Levi: Riding Trek with Icelandic Horses

Lapland has a way of making winter feel special, not just cold. This horseback trek lets you slow down and experience the arctic world from a saddle, with Icelandic horses that are known for being calm and sure-footed.

I really like how this is set up for first-timers. You get initial training, a safety briefing, and a pace that matches your group’s skill level, so you are not thrown into the deep end.

One thing to consider is the temperature. Even with gear provided, you still need to dress properly, and the route can change with weather and experience.

Key highlights you will feel right away

• Icelandic horses with tölt, so you get more than a basic trot and walk
• Beginner-friendly training, with instructions given so you can ride with confidence
• Small groups up to 6, meaning more attention and a smoother experience
• 1 to 2 hour trek options, tailored by weather and rider ability
• Warm riding gear included, plus guidance on what to wear for cold conditions
• Short scenic breaks, including a quick photo stop and a brief shopping window

Lapland from the saddle: why Icelandic horses fit winter

This is the kind of Lapland activity that feels practical and romantic at the same time. You are outside, moving through forests and open ground, and you get a real sense of winter scale, not just a quick photo stop.

The star is the Icelandic horse. The big draw here is that you can try the tölt, a gait unique to this breed. If you have never ridden an Icelandic horse before, expect a smoother rhythm than many people associate with winter trail riding. That matters when you are wearing layers and focusing on balance.

I also like the tone of the experience. It is framed as safe and personalized, not as a hardcore ride. You do not need previous experience, and the pace and route adjust based on the group.

1 hour or 2 hours: what changes once you book the length

You can choose either a 1 hour or 2 hour trek. In real life, that choice mostly affects two things: how long you will be in the cold and how much time you have to settle into the horse’s rhythm.

The trek speed and route are not one-size-fits-all. They depend on your group’s skill level and the weather. That flexibility is good. In winter, conditions can shift quickly, and you want your guide to prioritize safety over showing off a specific route.

If you want a taste, go with the 1 hour option. If you want more time outdoors and a steadier rhythm, choose 2 hours. For many people, the extra time is what turns a short activity into a memory you keep.

Getting to the stable: Lapland Saga or Design Hotel Levi

You have two starting options. You either meet at Lapland Saga or use the pickup linked to Design Hotel Levi. Your exact meeting point can vary depending on what you book, so confirm the time and location before you leave the room.

If you pick the pickup service, plan to be ready around 20 minutes before the activity start. The driver waits 5 minutes, so late arrivals can cause you to miss departure.

I prefer this kind of setup in winter. It reduces friction when snow gear is already a hassle. Also, small group tours work better when everyone arrives together, so the briefing starts on time.

Safety briefing first: how the ride stays beginner-friendly

Before you ride, you get a safety briefing, about 10 minutes at the stable. This is not just rules on paper. It is your chance to learn how your horse communicates, what the guide needs from you, and what you should do when walking slows, turns happen, or the group strings out.

The experience is explicitly easy, and previous riding experience is not required. That said, you still need to pay attention and follow instructions. Icelandic horses are gentle and reliable, but your job is to stay calm, follow cues, and keep your body steady.

Once you have the basics, you are led onto the trek with guiding throughout. Your guide adjusts to the group, which is exactly what you want when you have a mix of first-timers and more confident riders.

The trek itself: forests, fells, roads, and trying tölt

Now comes the good part: riding through Lapland nature on horseback. The ride takes you through forests, plains, and roads around Levi, giving you a mix of tight winter trails and open views depending on conditions.

Expect a guided, controlled experience. Your route and speed vary with weather and skill level, so you should not assume you will always be going at the same pace. This is a positive for most people, because winter riding is all about balance, traction, and not rushing.

The big moment for many riders is getting to try the tölt. It is the gait unique to Icelandic horses, and it can feel different right away. Instead of fighting your legs through a bouncier trot, you may find the rhythm more even. If you are tense, it is worth reminding yourself that the guide is managing the pace and you can focus on sitting comfortably.

Also, there is a “horse-minded” element to the ride. You do not need to be an equestrian, but you do want to be aware of the horse around you, listen to the guide, and avoid sudden movements. That mindset makes the whole thing smoother and more enjoyable.

Photo stop and short break: what to do with those extra minutes

Mid-ride, there is a photo stop of about 5 minutes. It is long enough to grab a few shots and enjoy the view, but short enough that the horses and the schedule stay comfortable in the cold.

After the ride, you get free time and shopping for about 10 minutes at Lapland Saga. This is not a full market crawl, but it can be handy if you want a small souvenir or a quick browse before heading back.

