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.

Skrapatungurétt Itinerary

From the Vatnsdalur area ride through beautiful valleys and mountains to Laxárdalur valley. Team up with the Icelanders and help round up the horses and drive them down from the mountains to Skrapatungurétt communal corral.

Day 1
Reykjavík – Hvammur – Vatnsdalur – Stóra-Giljá: Pick up at 08:30 from BSI Bus station Reykjavik. Transfer by bus to Hvammur Farm to meet horses and guides. 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 – Björnsólfsstadir – 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 Björnsólfsstadir 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 Strjúgsstadir. 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)

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 personal experiences of this riding adventure with 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.

Laufskálarétt Itinerary (with lake crossing on horseback):

Laufskálarétt is one of the most famous round ups in Iceland. The round-ups brings local visitors and guests from all over the world. Combine riding with a free running herd (which is an amazing experience in the beautiful North West countryside), with a fun horse show in Saudárkrókur and the popular horse round-up at Laufskálarétt.

Day 1
Pick up at BSÍ bus stop in Reykjavík at 8:30 am. Transfer by bus to Hvammur Farm to meet horses and guides. This first exciting day leads to Lake Hóp. It is a beautiful area that passes the place where the dramatic story of the last execution in Iceland took plac. This was made famous in the bestseller book 'Burial Rights'. Cross the rivers Gljúfurá and Vídidalsá on the way to Stóra Borg farm where the horses spend the night. Guests are transfered by bus to Hvammur, stopping at Borgarvirki, an old basaltic cliff which was used as a fortification back in the days of the Vikings.

Day 2
Today's route leads to the cliffs of Nesbjörg, and a place called Vadhvammur where riders start the crossing of Lake Hóp. It is an extraordinary experience to glide through on of the biggest lakes of Iceland on the back of a horse. The horses love running in the shallow water with the tight sand underneath. This is one of the most special horse tracks in Iceland. While the horses will rest in the fields of Thingeyrar farm, the guests and staff take a 1hr drive to the horse show in Skagafjördur). The locals and special guests entertain visitors by showing their best horses in competition and breeding, as well as singing and having fun.

Day 3
Today the group experience the round-up action at Laufskálarétt in Skagafjördur, close by Hólar - the University of horsemanship. Ride with the farmers to witness the free-running horses being gathered from their summer pastures in the beautiful mountain area and the deserted valley Kolbeinsdalur. Visit Laufskálarétt (the corral) where the mares, foals and youngsters are sorted by their owners and brought home to the farms for the winter. The round-up is a festival for the farmer and their families, as well as the many guests that visit the event. Some of the best breeding farms of Iceland have their horses at Laufskálarétt, with some being for sale. Spend the evening with delicious food, stories, and singing at Hvammur Farm.

Day 4
The day's route leads from Þingeyrar home to Hvammur through the hills of Vatnsdalur. There is a possible stop at a good friend, Dóra, who is an artist on the farm Vatnsdalshólar. Cross the river Vatnsdalsá and enjoy the ride on contented horses along the riverbanks on the way home.

Day 5
Departure from Hvammur after breakfast. Drop off in Reykjavík at BSÍ. Arrival Approx. 14:00 in Reykjavík.

Vídidalstungurétt Itinerary (with lake crossing on horseback):

From Hvammur Farm in the North, we follow good riding tracks until we meet the Icelanders who have been gathering horses already for some days. We join them and help driving the herd down to the Víðidalstungurétt corral.

Day 1
Reykjavík – Hvammur – Sveinsstaðir – Hvammur Farm: Pick up at 08:30 from BSI Bus station Reykjavik. 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 Sveinsstadir Farm and the group return to Hvammur Farm for the overnight stay. (approx. 25 km)

Day 2
Sveinsstadir – 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 Vídidalur. 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 – Vídidalstungheidi – Hvammur: Today the ride climbs toward the highland plateau, Vídidalstunguheidi, 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
Vídidalstungurétt – Lake Hóp – Hvammur: The day starts at the round-up place, Vídidalstungurétt, where horses are sorted. 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): "Stódréttardansleikur" dance at Vídihlíd, 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.
Please bring cash for purchases at the farm.

