Austvaðsholt farm, the heart of Hekluhestar, is located 12 km from Hella, in a vast open area 100 km. east of Reykjavik in the vicinity of the volcano Mt. Hekla, bordered by the river Rangá and has the character of a family farm.
Horses are the focal point of activity at Hekluhestar, brought up and trained with the requirements of our guests in mind. Perfectly adapted to their ground, from the grassy meadows and river randges to the rugged desertic highlands and volcanic fields. The Icelandic horse has a fourth and fifth gait, tölt and pace, which enable one to cover long distances comfortably and swiftly.
For over thirty years the Hekluhestar family has guided many groups of people coming from all over the world through the rugged area of Hekla. Anita is continuing the family tradition that her parents, Jón and Nicole started, and is leading the riding tours, which she has been involved every year since she was a little child.
The Highland tours 2012– 6 and 8 day rides
Time: from June to August
Price:
6 days – 1400 euros
8 days – 1980 euros
Hekla Landmannalaugar Trail 6 day ride – dates
25.06 to 30.06 (full)
09.07 to 14.07
20.08 to 25.08
Landmannalaugar Fjallabak Tour 8 day ride – dates
23.07 to 30.07
08.08 to 15.08
In July and August we offer riding tours through lavafields and volcanic ash desert and other impressive scenery close to the famous volcano Hekla.The tours continues to Landmannalaugar a geothermal area with a colourful and breathtaking landscape of mountains, hot springs and lavafields. Daily treks of 4-7 hours. Accomodation is provided at the farm and in well kept mountain huts.
Included in the price for the highland rides: horse and tack, guiding (Icelandic, French and English speaking guide), location of helmets and rain gear, lodging (dormitory type in cabins), all meals, transport of luggage (by 4X4 vehicle), transfer from/to bus station of Hella.
IMPORTANT: the riders meet at the farm in the afternoon or evening before the ride starts
Summer night ride – Ride into the bright Icelandic summer night in June
Time: June
Price: 150 euros
Experience a unique admosphere and the energy of the nature by riding into the bright night on an Icelandic horse. Ride in the meadows where the birds with their chicks are running around and the dew decorates the vegetation. Going along the beautiful and quiet river Ranga with a great view of the volcano Hekla, glaciers and mountains. We start the ride around 22 o‘clock and ride for about two to three hours, when the midnight sun is shining. When we arrive back to the farm, hot chocolate and traditional „bakkelsi“ will be served. Sleeping bag accomodation and brunch the next morning included.
Bright summernight adventures – 4 days
Time: May and June
Price: 1100 euros
We ride at day and explore at night. Experience the Icelandic horse in their natural environment. Starting the ride around lunchtime, riding for three up to five hours per day. Having then a traditional Icelandic dinner at the farm and after that going for a drive to explore some of the most beautiful places in Iceland, Landmannalaugar (if open), Þórsmörk, Vík, Gullfoss, Geysir and Þingvellir. Enjoying these places in the midnight sun when there are few people around. Sleeping at the Austvaðsholt farm and waking up for a late brunch.
Hiking with packhorses
Take a hike in the unspoiled nature and beautiful scenery with a horse carrying your luggage by your side.
Day tours
Come and visit our farm and go for a one hour ride up to a day tour along the river Rangá with a beautiful view of the mountains. Then you can enjoy the farm life and play with the sheeps, goats, pigs, chicken and dogs.
Icelandic, French and English spoken