Lofoten, with its dramatic fjords, rugged coastlines, and ancient Viking remnants, has long fascinated travelers. This guided horseback riding tour offers a unique way to experience the island’s stunning scenery and rich history at a gentle, relaxed pace. The 1.5-hour ride, led by knowledgeable guides at Hov Gård, combines scenic views, friendly Icelandic horses, and bits of local culture — all in a way that’s accessible even for those with no riding experience.
What I particularly love about this experience is how it balances natural beauty with cultural insights. You’re not just along for a pretty ride; your guide will point out Viking remnants and traditional fish-drying racks, making the landscape come alive with stories. Plus, the horses themselves are calm and well-trained, perfect for beginners or those who prefer a leisurely pace. On the flip side, if you’re an experienced rider craving a more challenging trek, this tour might feel a bit tame — it’s designed for comfort and safety over adrenaline.
One notable highlight is the chance to see local birdlife, including the majestic sea eagle, if luck is on your side during summer. Plus, the inclusion of warm rain gear and helmets shows the tour’s commitment to safety and comfort. However, keep in mind that the tour is weather-dependent, and the ride requires certain practical items—long pants and comfortable shoes—so packing wisely makes all the difference.
Key points / Takeaways
- Scenic coastline: The ride covers varied landscapes along the Arctic beach, with views that change from rocky shores to fishing villages.
- Friendly Icelandic horses: Known for their calm demeanor, these horses are perfect for relaxed riding and scenic sightseeing.
- Cultural highlights: Pass ancient Viking remains and see traditional fish-drying racks, adding historical context to your ride.
- Expert guidance: Guides like the highly praised “Håkon” or “Kari” provide easy-to-understand instructions and local stories.
- Weather gear provided: Rain/warm outfits and rubber boots are included, ensuring comfort even in unpredictable weather.
- Accessible for all: No prior riding experience needed; maximum weight is 95kg, and riders under 8 years old are not accommodated.
An In-Depth Look at the Horse Riding Experience in Lofoten
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Starting Point: The Hov Gård Stables
Your adventure begins at the Hov Gård stable in Gimsøysand, where the atmosphere is relaxed and friendly. Upon arrival, you’re introduced to your Icelandic horse — a breed famous for its smooth gait and steady temperament. The guides here, like “Kari” as one reviewer mentioned, are well-versed and eager to share insights about the landscape, local flora, and Viking remnants. You’ll get fitted for your helmet and gloves, and receive a quick safety briefing on how to handle the reins. This initial step reassures even the most nervous riders that they’re in capable hands.
The Ride: A Gentle Journey Along Arctic Shores
The tour’s pace is deliberately slow, making it ideal for those unfamiliar with horseback riding or travelers who prefer a relaxed experience. After a brief introduction, you’ll start riding over Hov, a striking Arctic beach that’s often quiet and pristine. If you’re visiting in summer, you might even spot a soaring sea eagle — a highlight noted by travelers who loved the chance to observe local birdlife.
The ride gradually ascends towards the fishing village of Hovsund, where you can glimpse traditional fish-drying racks, a colorful and historic sight that speaks to the region’s fishing heritage. The guide will point out Viking remnants along the way, giving a tangible sense of history that adds depth to your scenic journey.
What You’ll See and Learn
Expect to pass by ancient Viking sites, remnants from over a thousand years ago, which help bring the landscape’s history into focus. The guide will share stories and facts, making the experience educational as well as scenic. As one reviewer noted, the scenery is “very beautiful,” with calm horses and friendly staff enhancing the overall trip.
The Return: A Calm Ride Back to the Stable
The ride concludes with a gentle descent back to Hov Gård, where you can take off your gear and reflect on what you’ve experienced. Many find it a peaceful, almost meditative journey that pairs stunning nature with a touch of history.
Who Will Enjoy This Tour?
This experience suits families with children over 8, those who prefer a slow, scenic ride, or anyone curious about Viking history and local traditions. It’s also perfect if you’re looking for a quick, authentic taste of horseback riding without needing prior experience.
Price and Practicalities
At around 1.5 hours, the tour offers good value, especially considering the inclusion of a guide, helmet, rain gear, and friendly Icelandic horses. While it doesn’t include transportation or meals, it provides a well-organized, safe environment to enjoy Lofoten’s natural and cultural beauty. Be sure to book in advance — flexible reservations with full refunds up to 24 hours before are available, allowing some travel planning peace of mind.
Who Might Not Love It?
If you’re a seasoned rider craving a more vigorous or challenging trail, this tour might feel a bit too gentle. Also, those over 95kg or pregnant women are advised not to participate, and professional cameras are discouraged due to safety and comfort considerations.
Practical Tips for a Great Ride
- Wear long pants and comfortable shoes, as recommended.
- Bring a waterproof jacket if rain is forecast.
- Arrive a little early for your safety briefing and horse assignment.
- Remember, no backpacks or professional cameras are allowed on the ride.
- Inform the organizers of your weight, height, age, and experience level when booking to ensure a good match with your horse.
The Sum Up: A Scenic, Cultural, and Relaxing Ride in Lofoten
This guided horseback riding tour in Lofoten offers a gentle, scenic exploration of the islands’ coastline, Viking history, and fishing traditions. It’s a peaceful way to connect with nature while learning about local ways of life, all with friendly guides and well-trained horses. Perfect for families, beginners, or travelers seeking a relaxed outdoor experience, it promises authentic sights and stories without feeling rushed.
The tour’s real charm lies in its combination of stunning scenery and cultural insights, making it a memorable highlight of any Lofoten visit. If you’re looking for a peaceful, informative, and genuinely scenic adventure, this ride is well worth considering.
FAQ
Is prior riding experience required?
No, this tour is designed to be slow-paced and accessible for those with no riding experience. It’s suitable for beginners and casual riders alike.
What should I wear for the ride?
Long pants and comfortable shoes are recommended. Rain/warm outfits and rubber boots are provided, but bringing a waterproof jacket is a good idea if rain looks likely.
How long does the tour last?
The ride itself is approximately 1.5 hours, including safety briefings and fitting. Confirm the exact starting time when booking.
Can children participate?
Yes, children over 8 years old can join, provided they meet the weight limit of 95kg. Children should be comfortable around horses and riding at a slow pace.
What is included in the tour price?
A guide, Icelandic horse, riding helmet, gloves, rain/warm outfits, and rubber boots are included. Food, drinks, and transportation are not.
Where does the tour start and end?
Start and end are at the Hov Gård stables in Gimsøysand, with no transportation included.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour is rain or shine; rain gear is provided. However, if weather conditions are extreme, the tour provider allows cancellation with a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.
Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. It’s a small group setting, and many travelers join solo, making it a friendly, relaxed environment.
How do I book?
You can reserve your spot online in advance. The booking is flexible, with the option to pay later and cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour.
This horseback riding tour stands out as a tasteful blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and gentle adventure. It’s well-suited for those looking to enjoy Lofoten’s scenery at a relaxed pace, with the added bonus of learning a little about Viking history along the way.