Icelandic
The Icelandic Horse is a gaited horse breed from Iceland. They are known for their smooth gaits and wonderful personalities. They are used as riding horses by equestrians all around the world.
See below for Photos, Breed Videos, Gait Information and Facts about the Icelandic Horse!
10 Fascinating Facts about Icelandic Horses
About The Breed:
Known as the original viking horse. They have been bred in Iceland for over 1,000 years. Delighting equestrians around the world with their smooth gaits and exceptional personalities. Their gaits include the Walk, Trot, Tolt, Canter and Flying Pace.
They are the only breed of horse in Iceland, making it one of the purest breeds in Iceland. To prevent disease, once a horse leaves Iceland, they cannot return and no outside horses can be imported.
They have a long lifespan and it is common to see them ridden well into their 20's. The average height is between 12.2 and. 14.2. Because of their dense bone structure they can easily carry adult riders. Over 100 different colors and patterns are recognized. Tough and surefooted, they are the perfect horse to ride in difficult terrain and harsh weather.
Riding an Icelandic and experiencing the tolt is an absolute must on any horse riding bucket list. Warning, reactions to tolt may include uncontrollable giddiness, laughter and excessive amounts of fun. Ending up with your own Icelandic dream horse is also a common side effect.
Watch the Breed Video
Icelandic Horse Gaits
In addition to Walk, Trot and Canter. Icelandic Horses also have gaits called the Tölt and Flying Pace.
“The Icelandic Horse has a thousand year history. Purebred since the 10th century, the Icelandic Horse is renowned for being hardy, athletic, independent, spirited, friendly, adaptable, and sure-footed, with five natural gaits. These are the Walk, Trot, Canter, Tölt, and Pace.”
Icelandic Horse Photos
I’m on a Quest to Ride Every Breed! Watch the Icelandic Episode Here:
Breed Registries
Below are the breed registries, clubs and associations where you can find more information on Icelandic Horses. (To add a club to this list, send me an email here.)
Featured Breeders
Hofstorfan - Hof á Höfðaströnd (Iceland)
Tamangur Icelandics (USA)
