Vermont Icelandic Horse Farm
Vermont Icelandic Horse Farm
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Kim F
St. Petersburg, FL31 contributions
Sep 2022
This is probably fun ride for a beginner who isn't used to horses and just wants a nose to tail ride slow ride on roads, although the traffic might make a beginner uncomfortable. We had called Karen, the owner, several months in advance and talked about our riding experience (intermediate) and our interest in tolting and cantering. We have ridden cross country in Iceland and really enjoyed the horses. We planned a stay in VT around our planned 4 days of riding with the Vermont Icelandic Horse Farm and were expecting, as it says on the website and in my conversation with the owner, to be with people of similar experience. At about $300 per day each, we figured the two of us were enough for a ride. The first day was basically cancelled since she didn't have anyone to do guide the ride ride. I found this out when I called to confirm the start time the day we were flying out there. We did do a short ride in the afternoon where one of our friends joined us. We had to push Karen to give our less experienced friend instructions on how to get the horse in a tolt. It seems that not all her horses holt naturally. We understood why the ride had very little tolting but expected more on the next ride. The next ride included included one person who seemed very uncomfortable in the Tolt (which was a gorgeous gate on those horses) so we were extremely limited (less than 5 min total and less than 100 ft at at time). The guide wouldn't even let the horses walk fast so we were constantly pulling the back. The afternoon ride was also deadly slow with no tolting sine an older couple joined. I cancelled the last day because one of the gentleman in the group had never been riding before and there would be no tolting. We couldn't at any point even ride two abreast and talk due to the traffic. I would never have planned a trip if I knew we would be walking VERY, VERY slowly on roads with traffic. Icelandic horses walk pretty much like every other horse in the world. If you want to experience the Icelandic gaits, there is no guarantee you will experience it here. I would not recommend planning a riding vacation around this place.
Written September 18, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Darlene B
St. Petersburg, FL97 contributions
Sep 2022
We had several scheduled trips cancelled due to "lack of help". The owner did not seem interested in doing the rides. Our first ride we had an inexperienced rider, but she had ridden horses before. We tolted 2-3 times for about
100 feet. We did most of the ride on dirt roads which would have been fine for the gaited horses. The second ride was in the morning and the riders were all experienced, one was riding her own Iceland horse. The guide intentionally kept her horse at a slower than normal walk and allowed only a few very short tolts. Her excuse was that we couldn't go up hills, down hills tolting. She also had concerns about the almost non-existent traffic. These horses were well used to the traffic, garbage trucks etc. My friend and I rode horses in Iceland, across the island and at a fast pace. I know what the Icelandic ponies are capable of. These ponies were a bit old, not in good condition for the rides we did. My second horse was huffing and puffing after going up a short hill. My suggestion is that if you want a good ride on Icelandic ponies go to Iceland. I did two trips there and was extremely happy with the rides and the ponies. You get to ride with a herd of ponies and get a new pony after lunch each day.
100 feet. We did most of the ride on dirt roads which would have been fine for the gaited horses. The second ride was in the morning and the riders were all experienced, one was riding her own Iceland horse. The guide intentionally kept her horse at a slower than normal walk and allowed only a few very short tolts. Her excuse was that we couldn't go up hills, down hills tolting. She also had concerns about the almost non-existent traffic. These horses were well used to the traffic, garbage trucks etc. My friend and I rode horses in Iceland, across the island and at a fast pace. I know what the Icelandic ponies are capable of. These ponies were a bit old, not in good condition for the rides we did. My second horse was huffing and puffing after going up a short hill. My suggestion is that if you want a good ride on Icelandic ponies go to Iceland. I did two trips there and was extremely happy with the rides and the ponies. You get to ride with a herd of ponies and get a new pony after lunch each day.
Written September 18, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ridgewaypilgrim
Swanville16 contributions
Jun 2021
The Icelandic horses on this farm are in excellent condition and very well-trained and steady. I've ridden in Iceland, and these horses are on a par with the horses there. Friendly, experienced staff and beautiful Vermont views!
Jean G
Jean G
Written June 30, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Phlebotomy2012
Monterey, CA13 contributions
Jul 2021
I came back to the Icelandic Horse Farm in early July 2021 and had another wonderful 4 days with the horses. The weather was pouring rain the whole time but the farm managed to squeeze in a ride for me 3 out of the four days. This time I was a much more confident rider so everything was easier. The lovely personalities of the horses are still the most amazing part of the experience. Such a beautiful part of the country. My favorite place!
