Exploring the Magic of Iceland: A Journey Through Colleen Cannon's Passion for Icelandic Horses

Colleen Cannon with Women's Quest Icelandic Ultimate Wellness Adventure Retreat

EquuStyle: How did you become a World-Class triahlete?

Colleen Cannon: I became a World Class triathlete basically because I loved horses.. ha ha.

I would run to them as a child and then ended up cycling to them in high school. Then I competed in a small short triathlon in Huntsville, Alabama and I loved it. 

I was quickly picked up by NIKE and was on their first triathlon team and traveled the world and was able to win the World Championships, and then also was National champion 3 times, and top 3 in the world for a very long time.

All because I loved horses.

Beautiful rainbows and Icelandic countryside.

EquuStyle:  In what ways did your career as an athlete influence or drive your desire to establish Women’s Quest as a leading wellness adventure retreats travel company for women?

Colleen Cannon: There is a long story about how I started Women's Quest. It is too long to write down.

The short version is that I was doing running clinics for Nike and for the Florida Distance runners club in Brevard, NC when I was in college. I loved that experience. 

As an athlete, I always gave inspirational talks for groups and I noticed that women really needed to come together and learn skills in a safe way. 

I retired from competing and started Women's Quest in 1992, to help empower, encourage, and explore and, of course, have fun and laugh. But also for women to try something new for the first time.

EquuStyle: When you established Women’s Quest, what were your initial goals? 

Colleen Cannon: The retreats have always been about transformation and balancing the Body Mind, and Spirit which is what I learned as an athlete.

Riding Icelandic Horses

Enjoying a view of falls

Taking in the view

Soaking in hot springs

Sublime Iceland Lupine!

EquuStyle: How have Women’s Quest’s adventures/retreats changed over time?

Colleen Cannon: I learned meditation from Deepak Chopra, and John Douillard and Jay Wilson and I used those skills and we incorporated them into our wellness adventure retreats. We also did lots of Louise Hay visualizations in the early days because she was also a mentor.

We trained the correct way because Dr. Phil Maffetone was my coach and he said you should be healthy as well as fit and that healthy was balancing the body, mind, and spirit. 

Iceland Exhilaration!

I also like to do the Heart’s Desire or find out what women want to do in their lives or their passions and to follow their hearts.

When you gain your energy back then you have the energy to dream and get clear on what you want and then your goals.

So, I incorporated all of this into the retreats. The same concepts are at each retreat but we go to different spots around the world.

EquuStyle: Is a certain level of horseback riding experience required to go on one of the two Icelandic adventures?

Colleen Cannon: Beginners to advanced riders

Enjoy hiking to waterfalls.

EquuStyle: What are some of the highlights of the upcoming horseback riding adventures to Iceland this summer?

Colleen Cannon:  The water. We go into all the hot springs, swimming and soaking. The horses. You must be an advanced rider for the advanced trip or you can also be intermediate but I talk to each person to make sure they can ride with the herd. Riding with the herd is a HUGE HIGHLIGHT. Fairies are one of my highlights. 

The first trip in July we do horse connection, riding, equine-assisted coaching and IFS therapy with the horses. We hike to waterfalls, soak in warm rivers and hot springs, swim in pristine pools, and go kayaking – all while finding our inner zen with yoga alongside a herd of Icelandic horses.”

But all the trips, we have sound healing, the FLOAT with Unnar who created the Float. 

Here is the information and she has a sauna ceremony, plus we have sound healing while we are doing the float which is like watsu.

What you most like women to know about what to expect when they go on a Women’s Quest adventure/retreat?

The adventure of a lifetime, connecting with nature, the horses, swimming and soaking in the healing waters, and being with a group of like-minded women for a week of exploring. Plus hiking in Iceland is incredible and exhilarating.

Colleen Cannon & 2 Icelandics!

Bijork Does Fire Ceremony

Young Icelandic Stallions

Our Iceland retreat is a bit different. 

• We ride with the herd 

• We go to a hot spring every night

• We swim in the pools

• We hike and visit waterfalls

• We visit a wool lady who tells us about how she gets the colors from Icelandic Herbs

• We take an herb walk with Anna Rosa skincare who does amazing skin care made out of Icelandic herbs. 

