The Wild West Horse Riding Experience

Explore the Wild West of Ireland and experience an exhilarating horse riding adventure along the Wild Atlantic Way that will take your breath away.

Discover the best of the scenic Irish landscape from a whole new vantage point as you gallop across sandy beaches, trek through the hilly, green fields and you might even get up close to some beautiful mares with their lively, frolicking foals.

Dreaming of Ireland? When we can travel again, there’s no better or wilder way to see this gorgeous region than by horseback! For a sneak preview of what to expect, here is a lovely Tourism Ireland video showcasing horse riding along the Wild Atlantic Way.

6 Horse Riding Experiences in Ireland’s Wild West. 

Dunfanaghy Stables, County Donegal.

Make your way to Dunfanaghy Stables on County Donegal’s rugged coastline, run by Helen and Niamh McDaid, and experience this breathtaking part of the Wild Atlantic Way in the best way possible – on horseback. On the beautiful beaches of the Atlantic coast, you can ride for miles on a horse riding lesson without interruption. There are horses to suit all horse riding abilities, from small Shetland ponies, Connemara ponies, quiet cobs and Irish hunters. All of which are sure-footed when crossing the mountain paths and sandy beaches.

Island View Stable, County Sligo. 

Take a trek across miles of sandy beaches, moorlands and the Island View Stable’s private land in Sligo. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and Donegal Bay, enjoy a canter, a leisurely stroll or even a splash along the shore near Benbulben.

Go Trekking, County Mayo. 

In County Mayo, near Croagh Patrick and the beautiful Clew Bay you’ll find Go Trekking. Just a short walk from Westport Quay, this trekking company specializes in beach excursions on Murrisk and Beartra, as well as woodland and mountain trips, which last up to four hours. Their horses are well-trained with pleasant temperaments and enjoy the gallops as much as the riders do.

An Sibin Equestrian Centre, County Clare.  

Located in Whitegate, County Clare, An Sibin Equestrian Centre caters for horseback riding on trails through historic County Galway, County Clare and the unique Burren National Park. Experience the true Irish spirit on an Irish horse riding vacation, with a backdrop formed by the rolling hills of Slieve Aughty. Wind your way on horseback down quiet country roads and take in the natural beauty of The Burren area in County Clare. The Sibin, a restored 300-year-old farmhouse offers guests a home-cooked meal in front of an open turf fire.

Dingle Horse Riding, County Kerry. 

Built in the hills overlooking the Dingle harbour, Dingle Horse Riding is just 2km from the centre of the vibrant town in County Kerry on the Wild Atlantic Way. Their horses have been chosen for their temperament and suitability for all types of rider. From introductory horse riding lessons to challenging rides in the open countryside of the stunning Dingle Peninsula, you have plenty of choice here.

Killarney Riding Stables, County Kerry. 

Killarney Riding Stables was originally established by Donie O’Sullivan in the late 1960s, and remains a family affair today. Located close to Killarney Town and Killarney National Park, the area is a joy to explore on horseback. You can spend a blissful afternoon in Killarney on a gentle walk or a lively canter through lush parks and leafy woodlands.

Go horse riding in Ireland. 

The Irish are known around the world for their love for horses – it’s in their blood! So saddle up and plan to discover parts of Ireland on horseback, including the majestic beaches, magnificent mountains and peaceful countryside trails. Learn the story behind the Irish love affair with horses, Ireland’s champion horses, the history of horse racing and Ireland’s rich horse racing heritage.

Discover our private chauffeur vacations for even more ideas on what to visit in Ireland in 2022. Explore the hidden gems of the Emerald Isle with our knowledgeable driver guides and do it all at your own leisurely pace. We will ensure to suggest what needs to be on every horse lover’s bucket list, as there is a special treasure trove waiting here for you to explore. To start planning your vacation of a lifetime in Ireland please make sure to get in touch with our office.  

Our “Gift of Ireland” gift certificates allow you to choose a customized vacation that is both personal and wonderful. There is flexibility to use our gift certificates for any of our travel services, including self-drive tours, escorted tours, private group tours and tailor made vacations. You can use the “Gift of Ireland” towards hotel accommodation, airport transfers, visitor attractions, a round of golf, afternoon tea, a medieval castle banquet or a romantic evening meal….. The list is endless. Plus they are valid for 5 years from date of purchase. The “Gift of Ireland” really is the special gift that keeps on giving!

We love hearing from our friends around the world who share a passion for Ireland like our team here at Specialized Travel Services and we’re more than happy to answer your travel to Ireland queries. Just drop us a line at newyork@jeremyd50.sg-host.com

Note: Featured image at the top of the blog is a group horse riding in County Sligo – Photographer: Gardiner Mitchell © Tourism Ireland.