Irish Equestrian Adventure
Self Drive Tour or Luxury Chauffeured Tour
Treasure the bond between man and horse on our Irish Equestrian Adventure. Discover the glorious Irish landscape on horseback, ramble down rural trails and visit the National Stud.
“We had a “dream trip” and you/your organization were a large part it making it all happen. Everything went smoothly and was more than we ever imagined!"
– Nancy Capocy
Call 800.832.1848 or 212.757.5797 to talk to one of our destination experts or email us and start planning the perfect trip today.
Price: : Call For Price
Highlights
Ireland holds a very special reverence for the horse and horse riding. On our Equestrian Adventure explore some of the most beautiful and wild parts of Ireland on horseback with access to the best treks and trails. This magnificent tour begins in the West of Ireland and ends in the East, in Dublin, the capital city of Ireland, giving you plenty of opportunities to soak up the atmosphere and culture of the Emerald Isle. Let the local Irish experts here at Destinations customize your dream equestrian experience in Ireland.
To customize this itinerary, talk to one of our destination experts on 800.832.1848 or 212.757.5797.
- Arrive in Shannon Airport
- Day of trekking in Connemara, through the Errislannan Manor Riding Centre
- Visit Galway City & Galway Equestrian Centre
- View the stunning Cliffs of Moher and explore the lunar-like Burren
- Visit Ailwee Caves
- Visit The Killarney Riding Stables for a trekking adventure.
- Tour the medieval city of Kilkenny
- Tour Glendalough & County Wicklow
- Visit the Irish National Stud
- Explore & tour Dublin City
- Return home from Dublin Airport
Included in This Tour
- Private Car transfer to your hotel on arrival.
- 9 nights deluxe hotel accommodations with full breakfast daily.
- Self-Drive rental vehicle OR upgrade to a Professional Driver Guide.
- Touring Map of Ireland & List of recommended pubs, restaurants and places of interest.
- An exclusive & extensive list of all the best craft trails and activities in Ireland.
- Deluxe portfolio of travel Documents & Personalized Itinerary.
- 24/7 Concierge service in Ireland while travelling.
- Discount admissions booklet for area attractions.
Flight Information
- Arrive: Shannon (SNN)
- Depart: Dublin (DUB)
Take the hassle out of booking flights. Ask about our best available Economy Fares as well as our Preferred Business and First Class Offers. Our air department experts can help with competitive rates. Just let us know your preferred dates and U.S. Departure City. We will do the rest.
Meals
- Breakfast Daily
Day 1
Arrive in Shannon Airport, and pick up your rental car. Drive to the magnificent Ballynahinch Castle in Connemara, County Galway where you will stay for 2 nights. Once you have settled in, you can explore a number of charming fishing villages dotted along the coast. The scenery is breath-taking. Bask in the rich culture, delicious food, and incomparable hospitality of the West of Ireland.
Day 2
Today, visit Errislannan Manor Riding Center. Established in 1970, this equestrian center is renowned for its scenic surroundings. You can also see the ‘Manor Connemara Pony Stud’. The Errislannan Manor Center offers long or short treks over heather covered moors and along the shores out to the end of the peninsula, home of hares, larks, otters and all kinds of seabirds. The Connemara ponies are homebred, and sound. Don’t miss out on this magical opportunity!
Day 3
Depart Connemara and continue on to Galway City, where you’ll stay 1 night at the Twelve Hotel. Enjoy a great day exploring Galway City, known as the “City of the Tribes” since the time it was ruled by patrician families hundreds of years ago. Galway is a thriving and bustling city famous for the arts. Enjoy a delicious meal and traditional Irish music at a local pub. Visit the Galway Equestrian Center and take a ride this afternoon. Enjoy your time at their superb facilities and perhaps visit their tack shop.
Day 4
Drive south today towards Killarney, in County Kerry, where you will stay for 2 nights at The Carrig House. On the way visit the Cliffs of Moher. Soaring 700 feet above the Atlantic ocean on the coast of County Clare, this site will astound you. Don’t miss the opportunity to walk on the Burren, with its limestone lunar landscape, druidic altars, stone age fireplaces and exotic plant life. Explore the Ailwee Caves, home to majestic underground waterfalls, and the Birds of Prey Centre, which houses birds from around the globe. Enjoy a hands-on experience with professional Hawk handlers.
