12) Krautsand - Here We Come!

Cultural Heritage: Germany has produced many influential philosophers, writers, musicians, and scientists. Famous names include Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, Ludwig van Beethoven, and Albert Einstein.

Exploring the surrounding area of ​​Krautsand

Krautsand, a picturesque island nestled in the Elbe River, is a place where nature and tranquility intertwine in a harmonious dance. Imagine a scene where the emerald waters of the Elbe flow gently by, whispering ancient stories of travelers and sailors. The dam stands as a steadfast guardian, embracing the island with protective arms, ensuring that the life within its embrace flourishes undisturbed.

This is the cozy home of Maika e Klaus

As the sun begins its descent, the landscape transforms into a canvas of soft pastels—pinks, oranges, and purples reflecting off the calm waters. The reeds along the riverbank sway gently in the evening breeze, their tips kissing the sky, while birds chirp their final melodies of the day. The air is filled with the earthy scent of the marshlands and the fresh, invigorating aroma of the river, creating an intoxicating blend that speaks of nature's purity.

Couples stroll hand in hand along the quiet paths, their footsteps a soft murmur against the backdrop of the Elbe's eternal flow. The dam, an engineering marvel, is more than just a barrier; it's a silent witness to countless sunsets, holding back the tides while allowing the river to caress the island's shores. It's a place where lovers can sit and watch the golden orb dip below the horizon, painting the world in hues that evoke the warmest of feelings.

The beauty of Krautsand is in its simplicity. It’s a place where time slows down, where the hustle and bustle of daily life feel miles away. Here, every moment is an invitation to pause and savor the romance of the surroundings. Whether it's the soft rustling of the leaves, the gentle lapping of the water against the shore, or the quiet murmur of the wind through the grasses, each sound is a note in a love song dedicated to the island's serene beauty.

As night falls, the stars begin their nightly performance, twinkling brightly above, mirrored by

the shimmering reflections on the Elbe's surface. The dam, bathed in the soft glow of the moonlight, takes on a magical aura, its silhouette a dark sentinel against the star-studded sky. It’s a place where you can dream with open eyes, where the beauty of nature and the quietude of the river inspire thoughts of love and endless possibilities. In Krautsand, the simple act of being becomes a romantic journey, a dance with the elements, a symphony of sights, sounds, and feelings that stay with you long after you've left its shores.

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Mystique and Majesty: The Unique World of Icelandic Horses

Once upon a time, in a land of fire and ice, there was an island known as Iceland, where sturdy horses and fearless warriors roamed. Among the most renowned was a Viking named Thorfinn the Bold, whose adventures were sung in halls and around campfires. Thorfinn was not only known for his fierce battle skills but also for his deep bond with the Icelandic horses, known for their unique five gaits and incredible endurance.

Thorfinn had a favorite horse named Hrimfaxi, named after the mythical horse of night. Hrimfaxi was a remarkable creature - strong, with a shimmering coat as white as snow and eyes as blue as the cold sea. But what set Hrimfaxi apart was his exceptional intelligence and the ability to tölt, a smooth gait that allowed him to travel swiftly over rough terrain without breaking a sweat. Thorfinn and Hrimfaxi were inseparable, their bond forged through countless adventures and battles.

One day, word reached the shores of Iceland that a mysterious island had appeared in the North Sea. It was said to be a land of untold treasures, guarded by creatures of legend. Eager for glory and riches, Thorfinn gathered a crew of brave souls and set sail, Hrimfaxi leading the way. The journey was treacherous, with icy winds and towering waves, but Thorfinn’s determination never wavered.

As they approached the island, they found it shrouded in mist. Landing on its rocky shores, they discovered a landscape unlike any other—lush valleys filled with rare herbs, crystal-clear streams, and a mountain that seemed to touch the sky. But the most astonishing discovery was the herd of wild Icelandic horses, larger and more magnificent than any Thorfinn had ever seen.

Among these horses was a legendary stallion, Skoll, whose coat was as dark as a moonless night, and eyes that glowed with an eerie green light. It was said that Skoll could traverse the realms between day and night, a gift bestowed by the gods themselves. Thorfinn, ever the adventurer, decided he must capture Skoll and bring him back to Iceland as a symbol of his conquest.

But capturing Skoll was no simple task. The stallion was as elusive as the wind, and as the days passed, Thorfinn and his crew found themselves in awe of the horses’ intelligence and unity. It was Hrimfaxi who finally understood the way to win Skoll’s trust. One night, under the full moon, Hrimfaxi approached Skoll, not with the intent to capture, but to communicate. They shared a silent conversation, a connection that only beings of pure spirit could understand.

