Round Up Rhapsody - Thunder of Hooves in Skrapatungurétt

Difficulty

Extreme

Comfort

Basic+

Weight limit

Experience the Authentic Icelandic Horse Round-Up! Picture this: a scene straight out of Icelandic folklore, where hundreds of free-spirited horses descend from their highland summer pastures, ready to be reunited with their owners. This ancient tradition, kept alive only in the North of Iceland, offers a glimpse into a world where nature and culture intertwine seamlessly.

Take a journey through the breathtaking valleys and mountains of Vatnsdalur to Laxárdalur valley. By the sunset join the locals dancing the traditional "réttardansleikur"! And the following day keep sorting and returning of the horses to their respective home meadows.

Prepare for long hours outdoors amidst the unpredictable Icelandic autumn weather, where golden sunshine may swiftly give way to rain and sleet. For optimal enjoyment, dress warmly with layers, donning long woolen underwear and ample woolen socks and gloves. After all, a warm rider is a happy rider in this unforgettable Icelandic adventure!

Heiðdís S. is the provider of this trip

5.0 6 reviews

The provider speaks: English

Our Company is owned by local Icelandic farmers, and our tours are organized by them. Our farmers live in almost every part of Iceland so we offer riding tours in a diversified landscape.

View Heiðdís`s tours

The tour guides you'll probably meet as well

Haukur

Haukur and family live in a Farm in Vatnsdalur in North Iceland. Haukur along with his daughters operates several of our tours. Haukur has four children and many many horses. His wonderful family and staff helps him operate the tours. Haukur is always cheerful and it’s so much fun when he takes out his guitar starts playing and singing with our guests.

Tour highlights

Participate in an Ancient Ritual

Round Ups is an ancient tradition, which is only kept alive in the North of Iceland. You will become an integral part of the team, herding and sorting the animals alongside fellow enthusiasts

Interact with Local Icelanders

Are you are aware of horses herding methods? Or you probably know what “réttardansleikur” means? No? Don`t worry, you will constantly interact with local inhabitants, who will be happy to introduce you the unique Icelandic culture and tell about its peculiarities

Immerse in the Beaty of Icelandic Nature

Free and spirited horses, beautiful valleys and mountains, stunning waterfalls and breathtaking views- joining this trip, you will both take amazing pictures and collect unforgettable memories! Let Icelandic landscapes be out of your bucket- list, come capture them on your own!

Route details

Meet us promptly at 08:30 at the BSÍ bus station in Reykjavík for a comfortable bus transfer to Haukur's Farm, where your Icelandic adventure begins. Along the way to the north, we will make a delightful stop at a factory outlet offering exquisite woolen goods.

Our journey kicks off in the picturesque Vatnsdalur valley, steeped in the rich history of the Vatnsdæla Saga. Riding along the eastern side of the valley, we will marvel at the majestic Hvammsfoss waterfall, framed by striking basalt columns. After a day of exploration, our horses will rest near Stóra-Giljá Farm as we return to Haukur's Farm, the warm and welcoming abode of our host, Haukur, where we will spend the night. (Approximately 20 km of riding)

Difficulty

Extreme

Only for experienced and physically fit hikers. Requires specific skills and equipment

Tour provider's comments

This tour is for experienced equestrians.

Average daily distance will vary from 20 to 45 kilometers. In order to endure long hour composite route rides you should be in good physical shape.

Horse Breed: Icelandic horse

Tack Type: Icelandic

Accommodation

Comfort

Basic+

Guest House

4 nights

During this tour you will spend 4 nights at Haukur's Farm.

It is provided with 6 rooms and includes 2 - 4 beds in each room. Beds with linen. Accommodation before and after the ride to be arranged individually.

* You will find possible accommodation options during the registration process. All prices will be automatically calculated.

Situated in the beautiful Vatnsdalur valley in North Iceland and is known for one of three uncountable phenomena in Iceland the uncountable Hills.

Haukur, your guide and host, has been living in the farm for many years with his children and all of his horses. He has been renovating the accommodation for few years. So you will be staying in a new house and Haukur will be based in a recently renovated sheep shed nearby.

As for accommodation, you will be provided with made up beds.

Among other included facilities are:

outdoor jacuzzi;
2 showers;
GSM connection;
WiFi;
2 WC.

Tickets to group meeting place

Group meeting place

Capital Region, Reykjavík

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Partnered with

Weather during the tour

Weather conditions along the route

You will get a weather forecast for this tour’s route based on

the forecasts for this season
the statistics from previous years’ trips

Tour conditions

Included

bus transfer from Reykjavík BSÍ bus station to Hvammur Farm;
3 meals a day: breakfast, lunch and dinner;
4 riding days;
4 nights accommodation;
rainwear, water bottle, saddle bag, riding helmet.

Extras

international flights to and from Iceland;
alcoholic beverages (however, they can be bought at a reasonable price in the Duty-Free Store at Keflavik Airport upon arrival);
tips and personal expenses;
travel insurance (we encourage clients to obtain relevant travel insurance before visiting Iceland).

Group size

up to 8 tourists

Duration

5 days

4 nights

It's important to know

During the ride full board is provided. Our menu consists of a large breakfast and traditional Icelandic meals (fish or lamb). Vegetarian meals are available if requested when booking. All riders make their own packed lunch from the breakfast table.

Tour reviews

5.0

Based on 6 reviews

L
Lena

15 Apr, 2024

about provider

Friendly horses, enjoyable guided tours and an authentic Icelandic experience that feels welcoming, like being at home. Thank you!

15 Apr, 2024
W
Wolfram

10 Mar, 2024

about provider

Wir haben jetzt schon zum fünften Mal eine Tour gemacht. Alle Touren sind richtig gut organisiert. Die Pferde sind super und die Strecken sind echt schön anzusehen Wir übernachten auf isländischen Bauernhöfen und die Atmosphäre ist total familiär und toll. Diese Touren sind nur für erfahrene Reiter geeignet Das Team ist großartig und alles ist top organisiert

10 Mar, 2024
A
Annette

5 Dec, 2023

about provider

I consider them to be the top horse riding company in Iceland. This was my fourth experience with them, and I am already making plans for a trip in 2024!

5 Dec, 2023