Day 5
Spend today at The Killarney Riding Stables, which were established in 1968. Approved by the Irish Tourist Board and the Association of Irish Riding Establishments, the Stables are home to some 70 horses. Killarney Riding Stables offers hacking, trekking and trail riding in the Killarney National Park. The trails go into the Knockreer Estate, north of Lough Lein, encompassing stunning views of mountains, lake, wildlife, flora and fauna. This is a remarkable way to see the beauty of Killarney.
Day 6
Depart Kerry today, and drive North East towards County Wicklow. On the way visit Kilkenny for a tour, see Kilkenny Castle, and have a bite to eat. Kilkenny is Ireland’s finest example of a medieval city. Onward to County Wicklow where you’ll stay for 1 night at The Rathsallagh House. Wicklow is Ireland’s ‘horse country’, bordering with County Kildare, which features The Irish National Stud and Japanese Gardens.
Day 7
Visit the enchanting treasure that is Glendalough, the ruins of the sixth century monastic settlement founded by St. Kevin. The ruins feature the finest example of an ancient round tower. Afterwards tour the Irish National Stud. Nowhere better symbolizes all that is great about County Kildare, the beating heart of Ireland’s thoroughbred industry. Home to some of the most magnificent horses and sumptuous gardens to be found anywhere in the world this is a unique attraction of outstanding natural beauty. The Irish National Stud’s Japanese Gardens, created between 1906 and 1910, are renowned throughout the world and the finest of their kind in Europe. Drive on to Dublin this evening, return your rental car, and check into Brooks Hotel in the heart of the City, for a 3 night stay.
Day 8
Explore Dublin City today. Dublin is a dynamic capital city, with a proud colorful past and a thriving present. The city brims with fantastic restaurants and traditional pubs, where you may sample cuisine from around the world. Take a horse and carriage ride through some of Dublin’s historic Georgian Squares. Meander through the Temple Bar area of the city, and take in some traditional Irish music. Perhaps enjoy a show in Dublin’s famed The Gate Theater.
Day 9
Today, we recommend taking a ‘Hop on, Hop off’ double-decker bus tour of Dublin. It’s a fantastic way to get around and see all the best sights! Highlights include Trinity College, Dublin Castle, and St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Stroll down Grafton Street, Dublin’s premier shopping area. Visit the Guinness Brewery at St. James’ Gate and enjoy a taste of the real thing right from the source. We recommend a visit to the Brazen Head Pub for their evening of traditional Irish folklore, storytelling, music and food.
Day 10
After a delicious Irish breakfast, enjoy your private transfer to Dublin Airport, where you’ll prepare for your return flight home.
To customize this itinerary, talk to one of our destination experts on 800.832.1848 or 212.757.5797.
Hotels
Ballynahinch Castle, Connemara
Ballynahinch Castle Hotel is one of the finest 4 star luxury castle hotels in Ireland. Ballynahinch is theperfect blend of authenticity & comfort, set in a private 450 acre estate of woodland, rivers and walks in the heart of Connemara Co. Galway. This luxury, yet unpretentious Castle Hotel stands proudly overlooking its famous salmon fishery, with a backdrop of the beautiful 12 Bens Mountain range. Ballynahinch Castle Hotel is the perfect base for exploring Connemara. Recently, Ballynahinch was voted #1 hotel in Ireland by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler magazine.
Brooks hotel, Dublin
Situated only minutes from Grafton Street in the fashionable heart of Dublin city, Brooks Hotel is the perfect place to stay. Most of the city’s key attractions are within walking distance to the hotel and include: the best shopping streets in the capital, St. Stephen’s Green, the Guinness storehouse, Dublin Castle, Trinity College and many popular art galleries, theatres, museums and entertainment venues. Luxuriously appointed rooms coupled with excellent food, fine wines and exemplary levels of customer care and service, are what make a visit to Brooks such a special and rewarding experience.
Carrig House, Kerry
This charming and meticulously restored Victorian residence has a sense of timelessness about it that has captured the imagination of poets and adventurers alike. Situated on the shores of beautiful Caragh Lake in Kerry, you will find the cleanest air in Europe, beautiful gardens and natural green woodlands with spectacular views across the still waters to the wildness of the Kerry Mountains. For the past 15 years Frank & Mary have operated a very successful Country House & Restaurant and have won many rewards for their hospitality and their Lakeside Restaurant. They are members of Ireland’s prestigious Blue Book.
