There’s something almost magical about Icelandic horses. It may be because they come from Iceland, reputed home of supernatural creatures such as trolls, elves and frost giants. Or perhaps it’s because these compact small horses are determined to prove that they can do anything that a larger horse can – and more. Whatever the reason, the Icelandic horse has an enthusiastic following, and equestrians who buy an Icelandic horse will find they are starting out on a very special relationship. Modern Icelandics are the descendants of horses taken to Iceland by settlers from the 9th century CE onward. People who sell an Icelandic horse know these small, self-reliant animals are some of the oldest equine inhabitants of northern Europe, and they have retained their unique qualities for centuries.
Icelandics are always described as small horses rather than ponies. They usually stand between 13 hands (52 inches/132 cm) and 14 hands (56 inches/ 142 cm) high. Smaller and taller examples of the breed exist, so there’s plenty of choice for anyone planning to buy an Icelandic horse. The range of coat colours is extensive, and a large herd of Icelandic horses on the move is a breath-taking sight. These charismatic semi-feral horses are an intrinsic part of the cultural life of Iceland. They have carried Viking warriors on their backs, and today breeders who sell an Icelandic are proud of the history in its genes. They are strong and hardy, with a double coat that keeps out the cold of an Icelandic winter. Icelandics are quite stocky, yet their legs are fine, giving them an elegant appearance as they move gracefully with their ground-covering strides. Best of all, Icelandics have a unique range of gaits, making them some of the most comfortable riding horses to ride in the world. Icelandics have the basic gaits of walk (fetgangur), trot (brokk) and canter or gallop (stökk). In addition, they can have the famous tölt, a lateral pace (where both legs on each side move forward together) and the flying pace (skeið, or flugskeið). Speeds of 30 mph (48 kph) have been recorded!
Icelandic horses have developed alongside the people who live on this volcanic island. The first settlers came mainly from Scandinavia, but also from Ireland and Scotland where there were Norse and Gaelic populations. The horses they brought with them came from Britain, Ireland and Scandinavia. They share their DNA with Shetland ponies, Norwegian Fjord ponies and the ponies of the Faeroe Islands, among others. What is special about the Icelandic horses is that they have not been altered by other stock for centuries. They are a living time capsule from a thousand years ago. Traditionally they were used for riding, herding and pack work. Their stories are entwined with those of the Norse gods and heroes such as Odin, and today, many Icelandic horses are still named for characters in the sagas. Being small and hardy, as well as strong and easy to keep, many Icelandics were used in European coal mines in the 20th century. Today, they are an essential part of Iceland’s tourism.
For centuries, the competitive Norsemen used their horses for tests of endurance and speed. Horse fights were also a sporting spectacle in the early days. Now the horses have a special role in taking trekkers through Iceland’s dramatic and beautiful scenery. The worldwide population of this popular breed is now greater than that on the island!