Autumn Thorsmörk Tour

Autumn Thorsmörk Tour

HORSEBACK RIDING IN A HIDDEN PARADISE

Starting in South Iceland — within easy reach of Reykjavík — this 3-day horseback riding adventure takes you deep into the Þórsmörk Nature Reserve, one of Iceland’s most breathtaking regions.

Ride with a free-running herd for two of the days, crossing countless rivers and open valleys framed by glaciers and mountains. Experience the heart of Icelandic nature as we journey between Gamla Brú and Þórsmörk, surrounded by rugged beauty and peaceful wilderness. Along the way, we explore ancient birch forests, pass hidden canyons, and end each day in cozy mountain cabins with a sauna and hot tub — the perfect way to unwind after a day in the saddle.

This tour is operated by Martina

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DURATION

3 nights -3 riding days

RIDING SKILLS

Intermediate-advanced riders

DEPARTURES

2026: 10-13 September

ACCOMMODATION

Sleeping bed accommodation in the hut. Accommodation before and after the ride to be arranged individually.

WHAT IS INCLUDED

Bus transfer from/to Reykjavík to the ride

During the ride full board is provided. Our menu consists of a large breakfast and traditional Icelandic meals (fish or lamb). Vegetarian meals are available on request when booking. All riders make their own packed lunch from the breakfast table.

Alcoholic beverages are not included in the tour price and are hard to get in the highlands. They can be bought at a reasonable price in the Duty Free Store at Keflavik Airport upon arrival.

Rain wear, water bottle, saddle bag, riding helmet.

ATTENTION

Individual travel insurance is not included in the tour price. We encourage clients to obtain relevant travel insurance before visiting Iceland.

Flight to and from Iceland is not included

Bring bags rather than hard cover suitcases

Pack light because transport space is limited.

DAY BY DAY ITINERARY

10 September: Pick up at BSI at 17:00 and drive close to the meeting point where the horses are (app. 1,5 hours). You have dinner and accommodation there.

11 September: Entering the Valley of Thor

Meeting in the late morning at Gamle Bru, we ride into the stunning valley of Þórsmörk, with Mýrdalsjökull glacier on one side and the mighty Markarfljót river on the other. Along the way, we ride with the herd, cross several small rivers, and pass the beautiful canyon of Nauthúsagil. You’ll often spot sheep grazing peacefully along the route.

We stop at prepared paddocks for the horses before reaching our accommodation for the night – the cozy mountain huts in Húsadalur. Here you can relax and unwind in the sauna or enjoy a soak in the heitur pottur (hot tub).

Distance: approximately 35 km

12 September:  Ride to Almenningar
The next day, we leave the herd at home and head out for a more relaxed ride into the beautiful Almenningar area. The trail takes us through one of Iceland’s oldest birch forests – a true hidden gem filled with greenery, birdsong, and peaceful silence. We ride through gentle valleys and open clearings where time seems to slow down.

It’s a day to breathe, enjoy the calm, and take plenty of photos – perfect for those who want to truly feel the tranquility of the Icelandic wilderness.

There is also time to explore the area on foot – take a hike, stretch your legs, and enjoy the incredible views surrounding Þórsmörk.
We return to the same cozy cabins in Húsadalur for another peaceful night in nature.

Distance: approximately 25 km

13 September: From Húsadalur to Gamle Bru
On our final day, we saddle up and ride from Húsadalur back towards Gamle Bru. The journey takes us once again through the breathtaking landscapes of Þórsmörk, with glaciers, rivers, and mountain views accompanying us along the way.

Riding with the herd, we cross several streams and follow the open trails that lead us out of the valley. It’s the perfect chance to take in the last views of this magical area and reflect on the adventure we’ve shared.

We arrive back at Gamle Bru in the afternoon, where we say goodbye to our horses – and to each other – with hearts full of memories and maybe a bit of Icelandic dust on our boots.

Distance: approximately 35 km

 

– We reserve the right to alter the itinerary if necessary –

USEFUL INFORMATION

The Flybus departs from Keflavík airport 35-40 minutes after each arrival. Busses are located right outside the terminal building.

 

Pick up:
morning pick up: Between 11-11:30
Please be ready at the earliest pickup time.

Terms & conditions:
Íshestar request a confirmation payment upon booking of minimum 30% of the tour price. When the confirmation payment is received the seat is secure. The remaining balance is due 6 weeks before the tour departs. If you book the tour through the website the full amount is requested.
Children under 12 years receive a 25% discount on our multi-day tours.

 

Liability:

Íshestar reserves the right to alter routes, itineraries or timetables without prior notice, should the necessity arise. No liability is accepted for loss or expenses due to delays or changes of arrival or departures of flights or other services, injury, sickness, accident, strikes, damage, negligence, weather, wars or other causes outside the control of Íshestar. All such losses and expenses are the personal liability of the traveller. The estimated duration of tours as indicated by km or timing can change according to road or weather conditions.

For more information please see also our Frequent Asked Questions and/or contact us at ishestar@ishestar.is