Horseback Riding In Lofoten: Welcome To Hov Gård On Gimsøya
Let’s clear something up first: winter in Lofoten is not only about chasing the Northern Lights. Yes, the aurora is great. Magical, even. But if that’s the only reason you come here, you’re missing out.
You can also experience breathtaking hikes, kayaking, and more in the Arctic winter months in Lofoten, and there is one more incredible experience you might not have expected.
How about exploring the frozen white beaches surrounded by mountains, carried on the back of a sturdy Icelandic horse?
On December 31st, I had that experience. It was blue Arctic light, frozen sand, and soft winter waves rolling in. Seated on the back of this horse was I, wondering why more people don’t talk about this when they talk about winter in Lofoten.
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Welcome to Hov Gård: Lofoten’s Island Escape on Gimsøya
On the “outside” of the Lofoten Islands, where there’s nothing between you and the fierce North Sea, you’ll find Hov Gård farm on Gimsøya Island.
Hov Gård is the home of more than 50 super cute Icelandic horses, which will take you riding through the magnificent beaches and nature on Gimsøya.
I was just there on New Year’s Eve for the first time, riding straight into a magic snow-covered coastal landscape on the back of a sturdy, adorable Icelandic horse.
Year-round, Hov Gård is an iconic place for horse riding in Lofoten, and it has somehow managed to keep things real, grounded, and refreshingly un-touristy.
Check this 1,5 hours riding tour at Hov Gård
One of the Coolest Activities in Lofoten (Low-Key)
Icelandic Horses: Small, Strong & Quite Unbothered
The horses at Hov Gård are Icelandic horses — compact, powerful, and completely unfazed by weather that would send most humans straight back indoors.
Icelandic horses are well‑known for their calm temperament, strength, and smooth gait (tölt). This makes the tours suitable for both beginners and experienced riders.
You don’t need to be an expert rider. The horses can handle the drama of the elements, should you encounter them. You just show up, sit straight, and try not to look too impressed (you will fail).
Basically, just the kind of companion you want when riding along an Arctic beach with the ocean throwing tantrums nearby.
Also read: Ultimate Lofoten Islands Travel Guide From A Local
Hov Gård is best known for its unforgettable horseback riding tours on Gimsøya’s beaches.
Riding along the shoreline with the sound of waves beside you and mountains ahead is, in my opinion, one of the most iconic Lofoten experiences you can embark on.
After living in Lofoten for over a year, this is one of the most amazing small excursions I have made, right up there with kayaking in the Reine Fjord.
At Hov Gård, they offer the following tour variety:
- Full day tour
- Half-day tour
- Midnight sun tour
- Northern Lights Tour
- Viking Tour
- Customized private tours
- Lead rope tour (for first-timers)
Winter Horse Riding in Lofoten: Cold, Yes. Worth It, Absolutely.
Winter in Lofoten is cold. Without romanticizing frostbite, winter here brings something summer just can’t compete with: space (and scenery from Frozen).l
Fewer people. Bigger moods. That long, low Arctic light that makes everything glow like a moody Scandinavian film.
The snow turns the beaches and surrounding nature into an art of ice. I am not sure the photos are able to convey the utter magic of it, but riding through this scenery in winter is utterly other-worldly on a day like I had.
Why Hov Gård in winter works so well:
- Fewer tourists, more atmosphere
- Insane light conditions
- Snow, sea, and silence in perfect balance
- Horses that don’t care about your excuses
Winter horse riding in Lofoten feels less like an activity and more like stepping into a different operating system.
Ride Under The Midnight Sun And Northern Lights
Visiting Lofoten in winter is a unique experience, with Arctic blue and pink soft light, a white, frozen landscape, and a dark sea set against steep, snow-covered mountains.
But summers here are magic, too. For more than a month, the sun never sets, and you can be out in nature 24/7 with the golden sun hovering over the horizon at midnight.
One of the most magical things about horseback riding at Hov Gård is how different the experience feels depending on the season.
In summer, the midnight sun paints the landscape in soft golden light long into the night. Riding at 10 or 11 pm feels surreal, with no darkness and a deep sense of calm.
In autumn and early winter, the light turns dramatic and moody. Be aware that around October, autumn storms typically begin, so you may experience what we call “a lot of weather”.
On clear nights, however, already at the end of September, there’s a chance to ride with the northern lights dancing above the mountains—a truly once‑in‑a‑lifetime experience.
Låven Restaurant at Hov Gård: Perfect For After Riding
On the second floor of the barn, there is a cozy restaurant called Låven, which means “the barn”, where I recommend you make time to stop for a hot drink and a snack after your riding trip.
With wooden accents, tall ceilings, and traditional interior details, it is an incredibly charming place to rest, featuring large windows overlooking the surrounding scenery.
At Låven, you can book breakfast, lunch, and dinner (camping guests might appreciate this). Or just stop by for a snack after you have spent the day on horseback along the rugged shores outside the window.