Written July 28, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Susan B
Dresher, PA153 contributions
Jul 2022 • Couples
We have visited VIHF before and we’re thrilled to be back. While waiting for our ride we watched the horses, dog, cats and roosters who live there. My husband had bonded with his horse and was so happy to be able to ride Leftry again. I rode Freddie and he was great. We chose the one hour trail ride but there are other options
Written July 23, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
mcgregpub
Tampa42 contributions
Oct 2020 • Couples
I cant say enough about what a wonderful experience my husband and I had this morning. While the weather did not cooperate, the ride was still magnificent. These are truly wonderful animals cared for by a great team of people and the ride could not have been more enjoyable, rain and all. I only wish we had the opportunity for a longer ride. A don't miss stop on your travels through Vermont.
Written October 7, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Chessie G
22 contributions
Jun 2024 • Couples
Wonderful vacation riding experience
I've ridden hunter seat and dressage for 30 years but never a gaited horse. It was such fun! We loved learning to tolt! Such a smooth, comfortable, and fun gait. We traversed thru the mountain, and the horses were sure footed and safe. The horses, though older, were in great condition and well cared for by the owner and her family. We try to do a ride on vacation and enjoy having different equestrian experiences. It's a great way to see the real area you are visiting. I'm sure we got to see some of the Green Mountains the way our forefathers did. Highly recommend!
I've ridden hunter seat and dressage for 30 years but never a gaited horse. It was such fun! We loved learning to tolt! Such a smooth, comfortable, and fun gait. We traversed thru the mountain, and the horses were sure footed and safe. The horses, though older, were in great condition and well cared for by the owner and her family. We try to do a ride on vacation and enjoy having different equestrian experiences. It's a great way to see the real area you are visiting. I'm sure we got to see some of the Green Mountains the way our forefathers did. Highly recommend!
Written June 28, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Carol S
2 contributions
Jul 2023
Beautiful Monday afternoon trail ride. Karen made it a special occasion for us. The farm is picturesque, the staff friendly, and can’t think of a better way to spend the afternoon.
Written July 26, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
sharon_phila
3 contributions
Aug 2018 • Couples
We booked a horse vacation package at the Vermont Icelandic Horse Farm and Mad River Inn. Horrible experience!
The package confirmation letter claimed the final ride ended at 4 pm on our last day. The website claims "Our Inn Ride prices include ride with guide, meals​, and lodging". Owing to the final ride ending at 4pm and that we had an 8 hour drive back to Pennsylvania, we opted for the 3-day/4-night package for $1,050 pp. Upon arrival, we were told that "we were on our own" for dinner our final night. (Why would we get dinner the other nights we rode but not this night?) Awkward start. We then learned that the final ride ends at12:30/1:00 pm, not the 4 pm stated in the confirmation letter. Had we been given correct information, we would have booked only the 3-day/3-night package for $950 pp and left at 1:00pm after the final ride. So we asked to check out on day 3 and to be credited for $100 pp, since the error in booking was due to their
incorrect information.
Decent, honest business owners, who genuinely care about their customers would admit they made an error, apologize profusely, credit the difference and correct their information going forward. Not this husband/wife team. Luc, the Inn owner said we needed to take this up with Karen, the Ranch owner (adding tersely that "she's not going to give you any money back"). When we then spoke with Karen, she instantly, dismissively and angrily refused any responsibility and said all the
details were stated in the contract we were sent. Fortunately, we had a copy of that contract with us, and we agreed to review it later that night. And later that night is when she actually YELLED at us! With our contract in hand, we asked if she had a minute to discuss it. And she screamed "No! I'm tired, I worked hard today and I'm not giving you any money back!" We were stunned. We tried to calmly discuss this with her and Luc, but to no avail. Luc also raised his voice and neither would calmly hear us out. And, this whole scene took place in front of another guest's child.
We all work hard. We worked very hard to earn the money to spend on a vacation at their establishment, which was ruined with that confrontational outburst. Read the bad reviews of this operation. These are true. Right down to the small details. These two owners have an underlying simmering contempt for customers. When we arrived, Karen was in the kitchen and didn't even introduce herself or say hello or welcome. At every turn, we felt like intruders. A fellow guest asked to freshen up after the final ride before heading home, and she was told "no" by Luc because he had 3 parties coming in and no room was available. We know for a fact that one room (ours) was available. The only warmth, graciousness and hospitality you'll find is on their website.
