Connect with culture, creativity, and the Icelandic horse—one stitch at a time—during Hestaland’s Knitting & Riding Retreat! This all-inclusive seven-day retreat combines two hobbies that run deep in Icelandic culture. Knitters and riders of all levels will be in for an unforgettable experience of curated knitting sessions and delightful horseback riding through the Borgarfjordur area, which is known for its beautiful and extensive trail options.

You’ll gain insight into old and new Icelandic knitting traditions with a focus on the newest and most famous Icelandic lopapeysa sweater, receive knitting instruction in daily workshops, visit a sheep farm, wool mill, and local knitting hot spots, go on a full-day tour of Iceland’s “Woolen Circle,” and visit a geothermal hot spring, among other destinations. Last but not least, you’ll have the opportunity to either trail ride or take a riding lesson at least once per day.

Whether you want to learn to knit or are an advanced knitter, this retreat’s dual class schedule will cater to your goals and skill set. Beginner knitters will get their first project well off the ground, while advanced knitters will be able to further their skill sets. Similarly, the week is suitable for riders of all levels and will include plenty of scenic riding. Hestaland’s qualified staff will match riders with horses to suit their skill and comfort level.

About your guide

Kirsti fell in love with knitting when she first came to Iceland, and it quickly became one of her greatest passions. While she enjoys working on many different projects with a variety of wools, her favorite will always be the traditional Icelandic sweater—the Lopapeysa. Icelandic wool holds a special place in her heart for its beauty, warmth, and rich tradition.

For years, she has been custom-making Lopapeysa sweaters for guests at Hestaland, where her sweaters are on sale at the guesthouse. Teaching others how to knit brings her much joy—she believes it’s always more fun to knit together, share stories, and watch beautiful projects come to life.

In addition to her love of knitting, she is also the barn manager at Hestaland, so she has you covered both in the saddle and with knitting needles in hand.

About our accommodations

Retreat guests stay in our charming guesthouse, just a short walk from the barn — close enough to feel immersed, yet wonderfully peaceful. The guesthouse sleeps up to 13 guests and features eight comfortable rooms arranged along a long hallway, with a welcoming shared living and dining area where guests naturally gather and unwind. Outside, you’ll find a relaxing patio with a hot tub overlooking open pasture and mountain views — a perfect spot to soak at the end of the day. Our double-occupancy rooms feature two beds that can be placed either separate or together and a private en suite bathroom, offering both comfort and privacy during your stay. We do have 3 single-occupancy rooms that are available on a first-come, first-served basis at no additional charge. Otherwise, solo registrations will be thoughtfully paired with another solo traveler.