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7 Day The Kings Trail Across Western Highlands Horse Riding Tour in Iceland
Hvammur Farm, Vatnsdalur Valley, Hvammur, Skagafjarðarsýsla, Northwestern Region, Northwest Constituency, Iceland
Mountain Horse Riding Tour Iceland
This listing has one of the 10 most popular offers available in in Iceland
The Kings Trail is a unique tour where you ride across Iceland's western highlands, from the beautiful Vatnsdalur Valley in the north and the shrine of the nation Þingvellir in the south.
Key information
- Rider weight limit: 242 pounds / 110 kilograms
- Tack type: Icelandic tack
- Horse breed: Icelandic
Highlights
- 7 riding days
- Amazing landscapes and serene surroundings
- Exploring Vatnsdalur Valley and Hvammsfoss Waterfall
- 3 - 4 horses per person
- Local guidance
- 6 nights accommodation
- Daily meals
Skill level
- Advanced
Styles
7 days with instruction
Group size: Maximum of 20 participants
Accommodation
Hvammur farm
Hvammur farm is situated in the beautiful Vatnsdalur Valley which is so full of the old Sagas and has the famous salmon fishing river Vatnsdalsá running down the middle. The farmhouse was renovated four years ago and has a hot tub in the garden with a view over the river.
- Six rooms
- Two or four beds per room (maximum of 19 people)
- Outdoor jacuzzi
- Two showers
- GSM connection
- Wi-Fi
- Made-up beds
- Two WCs
Fellaskáli mountain cabin - Víðidalstunguheiði
Fellaskáli unique location in the highlands and has a magical view.
- Two rooms
- 30 beds
- GSM connection
- One WC
Álftakrókur mountain cabin - Arnarvatnsheiði
- Two rooms
- 40 beds
- GSM connection
- Two WCs
Gamli bærinn guesthouse - Húsafell
- Six rooms
- 20 beds
- Four showers
- GSM connection
- Wi-Fi
- Made-up beds
- Four WCs
Brautartunga Community Center - Lundareykjardalur
- Two rooms
- Sleeping bag accommodation on mattresses
- Private warm swimming pool
- Eight showers
- GSM connection
- Eight WCs
Program
About the tour
The Kings Trail is a unique tour where you ride across Iceland's western highlands, from the beautiful Vatnsdalur Valley in the north and the shrine of the nation Þingvellir in the south. In 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 Íslandshestar still today calls parts of their trails leading to Þingvellir Kings Trail.
You will enjoy the true quality of the Icelandic horse in the mystical inspiring landscape and peaceful wilderness. Their historical riding paths lead you across the legendary Arnarvatnheiði Heath with its countless lakes and myths. During your ride, the majestic glaciers Langjökull and Eiríksjökull are on the east side of your tracks. You will visit the geothermal area of 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 the number one location to visit in Iceland. There is nothing more authentic than visiting the UNESCO Park on horseback, as 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 its very special geology and natural features.
Along with this magnificent trail, you travel with a herd of 60-90 free-running horses and everyone will find his or 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, Íslandshestar will have the opportunity to choose the best route option for you and horses. So the south part of the trail varies partly between years depending on weather conditions and terrain.
Note
- The tour operator may have to change the route under sudden unexpected conditions
- Time of arrival in Reykjavík after the riding tour may vary, depending on conditions on the trail
Daily itinerary
A. North - South
Day 1: Reykjavík - Vatnsdalur Valley - Hvammur Farm - Haukagil
Pick up at 9:00 a.m. at BSÍ bus station in Reykjavík. Drive to the north where your host, a farmer and his team, welcome you at Hvammur Farm. The farm is in the valley Vatnsdalur which is said to be one of the most fertile and beautiful valleys in Iceland, shaped by water, glaciers, and volcanic activity. On the ride, you pass the historical farm Hof and cross the Vatnsdalsá River. Vatnsdalur is the setting of one of the ancient sagas, the Vatnsdælasaga.
On your way, you hear tales from Iceland's heroic past of bloody conflict, revenge, and love. You can sense the happiness of the free-running horses as you are heading towards the highland. The horses stay at Haukagil farm which is the last farm on this side of the valley before you enter the highland plateau. You stay overnight at Hvammur. The hot tub offers a nice relaxation as you get ready for the riding adventures of the coming days.
