Hveragerdi: Countryside Charm Horse Riding Tour

Location: Southern Region, Iceland
Rating: 4.7/5 (17 reviews)
Price: $91 per person
Duration: 1 hour
Supplier: Eldhestar Volcano Horses

Quick Overview: What You Need to Know

Imagine cruising through the gently rolling meadows of Iceland, surrounded by distant mountains, on a well-trained Icelandic horse. This tour is offered at Eldhestar Volcano Horses farm in Hveragerdi, a town famous for its geothermal activity and lush landscapes. For just $91, you get an hour-long ride led by a friendly guide, with all the necessary safety gear provided.

We love that this experience is accessible to all — no prior riding experience is required, making it perfect for families or first-timers. The focus on small group sizes and local guides like Ásta (if you’re lucky!) ensures you’ll get personal attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

One thing to consider is that participants under 7 years old or those with mobility issues need to look elsewhere, as this tour has age and mobility limits. Also, bringing your own camera isn’t allowed on horseback, so be prepared to leave backpacks behind unless you bring a small waist bag. This tour is best suited for those seeking a gentle, scenic introduction to Icelandic horses and countryside, especially families or casual riders craving authentic Icelandic farm life.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Icelandic countryside experience on excellent riding paths
• Ideal for beginners with no prior experience needed
• Family-friendly with a focus on safety and comfort
• Includes gear and safety equipment like helmets and rain gear
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation and pay later policies
• Limited age and weight restrictions ensure safety and comfort

A Closer Look at the Hveragerdi Horse Riding Tour

When we think about Iceland, images of glaciers, waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes often come to mind. But for those who love animals and gentle outdoor adventures, a horseback ride through the countryside can be a perfect way to connect with the land. The Hveragerdi Countryside Charm Horse Riding Tour offers just that—an opportunity to get a small taste of Icelandic farm life, combined with the unique qualities of the Icelandic horse.

The Starting Point: Vellir Farm

The tour begins at Vellir, a well-maintained farm where you’ll meet your guide and the horses. The farm’s reputation for friendly, well-trained horses makes it clear that safety and comfort are priorities. The meeting is relaxed, with a brief introduction on horseback riding techniques, which reassures those new to riding.

The Ride Itinerary: Meadows and Mountain Views

Once geared up with helmets, rain gear if needed, and comfortable clothing, you’ll start your journey along excellent riding paths around the farm. The terrain is gentle, making it perfect for those with little or no riding experience.

As you ride, you’ll pass through meadows and farmland, with views of distant mountains and rolling fields. The scenery is quintessentially Icelandic: open skies, patchwork fields, and the occasional glimpse of geothermal steam rising from the earth. The trail offers a tranquil atmosphere that encourages you to relax and enjoy the moment.

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Authentic Encounters: Meet the Horses

Many reviews highlight the friendly nature of the horses. They are well-behaved, calm, and used to riding beginners, which is reassuring for first-timers. The guide will introduce you to the Icelandic horse, famous for its tölt — a smooth, natural gait that makes the ride surprisingly comfortable.

Highlights of the Tour

• Scenery: The views of the farmland and distant mountains are especially memorable. One reviewer said, “We loved the way the meadows stretched out around us, and the mountains in the distance made for a perfect backdrop.”
• Guidance: The personal attention from the guide, often a local with a passion for horses and land, makes the experience feel intimate.

The Return and Reflection

After an hour riding, you’ll return to the farm, leaving with a sense of connection to Iceland’s rural roots. The smooth ride, combined with the scenic landscape, makes it nearly impossible not to feel relaxed and refreshed. Many travelers appreciate how accessible and stress-free the experience is — perfect for those wanting a gentle outdoor activity without the challenge of long or strenuous rides.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This horseback riding experience is especially popular among families with children, as it’s designed to be safe and manageable for all ages above 7. It’s also ideal for solo travelers or couples looking for a relaxed, authentic outdoor activity. If you’re someone curious about Icelandic horses or seeking a peaceful farm experience, this tour offers an excellent introduction.

