A group of amazing folks came with me to Ireland this summer and we had such a fabulous time. If you want to discover the Land of the Horse on the Clare ~ Galway~ Burren trail, our next trip will be in June of 2019, so reserve your spot now.
Tour Ireland in the true Irish style – not from the back of a bus, as a tourist, but from the back of a horse like a local. Maximum group size is 8, so leave the crowds behind, experience the charm of Ireland in a uniquely local way and immerse yourself in an unforgettable “off the beaten path” experience.
For six days you will be discovering Ireland’s beautiful nature and colourful history on horseback. Your horse will be carrying you about 140 Miles from County Galway which is situated in the Midwest of Ireland westwards through the rural areas of County Clare into the unique Burren region and on to the rough Atlantic coast overlooking the spectacular Cliffs of Moher.
Dates: June 16th-June 24th, 2017
Ireland package includes:
- Group travel to and from An Sibin Riding Centre from Ennis, Ireland which is 30 minutes from the Shannon airport. Hourly bus transportation is available right from the airport. (Additional costs will be discussed if you need individual transportation options).
- One night’s lodging at Hotel Woodstock in Ennis upon arrival to have some time to meet and connect with the group
- All horse activities, meals, travel, tips and accommodations while together at An Sibin Riding Centre.
- Your own horse for the week selected for your riding level, personality and preference.
- 2 months of bi-monthly Horse Wisdom phone coaching calls (4 total) prior to our trip to discuss what you hope to discover and gain from the adventure.
- 1 month of Horse Wisdom phone coaching calls (2 total) after our trip to continue the process of self-discovery and mindful living.
Cost: $3500*
*All prices are based on double occupancy. Single occupany rates are available upon request
Airfare is not included.
The Area
An Sibin Riding Centre is in the rural West of Ireland, just a few miles from the little village of Mountshannon with it’s unique monastic settlement on Holy Island in the Lough Derg.
The centre is nestled in the rolling hills of the Slieve Aughty Mountains with miles and miles of riding and walking tracks.
Heather covered bog land and extensive woods invite us to discover the beautiful nature on our horses. Over and over again the rider can enjoy the fascinating views over the majestic river Shannon and the juicy green fields enclosed by miles of story telling stonewalls. There are lots of beautiful and ancient places to be discovered.
The People
The people of Ireland are known worldwide for their friendliness, hospitality, sense of mirth and their openness to connect genuinely with visitors to their land. Throughout our adventure, there will be countless opportunities to share a laugh with the locals, swap stories, enjoy some traditional music and perhaps have a Guiness or two.
The Horses
Ireland has long been known as “The land of the Horse” and has a worldwide reputation of producing top quality animals with renowned versatility, sturdiness, courage and intelligence.
The Irish horse is renowned for its stamina, versatility and gentleness and will provide an ideal companion for an unforgettable vacation.
You will make friends here with proud examples of several typical Irish breeds such as the tall but gentle Irish Draught, the lively and clever Connemara, the fine and energetic Irish Hunter, the beautifully coloured Piebald and the intelligent and comfortable Irish Cob.
The Accommodations
For the first 4 nights, we will stay on the grounds of An Sibin Riding Centre, in their 300-year old tastefully restored farmhouse. Guest stay in individually decorated ensuite rooms and can relax in the cozy ambiance of the sitting room. The hearty Irish breakfast, tasty lunches and traditional home cooked dinners are enjoyed in front of the open turf fire.
The last 3 evenings will be spent “on the trail”. We will spend the 5th evening in the charming village of Corofin with its countless pubs and Irish hospitality. The 6th and 7th evenings we will enjoy the Lisdoonvarna area, which is famous for traditional music and lively atmosphere in the pubs.
Riding Level
Intermediate to Advanced. To make the trip the best possible experience for you, we recommend that you ride one to two days per week starting one to two months prior to the trip, just to get your derrière and riding muscles ready to spend some hours in the saddle.
If you are a beginning rider, it is still possible for you to get ready for this trip. It’s your opportunity to become the rider that you’ve always wanted to be. If you can imagine yourself trotting through the Irish countryside and cantering by ancient rock walls and over the hills, the time to start with some riding lessons is NOW! If you are in the Durango, CO area, lessons and programs are offered through Joy Rides. If you are out of the area, we are happy to assist you in finding a stable that is the right fit for you.
Fitness level
Beginner. We will be doing some light hiking and exploring each day. To make your trip more enjoyable, we suggest that you have a walking/light workout routine 3-4 weeks prior to the trip.
Cancellation policy:
If you have to cancel, costs are fully refundable up to 90 days before the start of the trip. Between 30 and 90 days before the trip, 50% of the costs are refundable. If you have to cancel 30 days before the trip, the costs are nonrefundable, but are transferable to another person. The $500 deposit is nonrefundable. However, this deposit amount may be transferred to another excursion if space is available.