- Riding distance: approximately 20 kilometers
Day 2: Haukagil - Haugakvíslarskáli Mountain Cabin
You start off by gathering up the herd of horses you take with you on the adventurous trail. Today, you are riding through the summer pastures of horses and sheep from the farmers in the north of Iceland. You ascend towards the highland plateau Víðidalstunguheiði heath. It is great to drive the horses through the very free fields of the highlands. The highland opens up for you and you see the mighty Álkugil Gorge with picturesque waterfalls tumbling down over rock formations.
The wideness and freedom feeling are inspiring for horses and people. It is graceful to see the free-running herd tölt on the soft paths of the peaceful area. You see the remains of the old Kings Trail and the tracks from traveling horses through the centuries. Here the only inhabitants are foxes, birds, and maybe some trolls. You spend the night at Haugakvíslarskáli Mountain Cabin.
- Riding distance: approximately 35 kilometers
Day 3: Haugakvíslarskáli - Arnarvatnsheiði Heath and Lake Arnarvatn - Álftakrókur Mountain Cabin
Further into the mountains, you set course for the spacious Fellaskáli Cabin owned by the farmers of Víðidalur Valley. There, you have the lunch break of the day. The strong riding horses bring you safely through the ancient highland paths. Enjoy the magnificent view over the impressive highland mountains and the glaciers Langjökull and Eiríksjökull as they get closer step by step. You can see how the vegetation is changing into lush green colors, created by rich soil and water from many lakes as you ride to the heart of Arnarvatnsheiði.
You pass Lake Réttarvatn on your way beside the beautiful Lake Arnarvatn. Truly a fascinating mystical place of silence and tranquillity you will never forget. Fertile highland vegetation and rich birdlife are the highlights of this area. As you say goodbye to the north, you ride further to the impressive part of the high plateau that belongs to the west area of Borgarfjörður. Further on, you ride to Álftakrókur Mountain Cabin where wanted men were supposed to hide out from law enforcement long ago.
- Riding distance: approximately 35 kilometers
Day 4: Álftakrókur - Eríksjökull Glacier - Hallmundarhraun Lava - Surtshellir Cave - Borgarfjörður Area
The ride continues beside one of the biggest lava fields in Iceland Hallmundarhraun. This is a mystical area filled with legends of outlaws and tales from the past. You have the feeling you see elves and trolls in the formations of the lava. The horses already sense that you are getting closer to the grassland of the farms in the Borgarfjörður Area, and tölt happily as you ride on the banks of the glacial river Norðlingafljót, which you will also cross during the ride.
Eríksjökull Glacier, which also is a Vulcano, is majestic on the east side of your trail. You will see the best-known cave in Iceland Surtshellir. The spectacular 3500-meter-long lava cave was a hideout for bandits back in the day. The horses will stay at Þorvaldsstaðir. Accommodation at Hótel Á.
- Riding distance: approximately 30 kilometers
Day 5: Þorvaldsstaðir - Húsafell - Hraunfossar - Augastaðir
You spend the day riding through and exploring the extraordinary area of Húsafell. You sense the qualities of the Icelandic horses as they bring you through the biggest natural forest in Iceland, Húsafellsskógur. Húsafellsskógur, often called the pearl between the lava and the glaciers, is a unique natural gem in a magnificent landscape. The place has great historical importance. There are tales all the way back from the settlement as well as stories of witchcraft and ghosts from later centuries.
Today, you will visit the exceptionally beautiful waterfall Hraunfossar. The water seems to appear from the lava but is actually a cold spring that surges through the ground and runs in rapids down into the river Hvítá. After a great day with the horses, they rest at Augastaðir while you enjoy the geothermal pool of Húsafell. Accommodation at Húsafell Gamli Bær Guesthouse.
- Riding distance: approximately 20 kilometers
Day 6: Húsafell - Ancient Ok Trail - Brunnar Mountain Cabin - Brautartunga Community center in Lundareykjardalur
Your route today leads you from Augastaðir over the mystical ancient trail of Ok. This fascinating highland trail is named after the 1190-meter-high impressive glacier Ok on the east side of the trail. There, you also see the glaciers Geitlandsjökull, Langjökull, and Þórisjökull. This impressive area without any vegetation reminds you of how rough nature can be in Iceland.
You leave the horses at Brunnar Mountain Cabin to rest and go for an overnight stay at the community center Brautartunga in Lundareykjadalur Valley, where you have your own private hot tub and swimming pool. A great place to enjoy your last evening of the tour together with a good Icelandic meal, storytelling, and singing.
