosen, featuring in almost 70% of squads.

Robert MacIntyre, who won his first Rolex Series title at the Genesis Scottish Open in July, is the next most-selected at just under 66%, while his fellow Ryder Cup-winning team-mate Tommy Fleetwood is third in just over 63% of teams.

Former champions Billy Horschel and Shane Lowry round off the top five, with 60% and just over 50%.

Here, we pick out three players in action this week who are worth considering for your Fantasy team selections.

Favourite - Rory McIlroy

Beware the wounded animal. After the disappointment of missing out on winning his national Open in his home County, this could well be the week that McIlroy puts the memories of some near misses this year behind him and claims a second BMW PGA Championship title. The champion of 2014 arrives as the Race to Dubai Rankings in Partnership with Rolex leader, and as the favourite among the bookies. A winner in both Dubai and the United States this year, the 35-year-old has finished in the top ten at Wentworth in each of the last four editions.

Form Horse - Rasmus Højgaard

To pick a man who won last time out as a Form Hose may seem a little on the nose but there are more reasons to go for Højgaard than his sensational victory at the Amgen Irish Open. The Dane now sits second on the Race to Dubai Rankings, the same position in which brother Nicolai finished last season and sibling rivalry could well provide inspiration for Rasmus to keep his foot down. After missing out on Dual Membership with the PGA TOUR last season, he started 2024 with five consecutive top 12s and since then has added two further top fives along with his fifth career victory.

Wild Card - Laurie Canter

It shows just how strong the field is this week at Wentworth Club that a player with a win in 2024 can be a Wild Card but less than 4% of players have Canter in their team. A long-time nearly man on the DP World Tour, Canter came through the Qualifying School in 2015, 16 and 17 before breaking out in the Covid-affected 2020 season with a top 20 finish on the Race to Dubai. He finished in the top 25 on the Rankings the following season, largely thanks to a runner-up finish at this event and while he missed the cut in 2022, he is clearly comfortable on the West Course. He has a second and two further top tens this season and a tie for 17th in Ireland last week was his best finish since his victory at the European Open.

Looking Back - Amgen Irish Open

With his victory at Royal County Down in Northern Ireland, Rasmus Højgaard amassed 176 points for the 1,283 (3.89%) players who picked him, with 42 making inroads on their competition by making him their captain.

Our Favourite Rory Mcllroy finished runner-up to Højgaard, while our Form Horse Robert MacIntyre finished tied fifth and Wild Card Rasmus Neergaard-Petersen - making his first DP World Tour start since gaining automatic promotion from the Challenge Tour - missed the cut.

Season so far - 2024 DP World Tour Fantasy Top 10 player rankings

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Ryan Fox hoping to rediscover 'calm' he felt during Wentworth win

Ryan Fox is hoping to rediscover the sense of calm he felt on his way to winning last year's BMW PGA Championship as he returns to Wentworth Club to defend his title.

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