Tipperary Cross Country | Horse Riding Holidays in Ireland | Globetrotting

Cross Country in Tipperary, Ireland

6 NightsIntermediate to AdvancedFrom €3,230 EUR?Tour costs €3,230 EUR which is approximately $5,353 AUD

Any equestrian worth their salt understands the significance of County Tipperary in Ireland, so what better backdrop to hone your cross country skills, with top-level coaching and a herd of schoolmaster Irish Sport Horses!

Firstly, let’s just linger on our ride location for a moment, globetrotters…

Any equestrian worth their salt understands the significance of County Tipperary in Ireland {think Coolmore Stud}. Horses and Tipperary are inextricably linked – the county has produced some of the world’s most famous racehorses. So what better backdrop to hone, learn and upskill than on a bowling green-esque cross country course in the equestrian heart of Ireland? On top of this, you’ll have top-level coaching on tap and be mounted on schoolmaster Irish Sport Horses.

It’s drool-worthy – and we’re speaking from experience. In 2018 we were fortunate enough to test out the coaching, horses and cross country course during the day while retiring to our luxurious estate house of an evening. And we’re STILL buzzing from the experience. Your coach, Mark Molloy, has over two decades of coaching experience and takes the time to get to know each rider individually. You’ll slip into a daily rhythm of hitting the cross country course in the morning, wandering back to the house for a delicious lunch, then enjoying another jumping session in the afternoon.

Now when you’re not in the saddle, you’ll be hosted by the Egan family – think Irish country hospitality on steroids. Inch House will be your home-away-from-home: an impeccably furnished, two-story luxury manor house. We’ve thrown in a non-riding day in the middle to give you time to rest your body and enjoy some local sight-seeing, ending with a home-grown fiddle performance that only the locals (and now you!) know about!

We’ve worked super hard to develop an itinerary that takes in the VERY BEST of Tipperary, both in and out of the saddle. Say YES!

Fast Facts

  • Horse Breed:A mixture of Irish Sport Horse, Irish Hunter, Irish Draught and Thoroughbred horses.
  • Pace:The pace will vary on a daily basis. You’ll be enjoying show jumping and cross country lessons each day, so there will be plenty of trotting and cantering.
  • Weight Limit:Maximum of 95kg / 210lbs.
  • Type of tack:English all-purpose and jumping saddles.
  • Seasons:September & October.
  • Group size:A maximum of 9 riding guests.
  • Time in Saddle:Approximately 3 to 4 hours per day.
  • Riding Ability:Intermediate to advanced riders who have previous jumping experience (even if only minimal). Not sure what your riding ability is? Watch THIS video to find out.
  • Accommodation:One of the highlights to this entire itinerary is the magnificent Georgian Mansion you get to call home for the week and enjoy the lifestyles of a bygone era. Inch House is located in County Tipperary and has been lovingly restored to its former 300-year-old glory by its owners, John & Nora Egan.
    There are six luxury en-suite guest bedrooms, all beautifully appointed with antique furnishings and original features throughout. Being a house of a certain age, all the rooms are different sizes, and not all ensuite bathrooms feature a bathtub, some just have a shower. Rooms will be assigned on a first come, first served basis.
    Rest assured, with marble fireplaces, double height stained glass windows, a double oak staircase and a William Morris style drawing room as features throughout the house, you will feel like a Lord or Lady of the land as you wander around this fine establishment.
  • Ride Length:7 days, 6 nights, with 4 riding days and 1 day of local sightseeing.
  • Inclusions:

    All riding activities, all transfers, accommodation in a Georgian Mansion, breakfast each day, 4 lunches, 4 dinners, admission fees at local attractions, and a professional photography package from your final two riding days.

  • Exclusions:

    International or regional flights, travel insurance (compulsory), alcohol (BYO is welcome), 2 dinners, and 1 lunch (on the sight-seeing day).

    *Non-riders: the rate DOES NOT include lunch each day since the riders will be enjoying this at the local equestrian centre.