Kinnitty Castle, Co. Offaly
Kinnitty Castle Hotel, located in the picturesque village of Kinnitty Co. Offaly, nestled in the foothills of the Slieve Bloom Mountains, offers the perfect setting for a romantic castle break in Ireland. Arrive up the winding avenue, opening into breathtaking views of the 13th century castle seated on 650 acres of parkland, inclusive of 60 acres of rolling lawns. Enter the lavish medieval revival castle, drenched in original features, heritage colors and regal atmospheres dating back to 1209. Wander through the fine settings of the Library Bar, The Sli Dala Restaurant and the Drawing Room all with magnificent character. Relax beside our unique open fires, enjoy the best of local cuisine prepared by our Executive Chef, Anthony Holland.
Rathsallagh House, Co. Wicklow
Rathsallagh Country House Hotel is beautiful and romantic place located on the Kildare / Wicklow border. Converted from Queen Anne stables in 1798 Rathsallagh is a large 4-star Grade A country house hotel set in 530 acres of peaceful parkland with its own walled garden - all surrounded by the magnificent Rathsallagh Golf Club. Rathsallagh House is a member of Ireland’s prestigious Blue Book properties. Rathsallagh also has one of the most famous and multiple award winning Country House Restaurants in Ireland, featuring ‘New Irish Country House Cooking.’
The Twelve Hotel, Galway
With prestigious awards under its belt (‘Best Gastro Pub in Ireland’, Wine Spectator Award for ‘one of most outstanding wine lists in the world’ & ‘Best Overall Boutique Hotel in Ireland’) it’s no wonder that The Twelve makes for such a popular & stylish vacation venue in Galway. The hotel is ideally located only minutes from Galway City Center, at the gateway to Connemara. The Twelve has the coziness and warm welcome that you expect in the West of Ireland but manages to break age-old tradition with a striking ambience and understated designer interiors. Relax in their spa, and take in all that this deluxe hotel, and Galway, has to offer.
Travel Tips & FAQs
Ireland
Passports & Visas
To enter the Republic or Northern Ireland, you need a valid passport. While e-passports are commonly used now, they are not a necessity to enter Ireland. UK citizens do not require a passport to enter Ireland, but carriers by air or sea require some form of identification with a photograph (usually either a passport or driving license with photo).
Citizens of the EEA member states (the 27 countries of the European Union EU, together with Iceland, Norway and Liechtenstein) and many other countries including USA, Australia, Canada and New Zealand do not require visas to gain entry to Republic or Northern Ireland.
What to Pack
Bring a sweater, even in summer; waterproofs to accompany all outdoor activities; sunglasses; comfortable walking shoes and an umbrella. The weather is changeable so go for layers that you can put on or take off as the temperature changes.
Weather
February to April: Highest temperatures range from 46 to 54°F
May to July: Highest temperatures are between 64 and 68°F
August to October: Highest temperatures hit between 64 and 57°F.
Winter air temperatures inland normally reach 46°F, while the coldest months are January and February.
April & September are considered the most pleasant and temperate months.
Currency
In the Republic of Ireland, the official currency is the euro (€). One euro consists of 100 cent. In Northern Ireland, pound sterling is the local currency (£). One pound sterling consists of 100 pence.
Gratuities
Gratuities and tips are discretionary and are not usually included in a bill. The general custom is to give 10% to serving staff in restaurants. Cafes might have a collection box at the till and bar staff are not tipped but you are free to offer “have one for yourself”.
Emergency Services
Police, Fire, Ambulance:
Republic of Ireland, Telephone: 112 or 999
Northern Ireland, Telephone: 999
Gadgets
Plugs in Ireland are three-pronged, the same as in the UK and the electricity supply is also 230v. Adapters are widely available, and it’s a good idea to bring a couple for your various gadgets.
Public Transportation
National Coaches
Republic of Ireland: Bus Eireann
Northern Ireland: Translink
Dublin Buses
Leap Visitor Card is a prepaid pass that allows you to travel on all Dublin Bus, Airlink 747 buses as well as the Luas Light Railway Tram and DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit) for up to 3 days.
Railways
Republic of Ireland: Irish Rail
Northern Ireland: Northern Ireland Railways
The Dart (Dublin Area Rapid Transit) covers Dublin’s coast and city area from Howth and Malahide in north County Dublin via Dun Laoghaire in south County Dublin to Greystones in County Wicklow.
Luas light rail/tram service travels across the south and west of Dublin city including the city center areas.
Time Zone
Ireland functions on Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). During the summer it becomes GMT+1, that’s Irish Standard Time (IST) in the Republic and British Summer Time (BST) in Northern Ireland.
