Word for today, Giddy Up. Next word woooaaahhhhh!!!! You guessed it my blog reading friends, we started the day with a horse riding trip in the mountains east of Reykjavik. Not too early start from the YHA with an 8:45 pick and bus change at Gray Line. A very Vikingesc 6' blonde blue eyed reception guy checked us in and directed us to the Horse Farm Bus. A very horsy looking lady arrived with the bus and we were off for the 45 min drive into the mountains above the snow line.

We arrived at a well presented stud and were vaguely guided in to be suited up in warm overalls and Wellington boots, helmets and a horse. All essential kit. Neither Chris or I caught the names of our horses so his started life as Horse Force One and mine as Horse Force Two (soon to be renamed Grumble Chops). No significant amount of instruction except holding the reins and turning and stopping. Then it was out the gates and off into the valley in the lee of snow covered mountains. All went well until after the creek crossing when Grumble Chops decided a podium finish was required and insisted on a trot until in at least 3rd position. Amazing to Chris in his element and able to handle riding so professionally. He was able to explain exactly how to sit and control the horse. He was seriously given a head strong horse which he controlled with all his 30+ years of riding experience.

So we trotted and cantered and walked on through the valley until the half way river. Small horses, according to Chris, are rougher to ride than larger horses. It is the Singer Sewing Machine effect of rapid bounce along causing the stomach muscles to vibrate to the point of nauseate. I enjoyed the ride but I expected my legs and butt to be sore and I fact it is my lower chest from all the trotting.

Though by the end all I wanted to do was get off the horse, I did enjoy myself and even more enjoyed watching Chris riding which I had never seen him do. We both had a fantastic morning which finished with the most delicious hot vegetable soup, 7 different bread choices and coffee and chocolate. All up a great morning a more camera photos to add later when I next have computer access.

The afternoon was the bus ride around the Golden Circle which I will leave for the next blog. It became a very interesting afternoon.

Written by Rod