ICELANDIC SHEEP: WHY THEY ROAM FREE ACROSS THE ISLAND
- Roman Pech
- 3. 7.
- Minut čtení: 4
When people think of Iceland, they usually picture volcanoes, glaciers, waterfalls, or geysers. But once you leave Reykjavík and set off along the Ring Road, you'll quickly discover that the true rulers of the Icelandic landscape are someone else entirely – sheep.
There are roughly twice as many sheep as people in Iceland. While the island is home to around 400,000 residents, approximately 800,000 sheep are raised every year. During the summer, it feels as if they are everywhere. They graze on lush green meadows, among lava fields, beneath waterfalls, and even on steep cliffs overlooking the ocean.
A Thousand Years of History
The first Norwegian settlers brought sheep to Iceland in the 9th century. Over more than a thousand years, they adapted so well to the island's harsh climate that they are now considered one of the hardiest sheep breeds in the world.
Iceland carefully protects its sheep. The import of live sheep is virtually prohibited to prevent the introduction of diseases. Thanks to centuries of isolation, the breed has maintained an exceptionally pure genetic lineage that is highly valued around the world.
A Summer Without Fences
One of the most remarkable aspects of sheep farming in Iceland is the way the animals are raised. Every spring, farmers release their sheep into the mountains, valleys, and lava fields, where they roam completely free throughout the summer.
That is why you can encounter them almost anywhere. Sometimes they stand right beside the road, while other times they graze in places that seem nearly impossible for people to reach.
Watch Out While Driving
The sheep's freedom is also one of the reasons why driving in Iceland requires extra caution.
Sheep frequently wander onto the road without any warning. Even more unpredictable are the lambs, which often dash after their mothers at the very last moment.
If you happen to hit a sheep, you cannot simply drive away. The accident must be reported to the police or the owner of the land must be contacted. Farmers are entitled to compensation, and an injured animal must never be left without assistance. That is why careful driving in Iceland is important—not only for your own safety, but also out of respect for the animals.
Face to Face with Rams
While filming Northern Island, we found ourselves surprisingly close to several fully grown rams.
Although they may look calm in photographs, the feeling is very different when a powerful ram stops, stares directly at you, and silently makes it clear that you have entered his territory.
Fortunately, all of our encounters ended peacefully, but they left us with a deep respect for these impressive animals. In the Icelandic wilderness, it is always best to give wildlife plenty of space.
The Autumn Sheep Round-Up
At the end of summer, one of Iceland's most cherished traditions begins – réttir, the annual sheep round-up.
Farmers, their families, and volunteers head into the mountains to gather thousands of sheep that have spent the summer roaming freely. Inside large circular pens, the sheep are sorted according to the unique ear markings that identify their owners.
This tradition has been part of Icelandic life for more than a thousand years and remains one of the country's most important community events.
Icelandic sheep: Wool Admired Around the World
Icelandic sheep's wool is unique because of its two-layer structure. The soft inner fibers provide excellent insulation, while the longer outer fibers naturally repel water.
This combination gives rise to the famous lopapeysa, the traditional Icelandic wool sweater renowned for its warmth, light weight, and resistance to harsh weather.
An Essential Part of the Icelandic Landscape
After spending a few days traveling around Iceland, you begin to realize that sheep are much more than farm animals. They are as much a part of Iceland's identity as its waterfalls, volcanoes, and glaciers.
As you drive around the island, you may discover what we did—that some of the most memorable photographs are not taken at famous tourist attractions, but during unexpected encounters with sheep peacefully grazing in one of the most spectacular landscapes on Earth.
Interesting Facts
Iceland is home to approximately twice as many sheep as people.
Icelandic sheep are among the world's oldest and genetically purest sheep breeds.
During the summer, most Icelandic sheep roam completely free.
Every autumn, Iceland's traditional sheep round-up, réttir, takes place across the country.
Icelandic wool is considered one of the finest natural fibers in the world.
About the Author
Iceland has fascinated me for many years. Over the course of numerous journeys across the island, I have driven tens of thousands of kilometers, experienced storms that changed travel plans within minutes, and witnessed days when choosing the right route meant discovering places that most visitors never see. I documented many of these experiences in my documentary film Island in the North.
Through this website, I share practical travel advice, up-to-date information, and firsthand experiences from the field to help others explore Iceland more safely and gain a deeper understanding of its unique landscapes and ever-changing nature.
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