IH-13 Geysir Gullfoss Special
Day by day itinerary
Sunday: Reykjavík – Thingvellir – Gnúpverjahreppur – Fossnes Farm
Transfer from Reykjavík via Thingvellir National park to Fossnes farm, situated in beautiful surroundings, where we meet horses and guides. After an introduction to the Icelandic horse and its special gaits we start our ride along pleasant trails and explore the colourful Gnúpverja¬hreppur countryside. During the ride you will enjoy the view of deep green mountains and valleys and the mighty glacial river Thjórsá. Relax in a hot tub before a hearty dinner at the farm. (20 km)
Monday: Fossnes – Hvítárdalur – Fossnes
We leave the farm and head off to the fertile farmlands of neighbouring community Hrunamannahreppur. We take handhorses along for changing our mounts a couple of times a day and this gives us the opportunity to travel at a comfortable speed. We cross the well know salmon river Stóra-Laxá and stop for our picknick lunch at Hrunaréttir, a round pen for the annual sheep round-up in autum. We leave the horses at Hvítárdalur Farm and drive back to Fossnes for the night. (35 km)
Tuesday: Fossnes – Hvítárdalur – Gullfoss – Geysir Guesthouse
We continue our ride on soft trails ideal for tölting towards the majestic canyon Brúarhlöð where milky green water passes through bizarre rock formations. Alongside Hvítá River we follow the ever deepening canyon on to the impressive Golden Waterfall Gullfoss and continue to the famous Geysir hot spring area where we will stay for two nights. You have plenty of time to explore this highly interesting area with its countless bubbling hot springs. (35 km)
Wednesday: Geysir – Haukadalur – Haukadalsheiði – Geysir
Our ride takes us through Haukadalur valley with its beautiful birch forest. Cross clear little streams on the way and enjoy the rich vegetation of wild mountain flowers that bloom during high summer. While you ascend to a highland plateau you will notice the changes in nature as you reach higher ground. A breathtaking view of the mountain ranges and glaciers of the highland around awaits you when you reach the top of Haukadalsheiði. Accommodation again at Geysir Guesthouse. (20 km)
Optional (available at an extra charge): Snowmobile drive on Langjökull glacier
Enjoy the white ice field of Langjökull glacier up-close. A 4x4 vehicle picks us up and takes us to a base camp where we change into warm gear. After safety instructions we drive into the white world of ice and snow. Two people share a snowmobile during the 1 hr. drive and both get to drive the vehicle (a valid drivers license is necessary to drive a snowmobile, younger participants and children can ride in the back). Minimum: 6 participants. Price per person EURO 80. Children younger than 12 years receive 50% discount.
Thursday: Geysir – Reykjavík
Today we leave our riding companions in the morning after breakfast and drive back to Reykjavík. Approx. arrival in Reykjavík at 10:30.
