Viking Storytelling Night with Local Tasting & Horses

If you’re wandering through Iceland and looking for a way to connect with its deep-rooted heritage, a Viking storytelling night might just be the experience you need. While I haven’t personally attended this specific tour, I’ve gathered enough from reviews and descriptions to give you a clear picture of what to expect. It’s a cozy, intimate evening that combines legendary tales, local flavors, and the charm of Icelandic horses—an inviting glimpse into Iceland’s history and culture.

One of the things we really appreciate about this experience is its authenticity. It’s not a staged performance but a genuine gathering where stories are passed down around a fire, and visitors get to feel a part of Icelandic traditions. Plus, the opportunity to meet Icelandic horses—symbolic animals deeply woven into the country’s identity—is a highlight that seems to resonate with many. On the flip side, an important consideration is that this tour is relatively short, at just 1.5 hours, so if you’re craving a more extensive experience, you might find it a bit brief.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy cultural storytelling, love animals, or simply want a relaxed evening outdoors in Icelandic countryside. It’s especially ideal if you’re after something authentic and immersive without the crowds or commercial feel. Families with older children who are interested in legends and animals will find it particularly appealing, but it’s also perfectly suited for solo travelers or couples seeking a quiet, meaningful night.

Key Points

• Authentic storytelling around a fire creates a genuine connection to Icelandic legends.
• Meeting Icelandic horses offers both photo opportunities and insights into this ancient breed.
• The local tasting includes simple, comforting Icelandic foods and drinks, adding flavor to the experience.
• Warm wool blankets and lantern-lit settings enhance the cozy, atmospheric vibe.
• The experience is accessible and wheelchair-friendly, making it inclusive for various guests.
• Its duration of 1.5 hours makes it a manageable, relaxing evening activity.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Evening Under the Icelandic Sky: What to Expect

When you arrive at Efri-Úlfsstaðir, you’ll be stepping into the quiet charm of Iceland’s countryside—far from the city’s hustle. The meeting point is easy to find on Google Maps at the coordinates 63.63928985595703, -20.2934513092041. From the moment you arrive, you’ll immediately sense the peacefulness, surrounded by rolling hills and the rustic charm of a working farm.

Meeting the Icelandic Horses

Your evening begins with a chance to meet the Icelandic horses, a breed known for their gentle nature and unique tölt gait. These animals have been part of Icelandic life for centuries and hold a special place in the country’s folklore. As you pet and take photos of these expressive creatures, you’ll learn fun facts about their history and significance, which enhances the connection you’ll feel with the landscape and its stories.

Guests frequently mention how friendly and expressive these horses are, with many noting the joy of just spending time with them in an authentic farm setting. Reviewers often say that the experience feels very genuine, and the horses seem to appreciate the attention as much as the visitors do.

Tasting Icelandic Flavors

Next, you’ll settle around the fire or lanterns, bundled in wool blankets that seem to beckon even the coldest evenings. Here, a host will introduce a tasting of Icelandic flavors—simple, local foods and drinks that reflect Icelandic traditions. While specific items aren’t detailed, you might find yourself sampling bread, perhaps some local cheeses, and drinks that showcase Iceland’s purity and simplicity.

Many guests mention how these tastings are heartfelt and straightforward, making the experience feel more like a gathering among friends than a commercial tour. The stories shared alongside the food deepen your appreciation of Iceland’s cultural roots and everyday life.

Gathering Around the Fire and Listening to Legends

As daylight fades, the atmosphere shifts to one of storytelling magic. The host, or storyteller, will lead you into tales of Viking legends, Icelandic sagas, ghost stories, and folklore passed down over generations. These stories aren’t staged performances; they’re shared in an intimate setting, creating a warm, genuine ambiance.

Guests consistently mention how the crackling fire and soft lighting make the stories come alive, often feeling like they’re part of an old Icelandic myth themselves. Reviewers note that the experience feels very personal, with many saying it’s the kind of memory that stays with you long after the night ends.

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Practical Details: Group Size, Duration, and Accessibility

This tour lasts about 1.5 hours, which makes it a relaxed addition to your Iceland itinerary. The group sizes are typically small, promoting intimacy and allowing for personal interaction with the host, horses, and fellow travelers. It’s hosted in English, and the site is wheelchair accessible, ensuring a comfortable experience for a variety of guests.

The provider, Mr Iceland, offers the flexibility of reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. This is particularly helpful if your plans are still fluid or if weather might impact outdoor activities.

The Experience in Context: Is It Worth It?

While this experience might seem simple compared to some of Iceland’s grander tours, it offers a rare chance to see Iceland in a very personal light. The combination of horses, local flavors, and stories makes for a well-rounded, authentic evening. It’s especially valuable if you’re interested in Icelandic culture beyond the usual sightseeing—an opportunity to listen, learn, and connect.

The value really depends on what you’re after. If you love storytelling, animals, and culture, many find this tour to be both charming and meaningful. However, if your time is limited and you prefer more adrenaline-filled activities, this might be a quieter, more contemplative choice.

Who’s It Best For?

This experience suits adventurous travelers who appreciate authentic local encounters. It’s perfect for those who want to unwind in nature, enjoy some storytelling, and experience Iceland’s hospitality in a cozy farm setting. Families with older children who enjoy animals and legends will also find it a charming outing.

It’s less suited for travelers expecting a large, theatrical performance or a lengthy tour—this is about quality over quantity, with a quiet, intimate focus.

Final Thoughts

If you’re seeking a meaningful, intimate glimpse into Icelandic culture, this Viking storytelling night is a solid choice. It’s the kind of experience that leaves you with stories to tell and a deeper appreciation for Iceland’s heritage. The chance to meet Icelandic horses, enjoy local flavors, and gather around a fire listening to tales creates a warm, memorable night.

While it’s not a high-energy activity, that’s part of its charm—offering a peaceful escape, a touch of history, and a taste of Icelandic life. For travelers who enjoy small-group gatherings and authentic cultural moments, this tour delivers just that.

It’s a good fit for those looking for a relaxed, genuine evening that combines nature, history, and tradition—an experience you won’t forget easily.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, it’s generally appropriate for those interested in stories and animals. Families with older children who enjoy legends and horses will find it especially suitable.

How long does the tour last?
The experience is about 1.5 hours from start to finish, making it a manageable evening activity.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the site is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for guests with mobility needs.

What language is the storytelling in?
The host or greeter speaks English, ensuring clear communication and storytelling.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in your planning.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly, ideally in layers, especially since you’ll be outdoors around a fire or lanterns. Wool blankets are provided for extra coziness.

Are the horses friendly?
Guests describe the Icelandic horses as gentle and expressive, and many enjoy petting and taking photos with them.

What kind of local flavors might be served?
While specifics aren’t detailed, expect simple, comforting Icelandic foods and drinks, shared in a warm, friendly setting.

Is this experience suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The small-group setting makes it perfect for solo adventurers wanting an authentic experience.

How do I find the meeting point?
The farm Efri-Úlfsstaðir is easy to locate on Google Maps at coordinates 63.63928985595703, -20.2934513092041.

If you’re after an evening that feels genuine, cozy, and uniquely Icelandic, this storytelling night offers just that. It’s a rare chance to connect with the land, its animals, and its stories—something that lingers long after the fire has died down.

You can check availability for your dates here: