Day 1: (28 June)
Entering the Highlands
Fell – Bólstaður approx. 25 km
First stop from keflavík Airport is Ishestar Headquarters in Hafnarfjörður where we have prepared fresh coffee and breakfast. The main meal of the day will be dinner at the mountain cabin, which we will reach on horseback in the late afternoon. While at Íshestar, you can comfortably change into your riding gear. Afterwards, we will drive you towards the South-East of the country, to the mountain cabin Fell, where we meet Kiddi and the herding crew, and where our horseback adventure is set to begin. The drive will take about 2 hours.
We commence our ride alongside the mighty glacial Markarfljót river, which winds its way through picturesque valleys, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. We follow the Western banks, close to the Southern foothills of Mt. Thorolfsfell, through majestic scenery with the vast highlands towering ahead of us. After changing horses at a paddock at Hellisvellir, our path leads us up to the slopes of Mt. Einhyrningur, to our cabin Bólstaður, where we will spend the first night. Enjoy the great view of Eyjafjallajökull Glacier and Thorsmörk Nature Reserve.
Day 2: (29 June)
Passing the Peaks
Bólstaður – Mosar – Hungurfit approx. 30 km
As we ascend into the highlands, we forge a special Wonders of Fjallabak connection with our horses, the land, and its rich history. The trail takes us northwest of the Mýrdalsjökull Glacier, towards Emstrur - a pastureland, used for sheep grazing in summer. Our herd will thoroughly enjoy this lunch-break spot. Weather conditions permitting, we will dedicate some time there for the horses to graze, all while we take in the unique view of the stunning Markarfljótsgljúfur Canyon. This spectacular gorge, which plunges down 200 metres, was formed approximately 2000 years ago during a dramatic eruption of Volcano Katla.
Following the lunch break, we will continue to gather unforgettable memories on horseback, set against the backdrop of panoramic views, eventually arriving at Hungurfit – a cosy cabin that has recently been rebuilt. It is situated near two glaciers: Tindfjallajökull, identifiable by its two symmetrical peaks, Ýmir and Ýma, both over 1400 metres high, and Mýrdalsjökull, beneath which lies the Katla crater.
Day 3: (30 June)
Through the Steamy Valley
Hungurfit – Landmannahellir approx. 45 km
We continue our ride into the mountains, past the prominent table-mountain Laufafell, through a lava desert. Our ride takes us past the black obsidian lava fields of Hrafntinnusker and through the fascinating Reykjadalur valley, with its hot springs, small geysers, and colourful mountains. The trail weaves at high altitudes, including the very top of the dramatic mountain Pokahryggir. We end the ride at the traditional sheep herding station of Landmannahellir, where we will spend the night. Before dinner, we drive to Landmannalaugar to enjoy a soak in a historical thermal hot spring. The beauty of Landmannalaugar lies in the harmonious blend of geological wonders and untouched nature.
Day 4: (1 July)
The Gateway to Hell
Landmannahellir – Rjúpnavellir approx. 35 km
We leave the scenic Landmannahellir area and ride north of Mt. Hekla, descending gradually from the highlands. A desert of black ash and light pumice is a witness to numerous eruptions of this volcano, the most active one in Iceland and known as “the Gateway to Hell The herd will rest in a field at Rjúpnavellir, while we spend the night at the welcoming former farmhouse Minni-Vellir, located a short drive from Rjúpnavellir, that has recentley been renovated.
Day 5: (2 July)
Winding Down
Paddock by Mt. Burfell– Skarð approx. 25 km
Our final day of riding we reunite with our herd at the Southern foothills of Mt. Burfell, a squat basalt tuya, which stands close to Þjórsá river. The trail leads us away from the towering mountains of Hekla and Búrfell, towards the soft riding paths of Skarfanes, extensive birchwoods protected since 1941. We ride through lush lupine fields spread between the rivers Ytri-Rangá and Eystri-Rangá. We will conclude our journey at the farm Skarð. Following our ride, we will head to Minni-Vellir, where the evening offers a peaceful retreat or a festive atmosphere and before the hearty farewell dinner, we can opt to drive to the local swimming pool to indulge in a thorough shower and a muscle-relaxing hot pot, providing a blissful recovery from the exhilarating days spent in communion with the Icelandic wilderness.
Day 6: (3 July)
Drive back to Reykjavik
Following a delicious breakfast, we will make our way back to Reykjavik. Should guests be interested, we plan to stop at a unique wool shop that has been locally operated since 1991, showcasing meticulously crafted, high-quality items. Upon our return to Reykjavik, we will ensure you are comfortably dropped off at your accommodation, bidding farewell after an unforgettable journey together.
Our adventure will come to an end at the farm Skarð. Following our ride, we'll head to Minni-Vellir, where the evening offers a peaceful retreat or a festive atmosphere, giving us the chance to reflect on the splendid days spent riding. Prior to the warm farewell dinner, we have the option to visit the local swimming pool for a refreshing shower and to enjoy the muscle-soothing hot pot, offering a blissful end to our days filled with excitement and connection with the Icelandic wilderness.
