Family-Friendly 40-Minute Icelandic Horse Stable Visit with Hot Drinks at Skeidvellir Farm

Visit the beautiful stables of Skeidvellir to meet the remarkable Icelandic horses, an experience designed for animal lovers and anyone interested in learning about one of Iceland's most treasured creatures. This tour is perfect for families and travelers eager to learn about this beautiful animal.

Skeidvellir is a family-run farm where the care and preservation of Icelandic horses are at the heart of everything they do. While horseback riding is not part of this tour, you’ll be taken through the farm’s facilities with a knowledgeable guide who will walk you through the rich history of the Icelandic horse.

The tour focuses on educating visitors about the horse’s role in Icelandic culture, its unique characteristics, and its importance throughout the centuries.

Icelandic horses are one of the purest breeds in the world, having been isolated for around 1,000 years. Historically, they were crucial for transportation across Iceland’s rugged terrain and were even revered by Viking settlers.

Your guide will share fascinating details about how these horses, though smaller in size than many breeds, are incredibly hardy and adaptable to the country’s harsh weather conditions. Despite often being mistaken for ponies due to their size, Icelandic horses possess immense strength and endurance.

During the tour, you’ll also learn about the unique riding pace of the Icelandic horse, known as the “tolt,” which is a smooth, four-beat movement that sets them apart from other horse breeds. Your guide will showcase the farm’s breeding practices and explain how Icelandic horses have maintained their pure lineage without crossbreeding for centuries.

Visitors are encouraged to interact with the horses during the tour. You’ll have the chance to pet these friendly animals and take photos to capture the memories. Along the way, you’ll likely encounter other farm animals, including a friendly dog and a few stable cats, adding to the warm and welcoming atmosphere of Skeidvellir.

For families with younger children, there is an optional experience where kids can enjoy a short ride. The horse will be carefully brushed and prepared, and after being mounted, the guide will lead the horse around the riding hall for a few loops, offering a safe and gentle introduction to horseback riding.

After the tour, you’re welcome to relax at the farm’s cafeteria, where you can enjoy a hot drink and reflect on the experience. The combination of learning about Icelandic horses, interacting with them, and exploring the farm’s peaceful surroundings makes this a memorable and enriching activity.

Book your tour now to experience the charm and history of the Icelandic horse firsthand, and get ready to immerse yourself in this one-of-a-kind stable experience. Check availability by choosing a date.