One-Hour Horseback Riding Tour in the Icelandic Countryside

One-Hour Horseback Riding Tour in the Icelandic Countryside

Our review of the One-Hour Horseback Riding Tour in South Iceland offers a practical look at this popular activity. It’s a short, beginner-friendly ride designed to give visitors a taste of Iceland’s unique horse culture without venturing too far from the farm. With a solid rating of 5.0 based on 28 reviews, this tour is clearly a hit among travelers, especially those seeking a relaxed, scenic experience.

What we particularly like about this ride is how it combines easy access—meeting at a well-rated farm—with the chance to get a feel for the famed Icelandic horse’s qualities. It’s a great option for families, groups, or independent travelers with their own transport who want a quick but authentic Icelandic countryside adventure. One possible consideration is that the ride stays close to the farm, so if you’re craving sweeping landscapes and more remote explorations, you might find it a bit limited. Still, for a short intro to Icelandic riding, this tour hits the mark, especially for those new to horseback riding or looking for a manageable activity during a busy itinerary.

This experience is best suited for those who want a manageable, scenic activity that’s easy to slot into a day’s plans—perfect for families, casual travelers, and horse lovers curious about Iceland’s unique breed.

Key Points

• Short & sweet: One-hour ride ideal for beginners or those with limited time.
• Authentic experience: Ride on excellent paths around Eldhestars farm, enjoying Icelandic meadows.
• Family friendly: Suitable for most travelers, including children and those with moderate physical conditions.
• Expert guidance: Friendly guides share brief history and info about the horses.
• Convenient meeting point: Located at Hótel Eldhestar, easily accessible and close to public transportation.
• Limited group size: Max of 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

The Experience Overview

The One-Hour Horseback Riding Tour in South Iceland is a straightforward, accessible way to connect with Icelandic horses and the countryside. It’s designed for those who want to experience the country’s rural charm without committing to a long or strenuous ride. The tour, priced at $94.95 per person, offers a best-value introduction for first-timers or those traveling with family.

We loved the ease of meeting at Hótel Eldhestar, a well-known farm that specializes in horseback riding experiences. From there, participants are led to excellent riding paths that wind through meadows and fields surrounding the farm, offering a gentle taste of Iceland’s natural beauty. The ride is approximately an hour, which makes it manageable for most, including children and less experienced riders.

While the ride itself is relatively short, the scenery doesn’t disappoint. Reviewers note that riders get a chance to see the Icelandic countryside up close, with some mentioning how the views of the meadows are particularly picturesque. The guide’s friendly approach and brief explanations about the horses and the area add a welcoming touch, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.

Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

Meeting at Hótel Eldhestar

The tour begins at the well-established Hótel Eldhestar, renowned for its horse riding offerings. This ensures a smooth start, especially for travelers who prefer a central and easily accessible meeting point. The hotel and farm are located at 816 Sveitarfélagið Ölfus, just a short drive from Reykjavík, making it convenient for those who want a quick escape into nature.

The Ride

The main feature of the experience is a one-hour ride on excellent paths that run through the meadows around Eldhestar farm. The routes are carefully chosen to highlight the natural beauty of the Icelandic landscape. Since the ride is designed for beginners, the terrain is gentle and well-maintained, allowing riders to focus on enjoying the scenery rather than worrying about technical difficulties.

What You’ll See and Feel

Participants are introduced to the unique Icelandic horses, known for their smooth tölt gait, which makes the ride comfortable even for beginners. Expect to pass through lush green meadows, perhaps spot grazing sheep or distant mountains, all within easy reach of the farm. The calm, steady pace is perfect for absorbing the tranquility of the countryside.

End of the Tour

The ride concludes back at the starting point, completing a loop that provides a complete, relaxing immersion in Icelandic rural life. The group size remains small—capped at 15—ensuring personalized attention and the chance to ask questions or share comments.

What the Reviews Say

One reviewer, Alyssa_C, noted that “it was a fine experience,” appreciating the friendly guide who offered brief explanations about the horses and the area. However, she also mentioned that she would have enjoyed a bit more exploration away from the highway, hinting at a desire for more remote scenery. This insight suggests that while the experience is lovely, it’s somewhat limited in scope.

Another commenter praised the “excellent riding paths” and the chance to learn a little about the horses’ history, describing it as a great beginner experience that offers a gentle introduction to Iceland’s equine culture. The small group size and professional guidance help make the ride comfortable and enjoyable for those new to horseback riding.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

At just under $95, this tour provides a concise, enjoyable encounter with Icelandic horses and the scenic countryside, making it a good investment for those with limited time. It’s not a full-day adventure but offers enough to satisfy curious travelers interested in rural Icelandic life. The inclusion of a friendly guide, small group size, and accessible location make it stand out as a well-organized activity.

The tour also includes flexible cancellation policies, allowing free cancellations up to 24 hours before the experience, which adds peace of mind for travelers uncertain about weather or schedules.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This horseback riding tour is ideal for beginners, families, or anyone looking for a relaxed, scenic activity. It suits travelers who want a taste of Icelandic rural life without committing several hours or dealing with difficult terrain. Horse enthusiasts will appreciate the chance to see and ride Icelandic horses, while casual travelers will enjoy the straightforward, comfortable experience amid lush landscapes.

Those with mobility issues or heavy luggage might want to confirm accessibility details, but generally, the tour’s short duration and gentle terrain make it accessible to most.

Final Thoughts

The One-Hour Horseback Riding Tour near Eldhestar farm offers a practical and enjoyable way to experience Iceland’s natural beauty and unique horses. Its focus on a manageable ride makes it perfect for beginners, families, and travelers with a tight schedule who still want an authentic countryside experience. While the scenery stays close to the farm, the peaceful meadows and charming horses promise a memorable outing.

If you’re looking for a gentle introduction to Icelandic riding, combined with panoramic views and friendly guidance, this tour delivers on all counts. It’s a solid choice for those wanting a taste of rural Iceland without the fuss of longer or more strenuous excursions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is this horseback riding tour suitable for children?
Yes, it is suitable for most travelers, including families. Since the ride is about an hour on well-maintained paths, it’s manageable even for younger children, especially if they are comfortable around horses.

What is the maximum weight allowed?
The weight limit is 120 kg, which makes it accessible for most adults. If you’re close to this limit, it’s a good idea to check directly with the provider.

Do I need previous riding experience?
No, this tour is designed for beginners and those with little to no riding experience. The guide will give a brief introduction and ensure everyone feels comfortable.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Hótel Eldhestar, located at 816 Sveitarfélagið Ölfus. This makes logistics straightforward, especially if you’re staying nearby.

How long does the tour last?
The ride itself is approximately one hour, making it a quick but meaningful countryside experience.

Is transportation included?
No, travelers need to arrange their own transport to the meeting point, but the location is near public transportation, which adds convenience.

Can I cancel the tour if the weather is poor?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What is the price, and does it offer good value?
At $94.95 per person, it’s a fair price considering the personalized guidance, scenic setting, and the opportunity to ride a unique Icelandic breed. It’s especially good for those seeking a short but authentic countryside experience.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted, making this accessible for travelers with disabilities or special needs.

This horseback riding tour offers a delightful, relaxed way to connect with Iceland’s rural charm and its iconic horses. It’s a straightforward experience with genuine scenic value and friendly guidance, making it a worthwhile addition to any Iceland itinerary.