Íshestar Riding Tours - brochure 2015 - English by Ishestar Riding Tours

2015 Riding in Iceland

Ă?shestar â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a leading, fully licensed tour operator since 1982

www.ishestar.is

ÍSHESTAR WELCOMES YOU WHAT IS INCLUDED? TO ICELAND “This was the best holiday I have ever been on“; these words are often heard when we welcome our groups from our riding tours. We at Íshestar strive to offer the best service possible and personal selling, together with our partners all over the country and our existing horses, we are able to succeed. Along with our excisting tours we have some exciting new ones. One of them is a winter tour so our guests can see the amazing nature at its best at winter time and the Icelandic horse in its winter fur. We at Íshestar would like to thank all of our guests for joining our tours through the years and especially all of our returning visitors that count to thousands.

THE TRADEMARK OF ÍSHESTAR Ever since Íshestar was founded we have co-operated with farmers all over Iceland; the real connoisseurs of the local terrain and history. By doing this we make sure that each trip has its own charm and and is orginized by the local expert, the farmer and his family. They use their own horses and ride through the part of the country they know so well. Security, quality and a personal service has always been Ishestar´s trademark and with our large selection of fine horses we are able to offer a broad range of riding tours for experienced riders and beginners alike. Herding along free running horses is the traditional way of riding in Iceland, since horses are changed at least once a day. We are proud to follow this tradition on most of our multi-day tours riding through the highlands, across lava fields, rivers and through bushy vegetation. Looking forward to seeing you in Iceland!

BOOKING & INFORMATION You can book a tour on our website, or by contacting either the sales office of Íshestar or our sales agents throughout the world. You can obtain further information by contacting us by e-mail or telephone. Íshestar ehf., Sörlaskeið 26, 220 Hafnarfjörður, Iceland www.ishestar.is Tel: +354 555 7000 • Fax: +354 555 7001 MULTI-DAY TOURS • E-mail: ishestar@ishestar.is, DAY TOURS • E-mail: info@ishestar.is ÍH TRAVEL • E-mail: info@ihtravel.is

DAY BY DAY ITINERARIES AND MORE INFORMATION Available on www.ishestar.is or upon request from our office and our sales agents.

Videos and Photos

Your friends at Íshestar

Thury, Maja, Hansína, Samúel, Steinunn, Jenný, Mira, Einar Thór, Erika, Jessi, Verena, Anna Maria, Sana

Why riding in Iceland? • The Icelandic Horse

The breed is best known for its four-beat smooth gait, the “tölt”, which is very comfortable for the rider, especially on a longer tour. Riding an Icelandic horse in its native habitat land is an authentic riding experience.

• Herd

Herding along free running horses is the traditional way of travelling in Iceland, since horses are changed at least once a day on longer tours. You get to ride a variety of horses.

• Icelandic Nature

Iceland is the least densely populated country in Europe, with a pure, unpolluted and truly magical landscape.

• Nature bathing

In Iceland (and on our riding tours) you can find hot spring oasis featuring hot pools and geothermal hot springs that are perfect for relaxing after a long riding day.

Why Íshestar? • Our partners

The real connoisseurs of the local terrain and history. By cooperating with local farmers we make sure that each tour has its own charm and is organized by the local expert, the farmer and his family. They use their own horses and ride through the part of the country they know so well.

• Diversity

Íshestar offers riding tours in most parts of the country, South, West, North and East Iceland and across the highlands. Everything from a 3 days countryside tour to a 10 days highland tour, as well as day riding tours in the Capital area.

• Experience

Íshestar was founded in 1982 and has over 30 years of experience in leading riding groups through Iceland.

• International groups

Our guests come from many countries, so be prepared to meet new horse lovers from all over the world.

• Innovation

We are constantly working on new ideas and itineraries to offer to our riders and come up with new tours every year.

WHAT IS INCLUDED? It is important for clients to be aware of what is included in the tour price, and what is not. Accommodation in the Capital area of Reykjavík (included in many of our tours) is shared in double and triple rooms and includes breakfast only. Single room accommodation is available for these nights at an extra charge. During the ride full board is provided. Our menu consists of a large breakfast and traditional Icelandic meals (fish or lamb). Vegetarian meals are available if requested in advance. All riders make their own lunch pack from the breakfast table. Alcoholic beverages are not included in the tour price and are hard to get in the highlands. They can be bought for a reasonable price in the Duty Free Store at Keflavik Airport upon arrival. Individual travel insurance is not included in the tour prices. We encourage clients to obtain relevant travel insurance before visiting Iceland. Clients from Europe, please bring your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Maximum weight for a rider is 110kg/242lb

six weeks but more than three weeks notice is subject to 30% of the tour price. A cancellation made with less than three weeks and more than one week notice is subject to a 50% cancellation fee. A cancellation made with less than one weeks notice means that the full price will be collected.

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Íshestar reserves the right to change a day’s itinerary, if road or weather conditions prove unfavourable.

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A cancellation of a tour due to insufficient participation must be made with at least 4 weeks notice. Íshestar shall make every effort to provide similar alternative arrangements without additional cost to the buyer. Should the alternative not be to the buyer’s satisfaction a full refund will be made. Still we are proud to confirm that this has rarely happened since we started our operation in 1982.

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Included in all our multi-day tours:

• All transfers and domestic flights according to our tour • • • • •

programme as well as accommodation and full board during the riding tour. Please note transfers to/from Keflavik International airport are individually based with Reykjavik Excursions/Fly-Bus Our tour guides are English speaking, some speak also Scaninavian, German, French or other languages. Included in tours no. 3 – 10, 12, 15, 19, 25 and 26 is one night in a hotel including breakfast in the Capital area before and after the riding tour. Tours 21 and 22 include one night in a hotel in the Capital area. Tours no. 11, 13, 14, 16, 18, 20, 23 and 24 start and end in Reykjavík and do not include accommodation in Reykjavík. Rain wear, water bottle, saddle bag, riding helmet and sleeping bag with a sheet (where necessary).

Included in all day tours:

• Transfers, riding helmets, rubber boots, rainwear or a warm outfit during the ride. • Meals are included on some of the tours, but optional on others, see tour programme for details. • Our tour guides are English and Scandinavian speaking, some speak German. • See tour programmes for details on what is included in combination tours.

Terms & conditions We request a 30% confirmation payment upon booking to be able to confirm a seat. When we have received the confir mation payment the seat is secure. The remaining balance is due weeks before the tour starts. If making your booking through the Íshestar website, full payment is required. Our cancellation terms are as follows: A cancellation made (by letter, fax or e-mail) with more than six weeks notice is subject to 10% of the tour price. A cancellation made (by letter, fax or e-mail) with less than

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SUSTAINABILITY POLICY Íshestar is proud to be a certified gold member of the EarthCheck Programme, the largest environmental management system used by the travel and tourism industry. Our goal is to support the sustainable development of nature, society, culture and the economy using EarthCheck standards as our guidelines.

We put special importance on:

• Choosing riding trails in full agreement with local stakeholders. • Taking care that horse and man disturb nature as little as possible. • Using renewable resources in our activities as far as possible. • Minimizing the production of waste and emphasizing on recycling and reuse.

Further steps to improve our environmental performance can be found on our website www.ishestar.is

CONTENTS USEFUL INFORMATION

Page

Why Íshestar?..............................................................................................................3 Terms & Conditions....................................................................................................4 Sustainability Policy...................................................................................................4 What is included ........................................................................................................4 Disinfecting of riding gear.......................................................................................5 Find the right tour......................................................................................................6 Plan your vacation......................................................................................................7 The Icelandic horse................................................................................................8-9 Meet our partners.................................................................................................... 28 Meet our guides........................................................................................................ 29 Íshestar route map.................................................................................................. 34 About Iceland.............................................................................................................35

MULTI DAY RIDING TOUR PACKAGES

Include airport transfers, Welcome Meeting, accommodation in the Capital area for one night before/after the ride. Sleeping bag accommodation during the ride: IH-3 Northern Exposure: Wonders of Lake Mývatn and Dettifoss........... 10 IH-7 Kjölur: Between the Glaciers........................................................................ 14 IH-8 Egilsstaðir: Secrets of the East....................................................................15 IH-9 Grand Tour..........................................................................................................17 IH-10A Íshestar Special: North-West Safari...................................................... 16 IH-10D Íshestar Special: 2 Glacier´s Panorama.............................................. 16 IH-12 Power of Creation: Fjallabak Trail and Lakagígar Craters.................18 IH-15 Towards the Arctic Circle..............................................................................21 IH-19 Hekla-Landmannalaugar: Mountain Spirit.............................................23 Farm, guesthouse or hotel accommodation for all/most nights of the ride: IH-4 Thingvellir Viking Trail; National Treasures...............................................11 IH-5 Snæfellsnes: Magical and Mysterious........................................................12 IH-6 Golden Circle: Southern Comfort...............................................................13 IH-20 Tölt and Trails at Miðás Farm.....................................................................21 IH-21 Riding and Northern Lights....................................................................... 24 IH-22 Winter Wonders............................................................................................25 IH-25 Horse Round up - Skrapatungurétt........................................................27 IH-26 Horse Round up - Víðidalstungurétt......................................................27

