Magical 5-Hour Horseback Riding Tour with Elves & Folklore Starting from Reykjavik

Embark on a magical horseback tour through Iceland's stunning countryside, where breathtaking landscapes and ancient folklore meet. This experience is perfect for travelers wanting to ride an Icelandic horse while learning about the rich folklore of the island, with stories about elves and mysteries.

Your adventure begins in the morning when you are picked up in Reykjavik and driven to the stables in southwestern Iceland. Here, you'll be introduced to the friendly and gentle Icelandic horse, a breed renowned for its unique characteristics and strong connection to the country's history.

Your expert guide will carefully select a horse that matches your skill level and riding experience, making sure you have a comfortable and enjoyable tour.

Once you've been paired with your horse and received a brief introduction to the basics of horseback riding, you'll set out into the beautiful Icelandic countryside.

As you ride, your guide will share fascinating stories about Icelandic folklore, with a special focus on the mythical beings known as elves and the "hidden people." These creatures are deeply embedded in Icelandic culture and are said to inhabit specific locations throughout the landscape.

Icelanders believe that elves can decide where roads can go and houses can be built. The tour lets you visit some places said to be populated by these special creatures. However, since they are "hidden," don't expect to meet any of them. Interestingly, the horse you'll be riding will dictate your direction. You will ride on one of two paths, depending on where the horses last felt the elves' presence.

One of the paths leads to a lush valley where you'll visit Alfakvi, a small cleft in the rock that is believed to be home to elves. According to local legend, a mysterious force prevents an old sheep house from being moved from this location, adding to the area's mystical atmosphere.

From there, you'll ride to Skjolklettur, a cluster of rocks that is said to be an elven church. Some elves are said to be musical creatures, and it is in Skjolklettur where many visitors have reported hearing strange singing. Be sure to listen closely for the music of the elves as you pass by Skjolklettur.   As your journey continues, you'll have the opportunity to experience the unique pace of the Icelandic horse, known as the tolt. This smooth, four-beat walk allows the horse to move quickly and comfortably over rough terrain, giving you the sensation of gliding effortlessly through the air. It's an experience unlike any other and a true highlight of the tour.

Your final mystical location is Einbui, an elven hill filled with folklore. The hill is said to be home to friendly and singing elves. On your way to Einbui, you'll take on riding trails where you can further experience your horse's smooth gait. 

You may also ride through the lava fields and hummock meadows that serve as homes for the elves. You'll also cross the small Varma river, where an Icelandic water spirit named Nykur stays.

After exploring this enchanting site, you'll head back to the stables, having spent about two hours on horseback. Before returning to Reykjavík, you'll enjoy a light lunch at the farm, where you can reflect back on the magical experiences of the day.

Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to ride through the captivating countryside and connect with the ancient Icelandic folklore that continues to shape the country's identity. Check availability by choosing a date.