In the end, Skoll agreed to follow Thorfinn, not as a captive, but as a companion. The island, it turned out, was a sacred place, a bridge between the world of men and the realm of the gods. Thorfinn realized that the true treasure was not in gold or gems but in the wisdom and harmony of the island and its inhabitants. He vowed to protect the island’s secret and honor the bond between man and horse.

Returning to Iceland, Thorfinn and his crew were celebrated not for the wealth they brought back, but for the tales of the island and the legendary Skoll. Thorfinn became a legend in his own right, not as a conqueror, but as a guardian of the sacred bond between nature and man.

Hrimfaxi and Skoll became symbols of unity and strength, their story a reminder that sometimes, the greatest treasures are found not in what we take, but in what we give and understand. And so, the tales of Thorfinn, Hrimfaxi, and Skoll were passed down through generations, a legend that continued to inspire the brave and adventurous hearts of Iceland.

And on cold nights, when the Northern Lights danced across the sky, the people of Iceland would look up and remember the Viking who rode with horses of myth, across the realms of time and legend.

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Maika and Klaus keep Icelandic horses on their beautiful estate; at the time of our visit there were twenty-six. They ride, breed and sell the horses and also have a great horse boarding facility. They baptize their horses with Icelandic names like: Vikingur (the Viking), Gloa (the Shining), Draumur (the Dream), Garpur (the Brave), Frekja (the Cheeky), Lukka (the Luck), Ida (the Lively), Blesi (the one with the blaze) , Blanda (the multi-colored), Vaka (the Guard)

There are currently around 200 different horse breeds. It is still difficult to say exactly how many there are. The classification can be made according to the height of the horse. The following horses are currently the most popular worldwide: Quarter Horse, Thoroughbred, Arabian, Shetland Pony, Appaloosa, Morgan, Tennessee Walker, Paint Horse, Andalusian, Friesian. The three favorite horse breeds in Germany are Hanoverian, Icelandic and Oldenburger.

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What makes the Icelandic horse an Icelandic horse?

Icelandic horses are a unique and fascinating breed known for their small size, strength, and distinctive gaits. Here’s an overview of their characteristics, history, and some interesting facts:

Characteristics

Size: Icelandic horses are small, typically standing between 13 and 14 hands (52-56 inches) at the shoulder. Despite their size, they are strong and capable of carrying adult riders with ease.

Build: They have a compact and sturdy build with a deep chest, short legs, and a thick mane and tail. Their heads are usually well-proportioned, with expressive eyes and a broad forehead.

Coat: Icelandic horses have a dense coat, which helps them withstand the harsh celandic weather. They come in a wide variety of colors and patterns, including chestnut, black, bay, palomino, pinto, and many more.

Gaits: One of the most unique features of the Icelandic horse is its five gaits. In addition to the common walk, trot, and canter/gallop, they have two additional gaits:

Tölt: A smooth, four-beat gait that can be performed at various speeds, known for its comfort for the rider.

Flying Pace: A two-beat lateral gait used for short bursts of speed, often in races.

Temperament: They are known for being friendly, intelligent, and willing. Their gentle and curious nature makes them suitable for riders of all levels.

History

Origins: The Icelandic horse has been bred in Iceland for over a thousand years, with the first horses brought to the island by Norse settlers in the 9th and 10th centuries. The breed has remained relatively pure due to strict import laws and isolation.

Breed Purity: Iceland has very strict rules to maintain the purity of the breed. Once an Icelandic horse leaves the country, it is not allowed to return. This prevents diseases and maintains the breed's integrity.

Cultural Significance: These horses hold a special place in Icelandic culture. They are often featured in local sagas and mythology and are an essential part of rural Icelandic life.

Interesting Facts

Immune System: Icelandic horses have a strong immune system due to the country's isolation and the breed's long history of surviving in harsh conditions. They are less susceptible to many common equine diseases.

Long Life Span: They are known for their longevity and can often live well into their 30s. It's not uncommon for them to be ridden into their 20s.

All-Purpose: In Iceland, these horses are used for various purposes, including farming, herding, leisure riding, and competition. Their versatility is one of their most valued traits.

Export Popularity: Icelandic horses are highly sought after internationally. They are exported to various countries, where they are appreciated for their unique gaits and friendly disposition.

No Natural Predators: In Iceland, the horses have no natural predators, which has influenced their behavior and temperament, making them relatively fearless and calm.

Unique Gate Sound: The tölt gait produces a distinctive sound due to its unique rhythm, making it easy to recognize even without seeing the horse.

The Icelandic horse's unique combination of physical characteristics, history, and adaptability makes it a treasured breed both in Iceland and around the world.

Photo: Klaus

After we left the north a small stallion, was born on 11/06/2024. Welcome, little Northman! May your life always be filled with joy and happiness.

Watch the video in full screen here!

Published: 15/02/2025

to be continued...