Norway

Horse Riding and Yoga Holiday

4 nights from £1300 • €1575 • $1645

Activities

3 days guided adventures

Accommodation

4 nights mountain hotel

Level

Created for beginners

Food

Delicious restaurant meals

Difficulty

Group Size

Moderate

Transfers

5 new friends

Dates

Fly into Oslo, Norway

Summer 2025 coming soon!

  • Horse-Riding

    Learn to ride through breath taking landscapes!

  • Hiking

    Take a day off riding and hike through the beautiful meadows!

  • Yoga

    Unwind and relax with yoga sessions next to the lake!

  • Wild Swimming

    Relax and enjoy with an optional swim in the lake!

Join us in Norway for a 4-day horseback riding adventure in the breathtaking Rondane National Park. Created for beginners, our horse riding holiday is your chance to explore majestic mountains and awe-inspiring landscapes on horseback,  even if you've never ridden before!

Our passionate local instructors guide you every step of the way. In a safe and supportive environment, you'll build confidence with horses. Learn essential horsemanship skills through a combination of theory lessons, practice sessions, and most importantly, daily adventures exploring the diverse beauty of Rondane.

Explore the wide range of landscapes, including meadows bursting with wildflowers, enchanting forests, and majestic mountain trails. Each day offers a new way to connect with nature and experience the park's majesty from a truly unique perspective.

After conquering the trails, unwind with rejuvenating yoga sessions, take a refreshing dip in the lake In the evenings, experience a traditional sauna, a perfect way to soothe your body and embrace Norwegian customs!

Stay in a cosy mountain hotel with incredible panoramic views, your perfect basecamp for adventure. Savour delicious, locally-sourced meals, full board included, to fuel your body for each day's exploration.

Location

We’ll be visiting Venabydsfjellet, a stunning mountain plateau on the edge of Rondane National Park, north of Lillehammer.

This beautiful location offers diverse riding trails and spectacular views encompassing lakes, mountains, and forests. We'll enjoy horse riding and hiking right from the hotel’s doorstep, immersing yourself in the peaceful and natural surroundings.

Activities

  • Learn to Ride

    This horseback holiday is designed for novice riders, to build your confidence and skills while you explore breathtaking mountain scenery. Each day starts with hands on lessons to build your knowledge, from understanding body language, building a connection with the horse, feeding and caring for the horses. Morning arena lessons refine your riding skills, where you'll gain control and master new techniques. Then, afternoons we'll venture out on to trails into the mountains, on guided tours through breathtaking scenery.

  • Hiking

    The Horses

    During your stay, you'll be paired with a Døla horse, known for its gentle nature and suitability for beginner riders. This bonding opportunity enhances your learning experience as you navigate the basics of horseback riding.  The stable prioritises safety and animal welfare, holding a certification for Norwegian riding standards, "Hest i Turistnæring." With a strong reputation and decades of experience since the 1970s, the stable ensures a secure and enjoyable riding experience.

  • Snowshoeing

    Hiking

    After two full days riding, we will take a much-needed day off to allow our bodies to recuperate. On the third day, we will embark on a beautiful hike through the meadows, leading us to an old summer farm in the heart of Gundbrandsdalen. Here, we will enjoy in a delicious local lunch, consisting of traditional Norwegian cuisine, while learning about the history and folklore of the mountains from the local farmer.

    In the afternoons, you are welcome to take a self-guided hike on the nearby trails, accessible right from your hotel. These trails offer stunning views of the breathtaking surroundings, giving you the perfect opportunity to explore at your own pace.

  • Yoga

    To complement our long active days, we’ll unwind with 4 yoga sessions. The classes are great for all levels and if the weather suits, we'll take our practice outside by the lake!

Learn to Ride

This horseback holiday is designed for novice riders, to build your confidence and skills while you explore breathtaking mountain scenery.

Each day starts with hands on lessons to build your knowledge, from understanding body language, building a connection with the horse, feeding and caring for the horses. Morning arena lessons refine your riding skills, where you'll gain control and master new techniques.

Then, afternoons we'll venture out on to trails into the mountains, on guided tours through breathtaking scenery.

The Horses

During your stay, you'll be paired with a Døla horse, known for its gentle nature and suitability for beginner riders. This bonding opportunity enhances your learning experience as you navigate the basics of horseback riding.  The stable prioritises safety and animal welfare, holding a certification for Norwegian riding standards, "Hest i Turistnæring." With a strong reputation and decades of experience since the 1970s, the stable ensures a secure and enjoyable riding experience.

Hiking

After two full days riding, we will take a much-needed day off to allow our bodies to recuperate. On the third day, we will embark on a beautiful hike through the meadows, leading us to an old summer farm in the heart of Gundbrandsdalen. Here, we will enjoy in a delicious local lunch, consisting of traditional Norwegian cuisine, while learning about the history and folklore of the mountains from the local farmer.

