Below the Mountains

Experience a full-day horse riding tour in South Iceland through some of the country’s most diverse and dramatic landscapes. The Below the Mountains tour combines wide open riding trails, volcanic riverbanks and historic mountain paths — all with hotel pick-up from Reykjavik and lunch included.

Horse riding in southern Iceland – from meadows to volcanic rivers

This immersive day tour begins on excellent riding trails near the Eldhestar farm, where wide open meadows provide the perfect setting to try the famous Icelandic horse gait known as tölt. Riding at a comfortable pace, the landscape gradually opens between volcanic mountains and the Atlantic coastline.

Following the Gljúfurá river toward the powerful glacial river Ölfusá, you’ll enjoy panoramic views across the river delta with iconic volcanoes such as Hekla and Eyjafjallajökull visible on clear days. The route continues over grassy paths and soft black lava sand, crossing shallow water to the green island of Lambey.

This area is rich in birdlife thanks to nearby wetlands and a protected nature reserve, making the ride especially rewarding for nature lovers and photographers.

A full-day Icelandic horse tour with lunch included

Midway through the ride, we stop for a relaxed lunch break out in nature before continuing through scenic farmland toward Mount Ingólfsfjall. Named after Iceland’s first settler, Ingólfur Arnarson, this striking table mountain adds both history and character to the journey.

An old Viking riding path leads us along Reykjafjall, where sheep and horses graze freely during the summer months. On the return ride to the Eldhestar farm at Vellir, you’ll enjoy sweeping views across the surrounding countryside and the village of Hveragerði.

After the ride, you are welcomed back with coffee, tea or hot chocolate and home-baked cake — a warm and authentic ending to a memorable day on horseback.

Winter and summer riding – adapted to the season

The Below the Mountains tour operates year-round. During the winter season (15 September to 15 May), the route is slightly adjusted to suit weather and trail conditions. Riders still enjoy the riverbanks and open landscapes, followed by a warm light lunch at the hotel before continuing toward the mountains.

Who is this tour for?

This tour is suitable for riders of all experience levels, from beginners to experienced riders. The group rides together at a comfortable pace, focusing mainly on the smooth and stable tölt gait rather than fast riding. Participants should be in good physical condition and able to mount a horse with minimal assistance.

With hotel pick-up from Reykjavik and nearby areas included, this is an ideal choice for travelers looking for a full-day horse riding tour from Reykjavik without needing to rent a car.