Transfer and Other Options:

In the West of Ireland there is a unique combination of sand-and limestone soils, bog lands, lakes and woodlands. 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 diverse landscape offers great shelter and plenty of food supply for a large variety of animals. The common 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.

The abundance of lakes and rivers in Ireland attract course and game anglers alike. Often you can spot the pike lying in the shallow waters, taking in the heat of the summer sun. In the clear waters the lively Salmon and Trout challenge every anglers skill.

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. It can be difficult and dangerous to access. But as long as you stay on the old bog roads,you will be alright. In some places you could even spot the Celtic toughers still crossing the bogs.

The dominant influence on Ireland's climate is the Atlantic Ocean. Consequently, Ireland does not suffer from the extremes of temperature experienced by many other countries at similar latitude.

Average annual temperature is about 9 °C. In the middle and eastern side of the country temperatures tend to be somewhat more extreme than in other parts of the country. For example, summer average daily maximum is about 19 °C and winter average daily minimum is about 2.5 °C in these areas.

Mean annual wind-speed varies between about 4 m/sec in the east midlands and 7 m/sec in the northwest. Strong winds tend to be more frequent in winter than in summer. Sunshine duration is highest in the southeast of the country. Average rainfall varies between about 800 and 2,800mm.

With southwesterly winds from the Atlantic dominating, rainfall figures are highest in the northwest, west and southwest of the country, especially over the higher ground. Rainfall accumulation tends to be highest in winter and lowest in early summer.

Riders must wear equestrian hard hats and suitable footwear.

A relatively warm waterproof coat or jacket and warm sweater should also be included, as the Irish weather can be unpredictable!

We can provide hard hats for you, although you can also choose to bring your own. Your own is best to guarantee comfort.

Saddle bags are not provided, but you  are welcome to bring your own. You may even bring your own saddle if you prefer. 

Please keep in mind that credit card and traveler cheque acceptance is very, very low in the rural West of Ireland!!  On our trail ride there is only one day where an ATM machine is available!! Please get EURO cash at the airport upon arrival or bring some EURO with you  from home (your bank branch can usually order Euros in for you and you will also get a better rate of exchange than at the airport). Most bank debit cards will work in Irish ATM's.

Cell phone rental is available and can be pre-booked through www.rentaphone-ireland.com

If you are traveling from the USA you may wish to check out unlocking your cell phone to use and Irish SIM card. Check out www.unlockitfree.com or  www.bilemo.com/unlock  

We highly recommend you have your own medical and travel insurance!!

This trip includes and can accommodate special dietary requests.

Tack:		English, Western on request
Horses:		Irish Hunter, Irish Cob, Connemara
Pace:		Moderate with walk, trot and some canter mixed every day. | Walk | Trot | Canter |
Level:		(2.5 to 3 out of 5)    Low Intermediate
Age:		Min 8
Weight:		Max 185 lbs
Riders:		Min 3 riders	Max 8 riders

Ireland is rightly proud of their fine and trusty horses! The Irish horse is renowned for its stamina, versatility and gentleness and will therefore 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 colored Irish piebald and the intelligent and comfortable Irish cob.

Passports
Passport valid for at least three months beyond length of stay required by all except:
(a) 1. persons born in the UK travelling direct from the UK (applicable to British passport holders only).
Note: Whilst UK citizens do not require a passport or visa to enter Ireland, most carriers by air or sea now require some form of identification with photograph, usually a passport or driving licence with photo. Visitors should check what form of ID is required with the individual airline, ferry company or travel agent before travelling.
(b) 2. EU nationals holding a valid national ID card.
Note: EU nationals are only required to produce evidence of their EU nationality and identity in order to be admitted to any EU Member State. This evidence can take the form of a valid national passport or national identity card. Either is acceptable. Possession of a return ticket, any length of validity on their document, sufficient funds for the length of their proposed visit should not be imposed.
Passport Note
3. Imposition of a return ticket as a condition of entry is at the discretion of the Immigration Officer at point of entry.

Visas
Not required by all nationals referred to in the chart above for the following durations:
(a) nationals of EU countries for an unlimited period (nationals of EU countries wishing to stay for longer than three months must register with the Garda National Immigration Bureau).
(b) nationals of Australia, Canada and the USA for stays of up to 90 days.
Note: Nationals not referred to in the chart above are advised to contact the embassy to check visa requirements