Mr Iceland is a small-group horseback riding and farm-stay experience in South Iceland. Here, horseback riding begins before you get into the saddle.
We start by introducing you to your horse and showing you how Icelandic horses communicate through body language, energy and movement. Then we teach you the riding skills you need before heading out across the Icelandic landscape.
Every rider is different, and so is every horse. We have Icelandic horses suited to different riding abilities, from first-time riders to experienced horse owners, and we take time to find the right match.
Our horseback riding tours in South Iceland are designed for different riding abilities, with small groups that give us time to teach, observe and match each guest with the right horse.
The goal is not simply to follow a trail. It is to understand the horse you are riding.
The Icelandic horse arrived with the first settlers more than a thousand years ago. Ever since, horses have carried Icelanders across this landscape – between farms, through rivers, over mountains and into the stories that became our sagas.
That relationship is still alive here. Efri-Ulfsstadir is a working horse farm in South Iceland, surrounded by open countryside, volcanoes and glaciers. This is also the landscape of Njal’s Saga, one of Iceland’s great medieval stories.
We don’t try to recreate old Iceland. We invite you into a tradition that never disappeared.
Mr Iceland was founded by Hordur Bender, who has spent his life around Icelandic horses.
His approach to riding begins with something simple: listening.
A horse tells you a great deal before you ever climb into the saddle. That is why our riding experiences begin by getting to know the horse, learning how horses communicate and teaching the riding skills needed before heading out.
Hordur is at the heart of the Ride & Dinner experience, where small groups spend the afternoon with the horses before gathering around the table for dinner.
For Hordur, good riding has never been about simply controlling a horse. It is about communication between horse and rider.
Whether you are meeting a horse for the first time or have ridden your entire life, the aim is the same: to leave understanding the Icelandic horse a little differently than when you arrived.
“By the end of the ride, our son, who had not ridden before and was a bit scared in the beginning, said that he and his horse ‘trusted each other 100%.’” Marisa F., Google Review
Ride in the afternoon. Gather in the evening.
Life onthe farm
For generations, riding in Iceland was about more than getting from one place to another. It was also about where you arrived.
People rode between farms and then gathered around the table: eating, talking and telling stories.
That rhythm still shapes Mr Iceland.
You can spend the afternoon with the horses, share dinner after the ride, gather in the evening for stories and Icelandic traditions, and sleep in a private cabin surrounded by the horse pastures.
It is deliberately small and unhurried.
Because some things are better when there is time for them.
“A stay on an Icelandic horse farm was an incredible way for us to really discover this country.” Janice C., Google Review
Our farm sits in the heart of the landscape associated with Njal’s Saga, where stories about Icelanders have been passed from generation to generation for more than a thousand years.
In 2026, Mr Iceland and this landscape reached an international audience through National Geographic’sThe Infinite Explorer.
For us, the recognition is special not because it changes what we do, but because it allows more people to discover something Icelanders have always known: “In Iceland, we don’t have castles: we have sagas.”
And here, the horses are still part of the story.
Our promise
Small groups.Good horses.Time to connect.
We keep our riding experiences small so that we can get to know our guests and match each rider with the right horse. We care deeply about the horses that make these experiences possible. They live as a herd with space to roam, and their health and wellbeing always come before the tour. We use quality equipment, take time to teach, and never want the experience to feel rushed. Because Mr Iceland isn’t about seeing how many people we can put on horses.
It is about creating an experience you will remember long after you leave Iceland.
We spent the most beautiful day at Mr Iceland! The horseback riding tour was the best we've experienced around the world. It wasn't just a put-you-on-a-horse-and-go kind of thing like most. Hörður taught us so much about the history and characteristics of Icelandic horses, and gave us a lesson of the basics of connecting with and leading your horse. By the time we actually embarked on the tour, I felt completely comfortable even as a person who had very little riding experience. The actual tour was absolutely tranquil and beautiful.
The meal was delicious, the room was lovely with a view of the horses in the field, and story night was cozy and magical. Everyone we met around was very friendly and knowledgeable, and made us feel very welcome. The stay at Mr Iceland is the highlight of our trip and we couldn't recommend it enough!
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Charlene Z.
2 days ago
Awesome experience! Must do! Checks all the boxes for a truly authentic Icelandic experience. The horseback excursions are an amazing way to see the landscape and become familiar with this unique breed of ancient equine. The sampling of various Icelandic traditional foods and beverages, along with the amazing expoundment of Icelandic history and culture is a one stop shop of what visitors come to Iceland for. A truly authentic experience, performed by a genuine staff. It was a high point of our trip and exceeded our expectations.
Accommodations are fantastic.
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Youell's O.
4 days ago
We had an amazing experience at Mr Iceland! Blesi cabin was beautiful and well appointed. The bed was so comfortable. Our riding adventure with Hordur was insightful, educational and wonderful. It was a very in depth experience. Dinner and conversation was exceptional. Storytelling with Valdimar was equally impressive along with the Icelandic tastings that were offered. Our black beach excursion was beautiful, even in the rain. A special blessing to Greta, our guide, and her great personality. We left with a wool sweater, sheepskin and full hearts! Every aspect of our journey far exceeded our expectations. I would recommend that everyone who comes to Iceland experience this full adventure at Mr. Iceland. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts, Christian, Rebecca and Athina
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Athina F.
