ABOUT THE RIDING

Style of Riding: English. The horses are ridden with long reins rather than short reins. This may be in contradiction to dressage experience gained at conventional riding schools, but here the animals must have the opportunity of convincing themselves whether or not a path is safe for walking on. On the beach they usually become bouncy, they are used to being allowed to gallop, hanging on to the reins will only make the horse livelier.

Type of Riding: Trail Ride. On this ride you set the pace. However all of the horses are used to galloping on the beach and can become excited on reaching the sand.

Type of Tack: Specially designed trail saddles with saddlebags.

Hours in the Saddle: 4 to 6 hours, although longer if you get lost.

Riding Ability Required: Experienced Intermediate upward, although a less experienced rider could be catered for providing they were accompanied by an experienced rider. It is essential that you are confident around horses and able to look after them.

Maximum Weight: 90kg (14st)

Number of Guides per Ride: This ride is unescorted.

Minimum/Maximum number of riders in group: 2 or more, depending on the size of your own party.

Looking after the horse: You will need to care for your horse for the duration of the ride. It is therefore imperative that you are confident in handling, grooming and tacking-up horses.

ABOUT THE HORSES

The horses used on this ride are mainly Irish Hunters although there are a few Connemara ponies suitable for children or small adults. All the horses are well mannered, experienced and very surefooted.