MULTI DAY RIDING TOURS from/to Reykjavík

Include Transfer from RVK to the farm and back, accommodation in Reykjavík is not included. Farm- or guesthouse accommodation for all nights of the ride: IH-11 Countryside Riding Adventure....................................................................17 IH-13 Geysir-Gullfoss Special................................................................................. 19 IH-14 Thórsmörk Nature Reserve: Underneath Glacier Eyjafjallajökull.. 20 IH-16 Beach and Mountain Ride........................................................................... 19 IH-18 Trail of Hope: North-West Explorer.........................................................22 Sleeping bag accommodation during the ride: IH-23 Sheep Round up – Rangárvallaafréttur................................................ 26 IH-24 Sheep Round up - Landmannaafréttur................................................ 26

DAY TOURS

D01 Nature Comfort: Ideal tour for beginners............................................... 30 D02 Lava Tour: Our most popular tour............................................................ 30 D03 Viking Tour Express: For experienced riders..........................................31 D04 Meet the Icelandic Horse...............................................................................31 D05 Viking Tour: For experienced riders...........................................................31 D41 Horses and Blue Lagoon: Wellness............................................................32 D42 Horses and Gullfoss – Geysir: Saddles and sights................................32 D43 Horses and Whales: Animal life..................................................................32 D45 Family Adventure: We care about children.............................................31 D46 The Blue Lava Tour: Riding and snorkeling............................................33 D47 The Black Lava Tour: Riding and caving..................................................33 D48 Nature and Vikings: Riding and dining....................................................32 D50 Midnight Sun Riding: Bright Nights...........................................................31 D54 Riding and Biking: Saddle up......................................................................33

! DISINFECTING OF THE RIDING GEAR It is important to follow the regulation regarding the disinfecting of used riding clothes. Riding gear (riding trousers, jackets, gloves, boots, 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 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. Saddles, bridles, gloves, chaps and other used leather gear may not be brought into the country. Please understand 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: www.mast.is

FIND THE RIGHT TOUR You do not have to be an expert rider to participate in our tours, but some tours are by nature more difficult than others. All Íshestar tours are marked with small horses to indicate the difficulty of each one. Some tours are for riders with little riding experience, others are more difficult and therefore the rating should help to find a suitable tour for everyone. If in doubt call us or send an e-mail.

Beginners Little or no riding experience needed.

Intermediate riders

TESTIMONIALS from 2014 This has been 6 of the best days of my life. Before you have been on a longer tour in Iceland you have not really been riding. K.M. from Norway Northern Exposure tour

Strong intermediate riders

I had the experience of my life on this tour. I´ve travelled around the world and Iceland and Ishestar topped my whole trips. If I could give it a 100/out of 10, I would.

Comfortable and in control at all paces, firm seat, comfortable in the saddle for up to 7 hrs. per day.

S.S. Australia Snæfellsnes tour

Experienced riders

Everything about this ride will blow you away: Scenery, food, staff, horses, all amazing! If you are undecided just do it – you won´t regret it.

Comfortable and in control at the walk, moderate length trots (tölt) and short canters.

A strong intermediate rider who rides regularly and is capable of handling horses in open country.

If you know how to ride a horse using English riding style you should have no problems riding an Icelandic horse. Western style riders should not experience any difficulties adjusting to the Icelandic way of riding either. Íshestar guides will take some time at the beginning of each tour to explain the correct way to saddle the horse, mount it and how to ride the different gaits. They will carefully explain how and when to ride “tölt”, the special gait of the Icelandic horse.

G.N. from Canada Beach and Mountain Ride Possibly the best holiday I have ever been on! I can´t wait to come back again on another Ishestar tour. Thank you all. G.G from United Kingdom Golden Circle tour Amazing experience. It lived up to all my expectations – beautiful nature, great horses, friendly and helpful staff. M.T. from Denmark Kjölur tour Had a lot of fun on the tour – exciting riding, lovely scenery and friendly staff! C.R. from Scotland Trail of Hope tour Excellent horses, amazing nature! Galloping on the black lava desert on a white horse was unforgettable experience! M.T. from Finland Power of Creation tour.

PLAN YOUR VACATION Tours starting in February: FEB 12. 19.

22 Winter Wonders 22 Winter Wonders

Tours starting in March MAR 12. 19.

22 Winter Wonders 22 Winter Wonders

Tours starting in April APR

2. 9.

22 Winder Wonders 22 Winter Wonders

Tours starting in May: MAY 22. 29.

14 Thórsmörk 14 Thórsmörk

Tours starting in June: JUN 4. 5. 6. 7. 12. 13. 14. 20. 21. 26. 27. 28. 29.

16 Beach and Mountain Ride 14 Thórsmörk 6 Golden Circle 13 Geysir Gullfoss Special 14 Thórsmörk 5 Snæfellsnes, 6 Golden Circle 13 Geysir, Gullfoss Special, 16 Beach and Mountain Ride 5 Snæfellsnes, 6 Golden Circle, 7 Kjölur, 13 Geysir Gullfoss 16 Beach and Mountain Ride, 11 Countryside Riding Adventure 6 Golden Circle, 7 Kjölur 3 Northern Exposure, 13 Geysir Gullfoss Special, 18 Trail of Hope 19 Landmannalaugar

Tours starting in July: JUL 4. 5. 6. 10. 11. 12. 13. 17. 18. 19. 20. 23. 24. 25. 26. 27.

5 Snæfellsnes, 6 Golden Circle, 7 Kjölur 13 Geysir Gullfoss Special, 15 Towards the Arctic Circle 19 Landmannalaugar 11 Countryside Riding Adventure 5 Snæfellsnes, 6 Golden Circle , 7 Kjölur 3 Northern Exposure, 4 Thingvellir, 8 Egilsstaðir, 13 Geysir Gullfoss Special, 16 Beach and Mountain Ride, 18 Trail of Hope 12 Power of Creation 10D Ishestar Special 6 Golden Circle, 7 Kjölur 3 Northern Exposure, 4 Thingvellir, 8 Egilsstaðir, 13 Geysir Gullfoss Special, 18 Trail of Hope 12 Power of Creation 16 Beach and Mountain Ride 11 Countryside Riding Adventure 6 Golden Circle, 7 Kjölur, 3 Northern Exposure, 13 Geysir Gullfoss Special, 18 Trail of Hope 19 Landmannalaugar

9. 10. 15. 16. 17. 21. 22. 23. 24.

3 Northern Exposure, 8 Egilsstaðir, 10A Ishestar Special, 13 Geysir Gullfoss Special, 12 Power of Creation 6 Golden Circle, 7 Kjölur 3. Nothern Exposure ,4 Thingvellir 13 Geysir Gullfoss Special 12 Power of Creation 11 Countryside Riding Adventure, 5 Snæfellsnes, 6 Golden Circle, 7 Kjölur, 13 Geysir Gullfoss Special, 15 Towards the Arctic Circle, 16 Beach and Mountain, 18 Trail of Hope 19 Landmannalaugar

Tours starting in September: SEP 4. 9. 11. 13. 18. 29.

14 Thórsmörk 25 Horse Round Up - Skrapatungurétt 14 Thórsmörk 23 Sheep Round Up - Rangárafréttur 24 Sheep Round Up - Landmannaafréttur 26 Horse Round Up - Víðidalstungurétt

Tours starting in October: OCT 1. 8 . 15. 15. 22. 29.

21 Riding and Northern Lights 21 Riding and Northern Lights 22 Winter Wonders 21 Riding and Northern Lights 21 Riding and Northern Lights 22 Winter Wonders

Tours starting in November: NOV 12. 22 Winter Wonders 26. 22 Winter Wonders

All year (your choice):

20. Tölt and Trails at Miðás Farm

Tours starting in August: AUG 1. 2. 3. 8.

5 Snæfellsnes, 6 Golden Circle, 7 Kjölur 4 Thingvellir, 13 Geysir Gullfoss Special, 15 Towards the Arctic Circle, 18 Trail of Hope 19 Landmannalaugar 5 Snæfellsnes, 6 Golden Circle, 7 Kjölur

THE ICELANDIC HORSE

HISTORY The history of the Icelandic Horse can be traced right back to the settlement of the country in the late 9th century. Viking settlers brought with them their best horses, from various origins, though mostly of Germanic descent. The breed has remained pure for over a thousand years and thus today there is only one breed of horse in Iceland â&#x20AC;&#x201C; The Icelandic Horse. Today, there are close to 80,000 horses in Iceland which is an incredible number for a nation that counts 330.000 people.

The Icelandic Horse is intelligent, good-tempered and versatile. It is the most colourful breed in the world, with over 40 different colours and over 100 variations. Travel on horseback is growing in popularity and Icelandic horsemen are respectful and considerate when it comes to nature, just as they are with their horse. All sorts of competitions are held, emphasizing the different gaits of the horses, from novice fun classes to top class championships.

The Icelandic Horse is unique amongst horse breeds because it masters five gaits; walk, trot, tölt, canter/gallop and flying pace. The breed is best known for its four-beat smooth gait, the “tölt”, which is very comfortable for the rider and elegantly displayed by the horse.

WALK

THE FIVE GAITS

The walk TROT

The walk is a four-beat gait. The horse should be relaxed when walking, moving ahead briskly and putting each foot down independently.

The trot The trot is a two-beat gait where front and hind legs on opposite sides move together. It is important to train it as well as the other gaits.

