Sheep are an essential part of Iceland and some 800.000 roam the country, a little more than double the 388,000 human population. With the isolation that comes with living on an island, the Icelandic sheep is one of the purest breeds of sheep in the world. After lambing season in May, farmers release their flocks to graze on highland grasses and berries.

In September, the traditional nationwide roundup starts when people on foot or Icelandic horses retrieve their stock from the mountains and valleys, aided by sheepdogs. Sorting is conducted in réttir – circular pens with radiating sections where farmers separate their herds. This is a grand party where friends and family come together to play music, eat and help each other allocate the sheep. Tourists are welcome to join the fun.

Photos: Gunnar Freyr Gunnarsson; Iceland Unlimited