Horseback Riding Tour in Mosfellsbær

Taking a horseback riding tour in Mosfellsbær offers a peaceful way to connect with Iceland’s beautiful outdoors. This experience is tailored for those new to riding, featuring calm, friendly horses and scenic trails at the foot of the mountains. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a relaxed, nature-filled activity that’s easy to enjoy without previous riding experience.

What truly sets this tour apart is the intimate small-group setting, which ensures personalized attention and a laid-back vibe. The gorgeous surroundings—where city life yields to rural tranquility—make it a memorable outing that nicely complements your Iceland trip. A minor consideration is that the tour requires participants to be able to mount and dismount independently, so those with mobility issues might need to explore other options.

If you’re after a gentle introduction to Icelandic horses and scenic countryside, this tour suits beginners, families with older children, or travelers simply seeking a relaxing outdoor activity. Now, let’s explore what makes this experience worth considering, in detail.

Key Points

• Beginner-friendly: Calm, gentle horses and slow-paced rides make it accessible for newcomers.
• Scenic backdrop: Ride at the foot of the mountains, where lush nature meets the countryside.
• Small group experience: Max of six travelers ensures a personal, relaxed environment.
• Flexible duration: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, with some variation based on experience.
• Easy access: Public transportation, such as bus no 15 from Reykjavik, makes reaching the stable straightforward.
• Clear requirements: Participants must be able to mount/dismount independently and weigh less than 100kg for safety reasons.

Discovering the Ride: What to Expect

The Meeting Point and Logistics

Your adventure begins at Icelandic Riding’s stable in Mosfellsbær, just a short bus ride from Reykjavik’s city center. Taking bus no 15 offers a convenient, budget-friendly option, and the walk from the bus stop to the stable is straightforward. The experience kicks off at noon, giving you ample time to enjoy the countryside in daylight.

The Arrival and Preparation

Once you arrive, a friendly guide greets you and begins with a quick briefing. You’ll have the chance to get comfortable with the horses in the paddock before heading out. All riders are expected to be able to mount and dismount independently—a small but important detail for safety and confidence. The guides are attentive and knowledgeable, helping you feel at ease whether it’s your first time on horseback or you’ve ridden before.

The Ride: Scenic, Relaxed, and Educational

The actual riding session lasts roughly an hour, with the total adventure stretching closer to 1 hour 55 minutes including preparation. The pace is deliberately slow, making it perfect for beginners or those who prefer a more relaxed experience. The horses are described as calm and friendly, which helps riders feel secure and able to enjoy the ride.

During the tour, you’ll pass through lush fields and enjoy views of the mountains, where the landscape shifts from rural farmland to rugged Icelandic terrain. This setting offers an ideal backdrop to appreciate Iceland’s natural beauty—think rolling hills, patches of moss, and distant peaks.

Insights from Reviews

A recent guest, Marina_U, shared how much they loved the experience: “It was just us and the guide enjoying the gorgeous scenery. The horses are so friendly and adorable, making the whole ride even more special.” This highlights how personal and peaceful the tour can be, especially with a small group.

Another reviewer appreciated the easy logistics: “We took the bus from the capitol, which was simple—and a short walk from the bus stop in the serene countryside.” The simplicity of transportation adds to the tour’s appeal for travelers seeking hassle-free outdoor activities.

The Post-Ride Experience

After returning to the stable, you’re free to relax and reflect on the ride. Since the tour is run by Icelandic Riding, a reputable provider, you can expect professionalism and safety throughout. If you’re lucky, you might even get friendly snippets about Icelandic horses and local terrain from your guides.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

While the price of around $132 per person might seem modest, it includes a 1 hour 55-minute experience with a small group, professional guidance, and the opportunity to enjoy Iceland’s stunning nature in a relaxed setting. Compared to more adrenaline-fueled or longer tours, this offering provides a genuine, calming encounter with Icelandic horses and countryside.

The tour’s focus on beginner-friendly riding and scenic tranquility makes it a good investment for those wanting an authentic outdoor activity without the stress of advanced riding or lengthy commitments. Plus, free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance provides peace of mind—your plans can change, and your refund is secure if needed.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This horseback riding tour is ideal for beginners, families with older children, or travelers who want to keep their outdoor activities light and manageable. The slow pace and calm horses make it suitable for those with moderate physical fitness levels, though the ability to mount and dismount solo is essential. It’s also a good choice for visitors looking to enjoy Iceland’s natural scenery in a tranquil setting, away from busy tourist spots.

However, it’s not suitable for those over 100kg due to safety restrictions, nor for anyone unable to mount or dismount without assistance. If you’re seeking an adrenaline rush or longer riding adventures, other options might better suit your preferences.

The Authentic Touch: A Quiet Encounter with Nature

What makes this tour stand out is its focus on a personal, relaxed experience. Unlike crowded, high-intensity rides, you’ll find yourself enjoying the Icelandic countryside at a leisurely pace, with plenty of time to soak in the scenery. Guests have praised the guides’ expertise, describing them as “amazing,” and appreciated the opportunity to see the local landscape from horseback.

The horses themselves are described as “friendly and adorable,” which adds to the sense of comfort, especially for newcomers. This, combined with the stunning backdrop, makes it more than just a ride—it’s a chance to appreciate Icelandic nature in a gentle, memorable way.

Practical Tips for Your Ride

• Wear comfortable riding or walking shoes; sneakers are fine.
• Be prepared to handle your own mounting and dismounting.
• Weigh less than 100kg for safety reasons.
• Book at least 23 days in advance, as the tour is popular.
• The weather can affect the tour—if conditions are poor, you’ll be offered a new date or a full refund.
• Remember that used riding gear cannot be brought into Iceland, so keep your equipment clean and unused.

This horseback riding tour in Mosfellsbær offers a rare chance to enjoy Iceland’s outdoors in a calm, personal setting. It’s especially suited for beginners or those craving a relaxing, scenic experience with friendly horses and expert guides. The small group size ensures an intimate feel, and the straightforward logistics make it a convenient addition to your Iceland itinerary.

While the price might seem on the higher side for a 1-hour ride, the overall experience—beautiful scenery, personalized attention, and the joy of interacting with Icelandic horses—makes it a worthwhile investment. If you’re after a gentle, authentic encounter with Iceland’s nature, this tour ticks all the boxes.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The minimum age is 12 years old. Younger children or those under age 12 should look for other options.

Do I need riding experience to join?
No, this tour is designed for beginners, with calm horses and a slow pace. However, you must be able to mount and dismount on your own.

What should I wear for the ride?
Comfortable shoes, preferably sneakers or riding shoes. Avoid heavy or overly bulky clothing, and dress appropriately for the weather.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance are not refunded.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to weather conditions, you will be offered a new date or a full refund.

How long is the entire experience?
Expect about 1 hour 55 minutes total, including preparation, riding, and return, with the ride itself lasting around an hour.

Is transportation included?
No, but taking bus no 15 from Reykjavik makes reaching the stable easy and affordable.

Are the horses suitable for beginners?
Yes, the horses are described as calm and gentle, ideal for those new to riding.

In essence, this horseback riding tour in Mosfellsbær offers a peaceful, authentic glimpse into Icelandic countryside life, perfect for those who want a simple, scenic outdoor activity without fuss.