Forest adventure

Venture into the wilds of North Sweden with Horses of Taiga, a standout outfitter bringing intimate encounters with Icelandic horses to the tranquil forests surrounding Svansele. Situated in Västerbottens län, near the small village of Boliden, this region is shaped by sprawling pine woodlands and quiet natural reserves like the Svansele Dammängar. Here, the landscape is a blend of soft sandy trails, moss-laden forest floors, and frozen waterways that whisper of old irrigation methods created by local farmers.

This half-day ride balances immersive outdoor adventure with a hands-on introduction to essential horsemanship. Your experience begins by learning how to groom and prepare your Icelandic horse — brushing its coat, picking hooves, adjusting saddles — grounding visitors in horseriding’s practical side before the trail ride even starts. Icelandic horses, known for their unique tölt gait and sturdy, even-tempered nature, carry riders effortlessly through the forest.

The two-hour ride follows well-kept paths through the natural reserve, offering a deep sense of calm and connection to this northern ecosystem. In winter, these horses negotiate snowpacked trails with solid surefootedness, while summer reveals vivid green canopies overhead. The adventure wraps up around an open fire at the farm, where a warm lunch invites riders to share stories and savor the profound quiet of the forest.

Horses of Taiga is distinctive in this region for blending local history—from ancient farming traditions to modern sustainable land management—with genuine equestrian engagement. This makes it a rare gem for travelers seeking an authentic, active, and approachable wilderness experience in Northern Sweden. Perfect for riders aged 8 and up, from novices to experienced riders, the trip underscores the connection between people, animals, and landscape in one of Scandinavia’s less-trodden outdoor playgrounds.