Iceland Elopement with Icelandic Horses, Waterfalls, and Beaches
Iceland is a land of contrasts — roaring waterfalls, vast lava fields, and soft moss-covered hills. One of the most unforgettable experiences you can have while visiting is a photo session with Icelandic horses, especially near the charming town of Selfoss in South Iceland.
With wide-open farmland, dramatic skies, and curious horses that often wander right up to visitors, Selfoss is an ideal location for an authentic and visually stunning Icelandic photo experience.
Why Photograph Icelandic Horses?
Icelandic horses are more than just beautiful — they are a living symbol of Iceland’s history and culture. Their thick manes, compact build, and expressive personalities photograph beautifully against Iceland’s rugged landscapes.
Whether you're planning an engagement session, an elopement add-on, or simply want unforgettable travel photos, a horse-centered session near Selfoss feels natural, intimate, and deeply Icelandic.
Tips for Interacting With Icelandic Horses
- Approach calmly: Walk slowly and confidently. Icelandic horses are friendly but appreciate gentle energy.
- Let them come to you: Many horses are curious and will approach on their own — this often leads to the best photos.
- Avoid sudden movements: Quick gestures can startle them, especially in windy conditions.
- Don’t feed without permission: Always ask the landowner or guide before offering food.
- Respect boundaries: Never chase, corner, or separate horses from the herd.
- Dress neutrally: Earth tones photograph beautifully and won’t distract or startle the horses.
Pro tip: Wind is almost guaranteed in Iceland. Embrace it — flowing hair, coats, and horse manes create incredible movement in photos.
Fun Facts About Icelandic Horses
- Icelandic horses have been in Iceland for over 1,000 years.
- Once a horse leaves Iceland, it can never return to protect the purity of the breed.
- They have five gaits instead of the usual three, including the famous tölt.
- Despite their small size, they are incredibly strong and hardy.
- Icelanders consider them horses, not ponies — calling one a pony is considered incorrect.
- They grow thick winter coats that shed dramatically in spring, adding texture and character to photos.
Things to Do Near Selfoss
Selfoss is perfectly positioned for exploring South Iceland, making it an excellent home base.
Top Experiences Near Selfoss
- Kerið Crater: A striking volcanic crater lake just a short drive away.
- Golden Circle: Visit Þingvellir National Park, Geysir, and Gullfoss waterfall.
- Secret Lagoon: One of Iceland’s oldest natural hot springs, located nearby in Flúðir.
- Seljalandsfoss & Skógafoss: Two iconic waterfalls within easy driving distance.
- Local Cafés & Bakeries: Selfoss has cozy spots for coffee, pastries, and Icelandic comfort food.
Exploring the Countryside Around Selfoss
Selfoss is one of the best home bases for exploring southern Iceland. Located along the famous Ring Road, it provides easy access to waterfalls, glaciers, volcanic landscapes, geothermal areas, and black sand beaches. The countryside surrounding Selfoss feels open and peaceful, with rolling green hills, grazing horses, and dramatic mountain views in every direction.
Many horse farms near Selfoss offer guided riding experiences where visitors can explore lava fields, rivers, and wide open valleys while learning about Icelandic culture and history. These experiences also create incredible opportunities for authentic photographs surrounded by Iceland’s rugged natural beauty.
Where to Stay Near Selfoss
From boutique hotels to countryside guesthouses, there are excellent lodging options near Selfoss.
Best Places To Stay Near Selfoss
Hotel Selfoss
Located directly along the Ölfusá River, Hotel Selfoss is a comfortable and convenient option close to restaurants, shops, and many southern Iceland attractions.
ION Adventure Hotel
Known for its modern Scandinavian design and incredible lava field surroundings, the ION Adventure Hotel is perfect for travelers wanting a luxury experience with dramatic Icelandic scenery.
Buubble Hotel
For a truly unique stay, the famous transparent bubble accommodations allow guests to sleep under the stars — and potentially beneath the northern lights during winter months.
Local Guesthouses & Farm Stays
One of the best ways to experience Iceland is by staying at locally owned guesthouses or countryside farm stays. Many offer homemade breakfasts, horse encounters, and quiet views far away from tourist crowds.
Fun Things To Do Near Selfoss
Visit Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
One of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls, Seljalandsfoss allows visitors to walk behind the waterfall itself during the warmer months. The evening light here can be absolutely magical for portraits and landscape photography.
Explore Skógafoss
Towering nearly 200 feet high, Skógafoss is one of the most powerful waterfalls in Iceland. Sunny conditions often create giant rainbows in the mist, making it a dream location for adventurous couples sessions.
Relax at Secret Lagoon
For a quieter geothermal experience compared to the Blue Lagoon, the Secret Lagoon near Flúðir offers warm mineral water surrounded by natural steam vents and moss-covered lava fields.
Drive the Golden Circle
The Golden Circle route includes Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall, and the geothermal area of Geysir. These iconic Iceland locations are all easily accessible from Selfoss.
Visit Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
Reynisfjara Beach is one of the most visually dramatic places in all of Iceland. The deep black volcanic sand, crashing Atlantic waves, towering basalt columns, and sea stacks create an almost otherworldly atmosphere.
Ending the day at Reynisfjara for sunset portraits is unforgettable. After exploring waterfalls and horse farms earlier in the day, changing into a flowing orange gown creates an incredible contrast against the dark volcanic sand and moody Iceland skies. The movement of the dress in the ocean wind combined with the stark black landscape produces striking imagery that feels bold, elegant, and uniquely Icelandic.
Conditions at Reynisfjara can change rapidly, and the sneaker waves there are extremely dangerous. Always stay alert, keep a safe distance from the water, and pay close attention to warning signs.
Planning Your Iceland Photography Experience
Iceland is one of those rare destinations where the weather, landscape, and light are constantly changing. A single day can include sunshine, rain, wind, fog, and dramatic golden light all within a few hours. Flexibility is key when planning a photo session here.
The best sessions embrace the adventure rather than trying to control every detail. Windblown hair, moody skies, muddy boots, and spontaneous weather shifts often become part of the story. Whether you are photographing alongside Icelandic horses near Selfoss or ending the evening on the black sand shores of Reynisfjara Beach, Iceland creates the kind of experience that feels unforgettable long after the trip ends.
Wanna visit Iceland and have a personal guide / photographer / travel buddy?
I am a Wedding Elopement Photographer based in Colorado and love to travel. I can't get enough of Iceland and if you love nature and exploring, it's the perfect place to visit. I would love to show you around and help plan an unforgettable trip.
I am available for all of Colorado and destination weddings and elopements, marriage proposals and engagements. I love to wander.
Adventure Wedding Photographer | Iceland Elopement Photographer | Iceland Wedding Photographer
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