Horseback riders enjoying a trail ride in Gimsøy in the Lofoten Islands

The Lofoten Islands of Norway

An equestrian stay in Norway, in the very heart of the Lofoten Islands. On horseback, uncover the wild and isolated nature of the island of Gimsøy and follow the old Viking routes to discover magnificent Norwegian landscapes. Depending on the season, you will experience the spectacle of the midnight sun, or the colourful northern lights, all from the comfort of your lodge, located a stone’s throw away from the beach. This riding holiday in Lofoten is an unforgettable experience that will have you immersed in the culture of the Vikings who shaped the history of this special country.
Book now Print the details for this ride
Centre based holidays
6 days (5 days riding)
From £1,640
Family holidays
from 12 y.o
Open to non-riders

From the horse’s mouth

  • The Lofoten Islands of Norway
    August 2023 GEMMA
    The horse trail trip was an unparalleled experience. Galloping beneath towering mountains with the vast sea beside us. Riding strong, beautiful horses across such dramatic landscapes was an exhilarating experience. Watching ethereal glow of the aurora borealis was nothing short of mesmerizing. The beautiful horses... Read all
  • The Lofoten Islands of Norway
    May 2022 LAURA aged 29
    We had an amazing time in Norway - we're already talking about wanting to go back next year! Our guides were lovely, we had great horses and the scenery was beautiful. We couldn't have asked for much more (maybe slightly better weather!).
  • Riding out at sunset on Gimsøy island
    Enjoy beautiful sunset rides in the Lofoten Islands
  • Group of riders riding Icelandic horses on Vinje beach
    Ride Icelandic horses on this riding holiday in Norway
  • Riders riding in the beach with a snowy background in Gimsøy
    The winter rides on Gimsøy are chilly, but beautiful!
  • Riders riding in the Lofoten islands with a beautiful mountainous scenery
    Discover Gimsøy in the Lofoten Island on this horseback riding holiday
  • Riding in the winter on Vinje beach in Gimsøy
    A great riding holiday for competent riders
  • Horseback riders enjoying a trail ride in Gimsøy in the Lofoten Islands
    Experience the beauty of the Lofoten islands in the summer
  • Riders on a snowy winter ride in Norway
    Trail riding in the Lofoten Islands, Norway
  • Horseback riders riding out at the golden hour in Norway
    A very scenic horseriding holiday in Norway
  • View from a rider riding her horse in Norway
    Join a riding holiday in the Lofoten Islands
  • Trail riders riding in Gimsøy
    Rode across the craggy scenery of Gimsøy island
  • Riding out at sunset on Gimsøy island
    Enjoy beautiful sunset rides in the Lofoten Islands

Itinerary

Highlights

- Idyllic accommodation within walking distance from the beach, offering an ideal location for viewing of the Northern Lights or the Midnight sun.
- Ride energetic and comfortable Icelandic horses.
- Uncover the hidden secrets of the Lofoten islands, in particular the rugged island of Gimsøy.
- Enjoy a visit to the Borg Museum where you can immerse yourself in the culture of the Vikings and a visit to a local goat cheese farm.
  • Day 1 1 : EUROPE - LEKNES or SVOLVAER – EQUESTRIAN FARM - 2 hours riding

    Lofoten Lodges
    Flight from Europe to Leknes or Svolvær. Flights are not included but we can help book them for you on request. Depending on where you will be flying from, it is likely that your flight plan will require you to depart a day early and spend the night in Oslo. We can help with those arrangements too. Depending on the season there are non-stop flights between Oslo and Leknes or Svolvær, or you might need to connect via Bodø airport.

    Your guide will be there to welcome you on arrival and transfer you to the farm (approx. 1 hour drive). Dinner at the farm restaurant before meeting the horses and embarking on a night time ride. You will have the chance to admire the strange beauty of the midnight sun or the Northern Lights (dependant on the season). Overnight at the lodge.
  • Day 2 2 : GIMSOY - 5-6 hours riding

    Lofoten Lodges
    Today, your trail ride will allow you to discover the impressive, yet completely wild landscape of the small island of Gimsoy, located in the very heart of the Lofoten archipelago. Cross the old roads that the Vikings once crossed before you before stopping for lunch in a traditional Lavvo tent situated in the Vinje valley. Return to the farm at the end of the day for a hearty dinner and peaceful night's rest.