The canter/gallop is a three-beat gait, ridden at different tempi. A slow canter is comfortable while a fast gallop can liven up the horse and increases its willingness.

CANTER/GALLOP

The canter/gallop

TÖLT

The tölt The tölt is the specialty of the Icelandic Horse. It is a smooth four-beat gait in which the horse’s hind legs move well under the body. The Icelandic Horse can manage this gait naturally and with variations in speed, from a gracious, collected slow tölt up to a very fast and extended tölt. The smoothness of this gait is what makes it so desirable.

The flying pace is a two-beat lateral gait. Not all Icelandic horses can perform the pace, but those that manage all five gaits well are considered the best of the breed.

FLYING PACE

The flying pace

Text and photos by The Horse Breeders Association of Iceland www.fhb.is

HIGHLAND TOUR

NORTHERN EXPOSURE

Strong intermediate riders

Wonders of Lake Mývatn and Europe‘s largest waterfall, Dettifoss

Duration: 8 days – 7 nights – 5 riding days – 157 km Dates 2015: Sunday – Sunday June 28 – July 5 • July 12 – 19 • July 19 – 26 • July 26 – Aug 2 • Aug 9 – 16 • Aug 16 – 23 Accommodation: Hotel accommodation in shared rooms in the Capital area. Sleeping bag accommodation in shared rooms during the ride. Group size: Max. 16 guests Meeting place: Keflavík International Airport Optional: Whale watching boat trip, fee to be paid locally. Reservation code: IH – 3

This tour was nominated by the Sunday Times as one of the 10 best trails in the world.

The North of Iceland is known for its spectacular natural sights and diverse landscape. Our tour goes from Bjarnastaðir Farm near Húsavík to the Lake Mývatn area, famous for its volcanic features and rich birdlife. Ásbyrgi Canyon, Dettifoss, Europe’s largest waterfall, and the strange rock formations at Hljóðaklettar are just some of the gems of nature we´ll be seeing on this amazing tour.

in a mountain cabin at Theistareykir. Through an area scarred with cracks and fissures from earthquakes and volcanic activity the route takes us to Lake Mývatn where bubbling mud pools and eerie lava formations are a reminder of the powerful energy right beneath our feet. We have the opportunity to bathe in the warm geothermal water of the outdoor pool at the Mývatn Nature Baths.

An optional whale watching tour concludes the selection of natural attractions on and off shore.

The next three days take us through Laxárdalur Valley to Laugar for an overnight stay and relaxation in the swimming pool on site. From there we continue across Reykjaheiði heath towards the coast and back to Bjarnastaðir Farm. The last day we spend in Jökulsárgljúfur National Park and visit both Detti foss Waterfall and Ásbyrgi Canyon.

We ride along soft riding tracks ideal for “tölting”, the unique extra gait of the Icelandic Horse. From rich green pastureland we head towards the Gæsafjöll Mountains and spend a night

Countryside tour

Thingvellir Viking Trail National Treasures, Sagas and Wonders of Nature Strong intermediate riders

Duration: 7 days - 6 nights - 5 riding days - 140 km Dates 2015: Sunday - Saturday July 12 - 18 • July 19 - 25 • August 16 - 22 Accommodation: Hotel accommodation in shared rooms in the Capital area. Guesthouse and holiday farm accommodation during the ride with shared facilities. Group size: Max. 14 guests Meeting place: Keflavík International Airport Reservation code: IH – 4

For centuries the Thingvellir area was a central meeting point for those travelling the country on horseback. Important routes to different parts of the country would link up here where the National Park is today, e.g. the trail along Uxahryggir and Kaldidalur to the Borgarfjörður area and Western-Iceland; and the trail passing by Gjábakki going to the East and the rural districts of Southern-Iceland. On Thingvellir plains the Althing or national assembly was established around 930 and continued to convene there until 1798. All major events in Iceland´s history have taken place at this hallowed site.

On this tour we enjoy excellent riding paths in the Thingvellir National Park as well as relaxing and revitalizing ourselves in the geothermal pools of the Fontana Spa. We retrace the footsteps of one of the most notorious Viking warriors, Egill Skallagrímsson, and get to hear some colourful tall tales about this hellraiser. We are introduced to Iceland´s most renowned scholar and saga writer, Snorri Sturluson, who lived at Reykholt in Borgarfjörður. This riding tour is a fabulous combination of great riding trails, wonderful tales of fearful Vikings and the best in relaxation at the Fontana Spa facility.

HIGHLAND TOUR

SNÆFELLSNES Magical and mysterious Strong intermediate riders

Duration: 9 days – 8 nights – 6 riding days – 195 km Dates 2015: Saturday – Sunday June 13 – 21 • June 20 – 28 • July 4 – 12 • July 11 – 19 • Aug 1 – 9 • Aug 8 – 16 • Aug 22 – 30 Accommodation: Hotel accommodation in shared rooms in the Capital area. Sleeping bag accommodation during the ride. Group size: Max. 18 guests Meeting place: Keflavík International Airport Note: Knee-high rubber boots are recommended for the beach ride Optional: Bus tour to sights on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, fee to be paid locally. Reservation code: IH – 5 The Snæfellsjökull National Park is where you find one of Iceland´s most beautiful and emblematic sights - the glacier-covered cone volcano Snæfellsjökull. The mystery and spiritual aura of this still active volcano were made famous through Jules Verne’s novel Journey to the Centre of the Earth. Many of the great Sagas are located in this very area. Experiencing “tölt”, the unique extra gait of the Icelandic Horse, is made easy for you on this tour when we follow good riding tracks. The long stretches of smooth sandy beaches make this tour a delight for both horses and riders.

This tour takes us through a landscape of extensive lava fields, craters and ash from ancient eruptions in Hítardalur valley. We also enjoy wide-open stretches of light-coloured sand at Löngufjörur beach, where only the tide sets a limit to the freedom of horse and man. The impressive 50-meter deep crater Eldborg is a distinctive landmark, where the light sand turns black once you reach its lava field. On our last riding day we follow the edge of the lava flow along the shore before returning to Stóri-Kálfalækur Farm. Part of this tour can be booked as a 5-day tour/4 riding days – see our tour IH-16.

COUNTRYSIDE TOUR

GOLDEN CIRCLE Southern Comfort

Intermediate riders, comfortable during long hours in the saddle.

Duration: 8 days – 7 nights – 6 riding days – 156 km Dates 2015: Saturday – Saturday June 6 – 13 • June 13 – 20 • June 20 – 27 • June 27 – July 4 • July 4 – 11 • July 11 – 18 • July 18 – 25 • July 25 – Aug 1 • Aug 1 – 8 • Aug 8 – 15 • Aug 15 – 22 • Aug 22 – 29 Accommodation: Hotel accommodation in shared rooms in the Capital area. 2 – 4 bed units with shared facilities. Group size: Max. 18 guests Meeting place: Keflavík International Airport This tour was nominated by Optional: Snowmobile drive on Langjökull glacier, CNNgo as one of fee to be paid locally. the 15 greatest horse Reservation code: IH – 6

treks in the world.

What better or more unique way to do the popular Golden Circle Tour than by riding through the lovely countryside of South Iceland. This tour is perfect for families and those not having the required riding experience for our highland tours. Keep in mind that riding days can be long so you should be in good physical shape and have the basic horsemanship skills.

and the hot spring area of Geysir. After a relaxed day´s riding in that locality we next explore some of the more remote places, well off the beaten track. We cross the highland moor of Hrunaheiði and enjoy good riding tracks when trekking past iconic basalt columns at Hrepphólar on our way back to Kálfhóll Farm.

On the first riding day you get acquainted with the unique Icelandic Horse and its special extra gait as we take an easy trek along the banks of the majestic Thjórsá River. We continue towards Gullfoss Waterfall with its thundering waters

Part of this tour can be booked as a 5-day tour/4 riding days - see our tour IH-13.

HIGHLAND TOUR

KJÖLUR Between the Glaciers Strong intermediate riders

Duration: 9 days – 8 nights – 6 riding days – 201 km Dates 2015: Saturday – Sunday June 20 – 28 • June 27 – July 5 • July 4 - 12 July 11 - 19 • July 18 – 26 • July 25 – Aug 2 • Aug 1 – 9 • Aug 8 – 16 • Aug 15 – 23 • Aug 22 – 30 Accommodation: Hotel accommodation in shared rooms in the Capital area. Shared rooms in simple mountain cabins and sleeping bag accommodation during the ride. Group size: Max. 20 guests Meeting place: Keflavík International Airport Note: Tours operate alternatively from north to south, the next tour being from south to north. Reservation code: IH – 7

Step back in time and ride along the ancient Kjölur trail as Icelanders did over the centuries when travelling to the annual summer parliament at Thingvellir, first held in 930 AD. We visit this historic site where the heart of the nation beats and which became Iceland´s first National Park in 1930. Before heading off into the wilderness of the interior we stop to enjoy the Geysir hot spring area and Gullfoss Waterfall. Travelling from south to north or vice versa right across the

heart of Iceland we find ourselves traversing sandy deserts close to the mighty Langjökull and Hofsjökull Glaciers. Sheltered green valleys come as a surprise in this rugged terrain. At Hveravellir, a geothermal area in the highlands, we can soak in a long hot bath under the Midnight Sun! If you want to see as much as possible of the unspoilt Icelandic highlands, this tour, which has been in operation since 1983, is the perfect choice.

