Ofelaš Icelandic horses & Guide service

In northernmost Sweden, in the shadow of Kebnekaise, Sweden’s highest mountain at 2,111 m there is a small, experienced guiding company with Icelandic horses at its heart.

Ofelaš is pronounced ‘Awfelash’ and is a Sami word meaning guide. Kerstin Nilsson and Matti Blind-Berg, who run Ofelas are renegade Samis who have left the reindeer-herding to others. From the start, they shared an interest in horses. The tiny village of Puoltsa, between the village of Nikkaluokta and the city of Kiruna, lies on the banks of the Kalix river which is one of Sweden’s only two remaining unregulated rivers. This area is old Sami country, where you are constantly reminded of the previous generations' way of life. With authenticity, inspiration and a great consideration for the native flora and fauna, Ofelaš conveys Sami culture to participants on horseback.

There are 25 Icelandic horses here, some that are suitable for beginners and others for more experienced equestrians. The company is licensed by the Swedish Icelandic Horse Association.

Criteria

Horses

Sápmi