Ireland - Causeway Coast Short Break

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Sample Itinerary is for intermediate riders wanting full day riding.  It is also possible to have a half day riding program combined with some leisurely afternoons sight-seeing which allows you to make the most out of your time on the North Coast of Ireland. There is also an option for beginner/novices to ride separately, riding is mostly at walk for beginners, please enquire. 

Day 1
Arrival - No riding on this day: Upon arrival at either Belfast or Dublin Airport, a transfer can be arranged, and there is the option to take the renowned Causeway Coastal Route, acclaimed as one of the world’s top five scenic drives.The coastal route is adorned with historic castles and a diverse range of landscapes—from picturesque fishing villages and serene beaches to rolling green hills, mountain streams, and rugged cliffs overlooking the sea. On arrival, spend the rest of the day either relaxing at the accommodation or exploring the beautiful North Coast. Enjoy a meal at a local pub or restaurant, sample a pint of Guinness with the locals, or experience an evening of traditional Irish music and dance.

Day 2
After breakfast transfer to the stables. Upon arrival, there will be a warm welcome and a guided tour of the stables, along with an introduction to the team of horses. After selecting a horse and completing a short riding assessment, embark on a 4-5 hour ride through the wilderness of the North Antrim Hills. These heather-covered slopes offer sweeping views over green pastures below and panoramic vistas of the North Coast and five counties of Ireland.  Stop at an idealic glass-sided mountain cabin, perched high in the hills, where a picture-perfect picnic or traditional afternoon tea will be served. The ride then continues past the old peat banks, once the traditional source of fuel for generations in Ireland and down towards the riding centre. Afterwards, freshen up and head into Bally Castle for dinner.
Overnight: County Antrim Coast

Day 3
The day begins at Ballintoy, following an old off-road track with stunning coastal views, leading to the breath taking white sand beach of Whitepark Bay, a three-mile stretch along the famous Causeway Coastal Route. Whitepark Bay, located on County Antrim’s north coast near the charming village of Ballintoy, is a pristine beach that gleams for miles, even on cloudy days. It provides the perfect setting for a refreshing trot, canter, or gallop along its expansive shoreline. The ride then continues over sandy dunes and through lush farmlands, arriving for lunch at the Fullerton Arms Pub, renowned for its connections to Game of Thrones. Guests can enjoy a pint, glass of wine, or tea on the outdoor patio, or dine inside. The menu offers locally sourced dishes such as seafood chowder, Irish stew, hearty sandwiches, and tempting desserts—an ideal spot to relax and recharge before the afternoon ride. The journey proceeds through private farmland in the hills above Ballintoy, offering spectacular views and excellent photo opportunities. Game of Thrones fans will recognize Ballintoy Harbour as the setting for the Iron Islands and Lordsport on the Isle of Pyke. The day concludes with a ride towards the cliffs surrounding one of Northern Ireland’s most popular landmarks, the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, providing a memorable end to the coastal adventure.
Overnight: County Antrim

Day 4
The ride begins at Whiterocks Beach, named for the striking white chalk cliffs and caverns that frame the shoreline. At its western end, the beach lies next to the seaside town of Portrush and is bordered by one of the world’s top links golf courses. Whiterocks Beach offers sweeping views of the Skerries, a small group of islands off Portrush, as well as the iconic Dunluce Castle, Donegal, and the Western Isles of Scotland. Riders will enjoy trots, canters, and time in the sea, surrounded by the breath taking coastal scenery. After riding along the beach, the journey continues along the dramatic coastline toward Dunluce Castle. A stop at the castle allows for a tour and an exploration of its fascinating history. Following a short break with snacks, the ride proceeds to the quaint harbour town of Portballintrae, en route to the Giant’s Causeway. Along the way, riders will cross the River Bush, famous for its role in producing the world-renowned Old Bushmills Whiskey, before reaching the second beach of the day. Here, riders can trot and canter across the sands and through the gentle waves. The ride continues along an old tram trail, passing sand dunes and the stately Runkerry House, before arriving at Northern Ireland’s most famous UNESCO World Heritage Site—the Giant’s Causeway. The day's adventure concludes with loading up the horses and enjoying a relaxing meal at the Causeway Hotel.