HIGHLAND TOUR

EGILSSTAÐIR Secrets of the East

Strong intermediate riders capable of handling horses in open country

New and improved itinerary Duration: 9 days – 8 nights – 6 riding days – 215 km Dates 2015: Sunday – Monday July 12 – 20 • July 19 – 27 • Aug 9 – 17 Accommodation: Hotel accommodation in shared rooms in the Capital area. Shared rooms in simple mountain cabins and sleeping bag accommodation during the ride. Group size: Max. 16 guests Meeting place: Keflavík International Airport Optional: 4x4 Jeep Safari to Vatnajökull glacier, fee to be paid locally. Note: Some walking might be involved at steep hillsides. Reservation code: IH – 8 Discover the stunning natural beauty of East Iceland. Even among Icelanders this remote part of the interior is a wellkept secret. The sure-footed Icelandic Horse is the ideal mode of transport when exploring the untamed nature here. This ride ascends from sea level to the great highland plateau where vegetation and landscape take on a sub-Arctic character. Hrafnkelsdalur valley is the setting for the Saga of Hrafnkel, a finely written Medieval tale of a local chieftain and his fall from grace and his heroic comeback.

The massive Hafrahvammagljúfur Canyon is breathtaking to behold and witness to the power of nature. The ride takes us past Mt. Snæfell – the second highest mountain in Iceland. A vehicle then takes us to Europe´s largest glacier, Vatnajökull Glacier, where we spend some time at the rim of the huge icecap. We experience flocks of wild geese and herds of reindeer roaming free in their natural pastures before following Jökulsá River down through Norðurdalur Valley. We pass a number of fine waterfalls before once again returning to lush green lowland pastures.

HIGHLAND TOUR

10A

ÍSHESTAR SPECIAL

10D

North-West Safari Experienced riders

Íshestar Special 2 Glacier’s Panorama Experienced riders

Duration: 12 days – 11 nights – 9 riding days – 300 km Dates 2015: Sunday – Thursday, August 9 – 20 Accommodation: Hotel rooms in the Capital area. Sleeping bag accommodation in shared rooms at all other accommodation – please bring your own sleeping bag! Group size: Max. 16 guests Meeting place: Keflavík International Airport Note: This tour is only recommended for experienced riders with the necessary stamina for riding days of 40 50 km during 7 - 9 hrs. Knee-high rubber boots are recommended for this ride. Reservation code: IH – 10A

Duration: 10 days – 9 nights – 8 riding days – 280 km Date 2015: Friday - Sunday July 17 - 26 Accommodation: Hotel rooms in the Capital area. Sleeping bag accommodation in shared rooms at all other accommodation – please bring your own sleeping bag! Group size: Max. 17 guests Meeting place: Keflavík International Airport Note: This tour is only recommended for experienced riders with the necessary stamina for riding days of 40 45 km during 7 - 8 hrs. Reservation code: IH – 10D

Ride with our host Haukur and his family from Hvammur Farm through the northern highlands all the way into the heart of Iceland. You will find yourself in remote desert-like areas and view some of the mighty glaciers of Iceland. Our trail leads from the lush farmlands of the North to the geothermal area Hveravellir and back to civilisation again. Another highlight of this tour is the ride in the shallow water of the Lake Hóp lagoon. Enjoy the Icelandic horse in this great variety of terrain.

We ride into the highland with two of Iceland‘s biggest glaciers in sight, Hofsjökull and Vatnajökull. Volcano Hekla, often called the “Queen of Iceland” towers over this fascinating area and every day we will be reminded of the devastating numerous eruptions through the ages. Landmannalaugar, colourful beauty in the southern highlands with it‘s natural bathing spot is only one of the highlights of this fascinating tour. Every day offers new wonders and this area is truly one of Iceland’s most popular destinations for all lovers of nature and adventurous souls. On our way to the farm we visit Gullfoss Waterfall and the hot springs of Geysir. From Kálfhóll Farm we head off through fertile farmland and enter the beautiful trail along mighty river Thjórsá. The ride continues towards the highlands along good riding tracks, through black ash from Mt. Hekla eruptions to the mountain cabin at Hólaskógur. We ride to the beautiful area of Landmannahellir, a fitting outpost in the central highlands before we enjoy the colourful rhyolite mountains in Landmannalaugar. Our way back leads us through lava fields and mountains down to green valleys and back to civilisation again. The spirited, yet well trained horses make this tour enjoyable for everyone who is looking for a challenging highland adventure.

COUNTRYSIDE TOUR

COUNTRYSIDE RIDING ADVENTURE Intermediate riders

Duration: 3 days – 2 nights – 3 riding days – 50 km Dates 2015: Friday - Sunday June 26 - 28 • July 10 - 12 • July 24 - 26 • Aug 21 - 23 Accommodation: 2 - 3 bed units, beds with bed linen, shared facilities. Group size: Max. 16 guests Optional: Swimming in the geothermal Secret Lagoon at Flúðir Meeting place: Reykjavík. Accommodation before and after the ride to be arranged individually. Reservation code: IH – 11

If you are not ready for many days in the saddle, yet an outdoor person with a basic knowledge of riding and good stamina, this tour might be what you are looking for. We follow fine bridle paths to the magnificent sights of Iceland, Geysir Hot Spring area and Gullfoss Waterfall. During three riding days our guide leads you to these wonders of Iceland. Tölt”, the special gait of the Icelandic horse will be introduced to you. We use this comfortable gait for parts of our tour,

but also trot and walk the horses in between. On the way to Kjóastaðir Farm a visit to Thingvellir is made, a place of historic and geological importance and first National Park of Iceland. We have now added to this popular tour (optional) a visit to the new geothermal Secret Lagoon. Also for the first time we have the opportunity to learn to swim with your horse during the tour.

GRAND TOUR Combine two tours

Duration: Combine any two departures of our tours 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 15 and 19 starting on two following weekends. Accommodation: According to the tours chosen Group size: According to the tours chosen Meeting place: Keflavík International Airport Reservation code: IH – 9

Experienced riders

Why not discover more than one part of Iceland during your visit? Imagine the remote highland grasslands on the Egilsstaðir Tour in the East. Crossing the central highlands on the Kjölur Trail and viewing the natural wonders at Lake Mývatn in the North. Enjoy Snæfellsjökull Glacier in the West and the multi-coloured mountains of Landmannalaugar in the South. Most of our longer tours can be combined and you can choose the two parts of Iceland you wish to discover. Take a look at the detailed description of each tour and find the two you have been dreaming about.

HIGHLAND TOUR

POWER OF CREATION Fjallabak Trail and Mýrdalsjökull glacier

Strong intermediate riders capable of handling horses in open country

Duration: 8 days - 7 nights - 5 riding days – 195 km Dates 2015: Monday – Monday July 13 – 20 • July 20 – 27 • Aug 10 - 17 • Aug 17 – 24 Accommodation: Hotel accommodation in shared rooms in the Capital area. Shared rooms in simple mountain cabins and sleeping bag accommodation during the ride. Group size: Max. 16 guests Meeting place: Keflavík International Airport Note: Tours operate alternatively from west to east, the next tour being from east to west. Reservation code: IH – 12 This fascinating tour features the varied nature of Iceland, geological highlights with great riding tracks that please riders and horses alike. Well trained horses carry us through the mountains, through sand deserts, lava fields and green valleys. Our ride starts at Eyvindarmúli Farm and leads alongside Markarfljót River up into the mountains. We follow good riding tracks through black ash from Mt. Hekla eruptions and spend a night close to Mýrdalsjökull Glacier. We continue across the sand desert Mælifellssandur and into lava fields

originating from Skaftáreldar, a devastating eruption in the 18th century. About 135 craters erupted on a huge fissure and they covered the area with lava and the whole country with ashes for about two years. Animals succumbed to hunger or volcanic poisoning, a large part of the human population died and only 38.500 people survived the disaster. The Lakagígar craters created an area of dramatic beauty and we are reminded of that almost every day of the ride. Whether you join this tour from west to east or east to west, riding through the amazing Fjallabak landscape is an unforgettable experience.

COUNTRYSIDE TOUR

GEYSIR - GULLFOSS + SPECIAL Intermediate riders, comfortable during long hours in the saddle.

BEACH AND MOUNTAIN RIDE Strong intermediate riders

Duration: 5 days – 4 nights – 4 riding days – 86 km Dates 2015: Sunday - Thursday June 7 – 11 • June 14 – 18 • June 21 – 25 • June 28 – July 2 • July 5 – 9 • July 12 – 16 • July 19 – 23 • July 26 – 30 • Aug 2 – 6 • Aug 9 – 13 • Aug 16 – 20 • Aug 23 – 27 Accommodation: 2 – 4 bed units with shared facilities. Group size: Max. 18 guests Meeting place: Reykjavík. Accommodation before and after the ride to be arranged individually. Note: The tour arrives back in Reykjavík at 10:30 on Thursday morning. Optional: Snowmobile drive on Langjökull glacier, fee to be paid locally. Reservation code: IH – 13

Duration: 5 days – 4 nights – 4 riding days – 145 km Dates 2015: Sunday – Thursday June 4 – 8 (*) • June 14 – 18 • June 21 – 25 • July 12 – 16 • July 23 – 27 (*) • Aug 23 – 27 *These departures are from Thursday - Monday and have a slightly different itinerary. Accommodation: Shared accommodation, two nights in beds with bed linen and two nights in sleeping bags. Group size: Max. 18 guests Meeting place: Reykjavík. Accommodation before and after the ride to be arranged individually. Note: Knee-high rubber boots are recommended for this ride. Optional: Bus tour to sights on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, fee to be paid locally. Reservation code: IH – 16

This tour is a short version of the popular Golden Circle Tour taking in the hot spring area of Geysir and Gullfoss Waterfall. We also visit Thingvellir National Park on our transfer day. Enjoy accommodation at a cosy holiday farm with a hot outdoor tub and a hotel with private facilities during this tour.

