Holtsós River Tour

Holtsós River Tour

[URIS id=77481]

DURATION

1 hour riding tour

RIDING SKILLS

For beginners to advanced riders

DEPARTURE

Daily at 09:00 & 14:00; Other times available upon request.

HOW TO GET THERE

Meet on location: Mid-Grund, 861 Hvolsvöllur

AGE LIMIT

7 years old

A Short but Unforgettable Ride

 

Perfect for beginners, families, or anyone who wants a taste of horseback riding in Iceland, this tour offers a short yet memorable adventure from the farm Mid-Grund, near Hvolsvöllur, about an 1 hour and 45 minute drive from Reykjavík. We ride south towards the ocean, passing open fields and enjoying breathtaking views of Eyjafjallajökull Glacier and, on clear days, the Westman Islands offshore.

At the riverbank, we take a break to capture memorable photos of you and your Icelandic horse before riding back home at a relaxed pace. The smooth tölt gait of the Icelandic horse and the ever-changing scenery make this a fantastic introduction to horseback riding in Iceland’s unique landscapes.

This tour is not operated in Hafnarfjörður, where many of our day tours are operated, but in the South part of Iceland, about 1 hour and 45 minutes from Reykjavík/Hafnarfjörður.
See location here: Mid-Grund

ATTENTION

  • Self-drive only
  • The age limit to ride on this tour is 7 years.
  • Please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled horseback riding tour to our location.
  • The weight limit for all our tours is 100 kg/220 lbs.
  • It is the responsibility of each rider to assess whether they are physically able to take part in the trip, including getting on and off the horses of their own accord.

WHATS INCLUDED

  • Experienced English-speaking guide
  • All necessary riding and safety gear
  • Rain gear, gloves, and balaclavas
  • A short introduction tailored to your riding level, with clear instructions so everyone feels comfortable and confident

WHAT TO BRING

  • Comfortable shoes (sneakers or hiking boots are fine)
  • Extra shoes, as they may get wet
  • Warm clothes in layers — Icelandic weather changes quickly
  • Thin hat/buff & gloves
  • Sunglasses & sunscreen in summer
  • Extra warm socks, gloves, and a hat in winter or rainy days
  • Small waist bag for camera/phone (backpacks cannot be taken on horseback)

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE RIDE

  • Short but scenic horseback riding tour in South Iceland
  • Perfect for beginners and families
  • Views of Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull glaciers
  • On clear days, panoramic views of the Westman Islands and even the Skógafoss waterfall
  • Gentle ride along the river with time for photos
  • Introduction to the smooth tölt gait of the Icelandic horse

FAQ

HOW DO I BOOK?

You can book online on our website or by contacting Íshestar by email daytours@ishestar.is or by telephone +354 555 7000

HOW FAR IN ADVANCE DO I NEED TO BOOK?

We recommend booking a couple of days in advance just to make sure that we have free spaces on the day you wish to arrive.

CAN I PAY BY CARD?

Yes! We accept most major debit and credit cards, as well as cash. Please note that we do not accept American Express. Whether you’re booking your horseback Iceland tour online or paying in person, we’ve got you covered.

We can also send you a secure payment link for easy payment in advance.

WHAT IS THE WEIGHT LIMITATION?

For the safety and well-being of our Icelandic horses, as well as the comfort of our guests, the maximum rider weight is 110 kg (240 lbs). Icelandic horses are strong and sturdy, but they are a smaller breed compared to many other riding horses. Keeping within this limit ensures that the horses remain healthy and comfortable, and that every rider enjoys a safe and enjoyable experience.

VISITING US FROM REYKJAVÍK OR VÍK?

Many of our guests join us from Reykjavík or Vík. Our farm is located near Hvolsvöllur, right between the two. It’s about a 1 hour and 45 minute drive from Reykjavík and around 45 minutes from Vík, making it an easy day trip from either direction. The drive itself is beautiful, following Iceland’s South Coast past landmarks like Seljalandsfoss and Eyjafjallajökull. We’re happy to help with directions.

WHEN SHOULD I ARRIVE FOR MY TOUR?

Please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled horseback riding tour to our location. If you’re delayed, just let us know! We do our best to accommodate all riders.

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN YOUR DAY TOURS?

Included in all our day tours:

  • Helmets
  • Full rain gear
  • Waterproof gloves
  • A warm balaclava (to wear under your riding helmet)

DO YOU RUN TOURS IN WINTER?

Yes, we offer horseback riding day tours all year round, even in winter. Our Icelandic horses are sure-footed in snow and ice, and our guides adapt routes to the season’s daylight and weather. We provide helmets, but recommend bringing warm layers, gloves, and sturdy shoes for comfort. Riding through snowy landscapes makes a winter tour truly unforgettable. Explore winter horse riding in Iceland.

WHAT LANGUAGES DO YOUR TOUR GUIDES SPEAK?

Our guides speak English and Icelandic as standard. If you would prefer another language, let us know when booking, and we will do our best to arrange a guide who can accommodate your request.

WHAT SHOULD I WEAR FOR MY HORSEBACK RIDING TOUR?

Icelandic weather can change quickly, especially when you’re out on a horse trekking tour in Iceland. For a comfortable and safe experience, we recommend dressing warm:

  • A good wool sweater (great for riding Icelandic ponies!)
  • Waterproof and windproof jacket
  • Warm gloves
  • Flexible and comfortable trousers
  • Waterproof boots or shoes

We provide safety stirrups, so any type of footwear is acceptable, but warm and waterproof shoes are ideal — especially when you’re exploring Iceland on horseback.

CAN I BRING USED RIDING CLOTHES OR EQUIPMENT TO ICELAND?

No. Iceland has strict regulations to protect our horses. You may not bring any used riding clothes, boots, or gear that have been in contact with other horses.

Learn more here:
Import of riding equipment – mast.is