Iceland - Horse Round Up

Please Note: The opinions expressed in these reviews are the author's and do not necessarily reflect the views of Unicorn Trails Ltd. These reviews are "directly from the horses mouth" and unedited. Unicorn Trails may make additional comments for clarification clearly identified in red.

Review received from JK of Jersey city on 21/09/2024

Due to the early start on Day 1, it is recommended that guests arrive in Reykjavik the day before the round up begins and stay in a hotel in the city. Please see 'Accommodation' for recommended hotels.

Skrapatungurét Itinerary

Day 1
Reykjavík – Hvammur – Vatnsdalur – Stóra-Giljá: Pick up at 08:30 from BSI Bus station Reykjavik. Please be ready at the earliest pick-up time and wear riding clothes. Transfer by bus to Hvammur Farm to meet horses and guides. On the way to the north there is a stop to visit a factory outlet for woolen goods. Start the ride in Vatnsdalur valley, the setting of the Vatnsdæla-Saga. Ride on the eastern side of Vatnsdalur valley, past Hvammsfoss waterfall which is surrounded by impressive basalt columns. The horses rest close to Stóra - Giljá Farm and riders return to Hvammur Farm, home of our host Haukur, for our overnight stay. (Approx. 20 km)

Day 2
Stóra-Giljá – Björnsólfsstaðir – Hvammur: After rejoining the horses, start the ride along the shores of Lake Húnavatn while following the expansive salmon fishing river, Laxá á Ásum, before continuing to Blönduós village. Here, cross the glacier-fed river Blanda on a bridge and continue to Björnsólfsstaðir Farm in Langadalur valley. This farm belongs to Haukur’s grandfather who is known for his storytelling and warm personality. Overnight stay at Hvammur Farm. (Approx. 30 km)

Day 3
Gathering horses in Laxárdalur – Skrapatungurétt: Meet up with the horses at Farm Strjúgsstaðir. The group meets the farmers coming down from the mountains where they have already spent some time gathering the horses from their summer pastures. Hundreds of horses travel down from the highlands and riders participate in herding them to the round-up place Skrapatungurétt. Join in the singing of the locals to celebrate this great event. (Approx. 45 km)

Optional (not included in the tour price): "Stóðréttardansleikur" dance at Blönduós, where everybody relaxes after the excitement of the day and celebrates yet another successful round up.

Day 4
Sorting of the horses and driving the herds to their home pastures: The day starts at the round-up place Skrapatungurétt where horses are sorted. Experience the excitement and view the horses while joining in this much anticipated event. When the horses are sorted, the riders help returning some of them to the meadows at their home farms. Dinner at Hvammur Farm and time to share our personal experiences of this riding adventure with our fellow riders. (Approx. 25 km)

Day 5
Return to the South - Reykjavík: Departure from the North and return to the Bus Station in Reykjavík. Approx. arrival at 13:00.

Víðidalstungurétt Itinerary

Day 1
Reykjavík – Hvammur – Sveinsstaðir – Hvammur Farm: Pick up between 07:30 – 08:30 from the accommodation. Please dress in riding clothes. Transfer by bus from Reykjavík to Hvammur Farm to meet horses and guides. Start the ride through the beautiful Vatnsdalur valley, the setting of the Vatnsdæla-Saga. Ride along the banks of River Vatnsdalsá before crossing over to the western side of the valley. The ride ends at Sveinsstaðir Farm and the group return to Hvammur Farm for the overnight stay. (approx. 25 km)

Day 2
Sveinsstaðir – Dæli – Hvammur: This will be a long and exciting riding day that starts alongside the Hóp, and across the Gljúfurá River, through the friendly countryside of Vestur-Hóp and into the valley Víðidalur. Follow Víðidalsá River to Dæli Farm where the horses spend the night and riders return to Hvammur farm for a soak in the outdoor hot tub and a hearty dinner. (approx. 40 km)

Day 3
Dæli - Kolugil – Víðidalstungheiði – Hvammur: Today the ride climbs toward the highland plateau, Víðidalstunguheiði, to meet the horses coming down from their pastures in the highlands. Enjoy lunch at a mountain shelter before joining the farmers in driving the herd down from the mountains. Before ending the ride at Dæli Farm, stop at Kolugili Farm for refreshments. (approx. 32 km, during 8-9 hours including lunch and coffee breaks)

Day 4
Víðidalstungurétt – Lake Hóp – Hvammur: The day starts at the round-up place, Víðidalstungurétt, where horses are sorted. An auction is held right on the spot and riders can join the farmers in their celebration the return of their horses. In the afternoon, join up with the horses close to Borgarvirki and ride towards Lake Hóp. Feel the excitement of the horses as they reach the open plain. The trail leads across Lake Hóp, Iceland’s fifth biggest lake, on a safe path across the water. Ride past Thingeyrar, into Vatnsdalur valley. It is time to say goodbye to the horses and we return to Hvammur. (approx. 30 km)

Optional (not included in the tour price): "Stóðréttardansleikur" dance at Víðihlíð, where everybody relaxes after the excitement of the day and celebrates yet another successful round up.