And the funny thing is that Karen admitted to the incorrect information and still would not make us whole! After that outburst, she came to our room and offered to take us on an extra ride. So, let me get this straight. You just yelled at us and ruined our vacation, and you think we want to spend more time with you?! The next morning she be grudgingly offered to refund us the cost of the room for the extra night we wouldn't be staying. That was $150. When I explained, yet again, that her incorrect information led us to choose the wrong package, and the package differential was $200, she refused to refund us that amount. We filed a disputethrough our credit card company and won for the difference in package prices. No wonder their website says they prefer to be paid by cash or check.
As for the riding, it was fine but not great. The barn is well run and the staff is competent. However, you will literally do about two 20-30 second bursts of tolting per ride. And about half or more of each ride is on lightly traveled gravel roads. Except for one longer day ride, you'll spend half your time getting to the beautiful meadows, mountains and forests to ride in.
I'm a regular ranch vacationer having gone to almost 20 ranches around the country. I have never been treated so poorly. We were yelled at, belittled, and made to feel unwelcome and uncomfortable. All of my other ranch vacations have been wonderful, with hosts who truly enjoy what they do, who are warm, gracious and caring and who want their guests to have a wonderful experience. Luc and Karen may have passion for the horses (Karen) and for cooking (Luc), but there is no
warmth or compassion for the guests who help make their livelihoods possible. There are far, far better horse riding and lodging experiences out there. Don't stay here!
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The package confirmation letter claimed the final ride ended at 4 pm on our last day. The website claims "Our Inn Ride prices include ride with guide, meals​, and lodging". Owing to the final ride ending at 4pm and that we had an 8 hour drive back to Pennsylvania, we opted for the 3-day/4-night package for $1,050 pp. Upon arrival, we were told that "we were on our own" for dinner our final night. (Why would we get dinner the other nights we rode but not this night?) Awkward start. We then learned that the final ride ends at12:30/1:00 pm, not the 4 pm stated in the confirmation letter. Had we been given correct information, we would have booked only the 3-day/3-night package for $950 pp and left at 1:00pm after the final ride. So we asked to check out on day 3 and to be credited for $100 pp, since the error in booking was due to their
incorrect information.
Decent, honest business owners, who genuinely care about their customers would admit they made an error, apologize profusely, credit the difference and correct their information going forward. Not this husband/wife team. Luc, the Inn owner said we needed to take this up with Karen, the Ranch owner (adding tersely that "she's not going to give you any money back"). When we then spoke with Karen, she instantly, dismissively and angrily refused any responsibility and said all the
details were stated in the contract we were sent. Fortunately, we had a copy of that contract with us, and we agreed to review it later that night. And later that night is when she actually YELLED at us! With our contract in hand, we asked if she had a minute to discuss it. And she screamed "No! I'm tired, I worked hard today and I'm not giving you any money back!" We were stunned. We tried to calmly discuss this with her and Luc, but to no avail. Luc also raised his voice and neither would calmly hear us out. And, this whole scene took place in front of another guest's child.
We all work hard. We worked very hard to earn the money to spend on a vacation at their establishment, which was ruined with that confrontational outburst. Read the bad reviews of this operation. These are true. Right down to the small details. These two owners have an underlying simmering contempt for customers. When we arrived, Karen was in the kitchen and didn't even introduce herself or say hello or welcome. At every turn, we felt like intruders. A fellow guest asked to freshen up after the final ride before heading home, and she was told "no" by Luc because he had 3 parties coming in and no room was available. We know for a fact that one room (ours) was available. The only warmth, graciousness and hospitality you'll find is on their website.
And the funny thing is that Karen admitted to the incorrect information and still would not make us whole! After that outburst, she came to our room and offered to take us on an extra ride. So, let me get this straight. You just yelled at us and ruined our vacation, and you think we want to spend more time with you?! The next morning she be grudgingly offered to refund us the cost of the room for the extra night we wouldn't be staying. That was $150. When I explained, yet again, that her incorrect information led us to choose the wrong package, and the package differential was $200, she refused to refund us that amount. We filed a disputethrough our credit card company and won for the difference in package prices. No wonder their website says they prefer to be paid by cash or check.
