5 amazing facts about the Icelandic Horse
The Icelandic horse is a living piece of history, a trusted companion, and one of the mosticonic treasures of Iceland. Whether you have ridden one, dream of visiting Iceland, or simply love horses, these six facts ( of many ) reveal what makes the Icelandic horse truly extraordinary.
1. They Instinctively sense storms long before we do
Living in the unpredictable weather in Iceland has shaped them into natural meteorologists.Icelandic horses can detect subtle changes in atmospheric pressure and wind direction. Before a storm rolls in, they often gather toghether and line up, when you see that you there will be a storm soon. Their instincts have kept both horses and riders safe for centuries.
2. Icelandic horses are not vaccinated
Iceland is one of few places in the world free from major equine diseases.
Because no horses have been imported for over 1,000 years to Iclend, the breed is protected from illnesses common in other countries. Because of that Icelandic horses don’t require vaccinations, as Iceland maintains very strict rules about biosecurity
Once a horse leaves Iceland, it can’t return, a policy that preserves the health and purity of the entire population.
Read the biosecurity rules here
3. Their hearts influence humans through a powerful magnetic field
Horses have remarkable bioenergetics, and the Icelandic horse is no exception.
A horse’s heart produces very strong electromagnetic field of any living mammal, radiating several meters around its body. Research shows that when humans stand close to a relaxed horse, their own heart rhythms can synchronize, reducing stress and promoting emotional balance.
This is one reason why people often describe Icelandic horses as healing, grounding, or simply good for the soul.
4. They have five gaits and you can ride all of them!
Icelandic horses can have up to five gaits and the rider can experience all of them! That is quite rare in the horse world!
The first three are familiar to all riders:
Walk: a steady four-beat gait.
Trot: a two-beat gait with a gentle bounce.
Canter: a rhythmic, three-beat gait used for more speed.
What makes the Icelandic horse unique are its two additional gaits:
Tölt: a smooth, four-beat gait, offering exceptional comfort and stability.
Flying Pace (Skeið): a fast, two-beat lateral gait used over short distances, known for its power, speed, and thrilling feeling.
Together, these five gaits make the Icelandic horse one of the most versatile and enjoyable riding horses in the world.
They sure are ready for a riding tour
5. Big personality in a small, sturdy body
Although they are small in stature and sometimes fall within pony height, Icelanders always call them horses. Their bone structure, strength, and build are that of a full-sized horse. They are incredibly strong, hardy, and spirited and each horse has unique personality. Icelandic horses are social, affectionate, expressive, and endlessly curious.
From their Viking heritage to their calming heart field, the Icelandic horse is one of the most remarkable and beloved animals in the world. Their purity, intelligence, instincts, and unique five gaits make them unforgettable partners, whether you meet them on a farm, on a riding tour, or on the windswept Icelandic highlands.
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