Horseback Riding With Elves

Overview

Elves are important creatures in Iceland. They get to decide where roads can go, and houses can be built. On this tour we see some places populated by these special creatures, the “hidden people”, but as they are hidden, we will not actually meet them! So, depending on where the horses felt their presence last time, you will ride on one of two paths.

We will either pass the small cleft Alfakví and the old sheep’s house that cannot be removed without serious consequences. Some elves are musical; Skjólklettur is the place of the elves’ church, where singing has been heard. On our way to the elfin hill, Einbui, populated by friendly and sometimes singing elves, we also experience excellent riding trails for trying the special, smooth gait of the Icelandic horse, “tölt”.

Or ride through hummocks meadows and lava fields where they believe to live. If your horse reacts when passing by, then an elf might be close by.

When crossing the small warm river Varmá, look out for Nykur, the Icelandic version of a water spirit.

After returning to our hotel, a light lunch will be served.

Location Pick-up

Riding tours start at 09:00 if you didn't book a pick up service and will drive yourself to the farm.

We offer hotel pick-up in Reykjavík at 8:00 and pick-up in Hafnarfjörður, Mosfellsbær, Kópavogur at 7:30. The tour returns to Reykjavík at around 13:00.

Is the ride difficult

No, we encourage everyone over 7 years of age to join this magnificent journey.

Safety

Everyone is required to wear a helmet.

Eldhestar has strict security measures in place. For safety reasons, you cannot bring backpacks, large cameras, selfie sticks, or other bulky items on the horses. Small waist bags are allowed. Horse riding is a potentially risky activity; you participate at your own risk.

Is the ride season bound

The tour is available all year, but it's a good idea to bring extra clothing like socks, gloves, and a hat on rainy days or during winter day tours if you get wet during the ride.

What to bring

To participate in the horse riding tour, you'll need to wear sturdy shoes, good sneakers or narrow hiking boots, and comfortable pants (riding pants are not required). It's a good idea to bring gloves and a thin hat under the helmet (a "buff" is a good choice). If you want to carry small items like a camera, you should bring a small waist bag (backpacks are not allowed on the horses). On rainy days or during winter day tours, it's a good idea to bring extra clothing like socks, gloves, and a hat in case you get wet during the ride.

Important information

The maximum weight for participants is 120 kg.

All used riding gear, such as boots and saddlebags, must be disinfected before coming to Iceland to prevent the spreading of infectious diseases that could threaten the horses. That typically includes washing riding wear and cleaning helmets, shoes, and safety vests with iodine or another disinfectant.

Used riding gloves and leather items, such as chaps, are not allowed.