    Please note riding hours may adjust according to season.
  • Day 3 3 : GIMSOY - 5-6 hours riding

    Lofoten Lodges
    Today’s ride will take you into a beautiful valley called Gjendalen where we also have lunch if the weather is good – otherwise you will have cosy lunch break at the local café.

    This morning, you will saddle up your horses and continue the exploration on the island of Gimsoy. Start in the small town of Jenndalen before descending down to the white beach of Vinje where you will enjoy some lunch and relaxation at a local cafe. Here, your guide will take you to the most beautiful corners of the island where you can take in the magnificent views of the wild landscapes. Let the horses stretch their legs as you gallop along the sandy beaches before returning back to the farm in the afternoon.

    Please note riding hours may adjust according to season.
  • Day 4 4 : AALAN GARD - 5-6 hours riding

    Lofoten Lodges
    Today you will be riding in another island of the Lofoten and enojy the beautiful sceneries. You will stop at the Aalan farm where you can enjoy an organic meal made from fresh farm produce. After lunch, continue your ride along a new trail before heading back to the farm.

    Please note riding hours may adjust according to season.
  • Day 5 5 : UNSTAD - 5-6 hours riding

    Lofoten Lodges
    Depending on the weather, today you will either ride over the mountain to Unstad or to the nature reserve of Eggum. You will stop for lunch that will either be prepared by the local community or a local cheese farm.

    Please note riding hours may adjust according to season.
  • Day 6 6 : LEKNES or SVOLVAER – EUROPE - No riding

    One final group breakfast, before catching your flight home. Again, it is possible your flight plan requires you to spend a night in Oslo and arrive home the following day.

Dates & prices

Price details

Please note that in the following departures the bathrooms in the accommodation are shared: 15th of September and 29th of September.

- International and domestic flights are not included, but can be booked on request - please contact us for rates.

- Rates are per person, based on two riders sharing a twin or double room during the ride.

- Groups are composed of a minimum of 4 riders and a maximum of 9 international riders, plus guides.

- There is no single supplement if you are willing to share a room with another guest of the same sex. To guarantee your own room there is a single supplement of €350/£300/$370 in 2023 & 2024.

- Transfers from and to Leknes or Svolvaer airport are included in the price.

- Children, accompanied by an adult, are welcome from 12 years old - provided they have the required equestrian level.

- Accompanying non-riders are welcome.

- The weight limit for this ride is 85 kg / 187 lbs / 13st3. Please contact us if you are over this limit and would like to join the ride.

- One of the lodges has an outdoor jacuzzi that can be booked upon request and payable locally (NOK 1000 per use, c. €95/£90/$110) - this doesn't operate all year round, please contact us in advance.
Please Note
The itinerary may be modified at anytime for security reasons, meteorological or events beyond our control such as blocked roads, rivers in flood, drought, strikes and local holidays. Equus Journeys, our local partners and their local guides will always strive to find the best solution and will alter the itinerary as needed.
The names of the hotels and accommodation are given for information only and depending on availability, they may be modified without notice and replaced by another of a similar standard.

Price includes

Support Team

1 English-speaking horse guide

Logistics

1 support vehicle
1 vehicle and driver
1 horse equipped with saddle and bridle per rider

Inland transport

Airport transfers

Accommodation

Double room - lodge (5 nights)

Meals

Full board from dinner on arrival day to breakfast on departure day

Price doesn't include

Meals

Beverages and personal extras

Transport

International and domestic flights

Extras

Tips to the local team

Insurance

Cancellation and travel insurance are not included in the above listed price. Please note that insurance is mandatory. We recommend taking out an insurance policy as soon as your trip is booked to cover you in case of cancellation

Optional

Accommodation

Single room supplement
  • Departure Return Price without flights Status
    12/05/2024 17/05/2024 £1,860 €2,139 $2,306
    Guaranteed departure
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    26/05/2024 31/05/2024 £1,860 €2,139 $2,306
    Full
  • Departure Return Price without flights Status
    25/08/2024 30/08/2024 £1,860 €2,139 $2,306
    Last seats
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  • Departure Return Price without flights Status
    08/09/2024 13/09/2024 £1,860 €2,139 $2,306
    Full
    15/09/2024 20/09/2024 £1,860 €2,139 $2,306
    Open
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    22/09/2024 27/09/2024 £1,860 €2,139 $2,306
    Full
    29/09/2024 04/10/2024 £1,860 €2,139 $2,306
    Open
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    06/10/2024 11/10/2024 £1,860 €2,139 $2,306
    Guaranteed departure
    Book now
    13/10/2024 18/10/2024 £1,860 €2,139 $2,306
    Open
    Book now

Equestrian info

Horses

The team is made up of 52 horses. All the horses live out all year round.