- Riding distance: approximately 35 kilometers
Day 7: Brunnar - Skógarhólar - Þingvellir - Reykjavík
You continue the ride and enjoy the great view riding in fast tölt on the trail over Bláskógarheiði Heath towards National Park Þingvellir. These tracks were used for centuries by the people traveling to the parliament in Þingvellir. Here are the historical sites by every footstep as you get closer to your destination. Only a few kilometers from Brunnar, you pass the legendary stone cairns Hallbjarnarvörður. The Sturlunga Saga describes battles of families in Iceland in the 13th century and mentions this location as a meeting place for armies and their chieftains.
The trail brings you south by the Kaldidalur road, further on great riding tracks by Draugabrekka (Ghostslopes) and Tröllaháls (Trollhill). As you see the Ármannsfell Mountain, you are close to Skógarhólar Fields where your great ride ends this time. Skógarhólar is run by the Icelandic Horse Clubs Association and is located in Þingvellir National Park. You thank the horses and say goodbye until next time.
You experience the beautiful sites and history of Þingvellir often called the national shrine of Iceland. Here was the oldest existing parliament in the world assembled. The spectacular geology of Þingvellir is very visual in the Canyon Almannagjá which is formed between two tectonic continental plates drifting from each other. Transfer to your accommodation in Reykjavík. Approximate arrival in Reykjavík between 5:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.
- Riding distance: approximately 20 kilometers
B. South - North
Day 1: Reykjavík - Þingvellir - Skógarhólar - Brunnar Mountain Cabin
Pick up between 8:00 and 9:00 a.m. from pick-up points in Reykjavík. Drive to the Skógarhólar Fields where the horseman and guide Haukur, his team, and horses from Hvammur farm will meet you. Skógarhólar is run by the Icelandic Horse Clubs Association and is located in Þingvellir National Park. You experience the beautiful sites and history of Þingvellir, often called the national shrine of Iceland. Here was the oldest existing parliament in the world assembled.
The spectacular geology of Þingvellir is very visual in the Canyon Almannagjá which is formed between two tectonic continental plates drifting from each other. Enjoy your first riding day in fast tölt with a great view over the Bláskógarheiði Heath. These tracks were used for centuries by the people traveling to the parliament in Þingvellir. You pass Ármannsfell Mountain and ride further by Tröllaháls (Trollhill) on the tracks by so-called Draugabrekka (Ghostslopes).
The ride brings you north on Kaldidalur Road. Here are the historical sites by every footstep as you get closer to your destination of the day, Brunnar. Only a few kilometers from there, you pass the legendary stone cairns Hallbjarnarvörður. The Sturlunga Saga describes battles of families in Iceland in the 13th century and mentions this location as a meeting place for armies and their chieftains. You leave the horses for the night at Brunnar. You stay overnight at the cultural heart of Iceland, Þingvellir.
- Riding distance: approximately 20 kilometers
Day 2: Brunnar - Ancient Ok Trail - Augastaðir Farm - Hraunfossar Waterfalls
The route today leads you from Brunnar over the mystical ancient trail of Ok. This fascinating highland trail is named after the 1190-meter-high impressive glacier Ok on the east side of the tracks. There, you also see the glaciers Geitlandsjökull, Langjökull, and Þórisjökull. This impressive area without any vegetation reminds you of how rough nature can be in Iceland.
Leave the horses at Augastaðir Farm to rest and go for an overnight stay at Hotel Á by the farm Kirkjuból. Today you will visit the exceptionally beautiful waterfall Hraunfossar. The water seems to appear from the lava but is a cold spring that surges through the ground and runs in rapids down into the river Hvítá.
- Riding distance: approximately 20 kilometers
Day 3: Augastaðir - Húsafell - Þorvaldsstaðir Farm - Surtshellir Cave
Spend the day riding through and exploring the extraordinary area of Húsafell. You sense the qualities of the Icelandic horses as they bring you through the biggest natural forest in Iceland, Húsafellsskógur. Húsafell, often called the pearl between the lava and the glaciers, is a unique natural gem in a magnificent landscape. The place has great historical importance. There are tales all the way back from the settlement as well as stories of witchcraft and ghosts from later centuries.
After a great day with the horses, they rest at Þorvaldsstaðir. You will visit the best-known cave in Iceland Surtshellir. The spectacular 3500-meter-long lava cave was a hideout for bandits back in the day. It is a great feeling to relax and enjoy the geothermal pool of Húsafell. Accommodation at Hótel Á.