As for the riding, it was fine but not great. The barn is well run and the staff is competent. However, you will literally do about two 20-30 second bursts of tolting per ride. And about half or more of each ride is on lightly traveled gravel roads. Except for one longer day ride, you'll spend half your time getting to the beautiful meadows, mountains and forests to ride in.
I'm a regular ranch vacationer having gone to almost 20 ranches around the country. I have never been treated so poorly. We were yelled at, belittled, and made to feel unwelcome and uncomfortable. All of my other ranch vacations have been wonderful, with hosts who truly enjoy what they do, who are warm, gracious and caring and who want their guests to have a wonderful experience. Luc and Karen may have passion for the horses (Karen) and for cooking (Luc), but there is no
warmth or compassion for the guests who help make their livelihoods possible. There are far, far better horse riding and lodging experiences out there. Don't stay here!
Remove review
Written October 28, 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Bridget H
Boston, MA48 contributions
Sep 2014 • Couples
I would like to reiterate the sentiments expressed by an earlier reviewer, @GJ1964. If only I had heeded that warning before coming here. I got the impression that this would be a good experience for intermediate or experienced riders, but for beginners, there was not nearly enough instruction provided for adequate safety. What's more, they clearly took out too many people at once, with a group of 9 horses total and only two "guides".
On our two-hour ride, one of the guides was actually thrown from her horse, and at least two of the horses being ridden by beginners broke out into uncontrolled gallops, which the guides didn't even notice because they were too far ahead or behind to see. We had to shout for help to get them to circle around. Finally, towards the end of the ride, some unknown thing spooked one of the horses and ALL 9 horses broke out in a panic, throwing one of the other riders off into the bushes and running all over the road.
I was so shaken up after this experience that I didn't even have the stomach left to ask for my money back - we just raced to our car and drove away from that place as fast as we could. I would strongly recommend any beginners to avoid this place at all costs, and find a horse farm that offers proper instruction your first time out.
On our two-hour ride, one of the guides was actually thrown from her horse, and at least two of the horses being ridden by beginners broke out into uncontrolled gallops, which the guides didn't even notice because they were too far ahead or behind to see. We had to shout for help to get them to circle around. Finally, towards the end of the ride, some unknown thing spooked one of the horses and ALL 9 horses broke out in a panic, throwing one of the other riders off into the bushes and running all over the road.
I was so shaken up after this experience that I didn't even have the stomach left to ask for my money back - we just raced to our car and drove away from that place as fast as we could. I would strongly recommend any beginners to avoid this place at all costs, and find a horse farm that offers proper instruction your first time out.
Written January 9, 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Phlebotomy. I am in the exact same boat! I am really interested in doing a trek with the Icelandic ponies, but when I sent an email asking for more information, I got a really clipped response. I've had a hard time reaching them by phone as well. If I could ask you- are there any hidden charges? i.e. they'll provide you with a helmet, but charge you $35/day for it? Do you travel to different bed and breakfasts, or do you ride out and then stay at the Mad River Inn every night? And are you ever able to do any galloping or jumping, or is it mostly walking and staying in a line? Thank you very much if you have the time to answer some of my questions! Charlotte
Written September 18, 2019
So sorry, Charlotte, I am just seeing your question a year later. You've probably found answers to your questions already, but my experience was that there were no hidden charges, it was just difficult to figure out how they arrived at the bill total. It turned out that I was charged a little extra because I had a single room. Once I figured that out the total bill made sense.
No there is no galloping or jumping. It is walk, tolt and some cantering only. The horses generally get along with each other really well so sometimes the horses are side by side, but on roads where there may be cars we rode single file.
Hope you were able to make your trip!
Written September 16, 2020
I can't ride due to disability.Is it ok to come see the farm without riding?
Written May 11, 2018
Hi - I am interested in booking 2 rides in the fall as a graduation present for my daughter who just graduated from vet school. After my trip to Iceland 3 years ago, I am really excited about riding an Icelandic Horse again and sharing the experience with my daughter..Is there an Inn or B&B you would recommend nearby?
Thank you,
Sarah
Written May 18, 2015
Highly recommend the Mad River Inn. Beautiful Victorian farmhouse. Check out reviews (including mine) here on TripAdvisor.
Written June 7, 2015
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