• We do sound healing with gongs and yoga each day + centered riding and the new trip with have Horse Connection work with IFS therapy instructor 

• We spend time in and with the herd

• We also do a FLOAT with Unnar called Flotheta.. so, so cool and they float us in the hot spring so it is like watsu (a form of aquatic bodywork used for deep relaxation and passive aquatic therapy) plus they play tuning forks

• We also have music because that is so big in Iceland

• We have great food that is made by Betta.

Experience the feeling of riding an Icelandic horse through a field of lupine flowers!

Testimonial from Kathleen Burke: Riding horses in Iceland with Women’s Quest is an amazing and transformational experience. Colleen created an environment where I felt safe doing challenging things. As a result I rediscovered joy, strength and trust in myself. All while seeing the natural beauty of Iceland and bonding with the amazing Icelandic horses and a wonderful group of women. A trip of a lifetime! Highly recommend!

To learn more about Colleen Cannon's journey with horses, read her recent blog post

"From Pastures to Podiums: How My Love for Horses Inspired My Life as an Athlete and Beyond"

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Join Cowgirls with Cameras for Exciting Western Photography Adventures!

Western and Equine Photography Retreats

The Western lifestyle has a unique magic. Capturing that magic in images while immersed in the culture of the equestrian and ranch lifestyle is the domain of Cowgirls with Cameras. Formed in 2019, this partnership of three photographers: Kimberly Beer, Phyllis Burchett, and Cara Taylor Swift offers photographers and artists the opportunity to photograph real working cowboys and cowgirls amidst some of the most beautiful and pristine scenery on the planet.

“All of our events are designed to give our attendees a chance to both photograph and experience the Western lifestyle,” says co-founder Kimberly Beer. “We like to provide immersive adventures that inspire, educate, and build community.”

Cowgirls with Cameras offers a variety of experiences for photographers from beginner to advanced. “We strive to help amateur and professional photographers master their craft with creativity and style. Our workshops, retreats, and classes are open, inviting environments by design, so you can feel free to explore fresh perspectives, acquire new skills, and have fun doing it!” says co-founder Cara Taylor Swift.

Join Cowgirls with Cameras on a Spectacular Photography Adventure

Cowgirls with Cameras operates their experiences to include Nine Key Focus Points that they feel embody their mission to provide attendees with what they want most when attending workshops; seeking growth or expertise; working with a mentor; or accessing a supportive community. These points are:

• Collaboration over competition.

• Open gates to knowledge.

• Empowerment of women photographers.

• Expansion of technical expertise and creativity.

• A safe environment in which to learn and create.

• Community.

• Real world business skills.

• Support to overcome barriers and obstacles.

• The ability to use the images you make during the event.

“It doesn’t matter if you just picked up your first camera today or you’re a seasoned pro — we have an immersive experience awaiting you,” says Phyllis Burchett.

Trapper's Lake Lodge Adventure

C Lazy U Ranch Granby, CO

C Lazy U Ranch Granby, CO

Capture great images

Gorgeous Autumn Foliage

Rustic Western Settings

There are several opportunities for you to join the Cowgirls with Cameras at a Western and Equine Photography Retreat in 2024 and 2025.

Cottonwood Guest Ranch

August 22-27, 2024, Wells, Nevada | $3950

This learning intensive experience is set against the rugged backdrop of the Nevada high country which is unique and beautiful. The Cottonwood Guest Ranch is a multi-generational working horse and cattle ranch that offers an authentic look at the ranching lifestyle. This experience is a perfect mix of shooting, education, and relaxation time. Accommodations are in a cozy lodge and the home cooked food will soothe both your hunger and your soul. “The Cottonwood Ranch Immersive Photography Experience was an unforgettable experience that provided the perfect balance of learning, relaxation, and adventure. I would highly recommend it to anyone who is passionate about ranch/equine photography and looking to improve their skills in a beautiful and inspiring setting,” says former attendee Jackie Harris.

Learn how to photograph western life at Cottonwood Ranch in Wells, Nevada

You can expect image opportunities to include: horses, both loose in a herd and under saddle at work on the ranch; working dogs; cattle; mountain, corral, and open pasture back drops; action and portrait set-ups; both adults and children as models.

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Trapper’s Lake Lodge Photographer’s Adventure

September 29-October 2, Meeker, Colorado | $2500

Gorgeous autumn foliage, horses, and so much more to capture during a photography retreat.

