This short but exciting riding program takes you through the extreme south-west of Iceland, across purple lupine fields, past lakes, along the beach and to the Krysuvík geothermal area at the entrance to the Reykjanes Peninsula. The Reykjanes peninsula is characterized by volcanism and in 2024 the Sundhunúkur volcano erupted several times, providing spectacular images. Of course, to ride you will only be at a safe distance from the edge of the peninsula. As you ride across the lava fields, you will repeatedly come across ancient lava rock that bears witness to past eruptions. Today, the lava fields are overgrown with soft moss, lupines and heather. Many birds also live on the south coast and can be observed. On four day rides, you will gain a deep insight into Iceland's volcanic history and discover diverse, unique landscapes.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival
From Keflavík Airport you can take the airport bus to Reykjavík (to the final stop BSÍ). There you will be welcomed and driven to your accommodation. After dinner you will be introduced to the details of the next days.

Day 2: Vellir - Vellir
You start with a test ride on the riding ground, get to know the horses and try your hand at tölt. After lunch you will ride over green meadows through the Ölfusforir bird sanctuary and further over sandbanks and through flat fords at the mouth of the Ölfusá River. After a ride along the beach, you will ride across the green meadows back to the horse farm where you will spend the night again. About 17 km, 4-5 hours in the saddle.

Day 3: Strandakirkja- Krýsuvík
In the morning, a short transfer of the horses and rider to Strandarkirkja church. The church, which is located directly on the beach, has its own special history. You continue to ride along the black lava beach and then along the mountain range. The contrasts between mountains, lava and sea surround you. You to ride pass the green lake Kleifarvatn and finally reach Krýsuvík. There are many hot springs and colorful mountains here. Towards evening, you ride back to Riding centre on horseback. Approx. 25 km at saddle.

Day 4: Grænavatn - Krýsuvikurkirkja
Today you start at lake Grænavatn. The small lake is known for its turquoise water, based on its high sulphur content. From here you walk through the Seltún geothermal area over black lava fields. Continue via a hill on the hidden old path of Stapartindar, a jewel on the south coast. You pass the mountain lake Arnarvatn and to ride over a stony desert past interesting rock slabs that are reminiscent of the rocks in the Thingvellir region. However, as they are quite unknown in contrast to these, the rider:inside enjoy the scenery in wonderful peace. In the afternoon you ride around mountain Mælifell and to ride on soft tölt trails to the tiny church Krýsuvikurkirkja. Riding distance approx. 25km, 5-6 hours in the saddle.

Day 5: Kolviðarhóll - Maradalur

Accomodation
You will spend the night in the cozy guest house at Riding centre in 2- to 4-bed rooms. The guest house has several bathrooms (shower/WC) and a kitchen. You will have dinner and breakfast in the beautiful hotel restaurant. At lunchtime, you will enjoy a saddlebag picnic in a beautiful spot.
On request, it is also possible to stay overnight in the Reiterhotel in comfortable single and double rooms with shower/WC (surcharge).

Saddle & Tack: Icelandic Trekking saddles and bridles.

Experience: You should have been riding regularly for at least 2 years and should also be confident in all gaits when outside of the arena. You ride mostly in walk and tölt, and occasionally gallop on the beach. No free-running herd, only hand horses for changing.

Horses: Icelandic horses.