Day 5 (if doing the 5 day program)
Today the horses will be transported to the rugged hills above Ballycastle. Ride to Loughareema, known locally as the Vanishing Lake, an area surrounded by Irish myths and legends. This ethereal lake, on the outskirts of a beautiful series of wild, expansive peatlands is often enshrouded by swirling mists. The true mystery of the lake is derived from its propensity to mysteriously vanish overnight, with the usually brimming body of water being no more.Explore the McBride Family farm, a hidden gem with a massive underground spring which leads to the Carey River, whose gentle, flowing waters will accompany you throughout the trail.  Continue our ride on the Old Coach road to the edge of the famed Glen of Glendun, one of the 9 Glens of Antrim. This road was the main thoroughfare from the Coast to the Glens in bygone times, and whilst it has long been abandoned, in favour of more expedient routes, this route is well worth traversing. The Coach Road provides a fantastic vista from which to soak in the surrounding beauty of the Glens and the sea of Moyle, in all its glory. Finally head towards the sheltered harbour town at the mouth of Glendun, another of Antrim’s famed 9 Glens. Ride along this short, but beautiful section of beach, trotting and cantering with the ocean spray on our faces, to finish off this day on an exhilarating high.

At the end of the ride on your final day, make your journey back to the airport.  If you would like to stay an extra night, this can be also be arranged. 

Non-rider activities:
There are many options for non-riders, at an additional cost, including:
Irish Clans of the Causeway Coast experience - relive the epic story of the Irish Clans who ruled Ireland up to the 16th Century and become immersed in the authentic Irish experience.
Coastal Sightseeing by Helicopter - Experience the stunning north cost from the air.
Sailing Yacht Tour of the coast - Take in the dramatic and breathtaking north coast scenery on a 1/2 or full day yacht tour.
A day of golf on the North Coast - Northern Ireland offers some of the best golf in the world. Spend a day playing on one of the beautiful courses.
Antrim Garden Tour - a series of special gardens all with unique and individual offerings, a gardeners paradise.
River Fly fishing - Spend the day on secluded and private rivers fishing for some of the best trout or salmon Ireland has to offer.
Dunluce Castle - take a step back in time to lean the tumultuous history of Dunluce Castle and its former occupants.
Guided coastal walk and hire - Experience the fantastic Causeway coast on a guided six-mile walk along some of the best cliff top views Europe has to offer.
Glenarm Village Tour & Castle lunch - steeped in history and charm, take a guided tour of the picturesque coastal village of Glenarm.
Sea Kayaking & River Kayaking - spend the day on a guided expedition of the north coast near Portrush Harbour or River Kayak down the scenic River Bann.
Old Bushmills Distillery Co. Tour - Old Bushmills in County Antrim is Irelands oldest working whiskey distillery - wathc whiskey making take place and enjoy a taster too.
Bike Tour of the Causeway Coast - take a scenic tour on board an electric bike.

Please note: All itineraries are given for your guidance only and it may be altered on the ground and in accordance with the prevailing conditions by the organising team.

The stable is filled with over 80 quality Irish-bred horses and ponies - Irish Cobs, Irish Drafts, Sport Horses & Connemara’s of varying heights.  They are all trained on site and ridden in English tack. 

Bred for their gentle temperament, the horses are fit and surefooted which provides a safe & comfortable ride.  Based on riders physical height, weight & ride preference – the team can expertly match horse with rider and the first day of riding begins with a short riding assessment to makes sure you are happy with the horse that has been selected.  If at any point you would prefer to try a different horse there are always plenty tacked up and ready to go.

Sunday is the horses' day of rest, there is no riding on this day.

Riders should be confident in walk, trot and canter and should be at least strong novice upwards, for the full beach riding itinerary. You should be comfortable and in control cantering in open spaces, e.g. open beach. Riders of all ages can be catered for, young riders will need to be experienced and capable riders to do the full beach riding program.

The centre can also cater for beginner/novices on a separate itinerary, please enquire.

Maximum weight 95kgs

The weight limit for this ride is 209 lb/95 kg, please enquire if you are an experienced rider exceeding this weight.

The main B&Bs used are based on quality guesthouse style accommodation in coastal locations. They are all owned by local families and are a fantastic opportunity to meet local people and relax after exhilarating days spent in the saddle or touring the Northern Irish Coast.

