Levels of Experience
All our different trails are vetted by Professional Teachers to determine their suitability for both Rider and Horse. Each Trail is graded and you will be offered options based on your level of experience. When booking your stay, please let us know your level of experience in Riding. If you are unsure, we can easily help your assess your level.
The reason for this is to help you get the most out of your horse during your stay and maintain an appropriate level of safety. If you wish to try a different horse within your level grouping we are happy to help select an appropriate alternative.
| Level |
Experience with Horses |
| Level 1 (Beginner) |
You have tried horse riding or you know the basics but are lacking in confidence and practice. |
| Level 2 (Proficient) |
On a steady horse, you can do trail riding and handle walking, trotting and cantering. |
| Level 3 (Advanced) |
On agile horses you can do trail riding, handle walking, trotting, cantering and galloping (either within a group or alone). |
Riding Lessons
Start the day with one or two hours riding lesson provided by one of our qualified instructors. They can help you to develop your skills in the following disciplines:
If you like horses and want to learn how to handle them with confidence and respect, this is the perfect programme for you.
Your private instructor will teach you the essentials of “horse psychology”, your demeanor in all situations, how to groom and saddle up, and how to ride: Walking, Trotting and Cantering. The lessons will be conducted in both the arena and through Trail Riding.
Depending on the weather and season, the lessons will be conducted in our indoor or outdoor arena. The instructor will first assess your abilities and then provide you with training to bring you to the next level. The lessons are conducted in a safe and private setting.
Trail Riding
Donegal is the most beautiful county of Ireland.
A magnificent and changeable landscape, which juxtaposes the dramatically rugged, alongside the picturesquely gentle.
During your ride you will also see the beautiful indigenous flora and fauna of the region.
Here is a selection of some of the trails we offer:
- Forest Trails (2-4 hours trails and full day trails) Levels 2/3
- Village and Forest Trails (2-3 hours) Level 3
- Beach Rrails (full day) Level 2/3
- Pub Trail (2-3 hours trail) Level 3
- Blue Stack Mountains (full day) Level 2
- Barnes Mountain Trail (full day) Level 2
- Lake Trail (full day) Level 2
- Local Trail (1 hour) Level 2
Horses
Each of our horses is carefully selected and the herd is made of Irish breeds from the thoroughbred Huntsman to the Traditional Worker/Tinker varieties.
For Trail Riding we use sure-footed even tempered horses with ages ranging from 5 to 15 years old.
For Dressage and Jumping we use competition horses of varying levels to suit the proficient and the advanced rider.
Stables and Arenas
Stables
The stables were built in 2007 and are situated in the heart of the farm. Each stable was designed to give the horses ample space and circulation of air. They are bright, clean and well equipped. There is also a well equipped Tack Room and equipment/horse cleaning area. The facilities are modern and well maintained, giving both horse and rider a pleasant environment in which to rest, groom or saddle up.
Indoor arena
The indoor arena is brand new and only completed in 2008. It is built to a high specification that measures approximately 160ft by 80ft (48 by 24 meters). The floor covering is very soft underfoot and provides the horses with the perfect environment for a good workout. The facilities for the rider also include jumping bars, barrels and other props. There is also Men’s and Women’s showers and restrooms.
Outdoor arena
The outdoor arena is set amongst mature native Irish trees and the ground is well maintained for daily usage by trainer, rider and horse. The arena is marked out for Dressage and is also equipped for Jumping. The space provides a pleasant and sheltered environment providing good wind protection even on a blustery day.
Instructors
Our instructors are qualified, professional and friendly, making teaching you new techniques or improving current ones both interesting and fun.
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