Ride Through the Legendary Valley of Þórsmörk
Discover one of Iceland’s most spectacular riding destinations on a three-day horseback adventure through the breathtaking Þórsmörk Nature Reserve. Named after Thor, the Norse god of thunder, Þórsmörk is a lush mountain valley surrounded by the glaciers Eyjafjallajökull, Mýrdalsjökull, and Tindfjallajökull. Sheltered by these glaciers, the valley enjoys a unique microclimate that supports rare birch forests, vibrant moss-covered hills, waterfalls and dramatic canyons, making it a one of a kind natural treasure.
We follow winding mountain trails, cross glacial rivers, and pass beneath towering cliffs with unforgettable views at every turn. Explore the birch forests of Almenningar, discover hidden valleys and waterfalls, and the quiet beauty that makes Þórsmörk a paradise for nature lovers.
After each day in the saddle, relax in the cozy mountain huts of Húsadalur, where a sauna and traditional Icelandic hot tub provide the perfect way to unwind before another day of riding adventure.
10 September – Arrival
Pick-up at BSI at 17:00 and transfer to the meeting point. Enjoy dinner and overnight accommodation.
11 September – Entering the Valley of Thor
Ride with the herd into Þórsmörk, crossing rivers and passing Nauthúsagil Canyon, with spectacular glacier and mountain views. Relax in the Húsadalur mountain huts, sauna or hot tub.
Distance: Approximately 35 km
12 September – Ride to Almenningar
Enjoy a relaxed ride through one of Iceland’s oldest birch forests, peaceful valleys and open landscapes. There is also time for hiking and exploring Þórsmörk.
Distance: Approximately 25 km
13 September – Return to Gamla Brú
Ride with the herd back through Þórsmörk, crossing streams and enjoying the final views of glaciers, rivers and mountains. Arrive at Gamla Brú in the afternoon and say farewell.
Distance: Approximately 35 km
We reccomend that you bring warm gloves and a thin hat that can fit under the riding helmet. Included in the price is that you can borrow a helmet, warm overall or rain coat and rain pants as well as rubber boots.
Maximum weight for a rider is 110kg/242lb.
Riding clothes. Riding gear (riding trousers, jackets, etc.) needs to be washed (40°C) or dry cleaned. Items which can not be washed or dry cleaned (riding boots, riding hats) need to be cleaned and disinfected at least five days prior to arriving in Iceland. The Icelandic Veterinary Authority recommends the broad-spectrum disinfectant Virkon S for disinfection. Used riding gloves, whips, saddles, bridles, chaps and other used leather gear may not be brought into the country.
Kindly note that these precautions are necessary because there are no contagious animal diseases in Iceland. Horses are not vaccinated and are therefore susceptible to infectious agents from abroad. Please help us to protect Iceland’s fragile nature! For further information please take a look at: Import of riding equipment | Matvælastofnun
You can book online on our website or by contacting Ishestar by email daytours@ishestar.is or by phone +354 555 7000
We recommend booking a couple of days in advance just to make sure that we have free spaces on the day you wish to arrive.
Included in all Day Tours:
10th of September:
Pick up at BSI at 17:00 and drive close to the meeting point where the horses are (app. 1,5 hours). You have dinner and accommodation there.
11th of September: Entering the Valley of Thor
We meet at Gamla Brú around lunchtime. We ride into the stunning valley of Þórsmörk, with Mýrdalsjökull glacier on one side and the mighty Markarfljót river on the other. Along the way, we ride with the herd, cross several small rivers, and pass the beautiful canyon of Nauthúsagil. You’ll often spot sheep grazing peacefully along the route.
We stop at prepared paddocks for the horses before reaching our accommodation for the night – the cozy mountain huts in Húsadalur. Here you can relax and unwind in the sauna or enjoy a soak in the heitur pottur (hot tub).
Distance: Approximately 35 km.
12th of September: Ride to Almenningar
The next day, we leave the herd at home and head out for a more relaxed ride into the beautiful Almenningar area. The trail takes us through one of Iceland’s oldest birch forests – a true hidden gem filled with greenery, birdsong, and peaceful silence. We ride through gentle valleys and open clearings where time seems to slow down.
It’s a day to breathe, enjoy the calm, and take plenty of photos – perfect for those who want to truly feel the tranquility of the Icelandic wilderness.
There is also time to explore the area on foot – take a hike, stretch your legs, and enjoy the incredible views surrounding Þórsmörk.
We return to the same cozy cabins in Húsadalur for another peaceful night in nature.
Distance: Approximately 25 km.
13 September: From Húsadalur to Gamla Brú
On our final day, we saddle up and ride from Húsadalur back towards Gamla Brú. The journey takes us once again through the breathtaking landscapes of Þórsmörk, with glaciers, rivers, and mountain views accompanying us along the way.
Riding with the herd, we cross several streams and follow the open trails that lead us out of the valley. It’s the perfect chance to take in the last views of this magical area and reflect on the adventure we’ve shared.
We arrive back at Gamle Bru in the afternoon, where we say goodbye to our horses and to each other – with hearts full of memories and maybe a bit of Icelandic dust on our boots.
Distance: Approximately 35 km.
AVAILABILITY
Dauer
DEPARTS FROM
AVAILABILITY
Dauer
DEPARTS FROM
AVAILABILITY
Dauer
DEPARTS FROM
