DONEGAL RIDE BY THE SEA - IRELAND

more photos | enquiry | availability check | ride reviews

A family run business established more than 30 years ago by the current owners. The base farm is situated in the most beautiful and untouched area of Eire, directly on the North West Atlantic coastline. Ride along miles of glorious golden sands, cross rivers, ride through the forests and along the cliffs and admire the glorious countryside of mountains, lakes and green fields. Based in Co. Sligo the rides take you through the glorious countryside of Co. Sligo and Co. Donegal, said to be the wildest and most romantic of all the Irish counties.

Trip length 8 day /7 night weekly rides 5 day / 4 night winter weekend breaks 5 day / 4 night short breaks Ride only price 2008 weekly rides, departures from 5th July - 24th August £819; all other dates £779 5 day short breaks departures from 5th July - 24th August £545; all other dates £519 Departure dates Weekly ride departures Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday from 26 April to mid November. Winter weekend breaks - Thursdays until Mondays - departures 26 April and 4th October to 15th November Short breaks - departures Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday from 3 May to end September. Hunting available in winter Approximate riding time per day about 6 hours Riding ability required Able to walk, trot and canter with confidence.Min age 8. Group size 1-10 Meeting point The farmhouse Transfer By taxi about £60 return from Knock airport to the Farm and about £25 return from Sligo per person, not included in ride price and payable on site Flight guide Knock or Sligo airports. Ryanair; BMI; Aer Arann - from approx £60 return Single supplement £70 for the weekly rides, £40 for the 5 day breaks

NOTES - DONEGAL RIDE BY THE SEA

This is Yeats Country and WB Yeats is buried in the local churchyard in Drumcliffe. Here you can read part of his famous poem.

Programme
On day one of this horse riding holiday you are introduced to your horse and as long as you're happy with him/her then it's yours for the duration of your stay. There are daily rides led by an experienced guide but you have the choice to join them or do your own thing and ride at any time. The rides available include exploring the coastline from the glorious sandy beaches which stretch for miles in both directions from the stables. These rides pass lakes, waterfalls, historic castles and houses, where lanes are used they're very quiet and few very cars are ever seen. There are rides to local fishing villages where you can have lunch at one of the pubs whilst watching the movements in the harbour. Alternatively going inland there are a selection of rides around the local countryside which enjoy glorious views and scenery. A ride up to Ben Bulben, the major hill/mountain in Co. Sligo is a fantastic experience and gives amazing views over the county. There's a cross country course spread over 10 miles with 50 obstacles which is also available to riders - the obstacles have been designed to cater for different levels of rider ability. Or, you can ride around the same area without taking any of the jumps and visit the mares and foals, young stock and, if you're lucky, see some deer. By opting for the Riding by the Sea holiday you get the choice to ride on the glorious sandy beaches, or over the mountains or further inland. Alternatively, you can opt to visit some little fishing villages or local small towns and check out the local culture and history. Whether you come as an individual or as part of a group you will be welcomed and included in the evening discussions, chat about the ride that day and new rides planned.

Rider requirements
The rides are suitable for novice riders onwards - you should be able to walk, trot and canter with confidence.

Note Wednesday is a rest day for the horses which gives you a great opporutnity to explore the local towns, stock up on Irish whiskey and locally woven tweed.

GETTING THERE

As a fully ATOL bonded and registered agency we would be delighted to book your flights for you. Should you wish to book your own flights please see our flights page for some options.

The weight limit for this ride is 16st /224 lb/102 kg, please enquire if you are an experienced rider exceeding this weight.

WHAT IS INCLUDED
Accommodation on a B&B basis, all riding, tack and guide if required, use of the cross country course.
All accomodation has en suite facilities.
Hire of your horse for the entire duration of your stay
Return mini-coach trip for dinner each evening to local pubs/restaurants when staying at the farmhouse or one of the local guest houses

WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED
Lunches and evening meals, drinks, items of a personal nature, transport to and from the start of the ride.

more photos | enquiry | availability check | ride reviews