If you care about photos, wear gloves that let you use your phone or camera. Winter makes everything harder, and fumbling while the group waits is stressful.

What’s included: gear, training, guiding, and small-group attention

This is one of those deals where the included items matter. You get riding gear and initial training, plus a guided trek. That means you are not trying to solve the “what should I wear?” puzzle alone, which is a big deal in winter.

The tour is guided in Finnish and English, so you should be able to get instructions clearly. Communication matters a lot when you are learning how to handle the reins, how to shift your weight, or how to stay steady during turns.

Group size is capped at 6 participants, with a minimum of 2. Small groups are why the experience feels personalized. You will usually get more time and attention, rather than being one of many bodies in the dark with a single guide trying to manage everyone.

One more rule to note: alcohol and drugs are not allowed. Keep it clear-headed. You will enjoy the ride more, and it helps everyone stay safe.

Warmth checklist: what you really need for Lapland winter riding

Even though riding gear is included, winter still wins if you show up underdressed. The ride happens outdoors in the arctic season, and the cold builds quickly once you stop moving.

Bring warm clothing and warm shoes. I would plan on multiple layers, plus a hat and gloves you can keep on. Many first-timers underestimate how cold it gets when you are sitting for extended stretches, even if you are riding.

Also think about hands and fingers. You need them for holding the reins and for handling your phone during the photo stop. If your gloves are too bulky, you can struggle with small movements.

Your goal is simple: stay warm enough that you can focus on the ride instead of surviving it.

Price and value check: is $111 fair for 1 to 2 hours?

At $111 per person, this is not a “cheap activity,” but it also is not overpriced when you look at what you receive. You are paying for trained guiding, access to Icelandic horses, and the setup that includes riding gear and initial instruction.

In winter, that kind of operation costs money. Horses need care, tack needs maintenance, and guides spend real time on safety. The small group size, up to 6, adds value too, because you are less likely to feel rushed or ignored.

If you compare it to other guided outdoor experiences, the inclusion of gear and beginner training makes a difference. You do not need to hunt down equipment or pay for lessons elsewhere.

For families, this can be a great “one solid activity” that is memorable without requiring advanced skills. For solo travelers, it is also a good option if you want a structured, guided outdoor experience rather than wandering in the snow with no plan.

Who this suits best, and who should skip it

This trek is a strong fit if you want an outdoor winter experience that still feels safe. It is described as no previous riding experience required, and that shows in the structure: training, briefing, and group-based pacing.

It is especially good for:

• People who want to try horseback riding without taking lessons for days
• Groups of friends or families where everyone wants the same activity level
• Anyone who likes the idea of riding a breed known for its calm temperament and distinctive gait

But it is not for everyone. You should not book if:

• You have a rider weight over 95 kg
• Your child is under 7 years (unless they have previous experience on riding treks)
• You are looking for an unguided, do-it-yourself adventure

I also suggest it if you want something more engaging than a short scenic walk. Sitting on a steady horse changes how you perceive snow and distance.

Should you book Levi: Riding Trek with Icelandic Horses?

Yes, I think you should book it if you match the basics: you are okay dressing for serious cold, you fit the weight and age limits, and you want a guided beginner-friendly winter ride.

Book the 1 hour option if you want a quick taste and you are sensitive to cold. Choose 2 hours if you want more time outdoors and a better chance to get comfortable with the horse’s rhythm, including the tölt moments.

One final practical tip: arrive early enough to get settled. You should be at the stable 15 minutes before the start so the group can depart on time. In winter, that buffer helps you stay relaxed instead of rushing in snow boots.

If you want an experience that turns Lapland winter into something you can feel physically, this is a smart choice.

FAQ

Do I need previous riding experience to join?

No. The trek is designed as an easy experience and previous riding experience is not required. You get initial training and instructions from the guide.

How long is the ride?

The activity lasts from 1 to 2 hours, depending on whether you choose the 1 hour or 2 hour trek option.

Where do I meet the guide, and is hotel pickup available?

You meet at a meeting point that can vary by option. There are two starting location options: Lapland Saga or Design Hotel Levi, and pickup service is available if you choose it.

What should I bring for a winter horseback ride?

Bring warm clothing and warm shoes. Dress for cold conditions, since you will be outdoors for the duration of the trek.

What is the minimum age for children?

Children must be at least 7 years old unless they have previous experience on riding treks.

Is there a weight limit for riders?

Yes. The maximum rider weight limit is 95 kg.

What is the group size?

The tour is a small group, limited to a maximum of 6 participants, with a minimum of 2.