They are Icelandic horses carried by the history of the Vikings and the sagas, each with four comfortable paces. Most of them can tölt, a fast but comfortable step. Every horse has their own character, which you will become acquainted to after your week’s stay.

Guide & local team

Frode and Lisa will be your guides. Frode grew up on a farm and has great knowledge and expertise. He loves his horses, and knows each of their individual characters. He speaks Norwegian, English and German.
A like to Frode, Lisa is an enthusiastic rider with extensive knowledge the local terrain. She has been passionate about horses since a young age and will be happy to welcome you in Norway. She speaks Norwegian and English.

Minimum riding ability

Minimum riding ability

You must be comfortable at riding in all three paces, over a long period of time. You will be spending up to 7 hours in the saddle so you must be riding fit.

Rider weight limit: 85 kg / 187 lbs / 13st3

Pace

All paces will be experienced. The tölt is usually a fast but comfortable pace that riders will adapt to quickly (not all horses can tölt). In more difficult terrain the horses will walk or trot.

Tacking ability and participation

Everyone's help is required for grooming, tacking and untacking. You can also help with the distribution of food and water.

Trip conditions and Requested experience

You must be riding fit and be prepared for long days in the saddle and different climates. You may be required to dismount and lead your horse on foot over some more difficult mountainous paths. Previous experience in trail riding would be an advantage but is not essential.

Equestrian equipment

The horses are fitted with Icelandic tack (similar to English tack), adapted to them in order to provide comfort for both horse and rider.
Saddle bags are provided.

Riding helmets are mandatory and you should take your own to ensure the correct fit.

Travel info

Comfort

5 nights in beautiful farm lodges, situated in an ideal location to view the Northern lights. The lodges are in walking distance from the beach and are in an idyllic spot for relaxation. All rooms are en-suite and the lodges have a fully equipped kitchen with wood stove, living room with TV and an outdoor terrace. Wifi available.

An outdoor Jacuzzi is available at an additional cost.

Meals

Buffet breakfasts.
Picnic or restaurant lunches – picnic lunches are brought to you by a support vehicle.
Two-course dinners at Laven Restaurant near the lodges.

Alcohol and extra drinks are not included but can be purchased locally as the restaurant is fully licensed.

Climate

Gimsoy experiences a maritime climate. The annual temperature is 7 ° C.
The highest average temperature in Gimsoy is 13 ° C in July and the lowest is 2 ° C in January. The weather and climate of Gimsoy are suitable for winter sports. Snow can fall from September to May.
The weather can change very quickly and there can be real temperature variations in a very short period of time. In the summer season between May and July it is possible to experience the midnight sun.

Depending on the time of year, you could ride under the Northern lights (September to mid April - all sightings are weather dependent) or the midnight sun from late May to mid July.

Tips

Tips are not mandatory but very welcome if you are pleased with the service provided.

Packing list

Please adapt this list to your departure date and let us know if you have any doubts.

Head
- A riding helmet is mandatory. Helmet makers (GPA, HKM, LAS Helmets, Lamicell, Troxel, Equithème) now offer horse-riding helmets that are ventilated, strong, light and comfortable.
- Sunhat: cap for when not riding
- Sunglasses - with a cord attached so they don't fly off when riding
- Buff or bandana for protecting your neck and face from the sun and dust

Upper Body
- Thermals in case of cold weather (long or short-sleeved T-shirts)
- Short or long-sleeved cotton shirts (to provide protection from the sun) or T-shirt in a quick-drying material
- Lightweight fleece or jumper
- Warm polar fleece or equivalent (plus a spare in case one gets wet)
- Warm Goretex-style jacket (water-proof and breathable)

Legs
- 2 pairs of jodhpurs or long leather trousers
- 1 change of trousers (riding trousers or jeans)
- 1 pair of waterproof over trousers
- A swim suit may be useful
- Cotton or synthetic underwear (non-irritant)

