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Thorsmork

Overview

Thorsmork is a mountain ridge name after the Norse god Thor which is situated in the south of Iceland between the glaciers Tindfjallajokull and Eylafjallajokull. The name Thorsmork properly refers only to the ridge, but as come to refer to the wider area which includes the region between the ridge …

Highlights

  • Ride to the beautiful Thorsmork Nature Reserve
  • Ride past lava streams from the mighty volcano
  • Relax in a hot tub amongst the mountains
  • Comfortable accommodation with made up beds

Essential Facts

  • 1 itinerary available
  • Max 12 riders per group
  • Average of 30 kilometres riding per day
  • Weight limit: 110kg / 242 lbs / 17 stone 4 lbs

Description

Thorsmork is a mountain ridge name after the Norse god Thor which is situated in the south of Iceland between the glaciers Tindfjallajokull and Eylafjallajokull. The name Thorsmork properly refers only to the ridge, but as come to refer to the wider area which includes the region between the ridge and Eylafjallajokull and encompasses the rivers of Krossa, Pronga and Markarfljot.

The mighty glacier-capped volcano Eyjafjallajokull is the one that caused all the disruption in air traffic in 2010 when it erupted and sent ash clouds high into the atmosphere. Renowned for having an unpronounceable name as well as for causing all that trouble, you'll ride past one of the lava streams that flowed from it all those years ago.

Thorsmork nature reserve is one of the most popular areas in Iceland for hiking and has a unique climate amidst the protected valley. There's no better way to explore it than on a native Icelandic horse.

This ride is a short break for those who want to add an adventurous ride to an extended itinerary in Iceland. With comfortable accommodation and up to 7 hours in the saddle, you cram a lot of enjoyment into a short space of time on this trail.

Horses & Riding

Tack

Specific Icelandic tack. Saddles are similar to dressage saddles with a relatively flat seat which is either plain or quilted. Cruppers may be used to keep the saddle in place. Stirrups are usually kept long but the riding style is similar to English. Bridles are normally simple snaffles with detachable nosebands and clip on reins.

Horses

Icelandic horses, which are c. 12-14hh but tough and surprisingly strong.

Icelandic horses are renowned for their extra gait - the tolt - which has similar footfalls to a walk but is much faster and usually very smooth. Most people love the tolt, but it can feel a bit unusual to start with.

Native Icelandic horses are the only horses allowed on the island, and once exported they are not allowed to return. Icelandic horses are therefore not exposed to some of the diseases that are prevalent elsewhere in the world. Please note that in order to ensure the safety of the Icelandic horse breed, there are some restrictions on what riding clothing and equipment you can bring into the country and we will supply full details when you book.

Riding

There is 1 itinerary:

  • Thorsmork Tour is a based ride

Health

General good health

Weight

110kg / 242 lbs / 17 stone 4 lbs

Food & Accommodation

Food

During the ride full board is provided. The 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.

Alcoholic drinks are not included and are sometimes difficult to source, so we recommend buying them at the Duty Free store on arrival at Reykjavik airport and carrying them with you.

Accommodation

Made-up beds in 2-bed rooms in cosy cabins. There's a hot tub and warm showers (not en-suite).

Itineraries

Thorsmork Tour Standard accommodation.

Other Activities

This is a riding trail but there is a hot tub and sauna for relaxing at the end of the day.

Travel

You are collected from Reykjavik bus station so will need to take a shuttle bus from the airport - these are easily booked in advance or when you arrive.

Extra nights in Reykjavik are not included but we can advise you if you wish to spend extra time or make the transfers more relaxed.

Itinerary & Pricing

Day 1 - Reykjavik - Thorsmork

Riding: 35 kilometres

You'll be collected from Reykjavik between 8 and 9am and should be dressed in your riding clothes as you'll be transferred directly to meet your horses. Mount up and start your ride down to the river Markarfljot. Cross the river on a bridge and continue your ride past glacier lagoons and lava streams into the stunning Thorsmork Nature Park, crossing the glacial river Krossa along the way. Arrive at your cozy cabin in the Husadalur valley where you'll find a sauna, showers and natural hot pool.

Day 2 - Thorsmork

Riding: 20 kilometres

You'll spend the whole day riding inside the park, visiting numerous waterfalls and canyons. This is a truly wonderful area with low bushes and glittering mountain creeks everywhere. Thorsmork has an especially warm climate, better than the rest of the south of Iceland and in the protected valley there is green vegetation of moss, fern, birch wood and other small shrubs.

Day 3 - Thorsmork - Reykjavik

Riding: 35 kilometres

Todays ride takes you back across the river Krossa and alongside river Markarfljot until you cross it again over a bridge and follow a different route back towards Reykjavik. After saying goodbye to your horses you can enjoy some refreshments before transferring back into the city, aiming to arrive around 5pm. Accommodation is not included this evening.

Accommodation

Made-up beds in cosy mountain cabins.
Experience Intermediate / Experienced

You should be at least an intermediate rider, able to walk, trot and canter in open spaces on a sensible horse.
Minimum group size 1
Maximum group size 12
Departure windows

June 17, 2022 - June 19, 2022

Pricing

2022
Rider sharing		 £1265 $1600 €1490
Included 2 nights shared accommodation, all meals, soft drinks with meals, 3 days of riding, set time transfers from Reykjavik.
Not included Flights, travel insurance, bus tickets/travel to Reykjavik in time for the transfers, alcoholic drinks, tips & other personal expenses.
Note: All programmes and itineraries are weather dependent; in the face of adverse, or unexpected, weather conditions reasonable attempts will be made to provide equivalent riding. All programmes are accurate at the time of writing. However, the team may adapt or modify details, whilst aiming to provide a similar experience.