Beach and mountain ride

This is a shorter version of the Snæfellsnes tour. Through lava fields and along hillsides we ride down to the shore and continue our ride on the beach. This traditional trail, only revealed by the tide, offers horses and riders great opportunities to perform the smooth gait “tölt” over long distances.

The Journey – Day by Day

Day 1 – Into the Volcanic Landscape

Stóri-Kálfalækur – Staðarhraun

We begin our Journey at Stóri-Kálfalækur, meeting the horses and guides before setting out with the herd.

Our route takes us into the varied volcanic landscapes of Snæfellsnes, where rocky terrain, colourful hillsides and ancient geological formations create a constantly changing backdrop.

As we travel towards Staðarhraun, we experience the traditional Icelandic way of riding with a free-running herd, changing horses along the way.

At the end of the riding day, we return by vehicle to Stóri-Kálfalækur for dinner and a relaxing evening.

Day 2 – Through Ancient Lava Fields

Staðarhraun – Kolviðarnes

Today's ride leads through a mystical volcanic valley, surrounded by ancient lava landscapes and local stories of trolls and outlaws.

We cross rivers and ride through grasslands bordered by distinctive rock formations as the landscape gradually opens towards the Atlantic Ocean.

On a clear day, the snow-capped Snæfellsjökull glacier appears in the distance.

We leave the horses near Kolviðarnes and return to the farmhouse for the evening.

Day 3 – Let the Sea Set You Free

Kolviðarnes – Gaul

Our final riding day brings us to one of Iceland's most extraordinary riding landscapes: the vast beaches of Löngufjörur.

With the free-running herd moving ahead, we follow the coastline across firm sands and through shallow waters.

The open beach provides wonderful opportunities for long-distance tölting, while the Atlantic Ocean and distant Snæfellsjökull glacier form an unforgettable backdrop.

Our Journey ends at Gaul, after three days of riding through the contrasting landscapes of Snæfellsnes.

The itinerary may be adjusted according to weather, tides, trail conditions and the wellbeing of horses and riders.

The Riding

Long days in the saddle. Varied terrain. A Journey for experienced riders.

Designed for experienced, riding-fit guests who are confident riding independently at all paces.

We travel with a free-running herd, changing horses during the day. The terrain varies from rocky volcanic tracks and river crossings to grasslands and open coastal sands.

Riding with the herd can be fast and exhilarating when conditions allow. On the wide-open beaches, the horses seems to almost fly across the firm sands, making this one of the most extraordinary places to experience the smooth Tölt of the Icelandic horse.

Riders should be confident and balanced at all paces, comfortable riding different horses and physically prepared for consecutive days in the saddle.

Riding with the Herd

Smaller Groups. Bigger Herds.

We deliberately travel with a generous number of horses for the size of the group. This allows riders to change horses regularly and experience their different characters and abilities, while sharing the work between the horses throughout the Journey.

Riding with a free-running herd brings its own rhythm to the Journey. The horses travel together through the landscape, and as the terrain changes, so does the pace and character of the riding.

You will ride a number of different horses, getting to know the versatility of the Icelandic horse while becoming part of the movement of the herd across the Löngufjörur beaches.

Accommodation and Dining

Throughout the Journey, we stay at Stóri-Kálfalækur farmhouse, returning each evening after our ride.

Made-up beds, shared facilities and home-cooked meals provide a welcoming base for the Journey.

Dining

Good food after a day in the saddle

Each morning begins with a breakfast buffet, where you can also prepare sandwiches and snacks to take with you for the day. Lunch is carried in our saddlebags or brought to us along the route where access allows.

In the evening, we come together over a chef-prepared dinner, with an emphasis on Icelandic food and locally sourced ingredients. It is a chance to relax, talk about the day and enjoy the company of the group.

On our final evening back at Stóri-Kálfalækur, we gather for dinner one last time and celebrate completing the Journey together.