- Riding distance: approximately 20 kilometers
Day 4: Borgarfjörður Area - Eríksjökull Glacier - Hallmundarhraun Lava - Álftakrókur Mountain Cabin
You are leaving the grasslands of the farms in Borgarfjörður and heading for Iceland´s Western Highlands. The ride continues beside one of the biggest lava fields in Iceland Hallmundarhraun. This is a mystical area filled with legends of outlaws and tales from the past. You have the feeling you see elves and trolls in the formations of the lava.
The horses tölt happily as you ride on the banks of the glacial river Norðlingafljót, which you will also cross during the ride. Eríksjökull Glacier, which also is a Vulcano, is majestic on the east side of the trail. Further on, you ride to Álftakrókur Mountain Cabin where wanted men were supposed to hide out from law enforcement long ago.
- Riding distance: approximately 30 kilometers
Day 5: Álftakrókur - Arnarvatnsheiði Heath and Lake Arnarvatn - Haugakvíslarskáli Mountain Cabin
Further into the mountains, you set course for the spacious Fellaskáli Cabin owned by the farmers of Víðidalur Valley. There, you have the main break of the day. The strong riding horses bring you safely through the ancient highland paths. Enjoy the magnificent view of the impressive highland mountains and the glaciers Langjökull and Eiríksjökull. You can see how the vegetation is changing into lush green colors, created by rich soil and water from many lakes as you ride to the heart of Arnarvatnsheiði. You pass Lake Réttarvatn on your way beside the beautiful Lake Arnarvatn.
Truly a fascinating mystical place of silence and tranquillity you will never forget. Fertile highland vegetation and rich birdlife are the highlights of this area. As you say goodbye to the south, you ride further to the impressive part of the high plateau that belongs to the North Area Húnvavatnssýsla District. Here, the only inhabitants are foxes, birds, and maybe some trolls. You are riding through the summer pastures of horses and sheep as you ascend towards your mountain cabin for the night, Haugakvíslarkáli in Víðidalstunduheiði Heath.
- Riding distance: approximately 35 kilometers
Day 6: Haugakvíslarskáli - Haukagil Farm - Vatnsdalur Valley - Hvammur Farm
Today, you are riding down from the highland plateau Víðidalstunguheiði heath to the beautiful valley Vatnsdalur. The horses already sense that they are getting closer to the juice grassland of home and tölt happily direction north. It is great to drive the horses through the very free fields of the highlands before entering civilization again. See the mighty Álkugil Gorge with picturesque waterfalls tumbling down over rock formations.
The wideness and freedom feeling are inspiring for horses and people. It is great to see the free-running herd tölt on the soft paths of the peaceful area. You see the remains of the old Kings Trail and the tracks from traveling horses through the centuries. Spend the night at Haukur's Farm Hvammur. Here you enjoy your last evening of the tour together with an outdoor jacuzzi, a good meal, storytelling, and singing.
- Riding distance: approximately 35 kilometers
Day 7: Haukagil - Vatnsdalur - Hvammur Farm - Reykjavík
Vatnsdalur is said to be one of the most fertile and beautiful valleys in Iceland, shaped by water, glaciers, and volcanic activity. On the ride, you pass the historical farm Hof and cross the Vatnsdalsá River. Vatnsdalur is the setting of one of the ancient sagas, the Vatnsdælasaga. On the way, you hear tales from Iceland´s heroic past of bloody conflict, revenge, and love.
Experience the spirit of the horses as you are heading toward home on the great riding paths at the banks of the Vatnsdalsá River. You thank your very special friends the horses and say goodbye to Haukur and his crew until next time. The bus will bring you to Reykjavík, either to BSÍ (Main Bus Station) or to your accommodation. The approximate time of arrival in Reykjavík at 6:00 p.m.
- Riding distance: approximately 20 kilometers
Tack type
The tack used for Icelandic horses is slightly different than the tack ordinarily used for other breeds. The saddle is built close to a dressage saddle and has a relatively flat seat. Saddles come with plain or quilted seats. On longer rides, a crupper helps to keep the saddle in place. The riding style used on Icelandic horses is close to the English riding style, but stirrups are worn long. The bits used are mostly simple snaffles. Bridles have a detachable noseband and clip-on reins.
Location
Hammer Farm
Hammer Farm is situated in northwest Iceland in the beautiful Vatnsdalur Valley. The famous salmon fishing river Vatnsdalsá runs through the valley which also is a setting in the old Sagas. The farmhouse was renovated a few years ago and has a hot tub in the garden with a view over the river.