The beautiful Snæfellsnes Peninsula extends far out into the Atlantic from the west coast. You can find many features of the Icelandic nature in this part of the country. At Stóri-Kálfa lækur Farm we start our ride into the mountains and enjoy the rich colours of nature in Hítardalur valley. Passing through lava fields and along hillsides we ride down to the shore and continue along the expansive beach. This traditional trail, only revealed when the tide is out, offers horse and rider an ideal opportunity to try their skill at “tölting” over long distances.

Participants on this tour join the longer Golden Circle Tour for four days, but return to Reykjavík on the fifth day while those on the longer ride continue.

Participants on this tour join the longer Snæfellsnes Tour for four days, but return to Reykjavík on the fifth day while those on the longer ride continue.

Highland tour

Thórsmörk Nature Reserve Underneath Glacier Eyjafjallajökull

Strong intermediate riders

Duration: 3 days – 2 nights – 3 riding day - 90 km Dates 2015: Friday - Sunday May 22 - 24 • May 29 - 31 • June 5 – 7 • June 12 - 14 • Sep 4 - 6 • Sep 11 – 13 Accommodation: Shared sleepingbag accommodation in mountain cabins. Group size: Max. 20 guests Meeting place: Reykjavik. Accommodation before and after the ride to be arranged individually. Reservation code: IH – 14

We present here a truly wonderful tour into the fascinating Thorsmörk Nature Reserve. This tour used to be one of our most popular ones in earlier days and we are proud to be able to offer it again. The Thórsmörk area is a hiker´s paradise. Riding in this wonderland of nature is pure joy. On our way to Thorsmörk we are reminded of the major volcanic eruptions that occurred in 2010 causing massive disruption to international air traffic. We ride past one of the lava

streams that flowed from the mighty glacier-capped volcano with the unpronouncable name, Eyjafjallajökull. We´re in the saddle for 4-7 hours (20-35 km) daily and stay in cosy mountain cabins with our horses nearby. On site we have a sauna, an outdoor hot tub and warm showers. Can you imagine the sheer magic of relaxing in a natural hot tub in the highlands of Iceland with the Northern Lights dancing in the sky above? Life hardly gets any better!

HIGHLAND TOUR

NEW 15

Towards the Arctic Circle

Strong intermediate riders

Duration: 9 days – 8 nights – 6 riding days – 180 km Dates 2015: Sunday – Monday July 5 – 13 • August 2 – 10 • August 23 - 31 Accommodation: Hotel accommodation in Reykjavík. Sleeping bag accommodation in shared rooms during the ride. Group size: Max. 16 guests Optional: Whale watching and Arctic Circle boat trips, fee to be paid locally. Meeting place: Keflavík International Airport Reservation Code: IH – 15

Íshestar is proud to present for the first time a regular tour in the very North East of Iceland. This part of Iceland is inhabited by only few people, most of them living in little fishing villages along the coast. There is a lot of diversity in this tour starting with beautiful mountain views from the wide Öxarfjörður Fjord. The Peninsula of Melrakkaslétta, which stretches almost to the Arctic Circle, is a paradise for birdwatchers and people with geological interest. Here we are right on top of the Mid Atlantic Ridge where

the North-American and Eurasian plates drift apart. From mid June to mid July this area is “home” to the Midnight Sun which sends its golden light over the deep fjords of North Iceland. Hosts for this tour are Halldór and Elín with their family from Bjarnastaðir Farm, known to many Icelanders for their excellent breeding of horses. Halldór is a respected member of his community and among other things he is a “mountain king” when the time calls for gathering up the sheep in autumn!

Countryside Tour

TRAIL OF HOPE North-West Explorer Strong intermediate riders

Duration: 5 days – 4 nights – 4 riding days – 120 km Dates 2015: Sunday – Thursday June 28 – July 2 • July 12 – 16 • July 19 – 23 • July 26 – 30 • Aug 2 – 6 • Aug 23 – 27 Accommodation: 2 – 4 bed units, beds with bed linen. Group size: Max. 16 guests Meeting place: Reykjavík. Accommodation before and after the ride are to be arranged individually. Note: Knee-high rubber boots are recommended for this ride. Reservation code: IH – 18

This tour is an ideal opportunity for anyone wanting to enjoy a comfortable ride in a variety of landscapes. As we ride through unspoiled nature our guide introduces us to Iceland´s heroic past with tales of bloody conflict, revenge and love from the ancient Sagas.

We start the ride at Hvammur Farm in Vatnsdalur valley. Sense the adrenaline kick as we ride across the waters of Lake Hóp, driving a herd of free-running horses ahead of us. A visit to a seal colony on the North-Atlantic coast is something you don´t want to miss.

Cantering along seemingly endless sandy stretches with the sea air in one´s face is an exhilarating experience for both rider and mount. There´s plenty of time to try the horse´s unique gait known as “tölt” while enjoying nature and learning something of the rich history of this beautiful and remote area.

Another highlight of this tour is the bus trip back to Reykjavík taking the old highland route of Kjölur. We drive between two glaciers and enjoy bathing in the natural hot pool at Hvera vellir. We also visit the Geysir hot spring area and the majestic waterfall Gullfoss before returning to Reykjavík.

Highland tour

VOLCANO MT. HEKLA - LANDMANNALAUGAR Mountain Spirit

Strong intermediate riders capable of handling horses in open country

Duration: 8 days – 7 nights – 6 riding days – 225 km Dates 2015: Monday – Monday June 29 – July 6 • July 6 – 13 • July 27 – Aug 3 • Aug 3 – 10 • Aug 24 – 31 Accommodation: Hotel accommodation in shared rooms in the Capital area. Shared rooms in simple mountain cabins and sleeping bag accommodation during the ride Group size: Max. 16 guests Meeting place: Keflavík International Airport Reservation code: IH – 19

Mount Hekla is a highly active volcano often titled the “Queen of Iceland”. The mountain towers regally over the region and every day we see evidence of its numerous devastating eruptions throughout the ages. In olden times people actually believed it to be the gateway to hell. Landmannalaugar is a geothermal wonderland in the southern highlands. Its natural bathing pools are only one of the highlights which make this area one of Iceland’s most popular destinations for nature lovers. On our way to the Eyvindarmúli Farm we visit the hot springs of Geysir and Gullfoss Waterfall. Our ride starts into the

mountains, taking in majestic glaciers and the glacier-fed river Markarfljót and the unforgettable Reykjadalir valley with the steaming hot springs. The beautiful area Landmannahellir is a fitting outpost in the central highlands before going on to enjoy the colourful rhyolite mountains in Landmannalaugar, surrounded by black lava fields. Our way back to civilisation leads us down from the mountains and into green valleys. The spirited and sure-footed horses make this tour an experience of a lifetime for anyone seeking a challenging highland adventure.

NEW Tölt and Trails at 20 Miðás farm Become one of the family Individual riding tours according to experience

All year! Duration: Your choice, minimum of 3 nights Dates 2015: Your choice, year round Group size: Min. 2, max. 8 guests Meeting place: Reykjavik Reservation Code: IH – 20

For those who would like to experience the Icelandic horse in its natural habitat we offer this unique opportunity for individuals to stay at the breeding farm Miðás in the South of Iceland. Familiarize yourself with the daily life-style of Icelandic horse farmers and ride on horses especially chosen to your abilities and skill. Your friendly hosts will make sure to make this a fantastic and memorable vacation. Midás is a small family farm where they breed, raise, train and sell Icelandic horses. They are famous for spoiling their guests with great food and great horses and a big effort is made to find horses that fit every rider and that the horses are easy to ride, with a good tölt and nice temperament.

Riding and Northern Lights

Intermediate riders

Duration: 4 days – 3 nights – 2 riding days – 45 km Dates 2015: Thursday – Sunday Oct 1 – 4 • Oct 8 – 11 • Oct 15 – 18 • Oct 22 – 25 Accommodation: 2-3 beds unit at guesthouse for two nights, beds with bed linen, hotel accommodation in Reykjavík for one night. Group size: Max. 16 guests Meeting place: Keflavík Int. Airport, suggested arrival time not later than 16:00/04:00 PM. Reservation code: IH – 21 Autumn in Iceland means a countryside ablaze with colour and the Northern Lights dancing in the Arctic night sky. Enjoy visiting the best-known sights in Iceland, riding the Icelandic Horse along fine bridle paths and viewing a dazzling Northern Lights display after a great day in the saddle. After arrival you start your tour with a visit to the Blue Lagoon where you can relax in the mineral rich water. We continue to Kjóastaðir Farm located near the Geysir hot spring area and Gullfoss Waterfall. During two riding days, “tölt”, the special gait of the Icelandic Horse will be introduced to you while riding to both these magnificent natural sights. Get ready in the evenings to experience the unique tranquillity of the Icelandic countryside and gaze skywards to perhaps see green-coloured Northern Lights dancing above you (weather permitting).

