Levi: Riding Trek with Icelandic Horses

The best part of this Levi outing is the chance to see Lapland from horseback, with Icelandic horses carrying you through forests, open plains, and snowy roads near the fells. The horses are gentle and reliable, and beginners get instruction before setting off.

I like the small group size, limited to six, and the choice between a one-hour and two-hour ride. I also like that the pace and route are adjusted to the group, so a first-time rider is not pushed into a demanding trek. The main drawback is the cold: you need proper layers and warm shoes, and the ride may feel less active if you are hoping for fast riding.

Key points to know before you book

• Ride Icelandic horses in winter: Enjoy snowy forests, open areas, roads, and views of the fells around Levi.
• No previous experience needed: The guides provide initial riding instruction and adapt the outing to the group’s ability.
• Try the tölt: This smooth gait is a special feature of Icelandic horses, though the guide decides what is suitable and safe.
• Small groups matter: With two to six participants, the guide can pay closer attention to beginners and families.
• Choose your riding time: Pick a one-hour trek for a gentle introduction or two hours for more time outdoors.
• Plan for the cold: Riding gear is included, but you still need warm clothing and warm shoes.

Meeting Icelandic horses near Levi

Lapin Saaga operates this riding experience in the Levi area, with meeting arrangements connected to Lapland Saga and Design Hotel Levi. Your exact meeting point depends on the option you book. Pick-up is available, which can be useful if you are staying in Levi and do not want to arrange your own way to the stable.

You should arrive at the stable 15 minutes before departure. If you choose pick-up, be ready 20 minutes before the activity begins. The driver waits only five minutes at the pick-up point, so this is not the time for a relaxed last-minute coffee.

The group size is one of the strongest features here. The minimum is two people and the maximum is six. That gives you a more personal outing than a large riding line, and it lets the guide adjust the route and speed to the riders in front of them.

The horses are Icelandic, a sturdy breed well suited to cool conditions. The special gait you may try is the tölt, a smooth four-beat movement associated with Icelandic horses. The guide will decide how much of this is suitable based on the riders’ experience, the surface, and the weather.

A simple start for first-time riders

The experience begins with about 10 minutes of safety instruction and riding training. You will receive the basic guidance needed to handle the horse and take part in the trek. That makes this a realistic choice if you have never ridden before.

The instruction is important because this is not simply a short photo opportunity beside a horse. You are expected to ride, follow the guide, and take part in the group’s movement through the area. The good news is that the activity is rated easy, and previous riding experience is not required.

I would still set your expectations correctly. A beginner-friendly ride does not mean you can control every part of the outing. The guide controls the pace and route, and these change according to the group’s skill level and the weather. Experienced riders may find the outing gentle, while beginners will likely appreciate that measured pace.

The horses’ calm temperament is a major part of the experience. Several comments praise how well behaved and pleasant the horses are, and that matters when you are learning in winter clothing, on unfamiliar ground, and possibly in very cold weather.

One hour or two through the snowy forest

You can choose between a one-hour and two-hour trek. The shorter option works well if you want to add horse riding to a packed day of activities in Levi. It also makes sense for children or adults who are curious but unsure how they will feel in the saddle.

The two-hour ride gives you more time to settle in and enjoy the surroundings. You move through forests, plains, and roads, with views of the fells and the surrounding winter scenery. The route is not fixed in the same way a city walking tour might be. The guide changes it to match conditions and the ability of the group.

That flexibility is useful, but it also means you should not book this expecting a particular speed, distance, or exact path. Weather can affect the outing, and a group of first-time riders will not cover ground in the same way as a group of experienced equestrians.

You may have a chance to try the tölt, the Icelandic horse’s distinctive gait. This adds something special beyond a standard walk through the snow. Still, it is not guaranteed that every participant will spend much time in the tölt. The guide’s first job is to keep the ride safe and comfortable.

Lapland from the saddle

Horse riding changes the way you see the Arctic setting. From the saddle, you are moving at a slower pace and paying attention to the horse, the track, and the trees around you. The forests, open plains, roads, and fells become part of the ride rather than scenery viewed through a vehicle window.

This is also a good way to share a winter activity with family or friends. The small group format keeps everyone together, while the adjustable route helps people with different riding backgrounds take part in the same outing. You do not need to be an experienced rider to enjoy it, but you should be comfortable trying something physical and unfamiliar.

The setting has a practical side too. Winter scenery is beautiful, but the cold is not decorative. One first-time rider specifically advised wearing plenty of layers, and that is sound advice. You receive riding gear, but you should still arrive in warm clothing and warm shoes. Cold fingers and feet can quickly distract from the horses and the views.

The ride is guided in Finnish and English. If you need clear instructions, pay attention during the safety briefing and tell the guide if you are nervous or have particular wishes for the trek. The operator asks participants to share requests when booking and will try to make the route enjoyable and safe for both beginners and more experienced riders.

A five-minute photo stop

A short photo stop is included during the outing. Five minutes is enough for a quick picture with the horses and the winter setting, but it is not a long photography session. Keep your phone easy to reach, and do not assume you will have unlimited time to arrange group shots.

This stop is useful because riding in gloves and winter gear makes spontaneous photographs awkward. The planned pause gives you a clear chance to capture the moment without trying to take pictures while moving.

