ENCINITAS, California — Did you know there are horses in San Diego County with roots that can be traced back directly back to the Vikings? They are Icelandic horses and their ancestors were perfect for crossing the oceans on Viking boats as the horses were short–about 12-14 hands-, calm, and sure-footed. Icelandic horses today are not very different from their predecessors and Iceland has been careful to keep it that way.
The government of Iceland will not allow any horses into the country, not even Icelandic horses that were born there and exported. The government maintains strict control to ensure the purity of their horses’ bloodlines. They are considered the purest breed in the world. As a result, the horses in Iceland are not vaccinated because there are no diseases. These horses are only vaccinated after they leave the country, never to return. Another safeguard is if you bring your own riding equipment to Iceland, it has to be brand new.
These special horses have no natural predators in Iceland, so they rarely kick and although each horse has its unique personality, in general, they are known for being friendly, curious, and social.
In San Diego County, these special horses can be found at Sunland Ranch in the seaside city of Encinitas. In fact, this ranch celebrates all things Icelandic and it is obvious how much time and care the owner, Kimberly Hart, has devoted to this breed. She imports all her horses from Iceland and personally inspects each one. Having traveled extensively in Iceland and being familiar with the landscape, culture, and mores, she moves between the two worlds with ease. In addition, after having imported 300+ horses, she knows how to deal with some of the quirks that come up when the horses first arrive here.
For example, there are not many trees in Iceland, so the horses can get spooked by shadows at first. They also have a thing for large boulders and give them a wide berth. Hart says that it usually takes about six months for the horse’s true character to reveal itself and for the horse to settle into its new environment. Once settled in, they prove to be hardy and fearless and as Hart says, terrific partners. These sociable horses will follow you around and are interested in whatever you are doing.
They also make good trail horses as they are sure footed even in rough terrain. The horses have five gaits, but are especially known for “tolting” a special gait that according to Hart makes you feel like you are gliding. They are also known for having a long life span.
Sunland Ranch is the only ranch in San Diego County that imports Icelandic horses. Before the pandemic, Hart also organized tours to Iceland in the fall and spring, for people to experience firsthand Iceland’s horse centric culture. She hopes to do another tour in spring 2021.
Hart’s love of horses and animals stem from her childhood. She grew up in Fairbanks, Alaska, and for a time, owned a successful pet store there. After moving to San Diego, she began riding Icelandic horses in 1995 and in 1998, she opened up Sunland Ranch. Besides importing, training, and selling horses to good homes, she also gives horseback riding lessons, and offers trail rides. Hart is always happy to answer questions and impart her vast knowledge about the horses and the country they come from.
Sunland Ranch is a welcoming place, located at 3675 Copper Crest Road in the Olivenhain section of Encinitas. When you drive up and park near the barn, two cats come out to greet you, and Tuesday, the unabashed mini-donkey brays at you, so you will say hello even before you get to the friendly horses. There are several large arenas for riding and practicing with trails nearby to fully experience the joys of riding an Icelandic horse. More information may be obtained by calling the ranch at (858)472-1626.
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Mimi Pollack is a freelance writer whose major interests include animals and various human cultures. An American, born to a Jewish family and raised in Mexico before settling in La Mesa, California, Pollack may be contacted via mimi.pollack@sdjewishworld.com
Great article and photo! Kimberly really knows her Icelandic horses. My visit to Sunland Ranch was memorable, including a fun group ride on an awesome bay gelding. A tour in Iceland with Kimberly would be so much fun!!
Thanks. It was great having you… come ride on the beach anytime!!