Vatnsdalur
This beautiful valley is named after the lake close by and is shaped by water, glaciers, and volcanic activity. The area is also the setting of the Vatnsdæla-Saga. The uncountable hills, Vatnsdalshólar, are a well-known feature in the Icelandic landscape.
Vatnsdalsá river
It boasts both large salmon and trout. It enters the valley of Vatnsdalur and turns into numerous beautiful waterfalls and a canyon.
Víðidalstunguheiði
A heath in the highland plateau that consists of many lakes and rivers. It is relatively well-grown but also partly made of moorland and hills.
Álkugil
A gorge with picturesque waterfalls tumbling down over rock formations. It is situated in Vatnsdalur and surrounded by the river Álka.
Haugakvíslarskáli
Mountain cabin.
Fellaskáli
A cabin located in Viðidalstunguheiði heath. It has a unique location in the highlands and a magical view. There are two rooms and 30 beds there.
Arnarvatnsheiði
The heath is located in West Iceland. It is a plateau belonging to the highland. It is known for its numerous lakes and cave Surtshellir.
Álftakrókur Mountain Cabin
Where wanted men were supposed to hide out from law enforcement long ago.
Hallmundarhraun
One of the biggest lava fields in Iceland. This is a mystical area filled with legends of outlaws and tales from the past.
Norðlingafljót
Glacial river.
Eríksjökull
A glacier and a Vulcano.
Surtshellir
The best-known cave in Iceland. The 3500 m long lava cave was a hideout for bandits back in the day.
Húsafell
Often called the pearl between the lava and the glaciers is a unique natural gem in a magnificent landscape. The place has a big historical importance. There are tales all the way back from the settlement as well as stories of witchcraft and ghosts from later centuries.
Húsafellsskógur
The biggest natural forest of Iceland.
Hraunfossar
The water seems to appear from the lava but is actually a cold spring that surges through the ground and runs in rapids down into the river Hvítá.
Ok
Mystical ancient trail. This fascinating highland trail is named after the 1190m high impressive glacier Ok on the east side of the trails.
Bláskógarheiði Heath
It is an area around part of Þingvellir named after the blue color that the birch in this area sometimes takes. The area is often mentioned in the Icelandic sagas.
National Park Þingvellir
Þingvellir is often called the national shrine of Iceland. Here was the oldest existing parliament in the world assembled. The spectacular Geology of Þingvellir is very visual in the Canyon Almannagjá which is formed between two tectonic continental plates drifting from each other.
Hallbjarnarvörður
The Sturlunga Saga describes battles of families in Iceland in the 13th century and mentions this location as a meeting place for armies and their chieftains.
Kaldidalur road
Iceland’s shortest highland road at around 40 kilometers. It is not an F road and one can cross rivers by bridges. However, the two-wheel drive might not be suited.
Skógarhólar
Located in Þingvellir National Park and is run by the Icelandic Horse Clubs Association.
Food
During the ride, full board is provided and included in the price. The menu consists of a large breakfast and traditional Icelandic meals (fish or lamb). Vegetarian meals are available if requested when booking. All riders make their own packed lunch from the breakfast table. Alcoholic beverages are not included in the tour price and are hard to get in the highlands. They can be bought at a reasonable price in the Duty-Free Store at Keflavik Airport upon arrival. Please note that dinner is not included on departure day or last riding day.
The following meals are included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
The following dietary requirement(s) are served and/or catered for:
- Vegetarian
- Regular (typically includes meat and fish)
- Other dietary requirements on request
If you have special dietary requirements it's a good idea to communicate it to the organiser when making a reservation
What's included
- Horse riding tour
- 6 nights accommodation
- Full-board meals
- Bus transfer from Reykjavík to the farm
- Rainwear, water bottle, saddle bag, and riding helmet
- All transfers during the riding tour
- 3 - 4 horses per person
- Local guidance
- 11% VAT
What's not included
- Airfare
- Airport transfers
- Alcoholic beverages
- Travel insurance
How to get there
Recommended Airports
KEF
Keflavík International Airport
246 km
Transfer not provided
Cancellation Policy
- A reservation requires a deposit of 30% of the total price.
- The deposit is non-refundable, if the booking is cancelled.
- The rest of the payment should be paid 30 days before arrival.
For this organizer you can guarantee your booking through BookHorseRidingHolidays.com. All major credit cards supported.
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