Lækjamót – Horse Breeding and Riding Experiences

Lækjamót is a modern Icelandic horse-breeding farm in Víðidalur in Húnaþing vestra. The farm is on a national road and approximately halfway between Reykjavík and Akureyri. Víðidalur refers to the valley, and Húnaþing vestra to the administrative area. Lækjamót has been owned by the same family for more than 200 years. This brings together a long-standing family history and a modern operation focused on horse breeding. Both its location in Víðidalur and its strong emphasis on horse keeping and riding experiences are characteristic features that help visitors find their way around.

Horse Breeding and Riding Experiences

On the large, grass-rich estate, young horses spend the summer roaming freely with hundreds of other horses. Lækjamót also has access to Víðidalstunguheiði in the surrounding area.

The offerings are for riders of all levels and include courses, training courses, seminars, private lessons and training support—in Europe, in Iceland and at Lækjamót itself. Qualified equine professionals provide horse training, combining traditional methods with modern developments. This training work has a decades-long tradition at Lækjamót. If you are considering an offering at the farm, confirm the details with the operator before your trip. Family ownership and training work span different periods of time: the farm has been owned by the same family for more than 200 years, while the horse-training tradition spans decades.

Hiking Destinations and Culture in Víðidalur

The offerings on site and the nearby destinations should be distinguished by location. Riding experiences are also available right at Lækjamót; however, the trail up Rauðkollur starts at Jörfi farm, and Kolufossar is in Kolugljúfur in the surrounding area.

A steep and challenging hiking trail leads from Jörfi farm up Rauðkollur on Víðidalsfjall. Kolufossar consists of two waterfalls in Kolugljúfur in Víðidalur; trails run along both sides of the gorge. Take care there because of the gorge’s proximity. The destinations have different distinguishing features: Rauðkollur is notable for its steepness and difficulty, while at Kolugljúfur, the trails close to the gorge and the related caution are important. The gorge cannot be circled on a loop all the way to Víðidalsbrú, because Þvergil interrupts the trail on the west side. Check conditions before hiking.

Kolurúm is near the bridge on the west side. According to local lore, a giantess is said to have slept there. Kolurúm adds a connection to local folklore to the natural attractions.

Stóra-Ásgeirsá farm is also in Víðidalur. In addition to farming, Magnús and Rannveig run a horse-breeding operation, a horse-rental service and an animal park with various animals. Check the business’s social media page for current opening hours and service details before visiting.

Discover more destinations: Undirfell, Hofsós, Ríp, Laugarbakki, Vidhidalstunga, Húnavatn, Blönduós, Skagaströnd

For the broader travel overview: Northwest Iceland.