Sprengisandur – Echoes of the past

Ride across Iceland on a journey that connects fertile valleys with the wild, untouched highlands. This unique tour takes you through landscapes shaped by fire and ice: lava fields, glacial rivers, hidden green oases, vast deserts of black sand, and natural hot springs.

Whether you begin in the south and ride north, or start in the north and head south, the route offers the same unforgettable highlights – from the lush farmlands of Þjórsárdalur and Skagafjörður to the raw wilderness between Hofsjökull, Vatnajökull, and Tungnafellsjökull glaciers. Along the way, we pass Iceland’s largest lake, Þórisvatn, ride through historical sites like Stöng and Gjáin, and rest in traditional mountain huts at Versalir, Nýidalur, Áfangagil, and Laugafell.

This is a true highland crossing – a ride into Iceland’s vast interior where nature rules. The days are filled with adventure on horseback, evenings with stories, food, and camaraderie in cozy huts, and unforgettable moments.

A demanding yet rewarding journey, this tour is perfect for riders who want to experience Iceland in its purest form – on horseback, side by side with a herd of free-running horses. Guðmundur Hólm, his family and friends operate this tour. His passion for great food and exceptional horses shines through in his tours.

Kjölur

Step back in time and ride along the ancient Kjölur trail as Icelanders did over the centuries when traveling to the annual summer parliament at Thingvellir, first held in 930 AD. We visit this historic site where the heart of the nation beats and which became Iceland´s first National Park in 1930. When we arrive at the south we will visit and enjoy the Geysir hot spring area and Gullfoss Waterfall.

Traveling from south to north or vice versa right across the heart of Iceland we find ourselves traversing sandy deserts close to the mighty Langjökull and Hofsjökull Glaciers. Sheltered green valleys come as a surprise in this rugged terrain. Hveravellir is a geothermal area in the highlands where we can soak in a long hot bath under the Midnight Sun.

If you want to see as much as possible of the unspoiled Icelandic highlands, this tour, which has been in operation since 1983, is a perfect choice.

The Kings Trail – Across Iceland’s Western Highlands 
Vatnsdalur-Arnarvatnsheiði-Húsafell-Þingvellir

On horseback in spectacular nature and unique historical sites! The Kings Trail is a unique tour where we ride across Iceland´s western highlands, from the beautiful Vatnsdalur Valley in the north and shrine of the nation Þingvellir in the south.

1907 the King of Denmark and Iceland, visited the country. Because of this huge event, some improvements were made on the ancient tracks to Þingvellir, to make it easier for the population to ride to the old parliament place and see their king. That is why we still today call parts of our trails leading to Þingvellir Kings Trail.

We enjoy the true quality of the Icelandic horse in the mystical inspiring landscape and peaceful wilderness. Our historical riding paths lead us across the legendary Arnarvatnheiði Heath with its countless lakes and myths. During our ride, the majestic glaciers Langjökull and Eiríksjökull are on the east side of our tracks. We visit the geothermal area Húsafell. Húsafell is often called the pearl between the lava and the glaciers with its natural forest and great outdoor pool. This is the perfect location to enjoy the midnight sun in Iceland. The Þingvellir National park is a number one location to visit in Iceland. There is nothing more authentic then visiting the UNESCO park than on a horseback like the Icelanders have done for centuries! At this heart of the nation, the first parliament was founded in the year 930 AD. Þingvellir is not only designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its historical importance but also because of the very special geology and natural features. Along with this magnificent trail, we travel with a herd of 60-90 free running horses and everyone will find his/her favorite horses. Haukur, his team and his horses as well as the many spectacular natural and historical sites make the Kings Trail an unforgettable experience.

On this trail we have the opportunity to choose the best route option for our guests and horses. So the south part of the trail varies partly between years depending on weather conditions and terrain.

Note

Please disinfect all of your riding gear to protect the horses. Used leather gear is not allow to Iceland, bring insulated rubber style boots or brand new unused riding boots.