Viking Horses · Finnsnes, Norway
Riding three old Norwegian breeds under the midnight sun
A riding holiday with Viking Horses in the Troms region above the Arctic Circle, on three old Norwegian breeds, the Dole, Fjord and Nordland/Lyngen horse. Riding under the midnight sun in summer, with open-fire dinners of local salmon and reindeer.
A short arena introduction is given on arrival, but the trail crosses easy, moderate and difficult terrain across forest and mountain, so a little riding experience and a reasonable level of fitness make it more comfortable. Guided in English.
Norway's three old native breeds, roughly 12.8 to 15.7 hands, sure-footed and steady in mountain terrain.
Rides head out from the stables at Sørreisa into forest and up onto open mountain, with nights in lavvo tent camps and in the stable loft. Dinners are cooked the local way over an open fire — salmon, reindeer and other local food — with a jacuzzi and grill hut back at the stables. Routes take in a Sami family homestead by Andsvatnet and a crossing over the mountain to the Skøelv valley, with views across the fjords to the island of Senja.
Traditional lavvo tent camps out on the trail and the stable loft at Sørreisa. A room at Sørreisa Hotel can be booked instead of the stable loft (around 995 NOK per night, including breakfast).
All meals included — breakfast, lunch and dinner — with dinners cooked over open fire using local produce. Allergies and dietary needs catered for on request. Beer and wine are not included.
Best months: June to August
The summer ride runs under the midnight sun. Viking Horses also run shorter weekend departures in spring and autumn, when there is still snow on the high ground.
Nearest airport: Bardufoss (BDU) is the closest airport; Tromsø (TOS) is the main international gateway
Transfers: Operator transfers from Bardufoss airport or Finnsnes port on request (around 550 NOK each way)
Fly to Tromsø or Bardufoss via Oslo, then transfer to the ranch at Sørreisa.