Day 5
Return to the South – Reykjavík: Departure from the North and return to Reykjavík at approx. 14:00.

The hosts reserve the right to change the itinerary if necessary.

There are no packing restrictions on this ride
Please don't bring a long riding raincoat as they tend to flap. A short riding jacket will suffice.
It is advisable to riders to bring their own snacks for the ride (chocolate, energy bars etc).
Please bring cash for purchases at the riding centre.

Single supplements:
Please note that it is not possible to book a single room during the riding tour.

Please note: All itineraries are given for your guidance only and it may be altered on the ground and in accordance with the prevailing conditions by the organising team.

Clients ride traditional Icelandic horses (called horses not ponies despite being pony sized!) who have a special gait known as the tölt which is very comfortable and anyone comfortable with English (or McLellan) or Western tack will be able to adapt to sitting to the new gait without any problems – the trail leaders explain how to sit it before the first day’s riding as well as how to tack up the horses, mount it and how to ride the tölt before setting off. All the guides are English-speaking.

Riding days can be long so you should be in good physical condition and have a basic knowledge of horsemanship. Hours per day in the saddle ranges from three to ten. The minimum age for this ride is 7 years.

A sense of adventure is important as is an open and positive frame of mind due to the nature of the trip.

Used riding clothes must be disinfected before entry to Iceland. Riding gear (riding trousers, jackets, etc.) needs to be washed (40°C) or dry cleaned. Items which cannot be washed or dry cleaned (riding boots, riding hats) need to be 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 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

The weight limit for this ride is 242 lb/110 kg, please enquire if you are an experienced rider exceeding this weight.

Accommodation is in simple yet cosy mountain cabins shared by the local farmers participating with you in the Horse Round Up. Three nights are spent in cabins that are situated in their own little area sheltered by low trees / bushes. They all have a table and chairs and bunk beds, but they try to only put 2 people in a 4 man cabin so there is no need to use the top bunks. They are heated and have lighting and power points. Showers are just across the grass (less than 1 minute walk) and towels and sleeping bags are provided. Hot tubs are available on some nights. Please note that it is usual for people to shower before using them.

Large breakfasts are normal, and traditional ingredients like lamb and fish are staple items in dinners. Special diets (vegetarian, etc.) can be provided for if advance notice is given. Lunches are brought to you each day by the back up vehicles. Luggage will be transported in the kitchen van. Please bring bags rather than hard cover suitcases and pack light because transport space is limited.

Extra accommodation: We recommend that you arrive the day before the ride begins and stay in a hotel in Reykjavik. Some riders may also want to stay an extra night at the end of the ride before flying home. There are many hotels to choose from in Reykjavik, some recommendations are Cabin Hotel and Brim Hotel.

As part of an initiative to improve the centre of Reykjavik for locals and travellers, the local authorities have banned buses from driving within the central part of the City. Instead, vehicles with group licenses will pick up and drop off all passengers staying at hostels and guesthouses within the area at designated bus stops, including airport transfers and tours. Please take a look at the avalible bus stopshere http://www.busstop.is/ to find the stop closest to your intended accommodation. 

Vegetarian or other dietary requirements within reason can be accommodated with advance notice. Please contact Unicorn Trails with requests before booking.

Please note that it is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct documentation in place for your trip.

NB: Be sure to check the COVID status of the country you plan to visit including entry procedures.

Passport and Visa requirements can change from year to year depending on diplomatic relations. Please request information from the appropriate Consulate in your home country.

Unicorn Trails will assist with any questions you have or supply any necessary supporting documents as required by the consulate should you need a visa.

In the UK the British Foreign Office gives advice: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/iceland

In the US: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Iceland.html

In Canada: https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/iceland

Come prepared for all kinds of weather as the day can change very quickly! Summer temperatures usually reach the 20°C+ but can be less than 10°C.

COVID: Be sure to check the latest COVID regulations for travelling in any country you visit.

Please refer to your country’s latest health guideline for travel in Iceland and contact your own GP for up to date advice on vaccinations and prophylaxis prior to travel.

You should make sure you have sufficient medical supplies (including prescription medicines) for the duration of your stay and any unforeseen delays, adequate travel insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment and repatriation.

Sunscreen and insect repellent is advised.

No special health precautions are required for the rides.

If you need to contact the emergency services, call 112.

No special health precautions are required for visits to Iceland.

In Iceland the supply voltage is 230V. If the appliance is a single voltage rated appliance, it will need to operate at the same voltage as the supply voltage of the country i.e. 230V. If this is not the case it should be used alongside a voltage transformer or converter to allow the appliance to work safely and properly.

