This flexible riding program is located in a
picturesque corner of Ireland. The immaculate stable has well-mannered
horses and a great variety of rides along the beaches and into
the interior. The lovely little port town of Dingle is a favorite
destination for sailboats whose owners are lured by the town’s
restaurants, nightclubs, boutiques and art galleries. It is
a great choice for non-riding companions, because the town and
surrounding area have much appeal for a broad range of activities.
Donegal from the Saddle
This ride is based at Dunfanaghy, a typical
coastal village in the remote northwest of Ireland, which has
some fabulous unpopulated beaches for glorious gallops on willing
Irish hunters and Connemaras. The congenial hotel, with its
Irish pub and excellent cuisine, provides an ideal base for
rides in the wild surrounding area. There are many chances for
contacts with local people and riders follow some of the roads
built during the time of the Great Famine, which is still much
alive in memories here.
Aille
Cross Country Trail
Ride cross-country with opportunities to jump
a variety of natural and man made obstacles. The horses are
all excellent hunters experienced following hounds with the
Galway Blazers. During hunting season you may, if you wish,
hunt up to three times during the week. The trail’s varied terrain
includes the Slieve Aughty Mountains, large tracts of forestry,
rolling hills and green fields set off by a latticework of lacy
stone walls, and small country roads. Please call for further
details on the other adventurous rides, the Connemara
and Coastal Trails, run by the same outfitter during
the summer months.
Markree
Castle Trail
The
Markree Castle Trail offers a week in the luxury of this grand
old castle and a four star hotel in town. The castle gives you
the feel of how enjoyable and gracious life was for the Irish
aristocrats in good times. While at the attractive new hotel
in the heart of town you will have easy access to interesting
shops and nightlife. This is the part of Ireland immortalized
by the writings of the poet, W.B. Yates. It is a wonderful opportunity
to fulfill your riding desires in mountains, valleys, pine forests
and on the beaches of this romantic island. The itinerary is
flexible and there will be an opportu-nity to visit a crystal
factory and places of historical interest.
The
Beaches, Dunes and Trails
An unguided ride for experienced and resourceful
horse people who are prepared to take all responsibility for
themselves and their mounts for a week. One stays in a different
local farmhouse or bed and breakfast each night, where the horses
overnight as well. Maps are provided and the routes are marked,
but it can still take skill to find the right trail. The route
takes in a variety of the beautiful country around Sligo which
was so loved by the great Irish poet, W.B. Yeats. There are
woods and hills, beaches and dunes, farmland and peat bogs as
well as quaint villages with their pubs and shops. It is a wonderful
opportunity to discover Ireland on your own.