Horse Breeding
Heartland
Iceland's highest concentration of Icelandic horses
Skagafjordur Valley (Skagafjörður): Horse Breeding Heartland
Skagafjörður
Updated February 5, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team
Iceland's premier horse-breeding region — a broad valley and fjord in North Iceland. Known for Glaumbær turf farm museum, Drangey Island rising from the fjord, Grettislaug hot spring, and rich saga connections.
Region
Northwest Iceland
Best time: June – August
The heartland of Icelandic equestrian culture, Skagafjörður is a sweeping valley and fjord system in North Iceland. Rich in saga history and home to the highest concentration of Icelandic horses in the country, it offers a unique blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and traditional rural life.
Safety + sourcing
Last updated: 2026-02-05
Skagafjörður is accessible year-round via Route 1. Summer tours and boat trips should be booked in advance.
Sources to check
Glaumbær Museum
Turf Farm
Beautifully preserved traditional turf farmstead
Drangey Island
Saga Site
Dramatic island rising from the fjord, puffin colony
Best Season
Jun–Aug
Horse shows, boat trips, and optimal hiking
Rafting
Jökulsá Austari
White-water rafting on two glacial rivers — one of Iceland's top adventure activities
Museum
Glaumbær
Beautifully preserved turf farmstead museum showcasing centuries of rural Icelandic life
Key Highlights
Horse Breeding Heartland
The epicenter of Icelandic horse culture with annual shows and riding events
Glaumbær Turf Museum
One of Iceland's best-preserved turf farmsteads, showcasing centuries of rural life
Drangey Island
A dramatic cliff island rising from the fjord, famous for puffins and Grettir's Saga
Grettislaug Hot Spring
Natural geothermal pool on the shore with views of Drangey and the fjord
Saga Connections
Rich in medieval Icelandic saga history, including Grettir's Saga and others
Hofsós Swimming Pool
Stunning infinity pool overlooking the fjord, one of Iceland's most scenic pools
How to Get There
- Varmahlíð on Route 1 is the southern gateway, about 290 km (3.5 hours) from Reykjavik
- Route 75 leads north from the Ring Road to Sauðárkrókur, the main town (population 2,600)
- Domestic flights from Reykjavik to Sauðárkrókur airport shorten the journey to 40 minutes
- The valley is broad and easy to drive, with paved main roads and gravel side roads
- Glaumbær turf farm is right on Route 75, impossible to miss between Varmahlíð and Sauðárkrókur
Best Time to Visit
- June-August: Horse riding tours in full swing, Glaumbær and Drangey boat trips operating
- Late June: Longest days for horse treks and exploring the broad valley farmland
- September: Autumn sheep roundup (Réttir) — a major cultural event visitors can join
- October-April: Horse riding still possible but limited, Glaumbær may have reduced hours
- July: Peak horse show season with competitions and breeding displays
Planning help
Skagafjordur Valley FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.