 

DEPARTURE DATES & RATES

NEW! Secure your saddle seat NOW with a 10% deposit - as part of our 10x 10% payment plan!
Departing FinishingAvailabilityTotal
September 2, 2024September 8, 2024SOLD OUT!
From: €3,230 EUR ?Tour costs €3,230 EUR which is approximately $5,353 AUD - Twin Share?Happy to share with another solo traveller of the same gender
From: €3,845 EUR ?Tour costs €3,845 EUR which is approximately $6,372 AUD - Single Rider?Happy to pay a booking supplement for own room
September 16, 2024September 22, 2024SOLD OUT!
From: €3,230 EUR ?Tour costs €3,230 EUR which is approximately $5,353 AUD - Twin Share?Happy to share with another solo traveller of the same gender
From: €3,845 EUR ?Tour costs €3,845 EUR which is approximately $6,372 AUD - Single Rider?Happy to pay a booking supplement for own room
September 30, 2024October 6, 20244 spots left
From: €3,230 EUR ?Tour costs €3,230 EUR which is approximately $5,353 AUD - Twin Share?Happy to share with another solo traveller of the same gender
Book

2.5% credit card surcharge

From: €3,845 EUR ?Tour costs €3,845 EUR which is approximately $6,372 AUD - Single Rider?Happy to pay a booking supplement for own room
From: €1,700 EUR ?Tour costs €1,700 EUR which is approximately $2,818 AUD - Non Rider?To twin-share with a riding guest
Book

2.5% credit card surcharge

October 14, 2024October 20, 20243 spots left
From: €3,230 EUR ?Tour costs €3,230 EUR which is approximately $5,353 AUD - Twin Share?Happy to share with another solo traveller of the same gender
Book

2.5% credit card surcharge

From: €3,845 EUR ?Tour costs €3,845 EUR which is approximately $6,372 AUD - Single Rider?Happy to pay a booking supplement for own room
From: €1,700 EUR ?Tour costs €1,700 EUR which is approximately $2,818 AUD - Non Rider?To twin-share with a riding guest
Book

2.5% credit card surcharge

*Please note, there are 3x twin share rooms and 3x single rooms available, all of varying sizes and layouts (it’s a house of a certain age and character after all). These will be assigned by preference on a first come, first served basis.

Non-riders are welcome to join their riding partner on this ride (subject to availability). Please note however, the non-rider rate DOES NOT include lunch each day since the riders will be enjoying this at the local equestrian centre. We recommend non-riders hire a car so that they have the flexibility to explore the surrounding area during the day.

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE PRICE?
All riding activities, all transfers, accommodation in a Georgian Mansion, breakfast each day, 4 lunches, 4 dinners, admission fees at local attractions, and a professional photography package from your final two riding days.

WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE?
International or regional flights, travel insurance (compulsory), alcohol (BYO is welcome), 2 dinners, and 1 lunch (on the sight-seeing day).

Accepted payment is by credit or debit card only. Depending on the ride you choose to book and your country of residence, there will be a 1.2% to 2.9% surcharge.

Click HERE to read more about our fees and charges.
Click HERE to read our recommendations on which cards are best to use to avoid international transaction fees.
WHY IS THE PRICE QUOTED IN EUR?
With our riding destinations, the currency is dictated by our ride partner in that country. Therefore due to fluctuating exchange rates we have to quote in the same currency.

Itinerary

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*Please note, this is a suggested itinerary only and subject to change at the discretion of your guides due to weather and other influencing factors.

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  • Day 1

    With bubbles of excitement and anticipation, you’ll arrive in Ireland today, globetrotters, where breathtaking landscapes and fascinating, friendly people abound. You’ll need to fly into Dublin Airport by 2pm, where a mini-bus will be waiting to transport you to your home away from home for your week ahead: Inch House.

    History is everywhere in Ireland, and this 300-year-old Georgian Mansion has plenty of stories to tell as you settle in and relax in your lavish surroundings. Owners John and Nora Egan have lovingly restored this mansion to its former glory, and you’ll marvel at its architecture, beautifully appointed furnishings and surrounding estate as you spend some time exploring.