Autumn/Winter

NEW 22 Winter Wonders Intermediate riders

Duration: 5 days – 4 nights - 2 riding days Dates 2015: Thursday – Monday Feb 12 - 16 • Feb 19 – 23 • March 12 – 16 • March 19 – 23 • April 2 – 6 • April 9 – 13 • Oct 15 – 19 • Oct 29 – Nov 2 • Nov 12 – 16 • Nov 26 - 30 Accommodation: Hotel accommodation in dbl. rooms in the Capital area. Farm stay during the ride in dbl. rooms with shared facilities. Group size: Max. 10 guests Included Extra: Entrance fee and towel at the Blue Lagoon and lunch at Friðheimar cultivation centre Meeting place: Keflavík International Airport Reservation code: IH – 22 The most common time to ride horses in Iceland is from mid December to the beginning of June. This is this time of year that horses are stabled, fed and trained regularly. Over the summer the horses are generally ridden on long treks. For the first time we at Íshestar are now offering horse-riding trips during the winter, thus giving clients the opportunity to experience the daily life of the Icelandic horse-riding community during this magical season. Riding out in snow and the rugged winter conditions is a unique experience and completely different to riding in Iceland during the summer. The horses have a winter coat that makes them appear smaller and somewhat square-shaped,

but their willingness, energy and endurance are still the same. On this trip we stay at Miðás, which has excellent facilities, both for men and horses. We´re in the saddle for around 4-5 hours a day, at end of which we soak away our aches and cares in an outdoor hot tub while marvelling at the Northern Lights dancing in the sky above us. Life doesn´t get any better! On our way back to Reykjavik we stop at the spectacular waterfall Gullfoss or the Golden Waterfall, the Geysir hot spring area, Thingvellir National Park and visit the charming Friðheimar greenhouse cultivation centre.

AUTUMN TOUR

Sheep Round Up Rangárvallaafréttur Strong intermediate riders

Duration: 7 days – 6 nights – 6 riding days Date 2015: Sunday – Saturday, September 13 – 19 Accommodation: Sleeping bag acco. (bring your own!) in simple mountain cabins, shared by the local farmers participating with you in rounding up the sheep. Group size: Max. 8 guests Meeting place: Reykjavík. Accommodation before and after the ride to be arranged individually. Note: Some walking will be involved. Reservation code: IH – 23 On this special tour we join the farmers in South Iceland as they round up thousands of sheep from the mountains. We gather the sheep into the Rangárvallaafréttur communal sheepfold close to the famous Landmannalaugar geothermal area. The yellow, reddish and greenish hue of the rhyolite mountains give this area a magical touch. Here, under the stately gaze of Mt. Hekla, we drive the sheep across the black sands, which is the ash spewed by this same volcano over centuries. Local farmers have been rounding up sheep in this area for centuries. Learn from them how to manage the flock, drive sheep down hill sides, across rivers and out of sheltered valleys to their resting place for the night, only to head off again the next day to round up more. Being amongst the farming community and lending a helping hand in this age-old tradition of the autumn round-up is as close as you can get to the heart and soul of this nation. As participants you are joining an annual tradition and not a customized riding tour. Therefore an open mind, good physical health and the ability to work as a team is essential. Expect to be treated as one of the crowd, be prepared to pull your weight each day and enjoy the camaraderie of all those participating.

Sheep Round Up Landmannaafréttur Strong intermediate riders

Duration: 7 days – 6 nights – 6 riding days Date 2015: Friday – Thursday, September 18 – 24 Accommodation: Sleeping bag acco. (bring your own!)in simple mountain cabins, shared by the local farmers participating with you in rounding up the sheep. Group size: Max. 12 guests Meeting place: Reykjavík. Accommodation before and after the ride to be arranged individually. Note: Some walking will be involved. Reservation code: IH – 24 Rounding up sheep with the farmers in Landmannalaugar, Jökulgil and near Volcano Hekla. On this special tour we join the farmers in South Iceland as they round up thousands of sheep from the mountains. We gather the sheep into the Landmannaafréttur communal sheepfold close to the famous Landmannalaugar geothermal area. The yellow, reddish and greenish hue of the rhyolite mountains give this area a magical touch. Here, under the stately gaze of Mt. Hekla, we drive the sheep across the black sands, which is the ash spewed by this volcano over centuries. Local farmers have been herding sheep in this area for centuries. Learn from them how to manage the flock, drive sheep down hill sides, across rivers and out of sheltered valleys to their resting place for the night, only to head off again the next day to round up more. Being amongst the farming community and lending a helping hand in this age-old tradition of the autumn round-up is as close as you can get to the heart and soul of this nation. As participants you are joining an annual tradition and not a customized riding tour. Therefore an open mind, good physical health and the ability to work as a team is essential. Expect to be treated as one of the crowd, be prepared to pull your weight each day and enjoy the camaraderie of all those participating.

AUTUMN TOUR

HORSE ROUND-UP Skrapatungurétt Strong intermediate riders

HORSE ROUND-UP Víðidalstungurétt Strong intermediate riders

Duration: 7 days – 6 nights – 4,5 riding days – 130 km Date 2015: Wednesday – Tuesday, September 9– 15 Accommodation: Hotel accommodation in shared rooms in the Capital area. Beds with bed linen in 2 – 4 bed units at the farm. Group size: Max. 16 guests Meeting place: Keflavik International Airport Important: To be able to join the introductory ride arrival needs to be before 16:00/04:00PM. Optional: Dance at the community centre in Blönduós, entrance fee to be paid locally. Reservation code: IH – 25

Duration: Strong intermediate riders Duration: 7 days – 6 nights – 4,5 riding days – 130 km Date 2015: Tuesday – Monday, September 29 – October 5 Accommodation: Hotel accommodation in shared rooms in the Capital area. Double rooms, beds with bed linen during the ride. Group size: Max. 20 guests Meeting place: Keflavík International Airport Important: To be able to join the introductory ride arrival needs to be before 16:00/04:00PM. Optional: Dance at the community centre in Víðihlíð, entrance fee to be paid locally. Reservation code: IH – 26

Imagine hundreds of free and spirited horses cantering down from their highland summer pastures to be reclaimed by their owners. Mares and their foals, young horses and geldings traverse the rough terrain, not yet quite willing to surrender their freedom before the onset of winter.

Join the farmers in this great autumn adventure. Ride along when they drive the herd, sort the horses and celebrate the safe return of horses and herders. The varied terrain includes the highland moors, green valleys just putting on their autumn coat of burning red and yellow, deep blue lakes and rivers and Kolugljúfur gorge where a troll woman is reputed to have lived in the old days.

The ancient tradition of rounding up horses is only kept alive in the North of Iceland. A short first ride is already scheduled on the arrival day at our Riding Centre in Hafnarfjörður. This is a good opportunity to get to know the Icelandic Horse and prepare for the adventure ahead. The additional four riding days take place in the North. From the Vatnsdalur area we ride through beautiful valleys and mountains to Laxárdalur valley. Here we team up with the Icelanders and help round up the horses and drive them down from the mountains to Skrapatungurétt communal corral. When this task is complete the locals celebrate with a special round-up dance or “réttardansleikur”. We are of course more than welcome to join in the fun. The round-up continues the next day when the horses get sorted at the corral and we help in returning some of them to their home meadows.

A short first ride is already scheduled on the arrival day at our Riding Centre in Hafnarfjörður. This is a good opportunity to get to know the Icelandic Horse and prepare for the adventure ahead. From Bjargshóll Farm in the North we follow good riding tracks until we team up with the Icelanders who have already been rounding up horses for some days. Together we drive the herd down to the Víðidalstungurétt communal corral. The next day the horses get sorted. Experience the excitement of horses and men when the horses and foals are selected from the herd and returned to their rightful owners. When this task is complete the locals celebrate with a special round-up dance or “réttardansleikur”. We are of course more than welcome to join in the fun.

MEET OUR PARTNERS

Hjalti Jóhannesson, who used to run our tour 17 (Northern Odyssey) is now back with the Egilsstaðir tour and we are pleased to announce that Jón Thór, who took care of this tour for 25 years, is joining us again.

Siggi and Ólöf have been operating the Snæfellsnes tours since 1987. They have been one of the cornerstones of the Íshestar family. Who could ever forget Siggi’s great horses or Ólöf’s fantastic cooking?

Hjalti G. and Åsa take care of our oldest tour Kjölur, as well as our Countryside Riding and Northern Lights tours from their farm Kjóastaðir. Good horses and great food is their trademark. Hjalti will for sure find his way through the highlands, since he has ridden more than 140 times along the Kjölur trail already.

Haraldur (Halli) and his daughter Ólafía are newcomers since 2013, although he has already made himself known as an Íshestar guide. Halli is famous for his delicious meals, Scottish breakfast and Viking spirit. Halli takes care of our tour to Thingvellir National Park.

Haukur and Sonja together with their family run the Trail of Hope tour, the horse round-up to Skrapatungurétt and also the Ishestar special tour 10A. They are successful horse breeders and with their good horses and friendly way of operating the tours they make sure our clients return home happy.