For example, New York is Irish Time -5 hours & Los Angeles is Irish Time -8 hours.
Language
English is commonly used throughout Ireland although Irish is the official language and there are Irish speaking areas called the Gaeltacht where it is the predominant language.
Driving
You will need either a full valid national driving license or an international driving permit. Cars in Ireland drive on the left-hand side of the road and both driver and passengers are required to wear seat belts at all times by law. Signposts in Gaeltacht (Irish speaking) areas are written in Irish (Gaelic) so familiarise yourself with both English and Irish spellings before you set off for those parts. Northern Ireland uses miles per hour, while the Republic of Ireland uses kilometers for signage and speed limits.
Vaccinations
There are no vaccinations required to visit Ireland.
Testimonials
“Back from a great golf trip and thanks so much for your assistance. Hotels were outstanding and made for a wonderful relaxing trip.”
– Tim Dudich
“I wanted to let you know that our trip was one for the ages. We had more fun than I could have imagined.”
– Herb Bennett
“To say our group had an awesome time on our trip would be the understatement of the century.”
– John C. Granzow, CIMA
“I will have no hesitation in recommending your company for future use! I felt as if you and your company gave us top notch customer service and never batted an eye for what may have been odd questions – that type of service is hard to find. You really gave us personal service!”
– Leslie Wajda
“Trip was great – accommodations excellent.”
– Kathleen McCormack-Batterson
“This note is to praise Destinations Ireland and our driver, James Finn, who truly made our trip a pleasure!”
– Donna Long
“The trip was really great. You did a fabulous job of picking the properties. Scotland is beautiful! It was a great trip. You scored again! Can’t wait for our next adventure.”
– Libby McGriff
“I wanted to let you know that the accommodations were fabulous throughout our trip. We were completely blown away, what a magnificent find. The house is simply breathtaking. A word on the drivers. I could not have asked for more accommodating or entertaining gentleman to escort us around. They were full of information, great stories, and advice. Really, really just wonderful guys all around.”
– Susanne McNeill
“A masterful job in creating and arranging such a phenomenal trip…”
– P.J. Fitzgerald
“We had a “dream trip” and you/your organization were a large part it making it all happen. Everything went smoothly and was more than we ever imagined! We are already talking about a return trip in a few years! Have to save our money. 🙂 Thanks again for all you did for us.”
– Nancy Capocy
“I cannot express how much I appreciate you making all the arrangements with such short notice & I just wanted to say Thank you again for all your help.”
– Susan Sanford
“All I do is talk about the wonderful trip, sites and your company and how we couldn’t have been happier with all the arrangements and people who set this wonderful trip up. Again thank you!!!”
– Janet Jenrick
“We had a wonderful time in Ireland and I appreciate all the reservations you made and the guidance your gave us.”
– Monica Kobasic
“I wanted to thank you for arranging a great trip to Scotland. The Channings, Culloden House, and Roxburghe House were fantastic…the best of accommodations, food, and customer service”
– Trina Girimont
“I wanted to thank you and Destinations Ireland and Beyond. We had an amazing experience. We loved all the hotels that you set us up with. Thank you for being so insightful, quickly giving us a speed course of Ireland and helping us decide where to go and what to see. I would highly recommend Destinations Ireland and Beyond as the best travel agency!”
– Donna and Ira Spector
“A lot of beautiful memories. THANK YOU for all of your planning and attention to detail,”
– Kathy Ross
“I just wanted to send you a thank you for all you did to make our trip the best! It was beyond our expectations! We loved all of our accommodations. I can’t say that I have a favorite because it all was perfect. We were not ready to come home and all look forward to visiting Ireland again.”
– Peg Cozzolino
“I want to THANK ALL OF YOU FOR A WONDERFUL TRIP. Ronelle and I had a marvelous time.”
– P.J. “Paul” Nicholson
“Thank You! for all your help arranging a wonderful visit to Ireland.”
– Ron & Jennifer Spielman
“Tim and I had a wonderful trip to Ireland thanks to your wonderful suggestions and arrangements. Everything was just perfect. We truly had a wonderful trip and are grateful for your services.”
– Jenny Popp
“Thank you for the great job you did arranging our trip to Ireland. Everything went wonderfully and the accommodations were the best.”
– Elizabeth Zechman
Booking Enquiry for Irish Equestrian Adventure
You can use this form to contact us with your preferred date of travel, the number of people in your party and your requirements and we will get back to you with a quote.