4 days ago
Truly the highlight of our father/daughter trip. There is nothing like riding Icelandic horses on a black sand beach, just amazing. These fascinating animals are so playful and gentle; we loved them. And we absolutely loved our host - Hordur (Mr. Iceland) and his staff - who welcomed us like family and treated us with such kindness, thank you. Not to mention this Viking can cook and entertain! The cabins were first class, nothing spared. Just a magical, and peaceful experience, to wake up with the horses and be with them; a beautiful experience my daughter and I will never forget. Thank you Hordur, thank you Julia, thank you all.
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STEVE K.
1 week ago
We had a marvelous time at the farm. We stayed three nights, using it as a base for our travels on the south coast. By far the best part was spending an afternoon with the horses. Hordur’s (Mr. Iceland) instruction was top notch. He had us all riding like champions in under an hour. Dinner after the ride with Hordur was a perfect way to end the day. Viking Story Night was equally pleasing. All the staff at the farm, especially Alina and Alex went above and beyond to make our stay thoroughly enjoyable.
Being around the horses was the perfect introduction to the culture and traditions of Iceland. We highly recommend booking a stay if the south coast is on your itinerary. And if it’s not, you should include it!
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Tom W.
1 week ago
We thoroughly enjoyed the Mr. Iceland experience. We first learned about the history of Icelandic horses and then each got paired with one of these beautiful animals. The riding instruction was very educational where we each took a lesson in the inside ring all while getting individual instruction. We went out for about an hour ride where we crossed the river 4 times. The meal after the ride was delicious as was meeting people from around the world. The views and company were amazing. I HIGHLY recommend spending a day here but also, the cottage rentals looked amazing. Something I will look to when I return.
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Siobhan K.
2 weeks ago
I spent the final two nights of my vacation in Iceland at Mr. Iceland and wished I had several more days there!
The cabins are nicely done with comfortable bedding, couch and chairs. The kitchenette is fully equipped with pots, pans, dishes, cups and cutlery. The bathroom was tidy.
I had the Viking Story Night my first evening there. It was set in the stable with candles and pelts on our benches. We tasted traditional Icelandic fare - including *the shark* with a Brennivin chaser. The storyteller was an actor who truly looked the part as he told stories about the founding of Iceland, the origin of the horses, and the Sagas.
On the second day, I went riding with two other folks. Hörður had us get to know our horses, first. He demonstrated walking and stopping, and gave a wonderful explanation of how the Icelandic horse is built, why the saddle sits a little further back than I'd been used to for hunter/jumpers, and the five paces.
We walked our horses around the outdoor ring, mounted, and practiced walking, stopping, and tölting. Then we went out across the farm.
The farm is not far from several attractions and a grocery store.
I love the Icelandic horses, and I loved my stay at Mr. Iceland.
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Pat M.
3 weeks ago
We had an amazing experience with Mr. Iceland.
We did the Full Riding Experience. It started with an introduction to the Icelandic horses. Our group was compromised of all experienced riders, yet Mr. Iceland still took the time to go over his philosophy regarding handling. Then we reach had a lesson on our horse before going out on a trail ride.
Mr. Iceland's horsemanship was very impressive.
When we returned, we had a wonderful dinner prepared for us. We shared the table with a lovely family when 4 kids. The three girls had ridden with us in the afternoon ride.
In the evening we did the Icelandic storytelling night.
The next day, my husband and I were taken to the black sand beach by Meta. It was nice having a more intimate ride.
We stayed onsite in one of the rustic chic cabins that contained all the amenities you would expect at a luxury accommodation - like bathrobes and high end toiletries.
I joked with Hordur that he was tied with the puffins for my best experience in our 2 weeks long trip around Iceland.
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Ashley B.
1 month ago
Nearly one year later, we came back. This time for the solar eclipse and 3 days of riding. Once again Hordur and his team provided an amazing experience, including an Icelandic witch to provide even more meaning to the eclipse. The hospitality, grace, and connections at Mr. Iceland are indelible - not to be missed if you love horses, history, and time for self-reflection.
A stay on an Icelandic horse farm was an incredible way for us to really discover this country. Mr. Iceland's deep understanding of the Icelandic history and culture and the strength and resilience of the people who worked the land and sea for centuries gave us an unforgettable experience. His love and respect for his horses, the earth, and his farm shined through in his every interaction with us. As others have mentioned, he works hard to make sure riders feel comfortable with the horses and the horses feel comfortable with the riders. The overnight accommodations are cozy and comfortable with a small kitchen stocked for sumptuous breakfasts. His Viking dinners, which included locally sourced foods, were fabulous, his stories mesmerizing, and his generous spirit left us feeling emotionally and spiritually filled up and well cared for. A stay with Mr. Iceland will leave you with memories for a lifetime.