Bring sufficient film, batteries, etc. with you because there are no opportunities to buy these out on the trail. If using a GoPro please get the permission of the group to be filmed.

You should be ready for all kinds of weather as the weather can change very quickly. We recommend packing layers of clothing and that the following items are included when preparing for this tour.

**Please note, leather items shoes/riding boots etc are only permitted if disinfected with Virkon S 5 days before arrival.**

-Riding Helmet - We strongly recommend you wear a properly fitting riding hat, if you bring your own this must be disinfected 5 days before arrival.
-Riding Boots - We strongly recommend knee-high, rubber boots to avoid getting wet feet and for ease of disinfection. Please DO NOT bring leather or suede chaps.
-Riding trousers
-Warm jacket or overcoat.
-Warm (woolen or fleece) sweater.
-Warm socks and gloves, at least two pairs, scarf and a cap or hat.
-Warm underwear, long if possible.
-Tracksuit or casual, loose clothes
-A pair of slippers to wear in the accommodation. (Icelanders take off their shoes when entering a house).
-Swimsuit, towels and soap
-Band aids and second skin plasters for chaffing.
-Fly net
-Chocolate, snacks like energy bars or glucose sweets for strenuous riding days (not available at the riding centre)
-Sun lotion for face and lips (with hight UV factor)
-A sports bra for the ladies often comes in handy
-Sunglasses
-Bum bag or similar to carry water, cameras etc.
-Ear plugs (some people snore!)

Items provided:
-Safety riding helmet
-Saddle bags
-Rain wear (heavy/industrial so best to have your own and use the provided gear only in the worst of weather)

Please Note:
All riding gear (riding trousers, jackets, etc.) needs to be washed (40°C) or dry cleaned before arrival. Items that 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.

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

5d / 4n programme with 4 riding days - 120km. This special event takes place just once a year, in the autumn. We recommend riders to arrive a day early and stay in a hotel in Reykjavik the night before the ride starts.

2024: 12 - 16 September (Skrapatungurétt - Full); 2 - 6 October (Víoidalstungurétt)
2025: 11 - 15 September (Skrapatungurétt); 1 - 5 October (Víoidalstungurétt)

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WH Auden and Louis MacNeice Letters from Iceland

Chris Casseldine Most Unimaginably Strange: An Eclectic Companion to the Landscape of Iceland 

David Roberts 'Iceland Land of the Saga's';

Terry Lacy 'Ring of Seasons'.

For a broad selection of equestrian travel books, many previously unavailable visit www.HorseTravelBooks.com - inspiring adventure!

Blue Lagoon, Whale Watching (Reykyavik)

Disinfecting of used riding gear: Riding gear (riding boots, riding trousers, jackets, hats, gloves, etc.) needs to be washed (40°C), dry cleaned or disinfected with Virkon S before arriving in Iceland. Saddles, bridles and other leather gear may not be brought into the country.
Please understand that these precautions are necessary because there are no contagious animal diseases (i.e. rabies or foot and mouth diseases) in Iceland and therefore important to protect the animals of the country. Please help us to protect Iceland's fragile nature!
For further information please take a look at: www.mast.is

Iceland is known as the ‘Land of Fire and Ice’ and is a large island in the North Atlantic Ocean, close to the Arctic Circle. It has close ties with Scandinavia and is part of Europe. Historically, Iceland was settled by Vikings and later came under Danish rule. Known for having the world's first parliament during Norse times, Iceland passed an act centuries ago banning horse imports, leading to today's pure breed. In 1944, Iceland gained full independence. Iceland also boasts a rich horse culture, with nearly every Icelander being a rider or adept at horseback riding.

Iceland is a true gem in the world of travel. With its incredible landscapes that seem to come straight out of a storybook, this destination is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places on Earth. The opportunity to witness volcanoes, stunning beaches, geothermal springs, rocky formations, and mineral-packed pools sparkling with color is truly unique. Plus, its wild landscapes are home to some of the world's most awe-inspiring natural phenomena, such as the midnight sun in June where you can experience almost 24 hours of daylight. And there's no better way to immerse yourself in this natural wonderland than by taking a horseback ride through the glacial river valleys and ancient routes. With its vast uninhabited land, Iceland is an adventure waiting to happen for those who are willing to explore off the beaten path. Only approximately 15% of Iceland is populated and most people choose to live around the coast, leaving the rest of the country's rugged beauty to be discovered by travellers.

Reykjavik, the world's northernmost capital, is picturesque with modern architecture and commerce mixed with traditional colourful wooden houses. The nearby geothermal hot springs have been harnessed to provide a cheap natural heating system. This leaves the air pristine and pollution free. Your photographs will benefit from the fabulous clear sharp light. The sea also plays a vital role in Icelandic life, supporting the fishing industry. The coast and fjords are rich in bird species, especially sea fowl.