Horse Riding Holidays in Ireland
A warm welcome awaits
What better way to experience the charm and magic of Ireland than on a horse riding holiday on Ireland’s wild west coast. Home to the most renowned horseman, Ireland’s affinity will all things equestrian goes back centuries. This is a country perfectly suited to exploring on horseback where you can discover white-sand beaches, rugged shores and the warmest welcome. As well as fantastic riding you can immerse yourself in Irish culture with the many pubs, restaurants and live music venues in always lively Westport, your base for this horse riding holiday.
Castle Leslie ‐ Learn To Ride
Castle Leslie Estate and its world class Equestrian Centre is located in County Monaghan and is only 80 minutes from Dublin airport and 60 minutes from Belfast airport. Nestled on 1,000 acres of undulating Irish countryside, dotted with ancient woodlands and glittering lakes, the Estate offers an idyllic setting for outdoor activity and adventure.
The Castle, at the heart of the Estate, offers authentic original interiors and old-style hospitality and is a complete respite from the world. The Lodge is the social hub of the Estate and brings locals and guests together in an atmosphere of conviviality and comfort. The Old Stable Mews are the perfect spot for groups that want the convenience of hotel living combined with private self catering.
It is the perfect place to discover the thrill of exploring the beautiful Irish countryside on horseback. This beginners programme offers three hours of riding each day, comprising of a series of lessons which ultimately culminate with a two hour ride around the estate.
West Coast Trail
This six night trail ride is perfect for small groups of experienced and adventurous riders, allowing you to explore some of the most spectacular scenery on the west coast of Ireland as well as your host’s private island. Explore quaint villages, sandy beaches and rocky coastline and immerse yourself in the lush splendour of the north west of Ireland known as the Wild Atlantic Way. This region packs as much scenery, myth and folklore into its borders as any visitor could hope for and you’ll be hosted by the O’Connor family who have lived here for generations.
Ring of Kerry Trail
Explore the highlands of Kerry with the majestic McGillycuddy Reeks, Ireland’s greatest mountain range as your backdrop. Ride on country lanes, mountain tracks through forests, over bogs and on the golden beaches. Journey on historic Celtic trails stopping for picnic lunches in breathtaking landscapes, it’s easy to see why this trail has been named one of the World’s Greatest Horse Treks by CNN Travel. Accommodation in local hotels/b&Bs in traditional Irish villages and small towns.
Clew Bay Trail
The Clew Bay Trail Ride takes small groups of experienced riders along Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way through small villages, breath-taking sandy beaches, off-shore islands, country lanes, mountain tracks and local heritage sites, stopping for a picnic along the way. This trail is expertly hosted by three generations of the Foy family who have been breeding horses here since 1970.
Riding on the Wild Atlantic Way
The Wild Atlantic Way spans the full Western coast of Ireland and this riding holiday allows you to explore its wonderful Clew Bay inlet. With one of the country’s highest and most mythical mountains in its backyard, the lively hub of Westport is the starting point for these beach and mountain rides. Expect ancient Christian sites, miles of sandy beaches for galloping and glimpses of mysterious islands off the coast. The beauty of this stretch of coastline makes it one of Ireland’s most popular tourist destinations. This trail ensures you escape from the crowds, along a mountain pass, an isolated cove or an untrodden trail.
Exceptional Irish horses
Ireland is well known for its exceptional horses, which have a well-earned reputation for being tough, brave, sure-footed and athletic. On this riding holiday you’ll be able to ride these quality Irish horses on their home turf. Horses used for the trail are mainly bred on your hosts stud farm and have often been backed and trained by the family as well.