Every summer in Iceland, farmers release their young horses into the northern mountains where they’re able to roam freely. Many farmers believe this allowance of freedom helps the horses develop a sense of independence and strength they otherwise wouldn’t experience. But every following autumn, something even more amazing happens.
The farmers gather up their loved ones and neighbors, then work together as a community to trek up to the mountains and bring the horses back to the farm. This tradition of herding the horses’ home is called göngur. Göngur can be an incredibly daunting and exhausting task, especially for the older farmers.
But these are people who are committed to keeping their traditions alive, not just for themselves and their livelihoods, but also for the beloved horses. Many of these farmers have been bringing the horses home every year since they were children. “It’s the top of the world for those of us who go up every year,” one farmer says.
Everything about this video is so beautiful, from the horses to the scenery, to the sentiment. I have so much respect for this community and so much love for these horses. If you like the video below, please share it with your friends so they can enjoy this amazing video as well.