Icelandic Horse History Centre

★★★★★ 4.9/5 (957 reviews) Excellent

About This Museum

Up in the quiet, green valley of Hjaltadalur, the story of the Icelandic horse has been written for centuries. The Icelandic Horse History Centre sits right here at Hólar, a place that's been a hub for breeding and learning since the days of the sagas. It’s less a museum and more a gathering of tales, where you can feel the deep bond between this land and its sturdy, five-gaited companion. You leave understanding that the horse isn't just an animal here; it's a thread woven into the very fabric of Iceland.

Collection Highlights

You'll find beautifully preserved saddles and tack that show centuries of craftsmanship. Don't miss the exhibit on the breed's strict isolation, which explains why every single Icelandic horse today is a pure descendant of those first Viking-age arrivals. My favorite part is listening to the old stories and poems about famous horses, their characters brought to life as if they were heroes themselves.

Visitor Information

Just so you know, it's temporarily closed at the moment, but it's well worth keeping an eye on for when it reopens. It's located at Hólar in Sauðárkrókur—a stunning drive that is part of the experience.

Architecture & Building

The building is modern and functional, but it respectfully shares this historic ground with Hólar's old cathedral and turf farmsteads, letting the ancient landscape take center stage.

Contact & Location

Address: Sauðárkrókur, Skagafjörður, Norðurland vestra, 550, Ísland

Phone: +354 692 6296

Website: Visit Website