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. A sense of adventure is important as is an open and positive frame of mind due to the nature of the trip.
Minimum rider age 7 years-old, weight limit 110kg.
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.

Hvammur farm is situated in the beautiful Vatnsdalur valley, home of many old Sagas, and has the famous salmon fishing river Vatnsdalsa running though it. The farmhouse has been recently renovated and has a hot tub with views over the river. Large breakfasts are normal. This is a farmhouse rather than a hotel so riders are expected to share a bathroom, there are 2 bathrooms.

Local produce such as lamb and fish are used in many of the dishes. Special diets (vegetarian, etc.) can be provided if advance notice is given. Riders make their own lunches up from the large food selection at the breakfast table.

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 available bus stops here 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

Another useful resource is Sherpa - this summarises any travel and vaccination requirements based on when you are travelling simply by entering your home country followed by your destination country: https://apply.joinsherpa.com/travel-restrictions

Come prepared for all kinds of weather as the day can change very quickly! In the autumn the temperatures can reach 15°C+ but can go below 5°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.

Pack as you usually would for a holiday, for e.g. sunglasses, toiletries and then these are your Horse Riding holiday essentials.
You should be ready for all kinds of weather as the weather can change very quickly. We recommend that the following items are included when preparing for riding tours in Iceland: If you are unsure, please speak with your Travel Consultant:
ESSENTIALS FOR ALL RIDING HOLIDAYS
Riding helmet – complying with current EU & British standards – (some locations, mostly in the EU, can provide them but if possible bring your own for comfort and correct fit)
Riding boots designed for riding and walking
Chaps
At least 2 pairs of riding trousers – jodhpur’s/breeches are best for anything, except western riding (Jeans)
Long sleeved shirts
Lightweight waterproof jacket
Water bottle
Mobile phone

For long tours:

• Warm jacket (windproof and waterproof/water-resistant)
• Warm sweater (woollen or fleece)
• Warm socks
• Riding gloves
• Warm and comfortable underwear
• Riding trousers (water-resistant material is a great option)
• Riding shoes/boots (waterproof & comfortable, some prefer hiking boots)
• Casual clothes for evenings
• A pair of slippers
• Swimsuit
• Blister plasters
• Chocolate or glucose sweets for long riding days
• Sunscreen with high protection for face/lips (the sun is very strong in Iceland!)
• Vaseline or similar for lips
• Earplugs (there might be some snoring in shared accommodation)

Knee-high rubber boots are recommended on Laufskálarétt and Víðidalstungurétt when crossing the Lake Hóp. Several rubbers boots are available on the farm and possible to borrow but not necessarily exactly correct size available.

Items provided:
• Towel
• Saddle bag
• Rain wear
• Helmet
• Water bottle


WASHING / DISINFECTING / FORBIDDEN

Geographical isolation and strict importation rules have protected the Iceland horse population from serious infectious diseases. As a result, Iceland is in a unique situation where strangles, equine influenza, equine herpes virus type 1, and many other diseases have never reached the country.

Horses are not vaccinated and are therefore susceptible to infectious agents from abroad. Please help Iceland to protect the fragile nature by following the instructions:

RIDING CLOTHES NEED TO BE WASHED AND DISINFECTED AS FOLLOWS:

Used riding clothes must be washed (40°C) in a washing machine or dry cleaned prior to entering the country.

Riding clothes and boots that cannot be cleaned this way should be washed and disinfected as follows:
1. Rinse thoroughly with detergent
2. Dry
3. Spray with 2% Virkon® S (20g per litre of water)
4. Store for at least 5 days prior to bringing the clothes into contact with horses in Iceland

FORBIDDEN ITEMS:
• Used riding equipment such as gloves, chaps, whips, saddles, bridles, pads etc.
• Used leather gear


If you have any doubts or questions, please don’t hesitate to ask!


P.S. There are hand-knitted Icelandic sweaters for sale at the farm.

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.

2025: 11 - 15 Sep (Skrapatungurétt) (FULL)
25 - 29 Sep (Laufskálarétt)
1 - 5 Oct (Vídidalstungurétt)

• £
• €
• US $
• SEK

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 / Sky Lagoon / Whale Watching / FlyOver Iceland (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.