In the afternoons, you are welcome to take a self-guided hike on the nearby trails, accessible right from your hotel. These trails offer stunning views of the breathtaking surroundings, giving you the perfect opportunity to explore at your own pace.

Yoga

To complement our long active days, we’ll unwind with 4 yoga sessions. The classes are great for all levels and if the weather suits, we'll take our practice outside by the lake!

Fitness and Experience Level

  • We've rated this trip as moderate based on the physical demands of the activities.

  • Duration: Gear up for 2 - 3 hours of riding and another 3 hours of work in the stables (grooming, saddling, and theory) for two days, as well as a day of hiking and a morning ride on the day you depart.

    Hours in the saddle: If you’re not used to riding, even a few hours in the saddle can leave your body aching. Expect to have to push through some muscle soreness!

    Consecutive Days: Prepare for 3.5 consecutive days of activity, which may be physically demanding

    Hiking: Our hike to the summer farm will be 12 km in total, so including a good stop for lunch this makes for a full day hike. The terrain is likely to be rough and uneven and will have some hills, with 270m of ascent and descent.

    Weather Considerations: While we hope for sunny days, the weather can change rapidly. Come prepared with appropriate clothing for riding and hiking in various weather conditions, including rain

  • We recommend you have a good level of fitness to get the most from your time with us.

  • Staying in a family-run mountain hotel. Breathtaking panoramic views greet you from every window, while the welcoming lounge, sauna, and wild swimming lake (weather permitting) offer post-adventure relaxation. Rest comfortably in simple yet inviting rooms - the perfect retreat after a day in the outdoors.

  • We’ll be treated to delicious food for breakfast and lunch and enjoy a 3 course meal each evening as well as a chance to sample delicious Norwegian dishes!

    We can cater for all dietary requirements.

Itinerary

  • Day 1

    Welcome to your countryside escape! Dinner is served at 7pm—a three-course meal to kick things off. Afterward, meet your Riding Guide Team for a friendly briefing about the days ahead.

    For details on train timings and transfers, check our FAQs under “Travel Information” to plan your journey seamlessly.

  • Day 2

    Morning: After breakfast, you’ll be introduced to the basics of horse care, from grooming to tacking up. You’ll meet your horse for the week and learn how to saddle up before enjoying a 45-minute riding lesson in the arena to practise essential skills.

    Afternoon: Tuck into a hearty lunch at the hotel before heading out for your first one-hour ride. Later, stretch out those riding muscles with a calming 60-minute yoga session.

    Evening: Wind down with a lovely three-course dinner.

    Total riding time: approx. 2 hours.

  • Day 3

    Morning: Start with some yoga to awaken your body, then spend time grooming your horse and learning more about horse body language and their daily care. 

    Afterward, enjoy a combined arena lesson and scenic ride (around 1hr 45–2hrs).

    Afternoon: After lunch, saddle up for a two-hour trail ride through stunning countryside. It’s the perfect way to build confidence and connect with your horse.

    Evening: Share stories with fellow Gutsy Girls over a delicious three-course meal featuring local Norwegian cuisine.

    Total riding time: approx. 3–4 hours.

  • Day 4

    Morning: Begin with lakeside yoga (or in the studio if the weather turns). After breakfast, trade the saddle for a hike to Lykkjesetra summer farm. Along the way, soak in the landscapes and learn about local folklore before a traditional farm lunch.

    Afternoon: After your hike (approx. 12km), return to Venabu to learn to care for your equipment by cleaning your tack. Groom your horse one last time, and then enjoy a sauna or optional wild swim before dinner.

    Evening: Unwind with another delightful three-course meal.

    Hike 12km

  • Day 5

    Morning: After breakfast, pack a lunch to take with you. Groom and tack up your horse for a final two-hour ride, soaking in the last of the peaceful countryside.

    Afternoon: Transfers to Ringebu train station, with a suggested train time around 2:30pm.

    Total riding time: approx. 2 hours

Dates

    • Mon 16 June - Fri 20 June

    • Mon 23 June - Fri 27 June

    • Mon 14 July - Fri 18 July

    • Mon 4 August - Fri 8 August

    • Mon 11 August - Fri 15 August

    • Mon 25 August - Fri 29 August

    • Mon 1 September - Fri 5 September

    • Mon 8 September - Fri 12 September

Price

Twin Room Ensuite £1300 (approx. €1575 / $1645)

Private Room Ensuite £1480 (approx. €1795 / 1900$)

Please note: there are only 2 private rooms available on each date, early booking is advised.

  • Gutsy Girls is a UK-based adventure company welcoming women worldwide. Prices are in pounds (£) with estimates in euros (€) and US dollars ($). The final amount dependant on your card provider’s conversion rate at time of payment and may fluctuate.

  • Secure your spot with a 30% deposit; the balance is due 45 days before the trip.