However, if you’re an experienced rider or seeking a more challenging adventure, this tour probably isn’t for you. Plus, travelers who prefer to carry their own gear or take photos while riding may need to plan accordingly, as backpacks and professional cameras aren’t allowed.

Deep Dive: Why This Tour Offers Good Value

For $91, you receive not only a beautifully scenic ride but also professional guidance and all necessary equipment, including helmets, rain gear, and winter overalls if needed. The small group setting ensures personalized attention, which enhances safety and enjoyment.

On top of that, free cancellation up to 24 hours before means your plans remain flexible — a valuable feature when traveling in Iceland, where weather can be unpredictable. The pay later option also helps travelers with flexible budgets or uncertain schedules.

While the ride itself lasts just one hour, the quality of the experience — with well-trained horses, stunning scenery, and knowledgeable guides — makes it well worth the price. Many reviews mention how smooth and calm the horses are, and the authentic farm atmosphere adds to its charm.

Practical Details and Tips for Your Ride

• Clothing: Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes, preferably sneakers or hiking boots. Dress in layers, as Icelandic weather can change quickly.
• Gear: Helmets, rain gear, and overalls are provided, but bringing gloves and a thin hat (like a buff or beanie) under the helmet can increase comfort.
• Photos: To respect the safety rules, plan to take photos before or after the ride, or bring a small waist bag for essentials.
• Age & Weight Limits: Not suitable for children under 7 or people over 264 lbs (120 kg), ensuring safety for all.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, no prior riding experience is needed. The guide provides a short introduction and the terrain is gentle, making it perfect for beginners.

How long is the ride?
The ride lasts exactly one hour, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

What should I wear?
Sturdy shoes like sneakers or hiking boots, comfortable clothing, gloves, and a thin hat under the helmet are recommended. Pack extra clothing if rain is forecast.

Are there age restrictions?
Yes, children must be at least 7 years old to participate.

Can I bring my own camera?
No, professional cameras and backpacks aren’t allowed on horseback for safety reasons. Small items can be carried in a waist bag.

Is transportation provided?
For groups of 8 or more, hotel pick-up is available, but otherwise, you’ll need to arrive at the farm on your own.

What is the maximum weight allowed?
Participants over 264 lbs (120 kg) are not permitted to join for safety reasons.

How do I book?
You can reserve your spot with the “reserve & pay later” option, allowing flexibility and peace of mind.

What is the cancellation policy?
Cancelling up to 24 hours in advance grants a full refund, ideal if weather or plans change.

Is this experience suitable for families?
Absolutely. It’s designed for families and groups, with safety and comfort as priorities.

Final Thoughts

The Hveragerdi: Countryside Charm Horse Riding Tour offers a gentle, scenic introduction to Icelandic farm life and one of the most beloved native animals. With its small group size, professional guides, and beautiful farmland views, it represents a genuine, laid-back way to enjoy Iceland’s countryside.

It’s particularly well-suited for families, beginners, and anyone seeking a peaceful outdoor activity. While it might not satisfy those craving a more challenging ride or adventure, it offers excellent value for casual riders eager to experience Iceland’s rural charm in a relaxed and authentic setting.

If you’re after an easygoing, scenic, and family-friendly activity that truly showcases Icelandic horses and farmland, this tour is a strong contender. Just remember to dress appropriately, book in advance, and come ready to enjoy some of Iceland’s most peaceful countryside on a well-trained horse.

Additional Recommendations

If you’re interested in combining this with other outdoor activities, consider exploring nearby attractions like the geothermal areas of Hveragerdi or visiting local cafes for a taste of Icelandic hospitality after your ride. Combining a gentle horse ride with a walk or a soak in a hot spring can round out a memorable day in this charming part of Iceland.

Enjoy your Icelandic countryside adventure — it’s a delightful way to connect with the land and its gentle giants.

You can check availability for your dates here: