Highland Trails - Iceland

Winter Riding and Northern Lights

5 star rating   19 March 2022

Rochelle (this is their first In The Saddle holiday) Magically Enchanting | There were plenty of helmets - of varying sizes - for everyone to use. At least for this specific riding operator -IslandsHestar - run by Sophie and Hanes, helmets are NOT necessary to bring. I would have liked knowing that, as helmets take space in a suitcase. I also think that it needs to be strongly stressed that the Northern Lights are very unpredictable, even during March. We had very extreme winter weather during our 3 day ride, so the Northern Lights were not visible. That’s normal, as we have no control over the weather, but I think this ride needs to say it several times, that the chances of seeing them are never assured.
[Becky from In The Saddle replies: Thank you very much for your feedback and I'm sorry to hear the weather was extreme during your holiday and you didn’t see the Northern Lights. We will review the ride information and make sure it is very clear that the lights are subject to the correct weather conditions.
Our 'recommended packing list' mentions that hats are available to borrow locally but we would always recommend riders take their own to ensure fit and quality.]


The Riding

How well were you matched with the right horse for your ability?
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How would you rate the variety of riding, pace or terrain?
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How would you rate the overall standard of the horses, tack and stables?
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The Accommodation

How would you rate your room(s) for comfort and facilities?
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How would you rate the standard of the food?
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Do you have any comments about the accommodation and food?

The guesthouse was immaculate, and very comfortable. The food was beyond excellent! The breakfast offerings were varied and copious, the coffee was very good. Every lunch, we had a much welcome homemade soup, with lovely fresh bread. The dinners were delicious, and featured some Icelandic specialties, like lamb and salmon, and a delectable skyr cake.

Sophie and Hannes were the very best riding guides. They knew their horses, were extremely helpful, and tried to make the experience the best one possible, in spite of some very challenging wintry weather. I loved the two horses they matched with me.
[Becky from In The Saddle replies: It's great to hear how much you enjoyed the riding and accommodation. Thank you very much for your feedback.]


Before Your Holiday

Did you have all of the information you needed to:

Plan and prepare for your holiday?
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Feel comfortable about your transfers and what to expect?
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