Varmahlid: Viking Horse Riding Tour

The special part of this ride is the horse beneath you. Icelandic horses are famous for the tölt, a smooth fourth gait that feels different from an ordinary walk, and this route gives you a chance to try it on soft grassy ground. You ride beside the Svartá river, cross an adventure track on a hillside, and finish near Reykjafoss, with mountains around you.

I like the calm, well-trained horses and the way the guides work patiently with first-time riders. I also like the route itself: river, open fields, mountain views, and a waterfall in one compact outing. The main thing to consider is Icelandic weather. Even in summer, wind and rain can make a 1.5-hour ride feel much colder than expected.

Key points at a glance

• Try the Icelandic horse’s tölt: Soft grassy paths provide the best setting to feel this distinctive gait.
• Ride to Reykjafoss: The waterfall gives the route a clear goal and a fine photo stop.
• Cross the Svartá area: Expect river scenery, surrounding mountains, and open North Iceland views.
• Good for beginners: Patient instruction and obedient horses make this a practical first ride.
• Small-group, personal attention: The guide can focus on safety, horse handling, and your comfort.
• Pack for shifting weather: Bring layers, gloves, sturdy comfortable shoes, and rain gear.

Why this Varmahlíð ride feels different

Many horseback outings give you a pleasant ride through fields. This one adds a real sense of place. You are not simply circling a farm or following a short paddock route. The horses take you along the Svartá river, up and across a hillside track, and toward Reykjafoss waterfall.

That route matters because it keeps changing without becoming a long expedition. You begin by getting comfortable with the horse, then move into open countryside, where the river and mountain panorama give the ride its Icelandic character. By the time you reach the waterfall, the outing feels like a small journey rather than a basic riding lesson.

The Icelandic horse is another reason to book this particular activity. These compact, sturdy horses are known for a gait called the tölt. It is often described as a smooth four-beat movement, and you may get to try it on the softer grassy sections of the route. The guide will decide when conditions and rider ability make that suitable, so do not expect a fast ride from the first minute.

I like that the tour keeps the focus on both horse and scenery. You get time to notice how the animal responds, while the guide explains what to do. That balance is useful for a beginner, and it keeps the ride from feeling like a rushed sightseeing stop.

Meeting at Hestasport in Varmahlíð

Your starting point is the Hestasport reception office in Varmahlíð, in the Skagafjörður area. From Ring Road 1, turn onto Road 752. The office is the first building on the left, about 150 meters from the junction, and it is painted white and blue.

Arrive 15 minutes before departure. That gives you time to check in, meet the guide, collect a helmet, and get ready without making the rest of the group wait. Wear clothes that allow easy movement, along with comfortable shoes and warm layers.

The meeting point is straightforward, but the ride itself may not begin right outside the office. One ride arrangement included a drive of about 20 minutes from the meeting point to the trail start. I would allow time for that possibility and ask at check-in where you will mount the horses.

The staff first introduce you to your horse and explain the basics. You will need to listen closely to instructions on steering, stopping, spacing, and keeping your balance. Even if you have ridden before, Icelandic horses and the tölt may feel new.

Getting comfortable with an Icelandic horse

The early part of the outing is important. A horseback tour is much better when you feel calm and understand how to communicate with the horse. The guides are described as patient and attentive, with particular care for riders who have never been on a horse or have not ridden for many years.

That makes this a good choice for a mixed group. One person can arrive as a complete beginner, while another may have some riding experience. The guide can explain the basics and help each rider settle in before the route opens up.

The horses are repeatedly described as obedient, well trained, and well cared for. Those qualities matter more than speed on a ride like this. A calm horse lets you watch the scenery instead of worrying about every movement beneath you.

You should still be honest about your comfort level. Tell the guide if you are nervous, inexperienced, or returning to riding after a long break. The supplied limit is 100 kilograms, or 220 pounds, and children under six cannot take part.

Along the Svartá river and hillside track

Once you are ready, the route leads into the countryside near the Svartá river. The river adds movement and sound to the ride, while the open fields give you room to see the mountains around the fjord.

This is where the outing earns its price. You are paying not only for time in the saddle, but for a guided route through scenery that would be difficult to appreciate in the same way from a car. The horse keeps the pace measured, giving you time to look around and take photographs when the guide allows a safe stop.

The route also includes an adventure track along a hillside. That change in ground makes the ride more varied than a flat field circuit. You may notice the horse adjusting its footing, and the guide will help the group maintain safe spacing.

Do not expect a private ride at your own pace. This is a guided group outing, and the speed will be set by the guide and the least experienced rider. That is a benefit for beginners, but experienced riders hoping to gallop or ride independently may find it restrained.

The approach to Reykjafoss waterfall

Reykjafoss is the main visual target of the ride. The trail leads you toward the waterfall after passing through fields and along the river. You get the pleasure of approaching it on horseback rather than simply parking nearby and walking to a viewpoint.

The waterfall also gives the outing a natural pause. The guide may provide time for photographs, and the surrounding river and mountains add depth to the scene. Bring gloves if you want to handle your phone or camera comfortably, since Icelandic wind can make a stop feel chilly.

The route has been described as passing springs as well as the waterfall, though the exact views can change with weather and season. In February, snow gear may be useful, while in warmer months rain and wind remain possible. The provider supplies a snow suit if needed, but you should still bring your own warm clothing and rain protection.

One practical point: the waterfall is part of a riding route, not a separate long sightseeing visit. The total riding time is 1.5 hours, so the stop will be limited by the group schedule. If you want a long walk around Reykjafoss, plan that separately.

