Horse Riding on Black Sand Beach

Where Volcanic Sand Meets the Atlantic

Riding an Icelandic horse across a black volcanic beach with the North Atlantic crashing beside you is one of those experiences that stays vivid in memory for years. Solhestar operates this coastal ride from their farm near Vik, and the combination of the unique breed, the dramatic landscape, and the raw power of the ocean creates something genuinely special.

The south coast of Iceland is known for its striking black sand beaches, formed from eroded basalt lava. Riding a horse across this terrain — with sea stacks visible in the distance and glacier-topped mountains behind you — delivers a sensory experience that a car window simply cannot match.

The Route

After meeting at the farm and receiving your safety briefing, you ride out through coastal grasslands where Icelandic sheep often graze alongside the path. The trail descends to the beach, where the black sand stretches wide and flat — perfect for letting the horses open up into the tolt.

The beach section is the emotional core of the ride. Waves roll in from the Atlantic on one side while on the other, the cliffs of Reynisfjall rise sharply. On clear days, the ice cap of Myrdalsjokull glacier gleams in the distance. The contrast of the jet-black sand against white surf and green hillsides creates a color palette that photographers dream about.

The return route loops back through different terrain, offering views of farmland, lava formations, and the occasional waterfall. The total ride lasts about 90 minutes in the saddle, with the full experience including briefing and gear taking approximately 2.5 hours.

The Horses and Guides

Solhestar breeds and trains their own Icelandic horses, and the quality shows. The animals are well-socialized, responsive, and genuinely appear to enjoy the beach outings. The guides are experienced riders who grew up with these horses and share stories about the breed's history and the local landscape as you ride.

The tolt is showcased on the flat beach stretch, and even complete beginners manage it with surprising ease. The gait is so smooth that many riders laugh with delight the first time they feel it — there is no bouncing, just a flowing forward motion that feels effortless for both horse and rider.

Practical Considerations

This ride is best combined with a south coast road trip since Vik is roughly 2.5 hours from Reykjavik. If you are driving the south coast for waterfalls and black beaches anyway, adding this horse ride transforms a scenic drive into an immersive adventure. Afternoon slots tend to have the best light for photography. Dress warmly and expect wind — the coast earns its reputation for dramatic weather, which only adds to the atmosphere.