Bodø: Nordland Horse Riding Tour with Farm Visit｜Norway

Just outside Bodø, on a farm at Tverlandet, we breed the Nordland horse, also known as the Lyngen horse. It is one of Norway's oldest native breeds, classed as endangered, and a living piece of Northern Norwegian cultural heritage. Ours is one of the largest breeding herds in the country.

Your visit starts in the stable yard with an introduction to the farm and the breed, followed by a safety briefing. You are then matched with a horse suited to your experience. Every horse here is calm and used to first-time riders, and the entire ride is done at a walking pace.

On the shorter option you meet your horse, mount up in the yard and set off along a gravel road, crossing a short stretch of asphalt before turning onto a quiet forest road. The riding itself lasts around 40 minutes. Keep an eye on the treeline, as moose, eagles and other large birds are regular sights here. Back at the stable you give your horse a well-earned treat before the visit ends.

The longer option gives you time with the horses on the ground as well as in the saddle. You begin by grooming your own Nordland horse and getting to know it, then ride out for roughly an hour on the forest roads. On your return you help care for your horse and feed it porridge or carrots, then meet the rest of the herd. There is usually time to spend with the foals and young horses, who are curious and well used to visitors. The visit finishes with a hot drink and something to eat in the yard.

Groups are small, with a maximum of eight riders, so there is always time for questions about the horses, the breed, and the breeding work carried out in Bodø and Salten during the 1960s. Both options suit families, groups who want to do something together, and anyone who has never sat on a horse before.

Please note that this is a walking-pace ride on gravel roads and forest tracks. It is not suited to riders looking for speed or a faster trail ride.