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Janice C.
1 month ago
This experience was truly amazing! As someone who has never ridden a horse before, and was very nervous to, Mr. Iceland did an amazing job at teaching me all the information I needed to know to make me feel comfortable. The ride around the property was truly beautiful, and hearing about how the farm is run was inspiring. We also very much enjoyed the delicious food provided, as well as the amazing conversations we had at that dinner. It was great to connect with the other travelers we had met that day as well as Mr. Iceland. You can tell that so much work it put into the farm, care of the animals, and experience itself. 10/10 would recommend to anyone visiting Iceland as it seriously could not have been a better experience.
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Olivia R.
1 month ago
We loved both our stay and ride/dinner at this gorgeous horse farm. Waking up with horses frolicking right outside the windows was so peaceful; I could have watched them all day. But it was even better to learn to ride the Icelandic horse; “Mr. Iceland” was a wonderful instructor for all levels, and our ride along the river was a delight. The dinner following was delicious and the company excellent. This is a once-in-a-lifetime Icelandic experience you don’t want to miss!
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Amanda S.
1 month ago
Hordur was a phenomenal host and guide for our ride and Viking dinner. He was so skilled at explaining the differences between Western horseback riding and how to ride Icelandic horses. By the end of the ride, our son, who had not ridden before and was a bit scared in the beginning, said that he and his horse "trusted each other 100%".
We started in the stables where Hordur gave a thorough explanation of what we would be doing for the day and then we were let into the horse stalls to get to know the horse we would each ride. It was unique in my experience because for the guided horse back rides I have been on in the United States, there is no concern or thought given to helping the riders connect with their horses. Hordur emphasized the necessity for the rider to be in control and to guide the horse using their energy and only small actions with the reins.
We had a lovely ride across the fields and plains around Hordur's farm, crossing a small river several times.
Icelandic horses are gentle and so sweet. They apparently have no natural predators on Iceland and so are the most relaxed horses we had ever seen. After the ride they would roll around on their backs and kick their legs joyfully into the air. It was a beautiful sight.
The dinner that the farm prepared was phenomenal. I generally avoid eating lamb in the states because it is usually too tough for my taste. Hordur served a kale salad from their garden, potatoes from a local potato farm, and the most tender lamb, which he carved at the table. It was so delicious and served inside a dining area set up in one of the rooms at the stables which was so cozy and lit by candles and soft lights.
The whole experience is magical. It is made even better knowing history of the farm and their commitment to using sustainable practices to combat erosion. I am not normally a guided tour type of person when I travel, preferring to wander off the beaten path and have less commercialized experiences. But don't let the professionalism of Mr. Iceland's website fool you-this tour is as authentic as it gets!
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Marisa F.
1 month ago
My husband and I came to Iceland for our 25th anniversary.
I am a rider at home and I have always wanted to ride Icelandic horses. I checked out many different places online and finally found Mr. Iceland.
I was so impressed by his horsemanship.
Our entire group had experience riding and owned our own horses. Regardless, we had a lesson in handling horses and another lesson once we were with our chosen horses - both in the ground and under saddle.
Mr. Iceland had an approach that was so kind and gentle and very common sense oriented as well. I will definitely use some of his advice to reconnect with my beautiful Poppy when I get home!
We had a lovely ride in the afternoon when we arrived and then another ride to a beautiful black sand beach the next morning.
In between we had a delicious home cooked dinner of lamb, potatoes, gravy and salad. It was such a special meal that we shared with Mr. Iceland and a lovely family of fellow Canadians. The atmosphere was magical.
We stayed in a gorgeous little cottage on the grounds. It had a rustic farmhouse feel yet had all the amenities you would want or need - bathrobes, luxurious bath products, excellent WiFi.
This was definitely the highlight of our 15 day trip to Iceland. I joked that Mr. Iceland and the puffins were tied!
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Ashley B.
1 month ago
We had three nights in the wonderful Jacob’s cabin and didn’t want to leave!
The cabin is beautifully restored with comfy beds and good showers, the view from the porch with the bird sounds and horses is utterly relaxing.
The horses are just outside the cabin and very friendly, the staff clearly care about their horses and are all very friendly and considerate.
My daughter loved both her riding tour on the secluded black beach which can only be reached on horseback, as well as the groupride followed by a lovely dinner which we joined.
Lovely organic food with good conversation in a candlelight setting. We can’t wait to come back for more adventure!
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IcelandFan
1 month ago
This was by far our favorite experience during our trip to Iceland. It was our first time horseback riding, and Mr. Iceland and his staff were the perfect guides. We started by grooming our horses and getting to know them, then had a very thorough lesson followed by our beautiful ride across the farm with incredible views.
Dinner was another amazing part of this memorable experience. Mr. Iceland was warm, genuine, and extremely welcoming. The conversation over our delicious meal was one we’ll never forget.
And last, but not least, our room at the farm was BEAUTIFUL!
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Chrissy S.
1 month ago
Amazing experience! Stylish and cozy cottages. Peaceful setting with a view of the horses grazing in the fields. Although it was pouring outside we were toasty and very comfortable. The kitchen was well appointed. Located in farm land a bit off the beaten path.
The riding experience was fantastic. We started by getting matched to our horses and getting to know them. Then we got an individualized lesson where the instructor was very patient and had a good understanding of our levels. For a somewhat nervous beginner this was a huge comfort. The horses were very gentle and well behaved. Our ride afterwards was through beautiful nature, especially enjoyed crossing the rivers. Thanks so much to Alex and Alina for making this a wonderful morning.
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Maria R.
1 month ago
We booked the Full Riding Experience package with Mr Iceland, and it far exceeded our expectations. We have done a few different riding tours during our time in Iceland so far, but this was by far the most detailed, insightful, and memorable experience.
The riding lesson was excellent. We learned so much about how to properly handle the horse, and it was amazing to see how well trained and well behaved the horses are. They were easy to manage, even without relying heavily on the reins, using mostly body cues instead. The scenic ride through the farm was beautiful, with river crossings, mountain views, and wide open fields.
Mr Iceland himself is such an interesting person, and we loved hearing about his life and background during dinner. The lamb and the entire meal were spectacular, fresh, farm-to-table food served in a cozy barn setting. The cabins are modern, comfortable, and cozy, with an unobstructed view of the horses.
The farm is gorgeous, all the horses are tame, well behaved, and love being petted, and the entire staff was incredibly kind and welcoming. This was one of the highlights of our trip, and we can’t wait to come back.
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Tamara L.
1 month ago
We stayed at Mr Iceland and it was fantastic. I couldn't recommend enough. the sleeping quarters were perfect. We had 2 apartments as we were traveling with our 3 children. We got to visit the horses in the fields and I booked the beach ride. It was a life changing experience. Meta ( sorry if I misspell) was our guide. She was fantastic and the entire staff was lovely. the horses are well taken care of and so fantastic. I ride at home, so this was important to me, that the horses were well cared for. we also did the Viking story hour. We learned so much about the history of Iceland that we never know. Overall, I would highly recommend staying here and booking a ride along with all of the other activities they have to offer.
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Colleen T.
1 month ago
We stayed at Mr Iceland and it was fantastic. I couldn't recommend enough. the sleeping quarters were perfect. We had 2 apartments as we were traveling with our 3 children. We got to visit the horses in the fields and I booked the beach ride. It was a life changing experience. Meta ( sorry if I misspell) was our guide. She was fantastic and the entire staff was lovely. the horses are well taken care of and so fantastic. I ride at home, so this was important to me, that the horses were well cared for. we also did the Viking story hour. We learned so much about the history of Iceland that we never know. Overall, I would highly recommend staying here and booking a ride along with all of the other activities they have to offer.
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redtaylor2000
1 month ago
If you want an experience what will be remembered for a lifetime, something that feels otherworldly, puts you in touch with your spirit, and overwhelms you with so much happiness you’ll be tearful with joy. Visit, Stay, and experience Horsebackriding like you’ve never seen before. Experience true Icelandic warmth and hospitality and in the words of its owner, “Come find your tribe”. You’ll leave touched by the heart of Iceland with views of beaches accessible by no one else. This is true Horsebackriding across the countryside at speed, you won’t find hoards of tourists here…just the quiet and humble truth of Icelandic heritage brought to you by good people, good stories, and adventures of a lifetime.
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Holly J.
2 months ago
I cannot say enough good things about our experience at Mr Iceland’s farm! We booked a ride and dinner experience, which exceeded our expectations. After doing some research, we chose this farm because of his philosophy around horses and conservation. As horse owners, we appreciated his approach with the guests, spending time introducing the Icelandic horses, giving each rider time to groom and get to know their horse, then a lesson in the indoor to make sure each rider understands the aids for his Icelandic horses. This is not your typical tourist nose to tail ride. Hörður puts the happiness and welfare of his horses above anything else and its shows. He took great care of my daughter as well, making sure she had an incredible, safe, and positive experience. After our ride we shared a homemade meal of the best lamb you’ll ever taste. He explains the ethical practices used for raising and butchering their meat, which gave me an entirely new appreciation for sourcing. The staff at his farm was top notch, being super approachable and always putting safety first. This felt like an immersive family experience rather than a tourist check box. Highly recommend!
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Erica A.
2 months ago
I loved every minute of the visit. I’m not the strongest rider and hadn’t been on a horse in well over ten years. Julia was my guide on a personal tour. She introduced me to the sweetest boy and he and I spent a little time getting comfortable together and then we headed out. It was an absolutely gorgeous day. The ride was through the most beautiful landscape. My favorite parts were riding through a field of lupine and crossing the river. Julia was so engaging and made my experience perfect. When I’m back in Iceland I will definitely be back! - Robin
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Robin G.
2 months ago
The visit to this farm was definitely one of highlights of my trip to Iceland. The individual time spent with each of preparing for the ride proves this man's professionalism, dedication and deep knowledge of these beautiful Icelandic horses. The ride was fast and fantastic. The perfect match for all of our skill levels. The meal was absolutely delicious. It was my first time trying leg of lamb. I wish I would have tried it sooner. The dinner conversation was the icing on the cake. I will definitely include this on any future visits to Iceland. Well done Hordur and your friendly staff.
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Dan M.
2 months ago
Mr Iceland and his staff elevated the Iceland experience. The ride was majestic, the company warm and the food unforgettable - it was grown on the farm and was best the lamb and kale salad I’ve had in a long time. I stayed in Jakob’s house and highly recommend it. Oh and I can’t forget my neighbors - his elegant and cuddly (yes cuddly) Icelandic horses at my doorstep. I will be back one day again, but until then.
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Stephen L.
2 months ago
We absolutely adored our morning with the horses! It was one of the most special parts of our trip.
Alína was so kind, welcoming, and incredibly knowledgeable. We loved getting to meet so many of the horses on the farm and learning more about this beautiful, fascinating breed from her! ♥️
We also are staying a few nights in one of the cabins on the property, and it has been such a peaceful, magical experience. Between the horses, the landscape, and the warmth of everyone here, we truly wish we were staying even longer!
This is such a special place, and we are so grateful for the time we had there. We will absolutely visit again the next time we are in Iceland!
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Team P.
2 months ago
What a wonderful experience! This was not just our favorite horse encounters but one of our favorite experiences in Iceland period. The entire crew really loves horses and it comes through in everything they do. We signed up to ride, eat supper, and stay the night in one of their cabins. Every aspect of this was terrific and our only regret is we didn’t stay longer. If you’re looking to bond with some horses why go anywhere else but the best?
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mark a.
2 months ago
The reviews aren’t lying.
Mr Iceland really was the highlight of our trip too.
I’m a photographer so the landscape of the farm, the horses, and the northern lights were a delight to photograph!
My partner and I booked in March; the horse ride + dinner and a one-night stay in one of the luxury cabins. We had so much fun that we later said yes to join the story night as well.
We got super lucky, as the sky granted us the best auroras we’ve ever seen, right when the story night ended. We watched them dance, howling at the sky, with the new friends we made that night.
- Horse ride + Dinner with Hordur -
This man knows every single one of his horses very well. We were paired with such lovely horses that were matching our distinct personalities. Whether you’re a beginner like me or a more experienced rider like my partner, be self-assured that Hordur will show you everything you need to know. You will have time to practice before going on the actual ride. The ride itself was such an awesome adventure! But I think what struck us the most was his teaching about the horses. How to ride them, how to feel them and how they feel you.
Besides caring for his horses, this man is also an amazing host!
The tasty organic fresh food from the farm, the wine and the conversations with him. We had so much to learn and so much to share. We had so much fun.
- One-night stay -
Ultra comfortable and convenient. Although it was hard to go to sleep with such amazing northern lights straight out of our windows, we slept incredibly well. (There’s blinds for every window; we just couldn’t miss the show.) We woke up to horsies staring right at us.
- Story Night -
We had fun trying the traditional Icelandic food. We also enjoyed the historical facts, the history of the farm itself and the new friends (another couple) we made that night. We did wish for more Icelandic tales tho.
This is something we will remember forever.
Thank you for creating such an intimate experience for each of your guests. We’re extremely grateful.
Ophélie & Diego
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Ophélie-Chanel P.
2 months ago
Our stay at this horse farm was one of the highlights of our trip to Iceland. From the very beginning, we were introduced to the fascinating history and unique characteristics of Icelandic horses. The team provided excellent guidance and training on how to interact with and care for the horses, making the experience enjoyable and comfortable for everyone.
The horse ride itself was wonderful, and afterward we enjoyed a delicious dinner made with local organic ingredients. The evening was filled with amazing conversations, stories, and insights about Icelandic culture and life on the farm, which made the experience feel truly authentic.
We stayed overnight in one of the cabins, and it was beautifully designed, cozy, and comfortable. One of the best parts was being able to walk around the farm, visit the horse fields, and spend time petting the horses whenever we wanted.
This is much more than just a place to stay or ride horses—it’s a genuine Icelandic experience that we will never forget. Highly recommended!
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Ina W.
3 months ago
I cannot say enough, good things about our experience with Hordur And his crew.
From the moment we stepped onto the Ranch we could feel the peaceful respect for the land and the horses
We stayed in Jacob‘s cabin, which was absolutely beautiful.
Both of our rides were absolute perfection. We got a helpful riding lesson ahead of time… It is very apparent that the horses and the people that work with the horses love what they do.
Thank you for a wonderful dinner and storytelling session… Absolute perfection
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jacqueline P.
3 months ago
Everything about this beautiful place exceeded expectations. It felt more like visiting someone’s home than a place of business. From the moment we arrived, we were immersed into a beautiful experience. From meeting the horses, to learning about them and how to connect with them. Hordur is an exceptional host and teacher. He and his staff, every single one a gem, were fully invested in the experience of the guests and of the horses. We loved how they honored and respected the wants and needs of the horses on par with those of the guests. How beautiful and rare.
The dinner was delicious and the experience of sharing a table and conversation with Hordur and the other fellow guests, was one we will not forget. I cannot recommend a visit to this special place highly enough. I will carry these memories with me for years to come.
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Melinda S.
3 months ago
Our visit to Hordur’s farm was a magical and genuinely transcendent experience.
Somehow, Hordur and his talented and warm staff, are able, in an entirely authentic way, to make you feel as if you are his exclusive personal guests, brought into his home and world to share in the wonder of connecting to a stunning natural land, and to understand horses and riding in a fundamentally spiritual way. We learned more about these magnificent creatures and the art of riding in one day with Hordur than we did in 2 weeks at a Wyoming (USA) ranch!
Beyond the beauty of the farm, the riding, and the lovely accommodations, the meal with Hordur and the other guest who was present was filled with incredibly delicious and fresh offerings (the leg of lamb was succulent and aesthetically beautiful in its service), along with real conversation of personal sharing, depth, and substance. In a world where all these qualities seem so often under assault, the experience at Mr. Iceland literally restores faith in humanity, meaning, and the importance of cherishing our natural world.
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Jeffery D.
3 months ago
İzlanda seyahatimizin en unutulmaz deneyimlerinden biri kesinlikle burasıydı.
Daha önce atlara hiç bu kadar yaklaşmamış, onları sevmemiş ya da binmemiştik. Hördur, ilk andan itibaren kendinizi rahat ve güvende hissetmenizi sağlayan, son derece deneyimli ve sıcak bir ev sahibi. Bize sadece ata binmeyi öğretmedi; atlarla nasıl bağ kurabileceğimizi ve nasıl iletişim kurabileceğimizi de gösterdi.
Kısa bir eğitimden sonra çıktığımız arazi turu gerçekten büyüleyiciydi. Rüzgârı hissederek, doğanın içinde, atınızla uyum içinde ilerlemek tarifsiz bir özgürlük duygusu yaratıyor. Bir noktadan sonra sadece anın içinde kalıyor ve etrafınızdaki güzelliğin tadını çıkarıyorsunuz.
Turun ardından atlarla vedalaşıp Hördur'un hazırladığı sofraya oturuyorsunuz. Yemekler ve şaraplar muhteşemdi. Ancak bizi en çok etkileyen şey, masadaki atmosfer oldu. Farklı ülkelerden gelen yedi kişi, sanki yıllardır birbirini tanıyan arkadaşlar gibi sohbet ediyor, gülüyor ve hikâyeler paylaşıyordu. Hördur'un misafirperverliği ve cömertliği bu deneyimi gerçekten özel kılıyor.
Burası sadece bir at turu değil; doğayla, hayvanlarla ve insanlarla bağ kurduğunuz, uzun süre unutamayacağınız bir deneyim. İzlanda'ya gelen herkese gönülden tavsiye ederiz.
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Burcu Y.
3 months ago
From our many stays and activities during our travel, we rarely leave a review, however Mr. Iceland deserves an elaborate one. This was truly one of the best experiences we’ve had during our travels.
None of use had horse riding experience, but we enjoyed every moment of it. We had so much fun getting to know the horses. They are very well cared for, and smells good too! Hordur was such an amazing teacher. In what seems to be such a short amount of time, he was able guide us to ride a horse on our own with confidence. The ride along the river was beautiful and so much fun!
Dinner was of high quality and delicious! Listening to Hordur’s story during dinner on how the farm came about was enlightening. We then stayed the night at Jakob’s which was a beautiful cabin with full kitchen and wood fire. We regretted not participating in the viking story night, but hopefully that means we’ll come back!
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B C.
3 months ago
My friend and I just spent 3 days with Mr. Iceland (Hordur) and his wonderful staff. I could honestly write a novel about how great the entire experience was. The cabins were gorgeous and so comfortable. The farm was beautiful and the horses were incredibly cared for and well trained. We did the dinner ride, the black beach ride and a private ride. All were unique and so much fun! Hodor got to know us and assigned us horses and he chose so well! I rode Fluga and Fjola and they were the sweetest mares. Fjola let me experience all five gaits and it was truly such a magical experience! The dinner ride took us throughout the beautiful farm and crossing water multiple time. After the ride we ate a delicious meal with Hordur and other riders. It was so comfortable and enjoyable getting to know everyone and talk about where we are from and the horses. Every aspect of our time there was amazing and I HIGHLY recommend staying and riding with these wonderful people!
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Kaycie M.
3 months ago
We stayed overnight and did the horseriding and dinner. It was an absolute highlight of our Iceland Ring Road trip! The farm is absolutely stunning and the cabins are lovely, kitted out with all you could need.
I love horses, but hadn’t ridden for about 20 years. The horses are incredibly friendly and well trained. I really appreciated Mr Iceland’s approach to riding, he encourages you to connect with your horse through grooming, a quick intro ride in the arena and then you head out on a stunning trail ride across his farm. Tolting on an Icelandic horse is something I will never forget!
Then you have a beautiful dinner in a cozy room off the stables.
Mr Iceland is a must do for anyone who wants to get up close to the amazing icelandic horses!
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hannah d.
3 months ago
AMAZING
A place that will always be in our heart.
But not only the place, to be honest.
People, horses, nature, the feeling of peaceful. You can let your mind disconnect from the routine, from everything.
Wherever you look you find something marvellous.
The cabins are wonderful. Super clean, really nice furniture and you feel at home. The big windows give you unforgettable views.
Riding experience was fantastic! Both riding + dinner and riding to black beach.
Riding is a connection to the horse and is simply unique. Icelandic horses are very sensitive calm and unique.
And dinner? Oh wow! Cozy place and the best lamb we have ever tasted.
You will remain speechless after so much beauty.
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Ilaria M.
3 months ago
Our experience at Mr Iceland exceeded all expectations. I had not really been on a horse since a major horse riding accident and Hörður made sure I was comfortable with my horse before we went out riding. The experience was so much more than just riding the horse. Hörður is very focused on the connectio n between horse and rider, and the importance of the rider being the leader. The dinner was incredible and the interesting conversation at the dinner table taught us lots about the history of IcIceland. An experience well worth every cent!
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Lena A.
4 months ago
We have been to Iceland twice and Mr. Icelands farm, housing and horseback riding are all excellent. Definitely one of the best experiences we had in Iceland. Hordur (Mr.Iceland) and his team are great. They provide extensive instruction to assure a safe and enjoyable riding experience. The dinner Hordur cooked after the ride was excellent and we saw the Northern Lights from right outside the cabin in which we stayed. Chapeau Hordur and team, two thumbs up, we highly recommend this experience.
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James F.
4 months ago
A very special place with a very intentional and welcoming atmosphere. We did the dinner and horseback riding and loved it and the animals so much, we did a private ride the next day. We felt like we were able to build relationships with our horses, Lif and Kriya. Cottages are very well appointed with mini fridges, hot plates, dishwasher, and high end amenities. The staff were all very approachable and personable. Excellent place to relax in a unique Icelandic space and learn about the horse breed from someone who truly appreciates them.
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Brad F.
4 months ago
Stumbling upon Mr. Island's website before our last minute trip to Iceland in April was pure luck. Having availability on his website for our days was tremendous and rare fortune. We had the most special time learning about Icelandic horses and how to handle and ride them. Hordur was very attentive, assessing everyone's ability, and when we went riding with him, it was a great tailored tolt all the way! The best part was to have a cozy private dinner with Mr. Island himself just chatting, laughing, learning about each other. The organic lamb was out of this world quite literally. The cabins are great - conducive to napping and great night sleep. Another highlight was evening with a storyteller when we learned more about Icelandic traditions and tried very authentic Icelandic foods and snacks. This whole Mr. Iceland experience was an absolute highlight of our trip! It was relaxing and exciting at the same time and we felt that we experienced a little bit of authentic Iceland. My husband, 15 year old son and I had a blast and would love to come back if we visit Island again! Thank you, Mr. Iceland!!!
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Inessa G.
4 months ago
This was hands down my favorite experience in Iceland. Mr Iceland offers something far beyond horseback riding—he creates a meaningful connection between rider and horse.
After a thoughtful introduction to the Icelandic horse, he selected a horse for each of us based on our personalities, which made the experience feel deeply personal. The ride itself was beautiful—across the farm, through streams, with dogs joyfully running alongside.
We finished with an authentic home-cooked meal featuring lamb from the farm. Wonderful food, but even better conversation.
A truly memorable experience—don’t miss it.
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Conley Z.
5 months ago
ce:
⸻
Our experience at Mr. Iceland was truly unforgettable. This was so much more than a horseback ride—it was a meaningful connection with the horses and nature. Before riding, we were taught how to approach, respect, and connect with the horses, and were thoughtfully paired with one we felt aligned with.
Hodur made sure each rider and horse were in sync, and his team was incredibly kind, attentive, and knowledgeable. After the ride, we enjoyed a candlelit dinner in the barn that was both beautifully presented and absolutely delicious—such a unique and surreal experience.
The second tour along the black beach with Elisa was breathtaking and deeply moving. It honestly brought tears to my eyes. Elisa is not only a skilled equestrian but a truly beautiful human.
An experience that touched my soul—I will never forget it. ✨My deepest gratitude to the people, the land , and the horses.
Our accommodation’s were both peaceful and exquisite with the most thoughtful design. The french doors overlooking the paddock with full view of the horse’s. Truly magnificent!!!
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Susan P.
