Galway Clare

Introduction
Connemara/Galway Ireland
Ireland is undoubtedly a nature lover's paradise. In the West of Ireland, a truly unique combination of sand-and limestone soils, bog lands, lakes and woodlands exist.

The peat or bog land is one of Ireland’s greatest natural assets, not only as an energy source, but as some of its last wild areas. In some places, you can even spot the Celtic toughers still crossing the bogs. You will be discovering Ireland's beauty and colorful history on horseback. Your horse will be carrying you about 80km from County Galway, westwards through the rural areas of County Clare region.

The ride begins with the peaceful forests of the Slieve Aughty Mountains and their fascinating views over the majestic Lough Derg and River Shannon. Along the track we will be passing old farm ruins and miles of stonewalls, before we head across the extensive areas of bog land. Leaving sheltered pasture, we then head for the top of the hills and onto the sandy shores of Lough Graney. Lovely wood tracks take us further westwards overlooking Glandaria, the wide fertile valley of the River Shannon, and we will cross the boggy uplands. County Clare unfolds around us, in the distance rising hills of the famous Burren National Park. The extremely rough shore  line of County Clare stretches out under us for the last hard gallop!

Accomodation


Accommodations
6-day trip: This is a stationary ride, so all nights will be spent in the same location.

Description
All accommodations host double/twin rooms with private bathrooms.



Farmhouse
We will overnight in the tastefully restored 300 year-old farmhouse - the heart of the riding center. The ambiance of old times gone by is carefully maintained and yet all modern facilities for the riding guests are provided. You can relax peacefully in your individually decorated rooms with private bath. It's said that this special place, called "The Mountain", is an inspiration to all who stand on its threshold and recapture the simplicity and peace of this idyllic setting. You'll find yourself in a home away from home as you cozy up to the peat fire with a tea or coffee in hand with the sounds of the farm and life to serenade you.
Washing machines are available to use, but we do not have a dryer. There is WIFI access at the riding center and farmhouse.

Room Occupancy
Single supplement is mandatory if we are unable to find another rider to share.



Meals
All meals are included from dinner on Day 1 to breakfast on Day 6.

We'll enjoy our breakfasts at the ranch.
Lunches are had while on the trail.
Country-style dinners will be eaten in restaurants.

Alcohol is not included, but can be purchased or guests can bring their own.

Dietary Restrictions
We can cater to dietary restrictions given prior notice.

This trip includes and can accommodate special dietary requests.

Riding


Saturday is a resting day for our horses!

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 coloured Irish Piebald and the intelligent and comfortable Irish Cob.

Riders wanting to join this tour have to be physically fit and safe riders in the outdoors in a group of horses. We ride up to 6 hours daily. On the last day we lead our horses up and down a hill on difficult terrain. Good solid riding boots are highly recommended.
 

Itinerary


Sample Itinerary: 6-day program - subject to changes

Note: Subject to changes due to weather conditions or circumstances beyond our control without prior notice

Day 1 (Saturday): Arrival
Transfer approximately 1.5 hours to our Riding Centre from Shannon airport. You will be staying here for all nights. On the arrival day you can just relax and recover from your journey, or take a stroll on the walking trails around our property. For the more adventurous among you, there is also the possibility to go on a guided boat tour to historic Holy Island with its monastic settlement of the 9th century. In the evening, you will get to know all your fellow riders for this week. You will have dinner in the tastefully restored 300-year-old farmhouse in our Riding Centre by candlelight and turf fire.
Meals included: Dinner
Overnight at Farmhouse

Day 2 (Sunday): Slieve Aughty Mountains
Meet your horse and get used to each other by grooming and saddling up. Not to worry, our guides are always ready to help you with everything. Today you will enjoy an easy half day guided trail ride along the peaceful slopes of the wooded Slieve Aughty Mountains and across widespread bog land.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Farmhouse

Day 3 (Monday): River Shannon 
Taking in the grand views over the majestic River Shannon, you will be riding by the traditional turf / peat cutting areas and learning about the mystic Neolithic tombs and about the legends of the ruined monastic settlement on Holy Island.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Farmhouse

Day 4 (Tuesday): Lough Graney
Heading for the top of the hills we will overlook peaceful rolling countryside and ride along miles of storytelling rough old stonewalls sheltering the fresh green pastures. The sandy shores of Lough Graney invite us to a refreshing ride, right across the gentle lapping lake.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Farmhouse

Day 5 (Wednesday): Clare
The old narrow country lanes of rural Ireland and the tranquil forest tracks guide you to the boggy uplands where County Clare unfolds all around you. Many colorful wild flowers like gorse, foxglove and heather line your path.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Farmhouse

Day 6 (Thursday): Departure
After breakfast onwards journey or transfer back to Shannon Airport.
Meals included: Breakfast


Non-Riders
Non-riders are also welcome, there is plenty to for them to do including hiking, cycling, sightseeing, fishing, golf etc

Rates and Dates for Galway Clare

Dates Note: Weekly departures from Saturday to Thursday

Other Info
Meeting: Whitegate
Airport: Shannon
Transfer: Shannon

Climate:
                                            Crusheen area

• PAS 015:1998
• SNELL E2001
• ASTM F1163
• AS/NZS3838 2003
• VG1 01.040 2014-12