Horseback riding is big in Ireland and we collected some of the best horseback vacations for you. Ireland is home to the famed Connemara ponies (originating from the region of the same name), and the country's Irish Hunters are equally acclaimed. Regionally, the Irish countryside has a lot to offer - Kerry's highlands promise mountain tracks and beach horse rides; whilst the Donegal area is famed for its stunning country farms and hunting opportunities. Ireland also abounds with history and heritage, and many people travel there to reconnect with their distant Irish heritage Join us in Ireland for the horse riding holiday of a lifetime! 

The ‘Emerald Isle’ has a long and established horse riding history, and is one of the best places to experience the joys of unbounded countryside riding. You’ll find many of our Irish horse riding vacations involve rides in the rolling Irish countryside, often across farmlands. Those riders who are fond of cross country riding will find there are many excellent opportunities for jumping and hunting. 

Many local horse breeds are featured in our Irish horse rides, including the Irish Hunter, Irish Cob and Connemara. Connemara ponies are a very popular trail riding breed, whilst more advanced riders may like to head out on the hunting or cross country trail with a sport horse. 

Horse riding opportunities in Ireland are diverse and varied, and cater for all levels of rider – from beginners to seasoned equestrians. 

In the areas of Connemara, Galway, Sligo, Donegal and Kerry you will find some excellent coastal and hill trail riding, as well as three day eventing courses. These areas also abound with historic buildings, mountain ranges and long sandy beaches. 

Those looking for a luxury horse riding vacation may wish to try Castle Leslie, in Monaghan. This secluded 1000 acre estate is one of only 30 Irish castles still run by the original family. Here you can relax in 4-star comfort, explore the countryside on horse back, or embark on an exhilarating cross country ride on the estates own cross country course. 

For those riders wishing to enhance their equestrian skills, the Offaly Equestrian Centre (just out of Dublin) runs equestrian clinics for novice to advanced riders, and focuses their riding lessons mainly on cross country eventing.