Feeling the tölt on soft ground

The tölt is the signature feature of the Icelandic horse. It is a distinctive gait, and the soft grassy paths on this route are suited to trying it. The guide will help you understand the correct signals and decide when you are ready.

For a first-time rider, simply learning to sit comfortably and control the horse may be enough. Do not feel pressured to master the tölt. You can still enjoy the river, hillside, waterfall, and mountain views at a slower pace.

For a rider with some experience, the tölt adds a special Icelandic touch. It gives you a chance to notice what makes these horses different from the animals you may have ridden elsewhere. The best part is that the route provides a natural setting for it, rather than treating the gait as a short demonstration in a small arena.

The guide’s role is central here. Good instruction makes the difference between an exciting new skill and an uncomfortable surprise. The guide can also keep the group together and make sure beginners are not pushed beyond their confidence.

What the $111 price includes

At $111 per person, this is not the cheapest way to spend 90 minutes in North Iceland. I still think the price is reasonable if you want a guided horseback outing with trained horses, equipment, and a waterfall route.

The fee includes the horse-riding tour, helmet, an English-speaking guide, and a snow suit when conditions call for one. You are also paying for the staff’s preparation, horse care, route knowledge, and attention to safety. Those less visible parts are important on an activity involving animals and changing terrain.

Food and drinks are not included. Since the outing is short, you do not need to pack a meal, but bring water and eat beforehand if you are arriving from a long drive. North Iceland has large distances between stops, and it is wise not to count on finding refreshments immediately after the ride.

The value is strongest for beginners and casual riders. You get a compact introduction to Icelandic horses without committing to a full-day trek. The value is weaker for advanced riders who want speed, long hours in the saddle, or complete control over the route.

Weather, clothing, and practical comfort

Icelandic weather can shift quickly, so dress for the coldest conditions you might meet rather than the weather at breakfast. Wear several layers, comfortable clothes, warm socks, gloves, and rain gear.

Comfortable shoes are listed as essential. Choose footwear that feels secure while mounting and riding. You should also expect some exposure to wind and damp ground, so avoid clothing that becomes heavy or restrictive when wet.

If you bring riding gear from outside Iceland, it must be disinfected. This is an animal health rule, so check the requirements before arriving rather than assuming your own boots or equipment can be used.

The 100-kilogram weight limit is firm and should be checked before booking. Children under six are not accepted. English is the tour language, and the guide gives instructions throughout the activity.

Who will enjoy this ride most

I would choose this tour for a first-time rider who wants more than a short stable introduction. The combination of patient guidance, calm horses, open scenery, and Reykjafoss gives you a full taste of horseback riding in Iceland without requiring a full day.

It also suits riders returning after a long break. You may have ridden years ago but want clear instructions and a steady pace. The route allows you to rebuild confidence while still seeing something memorable.

Families should note the minimum age. Children six and older may be suitable, but the guide will still need to judge each rider’s ability and comfort. A nervous child may need extra reassurance, so tell the staff about your group before departure.

Experienced riders should set realistic expectations. The horses are well trained and the scenery is excellent, but this is not advertised as a high-speed or advanced riding tour. The pace serves the group, and the guide controls the route.

Booking, timing, and cancellation

The tour lasts 1.5 hours, with starting times based on availability. Since the meeting point is in Varmahlíð, it works well as part of a North Iceland driving day, especially if your route passes through Skagafjörður.

Arrive 15 minutes early, and do not cut it close if you are driving from another town. One ride included a transfer of roughly 20 minutes to the trail start, so your total time commitment may be longer than the advertised riding period.

You can cancel up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund. The reserve-now, pay-later option also helps if your Iceland plans depend on weather or a changing driving schedule.

Should you book the Varmahlíð horse ride?

Book it if you want a friendly, well-managed introduction to Icelandic horses, especially if you are new to riding or have not been in the saddle for years. The route gives you several strong ingredients in a short time: the Svartá river, hillside paths, mountain views, the chance to try the tölt, and Reykjafoss waterfall.

Skip it if you want a long independent ride, a fast pace, or a full day with the horses. Also think twice if you dislike cold, wind, or uncertain weather. For everyone else, the $111 price buys a focused and memorable piece of North Iceland, with the horses themselves providing the most distinctive part of the outing.

FAQ

How long is the Varmahlíð horse-riding tour?

The horseback riding portion lasts 1.5 hours. Allow additional time to arrive 15 minutes early and for the possibility of a short transfer from the Hestasport office to the trail start.

Where do I meet the guide?

Meet at the Hestasport reception office in Varmahlíð, Skagafjörður. From Ring Road 1, turn onto Road 752. The office is the first white and blue building on the left, about 150 meters from the junction.

What is included in the price?

The price includes the horse-riding tour, a helmet, an English-speaking guide, and a snow suit if needed.

Can beginners join the ride?

Yes. The tour provides instruction, and the horses are suitable for riders with no previous experience. Tell the guide if you are nervous or returning to riding after a long break.

Can I try the Icelandic horse’s tölt?

The route includes soft grassy paths where you can try the tölt. The guide will explain how it works and decide when it is suitable for you and the group.

What should I bring?

Bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing, layers, rain gear, comfortable riding clothes, and gloves. Any riding gear brought from outside Iceland must be disinfected.

Are there age or weight restrictions?

Children under six cannot take part. The rider weight limit is 100 kilograms, or 220 pounds.