Included

  • 3.5 days of activities

  • 2.5 days Horse Riding Course

    • 2 arena horse riding lessons

    • 3 guided horseback tours

    • theory and hands-on lessons in the stables

  • 1 day guided hiking

  • 3 yoga classes

  • Visit to a summer farm and lunch experience

  • 4 nights accommodation in mountain hotel

  • All meals - breakfast, lunch and 3-course dinners

  • Free coffee and teas in lounge at all times

  • Gutsy Girls host

  • Transfers to and from Ringebu train station

    • Flights

    • Train tickets - approx £30 each way

    • Personal travel insurance

    • Personal clothing

    • Alcoholic drinks

  • Cancellations are effective from the date we receive your written notice via email. The following fees apply:

    • 100% of the trip cost if cancelled 44 days or less before the trip.

    • 30% of the trip cost if cancelled 45 days or more before the trip.

    Full terms and conditions are available for review before you book and make payment

Travel

  • Ringebu train station

    You are responsible for booking flights and trains to Ringebu. 

    We will pick you up from Ringebu train station at either 16:53 or 18:49 (or 18:35 on some Saturdays). These transfer times line up with our recommended trains below. The transfer to the hotel is a 20-minute drive.

  • Arrival Flight to Oslo Gardermoen:

    Book a morning flight to Oslo Gardermoen Airport. Aim to arrive at least 1 hour before your train departure time to Ringebu, preferably more.

    Train from Oslo Gardermoen to Ringebu

    Book one of the following trains:
    Depart 14:29 Oslo lufthavn (Gardermoen), Arrive 16:53 at Ringebu Station
    Depart 16:29 Oslo lufthavn (Gardermoen), Arrive 18:49 at Ringebu Station

    On some Saturdays:

    Depart 14:29 Oslo lufthavn (Gardermoen), Arrive 16:53 at Ringebu Station
    Depart 15:59 Oslo lufthavn (Gardermoen), Arrive 18:35 at Ringebu Station (Train to Lillehammer, then change to bus VY710 to Ringebu)

    For details on booking your trains please read our FAQs.

  • We will transfer you from the hotel to Ringebu station in time for the following trains: 12:06 or 14:27.

  • Train from Ringebu to Oslo lufthavn (Gardermoen)

    Book one of the following trains:
    Depart 12:06 Ringebu Station, Arrive 14:21 at Oslo lufthavn (Gardermoen)
    Depart 13:57 Ringebu Station, Arrive 16:20 at Oslo lufthavn (Gardermoen)

    For details on booking your trains please read our FAQs.

    Departure Flight from Oslo Gardermoen to home:

    Book an afternoon or evening flight from Oslo Gardermoen Airport. Ensure there’s at least 2 hours between your train arrival from Ringebu and your flight departure.

Packing List

    • Helmets

    • Waist bags for small items while riding

  • Personal

    • Water bottle

    • Toiletries

    • Personal medication

    • Daypack for bringing snacks, water and layers to and from the stables (you won’t bring much on the rides with you)

    • Sunscreen

    • Insect repellent

    • Sunglasses

    • Thermos for hot drinks (optional)

    • Snacks

    • Compeed or moleskin for blisters, just in case!

    • Hand warmers if you’re a cold person and it’s a cold week

    • Sturdy trail shoes or hiking boots for the hike day (preferably waterproof) - these could be the same as you wear for riding but don’t have to be

    Clothes - Riding

    Your riding clothes will get dirty, but it’s fine to re-wear these the following day as they’ll just get dirty again!

    • Boots / shoes for riding - you can use any sturdy shoes or boots but ideally:

      • Boots should preferably have a some grip

      • Not too chunky as they need to fit in the stirrup

      • The shoe should cover the foot, preferably also the ankle, but with some ankle flexibility

      • They should be sturdy/water resistant/muck proof for stable work

    • Warm socks (hiking socks are good)

    • Hardshell jacket (waterproof) (mandatory)

    • Waterproof overtrousers (or a long knee length riding waterproof coat)

    • Gloves for riding - with a grippy palm (riding, cycling, leather gloves all work)

    • Insulated jacket (lightweight down or synthetic) in case you get cold

    • Trousers for riding - jodhpurs or any trousers without a rough / hard inside seam (as this will rub when you’re riding) - a pair or two will suffice NB you can’t ride in shorts

    • Warm base layers (top and bottom in case of cold weather)

    • Thin and thicker mid layers

    • T-shirts - lightweight and fast drying if the weather is warm

    • Fleece or jumper

    • Layers you can take on and off throughout the day as the temperature changes

    • Buff

    Clothes - Hotel

    When you’re in the hotel, you’ll need to wear some cleaner, non-riding clothes! The hotel is very relaxed though so there’s no need to dress up.

    • Relaxed evening clothes (remember it might be cool in the evenings)

    • Slippers - you can wear these round the hotel

    • Swimwear & small travel towel for lake swimming and the sauna

    • Yoga wear

Questions?

If you have any questions, check our FAQs or drop us a message below!