Hands and feet
- 1 pair Comfortable riding boots. We recommend short boots with half chaps but you may wish to take long chaps or long boots.
- Lightweight shoes or trainers for the evenings
- Several pairs of socks
- Gloves - your hands are particularly exposed to the sun, wind or rain whilst riding

Other useful items
- Small bumbag to be worn whilst riding
- A soothing cream may be useful to treat areas irritated by long hours in the saddle
- Backpacks are not to be worn whilst riding. Everything should be kept either in pockets or in a bumbag : lip balm, sun screen, small camera, glasses, rope etc.
- Water bottle (1.5 litres or 2 equivalent)
- Headtorch or small torch for moving around at night - bring spare batteries and bulbs (necessary in winter to walk to the restaurant)
- Toiletries
- Ear plugs (may be useful)
- Camera and high capacity memory card. Spare battery
- Waterproof bags for your camera and phone

Medical kit
- Sunscreen and lip balm - should be high factor
- Insect repellent - mosquito spray is essential in the summer
- Any medication you regularly take
- Blister plasters in case of any rubs
- Antiseptic cream, plasters, aspirin, anti-histamine, insect-bite salve etc..
- 10cm wide bandage
- Painkillers
- Spare prescription glasses/contact lenses
- Eye drops
- Imodium or similar anti-diarrhoea medication
- Re-hydration sachets
- Antiseptic wipes
- Handwash gel

General information
- We recommend taking a copy of your passport and insurance documents with you in case you lose your originals
- In your hand luggage carry any valuables, such as your camera, ipod, ipad etc.
- Travelling in your riding boots and carrying your hat and some riding clothes is highly recommended - then if your luggage goes astray you are still able to ride!

Sustainable tourism

  1. Travel light. It's a little known fact, but the lighter you pack, the better for the environment as heavy bags will produce higher emissions (when flying a plane or driving a car!).
  2. Reduce plastic waste. Take your favorite reusable bottle with you. Avoid single-use bags, cups, or straws.
  3. Preserve nature. Always take your rubbish with you during the ride and recycle them. Leave all the flowers or plants as you found them, and never get too close when observing wildlife. Make sure to use eco-friendly products such as body wash or laundry detergent (if camping) to protect both your skin and the environment.
  4. Choose your experiences carefully. Respect animal life by not participating in any activities that abuse wild animals (shows, elephant rides, etc.).
  5. Support local populations. Buy local handicrafts, be respectful of customs, and learn about the culture of local communities.
  6. Share! Raise awareness among your family and friends about sustainable tourism.

For more information please see this page.

Did you know?

Did you know?

On this riding holiday, you will be exploring the Lofoten Islands. This archipelago is located in the county of Nordland, Norway. Considering its location, one would automatically assume that the weather here is quite chilly, right? Well, actually despite the fact that it is clearly not warm, the climate in the Lofoten islands is significantly warmer than it should be. These islands have one of the world's greater temperature anomalies reported at such high latitude. This is due to the Gulf Stream, which provides milder waters and keeps the sea around the archipelago from freezing completely in the winter.

This temperature anomaly, awards the islands with some of the best beaches in Norway!

Customer reviews

Customer reviews

All of our reviews are real, honest opinions from riders who have recently travelled with us. Upon their return, our riders will receive an email inviting them to share their experiences from their trip. Good or bad, each review will be published on our website, provided that they respect our editorial guidelines.
  • GEMMA IGUALADA
    August 2023
    The horse trail trip was an unparalleled experience. Galloping beneath towering mountains with the vast sea beside us. Riding strong, beautiful horses across such dramatic landscapes was an exhilarating experience. Watching ethereal glow of the aurora borealis was nothing short of mesmerizing. The beautiful horses... Read all
    • Horses
    • Programme
    • Accommodation
    • Local guide

    Equus Journeys' reply

    Thank you Gemma for your feedback, and it's lovely to hear you had such a good time, we will follow up on your comments with the stables :)

  • LAURA aged 29 Kilmacolm 1 trip
    May 2022
    We had an amazing time in Norway - we're already talking about wanting to go back next year! Our guides were lovely, we had great horses and the scenery was beautiful. We couldn't have asked for much more (maybe slightly better weather!).
    • Horses
    • Programme
    • Accommodation
    • Local guide
  • YUKIKO aged 42 Hemer 4 trips
    August 2021
    • Horses
    • Programme
    • Accommodation
    • Local guide