Adventures Riding Icelandic Horses

Icelandic horses are like no other and the world. When I learn someone is going to Iceland, I always recommend riding an Icelandic horse. During two of our visits, we were able to ride and the experience was amazing each time!

Icelandic horses on Videy Island

Our first adventure was on Videy Island which is a short ferry ride from Reykjavik. Our tour was with Laxnes Horse Farm which brings horses out to Videy seasonally. We were on the tour by ourselves which was incredible!

Meeting an Icelandic horse

We began our tour by choosing our helmets and then meeting the horses. We had some time to visit with the horses before being matched up to ride. We learned a little about the Icelandic horse including their two special gaits. Icelandic horses have 5 gaits rather than the 3 of other horses. The horses were a bit on the shorter side and were incredibly gentle. But, we could tell they can have spunk! We enjoyed our ride and took some time for photos.

After, we walked around Videy. There are a few pieces of artwork including the Imagine Peace Tower by Yoko Ono. We were captivated by the natural surroundings.

Wildflowers on Videy Island

On the island is Videyjarstofa House which is the oldest in Reykjavik. Today, it is home to a restaurant where we enjoyed waffles.

You can see Reykjavik from the island which is neat. Such a lovely aside that we will never forget!

Reykjavik from Videy Island

Our second experience was a tour with Ishestar. Our experience started in Ishestar's Horse Center where you could pick up a light bite or coffee before learning safety and suiting up for your ride. The scenery surrounding was incredible. The horses were stunning and just as gentle yet strong like the horses we rode on Videy.

Ishestar Horse Center

Our ride was a bit longer than that on Videy. However, we were not given rest points to stop and take pictures. We were with a rather large group and somehow were a little behind. The ride was a little more challenging than on Videy. After, we circled back to the Horse Center for lunch before heading out to Fontana Spa for a little relaxation.

Icelandic horses at Ishestar

Icelandic horses are another incredibly unique part of a vacation to Iceland. The horses descend from those initially brought by Vikings. Iceland has kept the breed pure by barring other breeds from being brought to the country. Additionally, Icelandic horses that leave cannot return. So, riding an Icelandic horse is close to riding a horse of the Vikings! Our rides have been some of our favorite memories of our trips to Iceland! There are many options for horse tours including several day options. A uniquely Icelandic adventure!

**Disclosure: No compensation was received for this post. All opinions are 100% my own.