Go off-roading Icelandic-style, on Horseback

It is thought that the first horses to arrive in Iceland were transported by the Vikings who settled in the country over a thousand years ago. Surprisingly, for 9 centuries or more, no other horses have been brought to Iceland, and now there is only one type of horse living in Iceland: one of the purest and healthiest breeds in the world.

The Icelandic Horse has played an important role in the life of Icelanders for centuries and its presence is well documented in Norse mythology. Many horses owned by the Norse Gods featured in these ancient mythical stories. The historic importance of the Norse myths can still be seen in Icelandic horsemanship today with many riding clubs bearing the names of mythical horses. The Vikings treated their horses with the utmost respect and these brave creatures played a prominent part in Viking warfare and often a warrior killed in battle would be buried alongside his mount.



For centuries, the Icelandic horse was the only method of transport in Iceland and horses worked hard, carrying materials, food, people and mail across the rugged countryside. The Icelandic horse is an inherently hardy breed and lives outside all the year round. Their impressive strength and ability to endure all weathers means that they are well suited to traversing rivers, lava fields, steep mountainous terrain and even glaciers.

In more recent times the role of the Icelandic horse has changed and now these unique animals are best known for their sure footedness, stamina and good nature, making them the perfect partner for riding and exploring the Icelandic environment. The eye-catching beauty of the Icelandic horse is unmistakable with their varied colorings from smoky black, to yellow dun, and, of course their unique movement or gait known as the ‘tolt’. The tolt is a natural 4 beat gait that is extremely smooth to ride, but also extremely powerful. The fifth gait is called the flying pace where the horse moves the front and hind foot on the same side at the same time, this is the most exhilarating experience only ever made possible by riding an authentic Icelandic Horse.



The very best place to stay when exploring Southern Iceland on Horseback is Hotel Ranga. It is the only 4 star resort in South Iceland and offers luxury accommodation, gourmet food and outstanding views. It boasts all the facilities and services of a modern resort yet is situated in an area of exceptional natural beauty. Located about an hour from Reykjavík between the towns of Hella and Hvolsvöllur, Hotel Ranga lies just off the main road right in middle of South Iceland’s panoramic scenery. Hotel Ranga has been voted one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights and even boasts its own Observatory where you can view the stars or even do a spot of sun-gazing.

Hotel Ranga can organize all kinds of excursions on Horseback from short rides for beginners to all day adventurous treks through the volcanic terrain of Southern Iceland.

Visit website: www.hotelranga.is