There is an option to upgrade to local hotel accommodation or spa hotels for an extra fee, please enquire with your travel consultant if this is something you are interested in. Options include:

Marine Hotel: In the bustling harbour town of Ballycastle, a fantastic 3 star hotel which offers an unrivalled seafront view of Fairhead, Ballycastle bay, Rathlin Island and out to the Western Isles and Highlands of Scotland. Boasting 51 spacious bedrooms designed with space and comfort in mind and a fully licensed Bar & Bistro. The Marine is a fantastic place to set yourself up for the ride. It offers comfort, quality beds and showers and is within walking distance of the best Irish pubs and restaurants that Ballycastle has to offer.

Salthouse Hotel & Spa: Located in Ballycastle and is perfect for those riders who are looking for a more luxurious stay. Perched above the quaint sea-side town of Ballycastle, The Salthouse with its inspiring scenery and light, airy spaces to unwind has a unique atmosphere which is designed to connect you to the outdoors. Both the interior and the exterior of the Salthouse embraces its stunning location and successfully mixes tradition and nature through the resolute use of materials associated with the region, namely salt. Enjoy top quality comfort and fantastic local food in the restaurant. Relax after a long day in the saddle, enjoy a thermal journey in the hotels award winning indoor and outdoor spa facility.

The Bushmills Inn: The welcome is warm and the fire is always lit. Set against the backdrop of the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland, The Bushmills Inn is the perfect retreat for those who crave the unconventional, yet still expect exceptional service. Originally a Coaching Inn in the 1600s, this 4 star boutique Hotel and Restaurant is steeped in Irish history with a myriad of places to hide from the world. Step back to a time steeped in charm. From inglenook turf fires to hayloft snugs, there’s something to find behind every door.

The Galgoram Resort & Spa: An extremely luxurious location to relax after a day spent in the saddle or touring the Coast. Set within 380 acres of lush parkland with the spectacular River Maine flowing through the estate, Galgorm Resort has a truly unique setting. This Resort is home to 125 luxurious guestrooms including 48 deluxe rooms, Junior and Signature Suites, and the unique Thermal Village & Spa is the first of its kind in Ireland. Riders who stay here will enjoy the resorts selection of restaurants & bars and can also enjoy the tranquillity of nature and experience pure relaxation in the Spa and Thermal Village with an extensive selection of riverside hot tubs, indoor and outdoor heated pools, steam rooms and saunas.

Vegetarian or other dietary requirements within reason can be accommodated with advance notice. Please contact Unicorn Trails with requests before booking.

Please note that it is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct documentation in place for your trip. NB: Be sure to check the COVID status of the country you plan to visit including entry procedures and requirements while travelling. Passport and Visa requirements can change regularly depending on diplomatic relations. Please request information from the appropriate Consulate in your home country. Unicorn Trails will assist with any questions you have or supply any necessary supporting documents as required by the consulate should you need a visa. In the UK the British Foreign Office gives advice: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/ireland In the USA: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Ireland.html In Canada: https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/ireland

Another useful resource is Sherpa - this summarises any travel and vaccination requirements based on when you are travelling simply by entering your home country followed by your destination country: https://apply.joinsherpa.com/travel-restrictions

The climate is dominated by mild damp westerly winds which bring an average annual rainfall of 1,016mm. The average December temperature is 4.4°C, the average July temperature is 14.4°C.

COVID: Be sure to check the latest COVID regulations for travelling in any country you visit.

Please refer to your country’s latest health guideline for travel in Ireland and contact your own GP for up to date advice on vaccinations and prophylaxis prior to travel.

In Ireland the standard voltage is 230 V and the frequency is 50 Hz. You can use your electric appliances in Ireland, if the standard voltage in your country is in between 220 - 240 V (as is in the UK, Europe, Australia and most of Asia and Africa).

Mobile reception is available all over Northern Ireland and most accommodations offer complimentary wifi. Electricity is available to charge phones, cameras etc each night, suitable adaptors to the 3 pin UK plugs will be required.

Pack as you usually would for a holiday, for e.g. sunglasses, toiletries, casual clothes, below are your Horse Riding holiday essentials. If you are unsure, please speak with your Travel Consultant:

ESSENTIALS FOR ALL RIDING HOLIDAYS

- Riding helmet – complying with current EU & British standards (They can be provided but if possible bring your own for comfort and correct fit)
- Riding boots designed for riding and walking (We recommend ankle boots and half chaps)
- Half Chaps
- Riding gloves
- At least 2 pairs of riding trousers – jodhpur’s/breeches are best
- Long sleeved shirts
- Lightweight waterproof is essential, warmer water proof if traveling in the cooler months
- Water bottle
- Mobile phone
- Layers are advisable
- For evenings in any season, casual attire with comfortable shoes or boots is perfectly fine.

Provided by the hosts:
Riding helmets
There are riding boots of various sizes available to borrow.
There are no saddle bags so you will need a bum bag or leg bag if you wish to carry water while you ride.

4 days / 3 nights / 3 riding days
5 days / 4 nights / 4 riding days

Arrival every Sunday year round. Flexible start dates also available at additional cost.
Confirmed dates: 3n Riding and Sightseeing 11 May

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We're avid readers here at Unicorn Trails and have selected several books connected to this ride. If you're interested in reading more about the area before you travel, or want to get into the cultural background, here are some suggestions that may inspire you. Click on the links for more information.

Lonely Planet Pocket Belfast & the Causeway Coast - Isabel Albiston - A compact guide to the best sights and experiences for a short trip to Belfast and the Causeway Coast

Causeway Coastal Route - Seth Linder - this book features photographs of famous sites and hidden gems along the Causeway Coast, including the Giant's Causeway, Carrick-a-rede rope bridge, and Dunluce Castle

There are many options for non-riders, at an additional cost, including:
Irish Clans of the Causeway Cost experience - relive the epic story of the Irish Clans who ruled Ireland up to the 16th Century and become immersed in the authentic Irish experience
Coastal Sightseeing by Helicopter - Experience the stunning north cost from the air
Sailing Yacht Tour of the coast - Take in the dramatic and breathtaking north coast scenery on a 1/2 or full day yacht tour
A day of gold on the North Coast - Northern Ireland offers some of the best gold in the world. Spend a day plaing on one of the beautiful courses.
Antrim Garden Tour - a series of special gardens all with unique and individual offerings - a gardeners paradise
River Fly fishing - Spend the day on secluded and private rivers fishing for some of the best trout or salmon Ireland has to offer
Dunluce Castle - take a step back in time to lean the tumultuous history of Dunluce Castle and its former occupants.
Guided coastal walk and hire - Experience the fantastic Causeway coast on a guided six-mile walk along some of the best cliff top views Europe has to offer
Glenarm Village Tour & Castle lunch - steeped in history and charm, take a guided tour of the picturesque coastal village of Glenarm.
Sea Kayaking & River Kayaking - spend the day on a guided expedition of the north coast near Portrush Harbour or River Kayak down the scenic River Bann
Old Bushmills Distillery Co. Tour - Old Bushmills in County Antrim is Irelands oldest working whiskey distillery - wathc whiskey making take place and enjoy a taster too
Bike Tour of the Causeway Coast - take a scenic tour on board an electric bike

The Causeway Coast in Northern Ireland is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including seabirds, marine mammals, and some land animals. The Causeway Coast has many seabird breeding colonies, including at Rathlin Island, Carrick-a-Rede, and Sheep Island. Some of the seabirds that can be found here include puffins, guillemots, razorbills, fulmars, kittiwakes, eider ducks, and choughs. The chough is a rare bird in Northern Ireland, and is known for its distinctive ringing call. It is also home to a variety of marine mammals, including seals, dolphins, basking sharks, and porpoises.

Rathlin Island is just a 30min boat trip from Ballycastle and well worth a visit if you have time. It is Northern Ireland's largest seabird colony. Ideal place for viewing Puffins, Guillemots, Kittiwakes, Razorbills and Fulmars.

Ireland is a land of almost mythical beauty, often wild and windswept it is said there are fifty shades of green in the landscape but none of them are jaded. The Irish seem to have been put on the earth to restore faith in humanity, their charm and delight in spinning a good tale will entertain you for hours. The pub culture in Ireland is part of the national identity. The folk music tradition has been unhindered here and live, spontaneous music is actively encouraged- you will often stumble across a raucous singalong fired by Guiness and whiskey. The ban on smoking in public places is now in force in Ireland and, with fines of up to €3,000 for ignoring it, a lively sub-culture can now be found on the pavements outside Irelands plentiful watering holes huddled against the often biting wind. They are famed for their love and skill with horses, in racing Irish trainers and jockeys are among the best in the world, and the wild ponies of the Connemara in Galway crop up in many myths and legends in Irish folklore. In some areas you will often see kids messing around on horses with nothing but a headcollar and a handful of mane. Ireland is on GMT and they use imperial weights and measures, so inches, feet, pounds and stones. The international dialling code is +353.