Iceland

Iceland is an area of almost 40,000 square miles. It lies midway between North America and continental Europe and borders the Arctic Circle in the North. The scenery is stunning and variable - the land offers clean and fresh water, glaciers, waterfalls, active volcanoes and lava deserts, mountains, fjords and valleys. Iceland is famous for the Icelandic horse, a small and hardy breed which has evolved through the centuries. The Vikings brought the first horses to Iceland about 1100 years ago and the breed has remained pure ever since. DNA Studies of the Icelandic horse show that they are related to horses in Shetland, Norway, and Mongolia. The horses have developed a lot since they were brought to Iceland. Both man and nature have created the Icelandic breed as the strong resilient breed they are today. The natural development that has taken place in the Icelandic breed has mostly to do with their ability to survive. A recent study shows that the intestines of the horses are larger and more developed than in other breeds which might be to prepare them for the wintertime. They gain weight in autumn to increase their insulation for the winter and grow thicker coats too.
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The breed is especially well known for the ‘tölt’ - a comfortable four-beat gait which is smooth to ride and can be as fast as a normal canter. The breed is also known for its versatility and strength, being able to carry grown adults despite their small stature. But the breed has a gentler side and is well suited for children and as a horse for the handicapped. Enjoy Iceland from the back of one of these horses and you will have the trip of a lifetime.
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Icelandic Horse Round UpIceland1 matching itineraryJoin hundreds of free and spirited Icelandic horses cantering down from their highland summer pastures to be reclaimed by their ownersView Ride
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KjolurIceland1 matching itineraryStep back in time and ride along the ancient Kjolur Trail which crosses the highlands of Iceland between two of the biggest & most impressive glaciersView Ride
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Northern IcelandIceland3 matching itinerariesThis family run farmhouse has been welcoming guests for extraordinary riding adventures since 1985.View Ride
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Snaefellsnes PeninsularIceland1 matching itineraryThis horseback riding tour is a great way of experiencing the astonishing nature of the Snaefellsnes peninsula on Iceland's western coast.View Ride
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Southern Highland AdventureIceland1 matching itineraryDiscover the majesty of Iceland's southern highlands and ride horses through Fjallabak on some wonderful, hidden bridle paths to Landmannalaugar.View Ride