The Flying Pace in Your Face

Uncovering the Flying Pace, the Icelandic horse's famous fifth gait

The Icelandic horse can achieve the famous fifth gait, the flying pace, at high speeds while still offering a very smooth ride. In this clip, we watch expert horseman Viggo Siggurdsson ride his championship Icelandic horse on a volcanic, black-sand beach. 

With the flying pace, the Icelandic horse’s legs on each side move in unison, creating a distinctive moment of suspension. And don't think this is easily achieved—it takes an experienced rider, especially in an environment like this one.

Advanced riders can learn how to ride the flying pace with Siggurdsson's company, Viking Horses. The team at Viking Horses also offers tours to first-time riders, beginners and intermediate riders amid clusters of 5,200-year-old pseudo craters in the outskirts of Reykjavik. To book a private or group tour click here. 

The song used in this webisode, 'I Walk on Water,' is courtesy of Kaleo, an Icelandic indie pop/rock/folk band established in 2012. You can buy this song or their entire debut album here.

Like what you see? Please subscribe to my channel to see more of our adventures in Iceland and leave a comment below. #JJiceland