If you have a heart seeking adventure, this experience is for you. The setting is autumn in the breathtaking Flat Top Wilderness of Colorado during peak fall color season. The host facility for this event is the historic Trapper’s Lake Lodge which offers shared cabin accommodations. Meals are provided. This event also includes several shooting locations on working family ranches in the area. “From the moment I arrived on my scouting trip to this location, I was mesmerized by the beauty of the area,” says Kimberly Beer.

Image opportunities at this event include: horses and riders in rugged mountain scenery; working cowboys and cowgirls with a herd of horses and cattle; cowboy and cowgirl portraits; adults and kids as models; working dogs; and magical fall color.

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Horses in the Snow Photographer’s Getaway at C Lazy U Ranch

February 26-March 2, 2025, Granby, Colorado | $4500

Join Cowgirls with Cameras at C Lazy U Ranch

“We had been seeking a fantastic winter location for a long time and we found it at C Lazy U!” says Cara Taylor Swift. The host location for this Getaway is a five star resort complete with cozy cabin accommodations, winter activities, horseback riding, and chef prepared meals included.

“The resort was very comfortable, and the level of service was like none other I have EVER experienced. The dining experiences – no, they were not just meals – were truly first rate!! I got images I will treasure forever, made friends that will last forever and will consider Cowgirls with Cameras in my future plans. I’d also like to point out that as a man on a “Cowgirls” event – I was made to feel welcome and just another participant – everyone was very friendly and nice. It was the experience I was after – horses in snow are so special to me. If you are a photographer with an interest in fascinating and challenging photography – I would say this is the ticket!” says Tim Gillespie who attended this event in February, 2024.

At this experience you can expect: a large herd of loose horses in the snow; riding in the snow; cowgirls and cowboys; portraits and action setups; plus the daily jingle of over 200 head of horses both in and out of the pasture.

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You can find out more information on these and other Cowgirls with Cameras events on their website at CowgirlswithCameras.com. The trio also hosts a podcast called Cowgirls with Cameras which is available on most major podcast networks including Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

Cowgirls with Cameras

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EquuStyle Art & Travel magazine thanks Kimberly Beer, Co-Founder Cowgirls with Cameras for writing an excellent article and the sharing photographs from Phyllis Burchett, Kimberly Beer, and Cara Taylor Swilft.

All images Copyright Cowgirls with Cameras -all rights reserved. Cannot be reproduced for any purpose without permission from Cowgirls with Cameras.

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Icelandic Horses are a Pure Joy to Ride

Iceland's only breed of horse is not a pony

A fun afternoon riding friendly Icelandic Horses. Of course, there is always a barn dog, too!

Traveling to Iceland from Denver to Reykjavik took a mere 7 hours on Icelandair. The weather can be unpredictable even during the summer months. Nome, Alaska and Reykjavik, Iceland share the same latitude at 64 degrees north. We dressed in layers and were comfortable.

Our small group booked at two-hour riding tour from a local stable not far from the trout-fishing lodge where we were staying. Other tour companies will provide transportation, guidance in English, and warm overalls, rain gear, riding boots and helmets.

Sturdy and sure-footed Icelandic horses walking along right before we moved through four gaits to the Tölt.

Much has been written about Icelandic horses delivering a fast-paced, smooth and exhilarating ride. The riders on our trip definitely found these small and sturdy horses to be very sure-footed over the rocky, volcanic terrain. Icelandic horses have five gaits. We had fun experiencing all five gaits, including two unique gaits, the tölt and the flying-pace. It was amazing to ride at such a fast pace and not feel the ground beneath.

Preparing to mount an Icelandic horse to ride to the sea.

An American rider was pleased to connect with his Viking heritage and thoroughly enjoyed our horseback riding tour. Should you decide to take an Icelandic adventure, there are many tour companies in Iceland that offer horseback riding by the hour, day or longer. The "Lava Horseback Ride" or an online only special "Laxnes Horseback Tour" through Icelandair both start at $138

Dramatic view of the volcanic mountains that surround many bodies of water and pastureland.

Icelandic horses developed as a breed during the 9th and 10th centuries when Norse settlers brought a breed of ponies to Iceland. Because no other breed of horses have been permitted to be imported into the country, Icelandic horses live long and healthy lives.

One of many beautiful Icelandic horses with unique markings

Standing only an average of 13 to 14 hands and weighing between 730 to 840 pounds, breeders and registries refer to Icelandics as horses. Icelandic horses come in many colors have very unique and beautiful markings, along with fluffy-thick and gorgeous manes.

See more images of Icelandic horse by clicking the button below

Icelandic Horses Gallery

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