The horses remain central to the stop. Their calm nature makes the pause easier, but you should still follow the guide’s instructions around them. Do not treat the animals as props or bring alcohol or drugs to the activity. Those are not allowed.

Ten minutes for free time and shopping

After the ride, you have about 10 minutes of free time and shopping at Lapland Saga before returning to the selected drop-off point. This is a small add-on, not a major shopping visit, so keep your expectations modest.

It gives you a little time to warm up, look around, and finish the outing without rushing straight into transport. The return options include Design Hotel Levi and Lapland Saga, depending on the arrangement you booked.

The whole activity lasts one to two hours, but allow extra time for arrival, the briefing, the photo stop, and any pick-up or return arrangements. If your day includes another timed excursion, leave a sensible gap rather than scheduling it immediately afterward.

Is $111 a fair price?

At $111 per person, the experience is not the cheapest way to see snowy scenery around Levi. The price includes the riding trek, initial training, riding gear, a guide, and possible pick-up service. It also covers a small group of no more than six people, which helps explain the cost.

The value is strongest if you are new to riding and need instruction, equipment, and a guide in one booking. You are not paying only for time on a horse. You are paying for an organized outing where the route and speed are adjusted to the group.

It is also a reasonable choice for a family or group of friends looking for one shared activity. The price applies to adults and children, so compare the total cost carefully if several people are joining. Children must be at least seven years old unless they already have previous riding experience on treks.

The value is weaker if you already ride regularly and want a long, fast, technically demanding session. The route and pace depend on the group, so experienced riders may spend much of the time at a relaxed speed if beginners are present.

You can cancel up to 24 hours before the activity for a full refund, and you can reserve now and pay later. Those terms make it easier to fit the ride into a changing winter schedule, especially when weather may affect your plans.

Who will enjoy this ride most

I would recommend this outing to:

• First-time riders who want clear instruction and a controlled introduction
• Families with children aged seven and older
• Couples and friends looking for a quieter Arctic activity
• Riders who like horses and are happy with a scenic, guided pace
• Visitors who want a small group rather than a large riding line

You should think twice if you weigh more than 95 kilograms, as that is the maximum rider weight. Children under seven cannot join unless they have previous riding experience on riding treks.

You also need to accept that the weather helps shape the day. The speed and route can change, and cold conditions may make the ride feel more demanding than the easy skill rating suggests. If you dislike cold outdoor activities or are looking for a fast equestrian workout, this may not be the right match.

The activity is also best for people who are comfortable being around horses. One comment put it plainly: you need to be a little horse-minded. You do not need expert skills, but patience and attention help.

What to wear and what to expect

Wear warm layers that let you move. Add warm shoes, and protect your hands, head, and neck. You will be outside in Arctic winter conditions, so ordinary city clothing may not be enough, even if the forecast looks manageable.

Riding gear is provided, but the supplied information does not specify every item. Dress as if you will spend the full outing outdoors, and do not rely only on the equipment at the stable to keep you comfortable.

Avoid alcohol and drugs. You need to listen to safety instructions, handle the horse responsibly, and follow the guide’s directions throughout the trek.

The guide speaks Finnish and English. The small group format allows you to explain concerns before setting off, so mention if you are a complete beginner or have a particular wish for the route. The operator will try to match the outing to the people in the group, but weather and safety come first.

Should you book the Icelandic horse trek?

Book it if you want a gentle, well-organized way to experience snowy Lapland and you like the idea of seeing it from horseback. The calm Icelandic horses, beginner instruction, small groups, and adjustable pace make this more approachable than a demanding riding excursion.

Choose the one-hour option if you are short on time or uncertain about riding. Pick two hours if you want the outing to be a main part of your day and prefer more time among the forests, plains, roads, and fells.

I would skip it if you want guaranteed speed, a fixed route, or a serious riding lesson. I would also avoid booking until you have checked the weight and age rules, planned warm clothing, and allowed enough time to reach the meeting point.

For most beginners, families, and horse-loving friends in Levi, the combination of gentle horses and Arctic scenery makes the $111 price sensible, especially when the included gear, instruction, guiding, and small group are useful to you.

FAQ

Where does the horse riding experience take place?

The ride takes place in the Levi area of Finnish Lapland. The starting location may be Lapland Saga or Design Hotel Levi, depending on the option booked.

How long is the activity?

You can choose a one-hour or two-hour horse riding trek. The schedule also includes a safety briefing, a short photo stop, and about 10 minutes of free time and shopping.

Is previous horse riding experience required?

No. The activity is suitable for beginners, and the guide provides initial riding training before the trek.

How many people can join?

The minimum group size is two people, and the maximum is six participants.

What languages are available?

The experience is guided in Finnish and English.

What is the minimum age?

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

Is there a rider weight limit?

Yes. The maximum rider weight is 95 kilograms, or 209 pounds.

What should I bring?

Bring warm clothing and warm shoes. Riding gear is included, but you should still dress for cold Arctic conditions.

Is pick-up available?

Yes. Pick-up service is available. If you choose it, be ready 20 minutes before the activity begins, and note that the driver waits five minutes at the pick-up location.