Gestur and Margrét and sons takes care of the very popular Golden Circle tour. Now they also operate Ishestar Special tour 10D. Known for their excellent breeding and their hospitality it is often hard for our guests to say goodbye.

Gísli and Ásta Begga will add a new programme, Winter Wonders as well as Tölt and Trails at Miðás Farm, operating all year from their new farm Miðás. They will surely continue attending to all personal needs, as they have been known to do in the past.

Kiddi and Birna operate three tours; The popular Hekla/Landmannalaugar tour, our Power of Creation tour into the fascinating highlands of SyðraFjallabak and Lakagígar craters, as well as our new spring and autumn tour to Thórsmörk Nature Reserve. Their great selection of horses and their passion to please every guest will touch the heart of everybody riding with them.

Halldór and Elín with their family at Bjarnastaðir farm, are known to many Icelanders for their excellent horse breeding. Halldór is a respected member of his community and among other things he is leading the sheperds as “the mountain king” when the time calls for gathering up the sheep in autumn. Halldór takes care of our Northern Exposure tour as well as the new and exciting tour in the north-east; Towards the Arctic Circle.

MEET OUR GUIDES Anton Antonsson is our main French speaking guide. He is originally from Alsace but has been living in Iceland for decades. Language: French and German (fluent)

Hildur Þ. Ágústsdóttir started guiding tours for us in 2012. She grew up on one of the first official holiday farms in Iceland. Languages: English and German.

Ágúst Sigurjón Harðarson (Gústi) studied Nature and Environmental Science at the Agricultural University. He started guiding for Ishestar in 2014. Language: English and Spanish

Katrín Sif Einarsdóttir has a master degree in Ecotourism and is a professional traveller. She started guiding Íshestar riding tours in 2013. Languages: English, French and a little Spanish

Ása María Ásgeirsdóttir has been travelling on horseback since she was a child. Her first trip with Íshestar as a guide was in 2014. Language: English

Magnús Kjartansson has been an Íshestar guide since 2008. He is a musician, composer, arranger and conductor. Languages: English and Scandinavian.

Ástey Gunnarsdóttir Thompson was brought up on a farm in the remote Western Fjords and has a degree in business administration. She started as a guide in 2014. Language: English and some Scandinavian.

María Tinna Árnadóttir has worked at the Íshestar Riding centre since 2009 as a guide on our day tours. She is now also successfully guiding some longer tours. Language: English

Björk Jakobsdóttir has been guiding our tours since 2007. She is an actress, play writer and a stand-up comedian. Languages: English, German and some Scandinavian.

Meike Witt is back as a guide after some years at home with her children. She is a trained tour guide and a member of the Icelandic Search and Rescue Team. Languages: English and German.

Edda Pálsdóttir is a medicine student. She has been working on Íshestar tours as a staff rider and started guiding tours in 2010. Languages: English, Norwegian, German and some Spanish.

Nora Fries Waldekrantz has been involved with Íshestar since she was 11 years old and has been on most of the longer tours as well as worked in the Íshestar´s Riding Centre. Language: English and Swedish

Haukur Hauksson has been with Íshestar since 2002. His main job is director Airportsand Infrastructure Division at Isavia. Languages: English and Scandinavian.

Soffía Sveinsdóttir, teacher, IB coordinator and TV weather person. She started guiding our tours in 2012. Languages: English and German.

And many other great guides!

DAY TOUR

D01

NATURE COMFORT Ideal tour for beginners Beginners – Little or no riding experience needed

Days of week: Every day Season: All year at 13:00 plus at 16:30 from 15. April - 15. October Duration: 2-3 hours (with transfers) Riding: 1 hour Departures: 13:00 and 16:30 Transfer starts from: 11:30 and 15:30 Age limit: 8 years. Children 8-11 years receive a 50% discount Included: Transfers, guided riding tour, helmet, rubber boots, rainwear or a warm outfit in the winter. During this comfortable ride you follow beautiful riding tracks along bushy hillsides and moss covered lava fields. No previous riding skills are required for this tour and we choose a slow pace to make you feel safe. If you prefer a faster ride we recommend our Lava Tour or one of our other tours.

D02

LAVA TOUR Our most popular tour Beginners – Little or no riding experience needed

Days of week: Every day Season: All year Duration: 3 hours (with transfers) Riding: 1 ½ - 2 hours with stops Departures: 10:00 and 14:00 Transfer starts from: 08:30 and 12:45 Age limit: 8 years. Children 8-11 years receive a 50% discount Included: Transfers, guided riding tour, helmet, rubber boots, rainwear or a warm outfit in the winter Extras: Homemade lunch at Jósalir Restaurant at the Riding Centre (avail. at an extra charge)

Riding an Icelandic horse is something you have to experience at least once in your life. From the Íshestar Riding Centre in Hafnarfjörður you can enjoy the friendly horses on excellent riding paths. Ride through lava fields and along beautiful green hillsides. Look for different rock formations in the lava while experiencing the special gait, tölt. This tour is ideal for beginners as well as for more experienced riders.

DAY TOUR

D03

VIKING TOUR EXPRESS For experienced riders Strong intermediate riders

Days of week: Every day Season: All year Duration: 5 hours (with transfers) Riding: 2 ½ - 3 hours with stops Departures: 13:00 Transfer starts from: 11:30 Age limit: 12 years Included: Transfers, guided riding tour, helmet, rubber boots, rainwear or a warm outfit in the winter Extras: Homemade lunch at Jósalir Restaurant at the Riding Centre (avail. at an extra charge)

Do you want to test the strength of the Icelandic horse? Are you an experienced rider? Then these tours are for you! We ride on excellent riding paths across stunning lava fields, crossing Kaldá River, around Mt. Helgafell or into Heiðmörk Nature Park. Our Viking Tour starts with an introductory ride in the morning. After lunch at the Riding

D04

MEET THE ICELANDIC HORSE Keep the memory

Days of week: Every day Season: All year Duration: 2 hours (with transfers) Departures: 11:00 Transfer starts from: 10:00 Riding: 15 min Age limit: Children under 12 years receive a 50% discount Included: Transfers, leading in the paddock, helmet, rubber boots, rainwear or a warm outfit in the winter and homemade lunch at Jósalir Restaurant at the Riding Centre

This tour is ideal for those who want to come close to the Icelandic Horse but do not want to go on a riding tour. It gives you a chance to pet the horse, being led on the horse in the paddock and have a picture taken with your camera. As a reward you get a homemade lunch and transfer back to hotel.

D05

VIKING TOUR For experienced riders Strong intermediate riders

Days of week: Every day Season: All year Duration: 7-8 hours (with transfers and lunch) Riding: 4 ½ - 5 hours with stops Departures: 10:00 Transfer starts from: 08:30 Age limit: 12 years Included: Transfers, guided riding tour, helmet, rubber boots, rainwear or a warm outfit in the winter, homemade lunch at Jósalir Restaurant at the Riding Centre.

Centre we head out again and try the different gaits of the Icelandic horse. Be prepared to ride trot, tölt or a short canter and really experience the versatility of the Icelandic horse. Our Viking Tour Express joins the Viking Tour in the afternoon.

D45

FAMILY ADVENTURE We care about children

Days of week: Every day Season: All year Duration: ½ hour Departures: 13:00 Transfers: Not included. Age limit: 6 years. Children 6-11 years receive a 50% discount Included: guided riding tour, helmet, rubber boots, rainwear or a warm outfit in the winter.

Are young horse lovers travelling with you? The whole family can enjoy a half hour’s riding tour on comfortable riding tracks in the vicinity of the Íshestar Riding Centre. We offer calm horses suitable for children and inexperienced riders. At our Riding Centre we have a children’s corner with farm related toys. Children under the age of 6 will be led by rein in a paddock. Two circles cost ISK 1.000.Please note that at least one adult needs to stay behind with a young child at the Riding Centre.

RIDING AND BEYOND Make the most of your day

HORSES AND BLUE LAGOON

D41 Wellness

Beginners – Little or no riding experience needed

Days of week: Every day Season: All year Duration: Your choice! Riding: 1 ½ - 2 hours with stops Departures: 10:00 and 14:00 Transfer starts from: 08:30 and 12:45 Age limit: 8 years. Children 8-11 years receive a 50% discount Included: Transfers, guided riding tour, helmets, rubber boots, rainwear or a warm outfit in the winter, picnic lunch, bus transfer to/from Blue Lagoon Extras: Entrance fee to the Blue Lagoon according to Blue Lagoon´s pricelist. See www.bluelagoon.is Please bring with you: Swimsuit and towel (also available to rent at the Blue Lagoon) Experience the famous Icelandic horse (Lava tour) and discover hidden muscles you have not felt before. After the ride you go by bus to the fabulous Blue Lagoon where you can choose to swim, enjoy a massage or just relax and enjoy the facilities.

