Iceland Part XVI: Horses
My Journey: Horses, Thermal River, And Norse Beads.
5/3/2024, Friday, Last Full Day In Iceland
We woke up at Reykjamörk Hveragerði Campsite. I prepared breakfast and we did some prep work to return the van the next day. Then, off to ride Icelandic horses.
Reykjamörk Hveragerði Campsite
Over the past few days, Dez had been searching for the best horse riding place that fit within our travels and had selected Cora’s House & Horses. The trail guide spent some time with us picking the best horses for us and teaching us some riding basics.
Dez and Me
The ride was very pleasant. We each had a trail guide and we were allowed to control our own horse. This was one of the most gentle horses I have ever ridden, though, he did like to be in front.
I definitely would ride Iceland horses again. At the end of the ride, we used the WC and headed on toward our next added destination. Remember that when in Iceland, you do not go into someone’s home with shoes on.
Horses and Lykania
We were not far from Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River, which was our next destination. This is a thermal river that you can bathe in but it is quite a walk to get to. I think the round trip was like 3 miles. The trail is well marked. It also has an active geothermal area and it is dangerous to get off of the trail.
Once you get to the bathing area, there is a board walk and little, two sided changing cubicles. This place was very busy and you are only going to get limited privacy for changing.
Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River
Iceland allows for woman to be topless, though, I did not see that, I did take advantage of the privilege here. The water is warm and gets hot as you get close to the source.
The walk back is easier than the walk in as it is mostly downhill. Just before getting back to the parking area, there is a very nice mud pot to see.
Mud Pot
There are also some interesting signs.
Don’t Be a Dick Sign
We traveled a little further east to visit Gallery Flói. A lamp worker and historic bead maker. We visited and purchased some of her beads and viewed here mid-level bead furnace.
It was now time to head back to Reykjavik. Throughout the trip, I checked to see if the volcano was still erupting, which it was, so I booked a helicopter flight over the volcano. So now, we had to head back to town to catch my flight.
Some Christian Art I think
Lessons Learned and Tips:
Cora’s House & Horses is great.
Take your shoes off before going into a home.
Do your shit in the WC.
Think about when there won’t be as many people at the thermal river.