When you mention the country Iceland, what are the things come to mind? For most people, the top images are waterfalls, lava, hot springs, and Icelandic horses. They are small and hardy coming in many different colors with thick fur for insulation. These special creatures were brought to the country in the 9th century on Viking ships, they are one of the oldest breeds in the world. Historically the settlers of the country needed the animals for survival, essential for transportation and farming.
In Iceland there are 80,000 horses to its 300,000 people. Some are bred for food, but it is the least eaten meat in the nation. Some are bred for sheep herding and exporting. Most are simply there for companionship and riding. Icelandic horses have five gaits, while the normal horse around the world only has three. The skeið is a flying pace when horses can reach up to 30mph. The tölt is only done by Icelandic horses, called the 5th gear it is in between a trot and a cantor so riders can cover long distances without the horse tiring.
The Icelandic horse has developed in isolation over a milliennium since the Icelandic parliament Alþingi has declared that there shall not be any importation of additional horse breeds in the country. Further, once a horse is exported, it may never return. This has kept the breed entirely pure. With no natural predators except a harsh environment, the horses have developed a curious intelligence. When you see horses along the Ring Road and stop to stare, they will often come right up to you. Greet these ambassadors of Iceland, but do not feed them! They have a healthy diet and sharing your food is detrimental to their health. After seeing hundreds of horses around the country, all beautiful and picturesque – there was one that stood out amongst the herd. Just outside of Mývatn located on the long gravel Road 864 on the way back from visiting Ásbyrgi Canyon and Dettifoss, there was a reason to stop.
Finally, a blue-eyed Icelandic horse. Eyes are the window to the soul, and meeting this noble beast was unforgettable.