I try on a riding helmet and smile at my reflection. It’s been a while since I last rode a horse. Tomorrow, I’ll finally get back in the saddle and head out into nature to enjoy a beautiful autumn day. I prepare my gear for the morning and go to bed feeling content.
The morning dawns crisp and clear, with the sun shining golden from a bright sky. It brings out the colors of the autumn foliage in a whole new way. I drive into the stable yard, step out of the car, and walk confidently toward the horse paddocks. Soon, I’m greeted with warm hellos. Konijänkkä is also easy to reach without a car from the Äkäslompolo side.
Ready to go
The horses stand in the inner yard of Konijänkkä stable, waiting for the riders. The stable staff have already prepared the horses for the customers – it’s more comfortable for the horses this way. Familiar staff know exactly how to handle each individual horse. The guide gives a brief rundown of the rules: no overtaking, and horses shouldn’t be allowed to eat anything from nature. I smile to myself, remembering an old experience with a familiar greedy horse who would try to eat anything the moment it got the chance.
The guide hands me a mounting block, which makes it easier to get into the saddle. It’s also gentler for the horse – the rider’s weight is distributed more softly, and the seat is smoother. I gently take the reins and give Konsta a pat on the neck – we’re almost ready to go.
A final check to make sure everything is set, and then we guide our horses toward the nearby pine forest. The horses walk calmly in a line, leaving the stable yard and breathing in the autumn air with relaxed snorts. We climb a small rise and continue into the forest along a narrow, needle-covered trail.
After a while, the guide asks if we’re ready to trot. I gather the reins, sit a little deeper in the saddle, and gently press my legs against the horse’s sides. All three horses begin trotting along the dry forest trail, sunlight flickering through the trees. The lead horse snorts through its nostrils—maybe it’s enjoying the movement too. Konsta also snorts, a sign of relaxation. It feels so good to be back on the back of a big animal friend.
Soon, we slow back down to a walk as the trail becomes rockier. In this activity, you truly live in the moment and feel every small movement of the horse—how it places its hooves just right on the terrain and skillfully steps over roots and fallen branches without stumbling.
Fast-paced moments and gentle memories
We do a few short gallops. The older gentleman of a horse beneath me gets excited as he follows the others. I trust this experienced horse and fully enjoy the thrill of speed. It’s wonderful to dive back into this hobby after many years. The pine forest gradually turns into a birch grove, and soon we’re wading across a small river. The horses step confidently through the water, their hooves clinking against the stones.
The stable dog Siru follows closely behind the group, winning everyone’s hearts with her charming presence. For a moment, I forget she’s even with us—until I hear a faint rustling behind me as we walk. I’m the last in line, after all. I glance back and see her calmly walking at a safe distance at the tail end of the group. I smile happily and enjoy the final twists and turns before we arrive back at the stable yard.
Horseback riding tour in Ylläs
Konijänkkä offers riding lessons for everyone and trail rides for riders with some previous experience. The stable is home to Finnish horses, Shire crosses, and Connemaras.
To join a trail ride at Konijänkkä, participants are required to have prior riding experience, even though the pace is relaxed and mostly walking. Rides are available for different skill levels, and you can join even on your own – there’s no minimum group size. Each ride lasts about an hour, but you’re welcome to ask the stable in advance about longer tours or special requests.
So go ahead, try on a riding helmet and book your adventure! Riding through nature on a sure-footed companion is a peaceful and unforgettable way to experience the unique calm of Lapland.