HORSES AND WHALES

D43 Animal Life

Beginners – Little or no riding experience needed

Days of week: Every day Season: All year Duration: 7-8 hours. Riding: 1 ½- 2 hours with stops Departures: 10:00 (all year) and at 14:00 July and August Transfer starts from: 08:30 (all year) and 12:45 July and August Age limit: 8 years. Children 8-11 years receive a 50% discount Included: Transfers, guided riding tour, helmet, rubber boots, rainwear or a warm outfit in the winter, picnic lunch, guided whale watching tour Please note: Tour ends at the harbour in down-town Reykjavík after the boat ride. Transfer back to the hotel is not included (can be arranged at additional cost). Meet the biggest animals in Iceland in one day. Enjoy excellent riding routes (Lava tour) and breathtaking scenery while riding the sturdy Icelandic horse and finish off with a cruise out on Faxaflói bay watching for whales and dolphins.

HORSES AND

D42 GULLFOSS – GEYSIR Saddles and sights Beginners – Little or no riding experience needed

Days of week: Every day Season: All year Duration: 7-8 hours Riding: 1 ½- 2 hours with stops Departures: 10:00 Transfer starts from: 08:30 Age limit: 8 years. Children 8-11 years receive a 50% discount Included: Transfers, guided riding tour, helmets, rubber boots, rainwear or a warm outfit in the winter, picnic lunch, guided bus tour to Gullfoss and Geysir.

The Icelandic horse is a symbol of the country´s natural forces. This tour gives you a taste of it all. After a ride of 1 ½ -2 hours (Lava Tour) through lava fields, visit the fascinating Geysir hot spring area and the beautiful Gullfoss waterfall on a guided bus tour.

Nature and Vikings

D48 Riding and dining

Beginners – Little or no riding experience needed

Days of week: Every day Season: 15.April – 15.October Duration: 5 - 6 hours (with transfers) Riding: 1 hour (Nature Comfort Ride) Departures: 16:30 Transfer starts from: 15:30 Age limit: 8 years. Children 8-11 years receive a 50% discount Included: Transfers (from hotel to Riding Centre and from Riding Centre to Viking Restaurant), guided riding tour, helmet, rubber boots, rainwear or a warm outfit in the winter and a Viking dinner (2 courses). Please note: Transfer from Viking Restaurant is on your own and not included in tour price. Why not add a unique Viking dinner after your riding tour at the Viking Restaurant in Hafnarfjörður (close to our riding centre) emphasis is on the Viking Era and as you enter, you step into the world of the past. The décor is in the Viking style and traditional meals are served in old-fashioned Viking-style trays.

DAY TOUR

THE BLUE LAVA TOUR

D46 Riding and snorkeling Beginners – Little or no riding experience needed

Days of week: Every day Season: 15. May - 15. September Duration: 7-8 hours. Snorkeling/Riding: 1 ½ - 2 hours each Departures: 10:00 Transfer starts from: 08:30 Age limit: 14 years Min: 2 persons (please contact us if you are travelling alone) Included:Transfers, guided riding tour, helmets, rubber boots, rainwear or a warm outfit in the winter, guided snorkeling tour and all equipment, picnic lunch at Jósalir Restaurant Bring with you: warm undergarment clothing (fleece/wool sweater and pants), warm socks and a change of clothing. Riding on the Icelandic horse (Lava tour) and snorkeling in clear blue water in Thingvellir National Park is Iceland’s ultimate lava tour! Explore lava from land and under water.

MIDNIGHT SUN RIDING

D50 Bright nights

Beginners – Little or no riding experience needed

Days of week: Thu, Fri Season: 01 June - 15 July. Duration: 2 hours (with transfers) Riding: 1 hour Departures: 22:00 Transfer starts from: 21:00 Age limit: 12 years. Included: Transfers, guided riding tour, helmet, rubber boots, rainwear. Note: For a group of min. 4 persons, this tour can be operated every day of the week.

In the month of June the sun never fully sets and the nights are bright in Iceland. According to Icelandic folklore, cows gain the powers of speech, seals become human, and it is healthy to roll naked in the dew-covered grass on the brightest night of the year. A spectacular evening ride from our Riding Centre on excellent riding paths surrounded by lava.

THE BLACK LAVA TOUR

D47 Riding and caving

Beginners – Little or no riding experience needed

Days of week: Every day Season: All year Duration: 7 hours. Riding/Caving: 1 ½ - 2 hours each. Departures: Summer (15th May - 15th Sep): Tue, Fri, Sun at 10:00. Winter: Every day at 10:00 Transfer starts from: 08:30 Age limit: 10 years Min: 2 persons (please contact us if you are travelling alone) Included: Transfers, guided riding tour, helmet, rubber boots, rainwear or a warm outfit in the winter on the riding tour, guided cave tour, caving gear, homemade lunch at Jósalir Restaurant Bring with you: Warm outdoor clothing, waterproof jacket and trousers, headwear and gloves. After an adventurous riding tour on lava fields above ground, we explore a 2200-year-old lava cave in the Blue Mountains and discover Iceland from below.

Riding and Biking

D54 Saddle up

Beginners – Little or no riding experience needed

Days of week: Every day Season: 15 May - 15 October Duration: 8 - 9 hours (with transfers) Riding: 1 ½ - 2 hours with stop. Biking 2 1/2 hours Departures: 10:00 from Ægisgarður, Reykjavik harbor place Age limit: 8 years. Children 8-11 years receive a 50% discount Included: Guided biking tour of Reykjavik, guided riding tour, helmets, rubber boots and rainwear on riding tour, transfer to Riding Centre and transfer back to your hotel. Note: Lunch on your own. Enjoy Reykjavik’s parks and back roads only locals know on comfortable, high quality bikes and discover the friendly Icelandic horse by riding on great riding paths surrounded by lava from Hafnarfjörður. A very eco-friendly tour.

Day tours

Horse Round-up

Sheep Round-up

Towards the Arctic Circle

Riding and Northern Lights

Tölt and Trail at Miðás Farm and Winter Wonders

Hekla and Landmannalaugar

Trail of Hope

Thórsmörk

Power of Creation

Countryside Riding Adventure

Íshestar Special

Egilsstaðir

Kjölur

Golden Circle

Snæfellsnes

Thingvellir National Park

Northern Exposure

Snæfellsjökull

Eyvindarmúli

Miðás

ÖK

Hvammur

J NG

Eiríksjökull

Kjóastaðir

Þórisjökull

Kálfhóll

Dæli

Eyjafjallajökull

JÖ

S OF

MÝRDALSJÖKULL

Mælifell

Oddi Ecolabelled Printing Company

IC E C OL A

PRINTED MATTER

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Photos: Helgi Skúlason (cover page and more), Gígja Einars, Steinunn Guðbjörnsdóttir, Edda Pálsdóttir, Sigurður Jökull, Mira Pyy, Helgi Thoroddsen, Cory Ryan, Anton Antonsson, Guðmundur Jónsson and more

HAFNARFJÖRÐUR

Reykjavík

Stóri-Kálfalækur

DRANGAJÖKULL

34 EL

Húsavík

VATNAJÖKULL

Bjarnastaðir

Glúmsstaðir

ABOUT ICELAND

The Country

Weather

Iceland is an island of 103.000 km2 (39,756 sq.miles), about one-third larger than Scotland or Ireland. Its highest peak, Hvannadalshnjúkur, rises to 2.109 meters (6,921 ft). Over 11% of the country is covered by glaciers, including Vatnajökull, the largest glacier in Europe.

Iceland enjoys a much milder climate than its name and location adjacent to the Arctic Circle would imply. A branch of the Gulf Stream flows along the southern and the western coast greatly moderating the climate. In Reykjavík the average temperature in January is 0,1 °C (32°F) and 11,2 °C (52,2°F) in July.

Energy Situated on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, Iceland is a hot spot of volcanic and geothermal activity: more than 30 volcanoes have erupted in the past two centuries, and natural hot water supplies much of the population with natural, pollution-free heating. Rivers, too, are harnessed to provide environmentally friendly hydroelectric power.

People Out of a population numbering a little over 300.000, half live in the capital Reykjavík and its neighbouring towns. The highland interior is uninhabited (and uninhabitable), and most centres of population are situated on the coast.

Language Iceland was settled by Nordic people in the 9th century. Icelanders still speak the language of the Vikings, although modern Icelandic has undergone changes of pronunciation and, of course, of vocabulary.

History In 930, the Icelandic settlers founded one of the world´s first national parliaments, Althing. The Old Commonwealth Age, described in the classic Icelandic Sagas, lasted until 1262, when Iceland lost its independence to Norway and later to Denmark. In 1944 Iceland was declared an independent republic.

EAST In East Iceland, the visitor will be astonished by the contrast of the landscape. One finds impressive fjords and high mountains, friendly and peaceful fishing villages; fertile and forested valleys as well as barren highlands and deep canyons.

WEST In the West and the West Fjords, the unspoiled nature attracts visitors. For understandable reasons as well: the high West is untouched and almost uninhabited. The Snæfellsnes peninsula has been named Iceland in Miniature since many natural sights can be found in the area.

NORTH North Iceland, impresses with its flourishing villages and farming communities, soaring mountain peaks, offshore islands. A landscape in formation makes parts of the North a unique world of its own, with craters, lava formations, bubbling mud pools and steam vents.

SOUTH The varied landscape of South Iceland boasts a wealth of natural wonders, glaciers, volcanoes, waterfalls, geysers and an amazing coast line. Historical sites marking milestones in the history of the country and society are well-marked and accessible.

Northern Lights Tours! SRE-63

RE-62

SRE-64

Highlands Northern Lights Tour

Northern Lights Tour

Warm Baths & Cool Lights!

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