According to the latest statistics from Statistics Iceland, there are 51,865 horses in Iceland. The Icelandic horse is a unique breed that arrived with the settlers almost 1200 years ago and is closely related to the Norwegian Lyngenhorse but has ancestral roots in Mongolia. The Icelandic horse is known for its robustness, good health, tenacity, and ability to withstand harsh weather conditions. It is also known for its five different gaits. When travelling around Iceland, one is likely to encounter these horses as they roam freely throughout the countryside during both summer and winter. Here are some moments captured of the Icelandic horse in the winter nature of Iceland.
Photographs & text: Páll Stefánsson
Iceland 18/12/2023 – A7R IV : FE 1.2/50mm GM, FE 1.8/135 GM