If you go in winter, you should get yourself a sweet pastry by the fireplace (like I did), before you go on your way.
Try Out Hov Sauna
They have also set up a really cool sauna at Hov Gård, which, of course, is located so that you have the infinite views of the North Sea in front of your wooden, hot oasis.
More Adventures at Hov Gård and Gimsøya
In the summer, Gimsøya is a coveted destination for travelers seeking more than horseback riding.
Golfers worldwide are also coming here for a unique experience on the spectacular Lofoten Links golf course.
The World’s Northernmost Golf Course: Lofoten Links
One of Gimsøya’s most famous claims to fame is Lofoten Links, the northernmost golf course in the world. This spectacular links course sits right by the North Sea, with holes stretching along beaches, rocky coastline, and rolling terrain.
During summer, you can play golf in Lofoten under the midnight sun, while autumn brings moody light and fewer players.
Even if you’re not a golfer, the area is worth visiting—walk the beaches, watch the waves crash in, or enjoy the views toward the mountains of Vestvågøya Island.
The “Outside” of Lofoten Hits Different
Lofoten has two personalities. There’s the famous side — sharp peaks, sheltered fjords, postcard villages, destinations that are close to the E10.
And then there’s the outside. Open. Exposed. Windy. Honest.
This is where you find Hov Gård lives. Facing the North Sea with no buffers. No filters. Just raw land meeting restless sea.
FAQs Hov Gård And Gimsøya
Where Is Gimsøya? Lofoten’s Quiet Island Escape
Located on Gimsøya, Hov Gård is on the wild side of Lofoten, facing the open ocean. Gimsøya sits between Austvågøya and Vestvågøya in Lofoten, connected by a bridge and easily accessible from the E10 scenic route.
Compared to the dramatic peaks of Reine or Hamnøy, Gimsøya feels more open and gentle, making it perfect for horseback riding, walking beaches, and simply enjoying the Arctic light.
Many travelers pass straight by on their way to more famous Lofoten spots—but slowing down here is well worth it. The island is known for its wide landscapes, fewer crowds, and big skies.
Another notable thing is that this area also has Viking roots, which makes sense. You probably don’t settle here unless you’re built a little differently.
Where to Stay: Camping, Guesthouses & Local Flavours at Låven
Gimsøya Island is not home to the characteristic rorbuer, fishermen’s cabins, that you find in most other destinations in the Lofoten Islands.
That said, there are still a few really charming places to stay, and this is also a bit “off the beaten path”, so you will probably avoid the crowds in the high seasons.
- Hov Gård Camping for camper vans and tent campers
- Lofoten Links Lodges is a charming cabin option close to the sea
- Fisherman’s Lodge Lofoten is a small, cosy house on the tip of the island
Seasonal Tips: Best Times to Visit Hov Gård
If frozen, magical winter scenery and northern lights amaze you, you should visit in winter.
For the never-ending light nights under the midnight sun, choose summer.
If you are fascinated by “a lot of weather”, in shoulder seasons during autumn and spring (and sometimes winter), you can experience the full force of the Arctic elements in Lofoten.
Practical Info: Getting There, What to Bring & Booking Tips
To visit Hov Gård, you should probably get a rental car.
It is possible to get here by bus, but be aware that there is generally one bus in each direction per day from Svolvær. The farm is about 25 minutes from the E10, south of Henningsvær.
Hov Gård also offers transportation, so you can contact them if you don’t want to drive and would prefer pickup and drop-off at your accommodation.
Visiting Hov Gård: What You Need to Know
Where:
Hov Gård, Gimsøya, Lofoten Islands, Northern Norway
When:
Year-round. Winter (November–March) is colder, moodier, and way more memorable.
How:
Best travel option is a rental car. As mentioned, there are buses, but generally one per day in each direction from Svolvær, so they are few and far between.
Experience Level for riding:
Beginner-friendly. You do not need to be a horse whisperer. But if you are, let them know, and you can choose a horse and a tour that is more fun for you.
What to Wear:
Dress like you respect the Arctic:
- Warm base layers, even in summer. Better safe than sorry.
- Insulated outerwear
- Gloves that you can feel your fingers in, and an insulated hat
- Scarf to cover your face during winter and shoulder seasons
- Sturdy shoes
- For longer trips, water and snacks
- A sense of humor
Wrap-Up Horseback Riding In Lofoten: Hov Gård
Most travelers come to Lofoten to hike, kayak, or just do a road trip and go chasing the northern lights, not too far from the E10, from some of the most famous destinations.
Hopefully, you have been inspired to take a small detour to a slightly less-traveled destination, and you will not regret visiting Hov Gård for an amazing blend of animal and nature experiences along the beaches and rugged shoreline of Gimsøya Island.
If you want a Lofoten winter experience that feels real, raw, and quietly unforgettable — this one delivers in the Arctic Polar night.
Or just come here in the soft summer, for the never-ending golden light.
