Ireland - Riding in County Clare

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Immerse yourself in the beauty of Ireland’s rugged countryside on horseback. Designed for riders of all levels, this unique equestrian getaway offers a guided daily morning hack for more experienced riders, allowing them to explore the breathtaking trails that wind through the rolling hills of the Slieve Aughty Mountains.
For beginners or those looking to build confidence in the saddle, gentle and supportive riding tuition in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Riders will learn essential horsemanship skills, from basic riding techniques to horse care, ensuring a rewarding and enjoyable experience. Even novice riders will have the chance to venture out on scenic countryside hacks, accompanied by our knowledgeable guides and well-trained horses.

What’s Included?

• 15 hours of riding per week (with shorter stays available on request)
• Scenic countryside hacks tailored to riders level of experience
• Personalized instruction for beginner riders
• Comfortable accommodations in individually decorated en suite rooms
• Hearty, home-cooked meals enjoyed in a welcoming farmhouse setting
• Charming farm atmosphere, complete with friendly pet animals and picturesque walking trails

After an invigorating day on horseback, unwind by the warmth of a traditional turf fire while savouring a delicious, home-cooked dinner made with fresh local ingredients. Our cosy sitting rooms provide the perfect spot to relax with a book, chat with fellow guests, or simply take in the peaceful ambiance of the countryside.
Located in the heart of Ireland’s untamed West, the centre offers an authentic rural escape, far from the bustle of everyday life. While here, it is recommended to hire/have a car, as the afternoons provide a wonderful opportunity to explore the many historic and scenic destinations nearby, including castles, charming villages, and stunning coastal landscapes.
Whether an experienced equestrian seeking adventure or a beginner eager to learn, this immersive riding holiday promises unforgettable moments in one of Ireland’s most picturesque settings.

Contact us for more details or to customize your stay!

Non-riders are welcome and their rate includes accommodation, breakfast and dinner with the riders. Days are at leisure and could include sightseeing (rental car needed), golfing*, fishing*, cycling* (*not included), hiking, bird watching.

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.

There is a wide variety of Irish bred horses and something to suit everyone, from schoolmasters to very forward going mounts. All are ridden in English tack. You are welcome to bring your own saddle although there is no guarantee that you can use it, it depends of course on the adaptability of the saddle and the fit on the horse you will be riding. There is a small amount of walking with your horse due to terrain, so good boots are an advantage.

All levels of rider are welcome on this programme. Maximum rider weight limit 85kg. Minimum rider age 12 years. This ride is suitable for non-riders.

The weight limit for this ride is 187 lb/85 kg, please enquire if you are an experienced rider exceeding this weight.

The riding centre the West of Ireland is nestled in the rolling hills of rural County Clare. Miles of quiet lanes and paths overlooking panoramic views of the River Shannon are perfect for a relaxed horse riding vacation in the picturesque landscape. The hearty Irish breakfast, tasty lunch snack and great home cooked dinner are enjoyed by candle light in front of the traditional turf fire. Special diets can be catered for with advance notice.

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

Mild, but changeable due to the modifying effect of the North Atlantic Drift ocean current; rainfall is plentiful, although highest in the west. The weather is very similar to the UK's in that it could be wet and warm or cold and bright any day in the season. It's best to bring clothes that can be layered and a good waterproof jacket.

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).

WiFi and mobile coverage is available at the accommodation. If using a GoPro please ensure that you have the permission of the group to be filmed.

Pack as you usually would for a holiday, for e.g. sunglasses, toiletries and then these 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 – (some locations, mostly in the EU, can provide them but if possible bring your own for comfort and correct fit)
Riding boots designed for riding and walking
Chaps
At least 2 pairs of riding trousers – jodhpur’s/breeches are best for anything, except western riding (Jeans)
Long sleeved shirts
Lightweight waterproof jacket
Water bottle
Mobile phone
Host's recommendations:
Riding helmet and gloves
Paddock boots and half chaps (more comfortable than tall boots!)
A waterproof coat/jacket and rain pants (no ponchos allowed!)
Light sweaters for summer, warm sweaters for spring/autumn
2 or 3 pairs of riding pants
Bum bag for holding sunglasses, water bottle, phone etc.. backpacks are uncomfortable for riding!
You can bring your own saddle bag
Seat saver are recommended
Sunscreen and insect repellent
Painkillers, band-aids, sore muscle rub, personal medication
3-pronged adapter to charge your electrical gadgets

This ride has an 8 day / 7 night / 6 riding day itinerary available between early April and Late October. Saturday departures

Weekly from April until end October. Saturday departures.

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Round Ireland With A Fridge - Tony Hawks

Culture Shock! Ireland - Patricia Levy

Bushmills Irish Pub Guide - Sybil Taylor

The Dubliners - J.Joyce

Mother Ireland - Edna O’ Brien

Barrytown Trilogy - R. Doyle

Woodbrook - David Thomson

This is Happiness - Niall Williams

Non-riders are welcome and their rate includes accommodation, breakfast and dinner with the riders. Days are at leisure and could include sightseeing (rental car needed), golfing*, fishing*, cycling* (*not included), hiking, bird watching.

An immense variety of flowers, shrubs and trees burst into bloom every year. The influence of the Gulf Stream with its warm, moist and "soft" air stream and the very small winter/summer temperature differential enhances the growth of many commonly known plants, as well as several rare kinds of flora. No wonder the local farmers praise every day as it comes "grand soft day today, thank the Lord!"
The peat or bog land is one of Ireland’s great natural assets, not only as an energy source, but as some of its last wild areas.
The diverse landscape offers great shelter and plenty of food supply for a large variety of animals. The common ones as deer, fox, hare and pheasant can often be spotted from the horse. More difficult to find are the badger and the pine martin. Ireland's large bird population is evident where ever you go. And if you are lucky you could even see some, like the grouse, which are getting dangerously close to extinction

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.