THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Climb aboard a fjord-horse–drawn sleigh and follow the quiet of Mathisdalen to Omdal Farm, where a lavvo fire and Arctic tapas introduce Sámi foodways. Comfortable, family-friendly, and rich in local texture, this short excursion pairs gentle motion with hands-on cultural moments.
Climb aboard a fjord-horse–drawn sleigh and follow the quiet of Mathisdalen to Omdal Farm, where a lavvo fire and Arctic tapas introduce Sámi foodways. Comfortable, family-friendly, and rich in local texture, this short excursion pairs gentle motion with hands-on cultural moments.
Snow compresses under the runners as the sleigh eases out of the treeline, the fjord horse breathing warm puffs into the cold air. Mathisdalen’s valley opens ahead — low ridgelines, scattered birch, and a horizon that holds the possibility of green curtains of aurora.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Omdal Gard · Alta, Troms og Finnmark
Snow compresses under the runners as the sleigh eases out of the treeline, the fjord horse breathing warm puffs into the cold air. Mathisdalen’s valley opens ahead — low ridgelines, scattered birch, and a horizon that holds the possibility of green curtains of aurora.
This family-run farm outside Alta sits on land shaped by glacial action and coastal weather. Norwegian fjord horses, a hardy breed with a long working history, pull short, steady runs while the landscape itself tells two stories: geologic sculpting by ice and a human story rooted in Sámi reindeer herding and coastal fishing. The lavvo — a traditional Sámi tent — is a simple cultural anchor where local techniques for warmth and food meet the slow ritual of sharing small plates.
Expect a 30–40 minute sleigh loop that’s low impact and sensory: the scrape of runners, wind that playfully nudges your scarf, and the hush that comes from snow-absorbed sound. Back at the farm you’ll meet short-tailed Norwegian sheep and sit around a fire inside the lavvo for Arctic-style cold tapas and hot coffee.
Practicalities: pickup in Alta is included and the drive is about 30 minutes. Warm clothing and snow shoes are available if needed; restrooms are on site. Winter brings the best chances for northern lights, while summer sleighs run on grass or light snow. Travel light, dress in insulating layers, and arrive with a charged camera — the pace is easy but the light can change fast.
easy.
2–2.5 hours.
Suitable for most fitness levels; activity involves short periods sitting in a sleigh and standing on the farm.
The sleigh segment lasts about 30–40 minutes; the entire experience including transfers and the lavvo meal is approximately 2–2.5 hours.
Yes — private pickup from locations within Alta is included and the farm is roughly a 30 minute drive.
Yes — the tour is family-friendly; infants must sit on an adult’s lap and strollers are accommodated on site.
The standard tapas include local meat, cheese, and fish; vegan options are not listed, so request dietary needs at booking to confirm availability.
The Alta region has long been a meeting place between coastal Norse fishing communities and Sámi inland reindeer herding; the lavvo reflects a mobile shelter tradition central to Sámi culture.
Guests are asked to follow farm rules to minimize disturbance to grazing animals and to take all waste with them; staying on established access routes helps protect fragile tundra vegetation.
Omdal Gard operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
Snow compresses under the runners as the sleigh eases out of the treeline, the fjord horse breathing warm puffs into the cold air. Mathisdalen’s valley opens ahead — low ridgelines, scattered birch, and a horizon that holds the possibility of green curtains of aurora.
Snow compresses under the runners as the sleigh eases out of the treeline, the fjord horse breathing warm puffs into the cold air. Mathisdalen’s valley opens ahead — low ridgelines, scattered birch, and a horizon that holds the possibility of green curtains of aurora.
This family-run farm outside Alta sits on land shaped by glacial action and coastal weather. Norwegian fjord horses, a hardy breed with a long working history, pull short, steady runs while the landscape itself tells two stories: geologic sculpting by ice and a human story rooted in Sámi reindeer herding and coastal fishing. The lavvo — a traditional Sámi tent — is a simple cultural anchor where local techniques for warmth and food meet the slow ritual of sharing small plates.
Expect a 30–40 minute sleigh loop that’s low impact and sensory: the scrape of runners, wind that playfully nudges your scarf, and the hush that comes from snow-absorbed sound. Back at the farm you’ll meet short-tailed Norwegian sheep and sit around a fire inside the lavvo for Arctic-style cold tapas and hot coffee.
Practicalities: pickup in Alta is included and the drive is about 30 minutes. Warm clothing and snow shoes are available if needed; restrooms are on site. Winter brings the best chances for northern lights, while summer sleighs run on grass or light snow. Travel light, dress in insulating layers, and arrive with a charged camera — the pace is easy but the light can change fast.