5 months ago
I joined the afternoon ride and dinner package and it was one of the best horseback riding experiences I have ever had in Iceland. Hörður introduced us to the Icelandic horse and then basic horsemanship in an indoor setting. Each person spent time getting to know their horse and got personalized feedback from Hörďur on how to improve their skills as a rider. Not many farms will take this much time to make riders feel comfortable. I like the Hördur is a little woo, woo and incorporates mindfulness and energy awareness into the lessons. It was so much fun. I will be back.
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Green E.
5 months ago
It’s hard to put into words how amazing our experience was at Mr Iceland’s farm.
We arrived exhausted after driving in terrible weather but we were met with a warm welcome from the staff who had prepared our lovely cabin.
Then we met Hörður in the stables for our ride. He had taken care to select horses that would stay calm in the bad weather and taught us how to make a connection with them before we headed out. His team member Meta was very kind and looked after us too. We felt like both of them had made an effort to give us an enjoyable experience.
The meal we had when we returned from the ride was amazing - local lamb and vegetables with delicious wine.
This more than a horse riding experience. It’s an opportunity to truly connect with the incredible Icelandic horse and experience local culture.
We can’t wait to come back!
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emaf1234
5 months ago
If you’re visiting Iceland from the US, booking a private horseback ride with Mr. Iceland is an absolute must. The three of us stayed on his horse ranch and it was hands down one of the most magical parts of our trip.
The horses were incredibly well cared for, gentle, and perfect for riders of different experience levels. The private ride felt personal and unhurried, we got to take in the stunning Icelandic landscape in such an authentic, peaceful way. Riding through lava fields and open countryside felt like something out of a dream.
Staying on the ranch made the experience even more special. It was cozy, welcoming, and gave us a true taste of Icelandic farm life. Mr. Iceland was warm, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about his horses and his country.
We left with unforgettable memories and would 100% recommend this experience to anyone looking for something unique, intimate, and truly Icelandic. 🐴🇮🇸
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Ashley M.
6 months ago
If you’re visiting Iceland from the US, booking a private horseback ride with Mr. Iceland is an absolute must. The three of us stayed on his horse ranch and it was hands down one of the most magical parts of our trip.
The horses were incredibly well cared for, gentle, and perfect for riders of different experience levels. The private ride felt personal and unhurried, we got to take in the stunning Icelandic landscape in such an authentic, peaceful way. Riding through lava fields and open countryside felt like something out of a dream.
Staying on the ranch made the experience even more special. It was cozy, welcoming, and gave us a true taste of Icelandic farm life. Mr. Iceland was warm, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about his horses and his country.
We left with unforgettable memories and would 100% recommend this experience to anyone looking for something unique, intimate, and truly Icelandic. 🐴🇮🇸
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Ashley D.
6 months ago
My fiancé and I had a beautiful multi-day stay at Mr Iceland’s farm, and I would highly recommend it to anyone visiting Iceland. Our cabin was super cute and clean, and was outfitted with lots of luxuries like a walk-in shower, wood stove, and an electric oven.
During our stay, we were given freedom to roam the farm and spend time with the animals, which included many horses and a very friendly dog and cat. The whole ordeal was very restorative for my fiancé and I.
We also opted in for a private horseback tour. It was first time doing anything like this, but our guide and teacher Alina was very helpful and made the whole experience enjoyable, informative, and stress-free.
Our stay was mid-Winter, and the surrounding area was gorgeous and wide open, especially so with the snow. My fiancé and I have already expressed interest in wanting to return during the Summer to see the change in scenery.
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Jackson O.
6 months ago
The highlight of our trip! My daughter and I spent two unforgettable nights sleeping with the horses, and we loved every minute. The cabins are newly renovated and thoughtfully equipped, including a stove for cooking. Our guides, Alina and Meta, were fantastic, and the horses were absolutely stunning. We can’t wait to return in the summer for their longer rides!
The farm is located along a gravel road, so we rented a 4x4 and made sure to have appropriate car insurance.
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Nora K.
8 months ago
We had an absolutely wonderful stay at the farm. The horses were stunning, and we were lucky enough to have a very special companion — a friendly, talkative, and cuddly cat who joined us on long walks and kept us company for two days. The beds were hands down the most comfortable we’ve ever slept in, and we had incredibly restful nights. This is truly a place we would recommend to anyone looking for a memorable and peaceful stay. As a perfect ending, we even got to see the northern lights on our last evening ✨
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Veronica W.
8 months ago
Staying with Mr. Iceland was a dream come true! The accommodations were lovely and seeing real live horse from your bed was magical. Hordur, aka Mr. Iceland, was the most generous host. He gave lessons before our ride and really made sure we had the confidence before leaving the ring. After our amazing ride on his property- where we crossed rivers and saw the beautiful Icelandic landscape- he prepared the most delicious meal. This was a true one of a kind experience and I will definitely stay longer next time I make it to Iceland!
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The technical storage or access is strictly necessary for the legitimate purpose of enabling the use of a specific service explicitly requested by the subscriber or user, or for the sole purpose of carrying out the transmission of a communication over an electronic communications network.
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The technical storage or access is required to create user profiles to send advertising, or to track the user on a website or across several websites for similar marketing purposes.