Farmers in some parts of Iceland are seeking out foreigners to help with the annual sheep round-up.
The round-up, called a réttir in Icelandic, is a yearly late-summer event, when the sheep who have spent their time frolicking in the grassy hills must now be encouraged to come back to the farm. These round-ups are often very lively affairs, with plenty of partying after the sheep are all brought in.
Despite the good times to be had, Vísir reports that some Icelandic farmers are finding themselves short-handed when it comes to this year’s round-up, and are seeking the help of tourists by billing the round-up as an Icelandic adventure.
Those wishing to take part do not necessarily have to be good on horseback. Often times, four-wheelers are used instead to round the sheep up. Farmers will also assist in teaching the general rules and techniques for herding and directing sheep.
It is expected that 600,000 sheep will be slaughtered this fall, so those taking part will have their work cut out for them. However, taking part in a sheep round-up is a definitively Icelandic experience.
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