Iceland review - 2016, Page 129

The Icelandic
Horse
ICELAND REVIEW 127
SPECIAL PROMOTION
Fákasel is a unique, world-class attraction: it is a must-visit
desti nation for all who love the famous Icelandic horse—and the
stunning horse shows make it a true vacation highlight for everyone.
DINNER AND SHOW
Fákasel, the Icelandic horse park, has built its reputation on its signature
show, Legends of Sleipnir. This 50-minute theatrical extravaganza takes
place on Iceland’s biggest stage (1,600 sq m in size) and features the
very best equine and human actors.
The show draws heavily on fascinating Norse mythology to show off
the Icelandic horse’s physical prowess and the sturdy character which
has made it central to the country’s history and culture. Indeed, it has
been claimed that Icelanders might not have survived as a nation without
their beloved horses.
The Legends of Sleipnir show incorporates state-of-the-art stage light-
ing and multimedia effects, a unique score written by one of Iceland’s
leading musicians and producers, Barði Jóhannsson, and show riding
which demonstrates the immense skill of both horses and riders.
Many visitors choose to make the most of their visit by enjoying a meal
at Fákasel’s excellent on-site gourmet restaurant. The recently-renovat-
ed restaurant features an Iceland-inspired menu, prepared with care
and skill from the very freshest ingredients. Fákasel, the Icelandic horse
park, also boasts a relaxed café, and both are open daily from 10 am
until 10 pm.
PLENTY MORE ON OFFER
Fákasel celebrates the Icelandic horse in all its glory. So, in addition to
the evening shows, you are invited to take a daytime tour of the stables
and meet the stars face-to-face, and there are often talks on offer about
the Icelandic horse, or about its place in the nation’s heart.
Twenty to 30-minute-long shows featuring riding skills take place up
to three or four times a day, and Fákasel is also a good place to get to
know some other Icelandic animals, including the Icelandic sheepdog—
another species intimately woven into the fabric of the Icelandic nation.
There is a wide range of different riding tours on offer in the local area
for visitors who want to enjoy time in the great outdoors, and Fákasel’s
website can help you book them, including hotel pickup.
PLANNING AHEAD
“As the Icelandic horse is so very much part of Icelandic history and
culture, it has become one of the country’s main attractions,” says
managing director of Fákasel, Guðmundur Ólason. “It’s therefore not
surprising that we’re expecting around 200,000 guests this year!”
Fákasel is just half an hour from Reykjavík, between Hveragerði
and Selfoss. Visitors are ecouraged to check out Fákasel’s attractively
designed website and to book ahead.
icelandichorsepark.com
Visit Iceland’s only horse park for a dinner and show you’ll not soon forget.
Equine Drama