Outdoor activity

It is not surprising that these horses were called man's most necessary servant, considering the total lack of roads in former times. Leading through the untouched, charming nature of North Iceland, riding trails follow the coast, wind into the scenic mountains, or revive the use of age-old trails with varied history.

Experiencing an autumn roundup by the owners of free-ranging horses is no less of an adventure. Sitting on the corral fence and watching the action, you will see excitement, hear singing, and find happiness in every face. Many places in North Iceland have special exhibitions that introduce travellers to the Icelandic horse, and events related to riding and raising horses are always on the increase.

Cycling is an inexpensive, exhilarating and earth friendly way to tour and enjoy the country. Short and long term bicycle rentals as well as guided biclycle tours are available.

During recent years, services for walkers and hikers have increased significantly in North Iceland tourism. 

The hallmark of North Iceland for walkers is its wide variety of trails. In the vicinity of Sauðárkrókur, for example, there are easy routes for the whole family, while quite demanding terrain awaits in the next mountain range to the east, such as near Hólar in Hjaltadalur valley and at many places in the Tröllaskagi mountains between Skagafjörður and Eyjafjörður. The peninsula east of Eyjafjörður, as well as many other areas, displays remnants of deserted communities; anyone interested in the Icelandic sagas, on the other hand, might try the Húnavatn counties for tracing the steps of heroes like Grettir.

Many mountainous areas have huts owned by the touring clubs for hiker accommodation, whereas the lowland parts of North Iceland offer an assortment of lodging in both urban and rural areas.

There is no difficulty linking your walk to fishing, a museum, a boat ride, whale watching, observing seals, river rafting, horse riding or whatever else - plenty is happening in North Iceland.

Just put on your hiking boots - here is where you will find adventure!

The rich birdlife of North Iceland, distributed over widely varying habitats, displays a diversity seldom surpassed in Iceland and accessible areas for seeing species such as the Barrow’s Goldeneye, Harlequin Duck, Gyr Falcon, Rock Ptarmigan, the Great Northern Gannet, and the Guillemot. Wetlands are important as a habitat for many Icelandic breeding species, and of the Icelandic wetlands which are famed for rich birdlife, several of the most renowned is in North Iceland. Click for more information.

Here you can see the companies in North Iceland that offer facilities or tours for bird watching/wildlife explorations. 

North Iceland is the perfect arena for all sorts of team building. The possibilities are almost endless.

During the summer months you can play golf all night long in the midnight sun. On average there are only 30km between the 14 different golf courses in the North.
All these different golf courses are built in to a nature of their own  with stunning secnery and breathtaking light during the summer. Peace, quiet and unique nature will give you a Golfing experience you´ll never forget. If you want a real challenge you participate in the Arctic Open Tournament at Jadar Golf Club in Akureyri, the most Northerly 18 holes Golf course in the world. The Arctic Open takes place during the bright Midsummer Nights! 

Quadbikes and buggy cars are for everyone!

For spelunkers and potholers, Iceland has scores of caves, large and small, deep and shallow, to be explored. Some caves may be explored without a guide and many agencies offer cave exploration tours for others.

Paintball and lazertag is a fun way to build some team spirit.

Experience nature in a thrilling way.