Hekluhestar Riding Tours

Horses are the focal point of activity at Hekluhestar, brought up and trained with the requirements of our guests in mind. Perfectly adapted to their ground, from the grassy meadows and river randges to the rugged desertic highlands and volcanic fields.

Hekluhestar – Riding tours since 1981

Austvaðsholtfarm, the heart of Hekluhestar, is located 12 km from Hella, in a vast open area 100 km. east of Reykjavik in the vicinity of the volcano Mt. Hekla, bordered by the river Rangá and has the character of a family farm.
Horses are the focal point of activity at Hekluhestar, brought up and trained with the requirements of our guests in mind. Perfectly adapted to their ground, from the grassy meadows and river randges to the rugged desertic highlands and volcanic fields. The Icelandic horse has a fourth and fifth gait, tölt and pace, which enable one to cover long distances comfortably and swiftly.

For over thirty years the Hekluhestar family has guided many groups of people coming from all over the world through the rugged area of Hekla. Anita is continuing the family tradition that her parents, Jón and Nicole started, and is leading the riding tours, which she has been involved every year since she was a little child.

The Highland tours – 6 and 8 day rides
In July and August we offer riding tours through lavafields and volcanic ash desert and other impressive scenery close to the famous volcano Hekla.The tours continues to Landmannalaugar a geothermal area with a colourful and breathtaking landscape of mountains, hot springs and lavafields. Daily treks of 4-7 hours. Accomodation is provided at the farm and in well kept mountain huts.

Summer night ride – Ride into the bright Icelandic summer night in June.
Experience a unique admosphere and the energy of the nature by riding into the bright night on an Icelandic horse. Ride in the meadows where the birds with their chicks are running around and the dew decorates the vegetation. Going along
the beautiful and quiet river Ranga with a great view of the volcano Hekla, glaciers and mountains. We start the ride around 23 o‘clock and ride for about three to four hours. When we arrive back to the farm, hot chocolate and traditional „bakkelsi“ will be served.

Hiking with packhorses
Take a hike in the unspoiled nature and beautiful scenery with a horse carrying your
luggage by your side.

Day tours
Come and visit our farm and go for a one hour ride up to a day tour along the river Rangá. Beautiful view of the mountains.

The Guesthouse
Built 1990 in old traditional Icelandic style. Turf on the roof makes the house fit perfectly into the natural surrounding. Sleeping-bag accommodation in a private house with selfcatering, for individuals and small groups up to 18 persons. Whatever your interest: overnight stay, a riding vacation, a sightseeing excursion or longer stay at the farm. You are always welcome.

Available all times of the year.

Icelandic, French and English spoken

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