    Dinner will be a mouthwatering affair this evening as you’re treated to a heavenly five course meal cooked by your hosts, John & Nora, who ran an award-winning restaurant for some 25 years. Make sure to dress in your evening finery, as you’ll be enjoying all this in Inch House’s elaborate dining room, which has seen many an exciting dinner party in its time.

  • Day 2

    Today you’ll wake up and feast on a full Irish Breakfast which is so elaborate and filling you will wonder how on earth you’re going to get on a horse after it. But you certainly will, because today you’re heading to a neighbouring equestrian centre (about a 10 minute drive) to enjoy a full day of jumping.

    As riders, we’re always learning, so there is nothing better than being in a small group on capable horses with knowledgeable instructors. Upon arrival at the equestrian centre, you’ll be greeted with morning tea (yep, MORE food!) before you mount up and enjoy your morning training session, whether it be fine-tuning your jumping position in the sand arena or heading out into the fields over the cross country course. A stomach-filling lunch will be enjoyed in the dining room following the morning’s activities, before you venture out yet again for the afternoon’s riding training.

    Dinner will be a self-served buffet back at Inch house at around 7pm.

  • Day 3

    Another exhilarating day ahead, now that the nerves have well and truly abated and the smell of horse sweat, the thrill of jumping, and the intoxicating Irish landscapes have you trembling with excitement. You’ll be heading back to the equestrian centre to continue on from yesterday’s training out on the cross country course. This is what Globetrotting dreams are made of: scooting over logs, through brush and splashing through water in an equestrian wonderland.

    Tonight’s evening meal will be enjoyed at a local establishment in Thurles (this meal is not included in the ride price and will be at your own expense), after which you’ll stroll down the street to ‘The Monks’ pub to experience a traditional Irish Music session. The music is raucous, earthy and exciting and you’ll find yourself toe-tapping along and enjoying the craic (pronounced ‘crack’ and Gaelic for FUN)!.

  • Day 4

    Just another day waking up in a 300-year-old Georgian Mansion – say what? But instead of saddling up today globetrotters, you’re going to be venturing off into the County of Tipperary for a day filled with local sightseeing goodness. We’re talking the creme de la creme of the equine area – the Fethard Horse Country Experience, Coolmore Stud Farm (you’ll love this one) and the famous Rock of Cashel.

    The Rock of Cashel, also known as St Patrick’s Rock, is one of the most spectacular tourist attractions in Ireland and a fabulous archaeological ruin of Ireland’s rich monastic past. It contains one of the most remarkable collections of medieval architecture to be found anywhere in Europe so let your mind create historical reimaginings as you explore the site and feast on the history before your eyes.

    Lunch and dinner aren’t included in the price today, but you’ll be able to grab a bite to eat at your leisure along the way. You’ll also have time to explore the shops and stroll Cashel’s streets in the early evening, before you head back to Inch House for some well-earned rest.

  • Day 5

    After another huge breakfast, you’re back on the horses for another day of cross country fun at the nearby equestrian centre. You’ll continue working on your position and accuracy as you jump the different lines and obstacles scattered around the fields, with a huge range of styles and sizes ensuring that you’ll never tire of the courses, no matter your ability.

    Dinner will again be a self-served buffet at Inch House (delivered once again by the Inch House fairies).

  • Day 6

    The last day of riding – BOO! But the good news is you’ll be going out with a BANG as it’s a full day of fun in the sun (well, fingers crossed – it is Ireland after all) out on the cross country course. It’s today that you’ll put everything you’ve learnt throughout the past few days to good use as you scoot around the course, jumping arrowheads and banks, splashing through water obstacles and pushing through brush fences.

    With an adrenaline-filled day done and dusted, you’ll say goodbye to the beautiful Irish steeds who have seen you safely over the many obstacles you’ve jumped throughout the week and head back to Inch House for one final, grand dinner in the mansion’s formal dining room. Remember to pace yourselves, globetrotters – you’ve got five courses of Irish goodness to pack into your bellies tonight. And after much fun and laughter, you’ll retire upstairs for your final night’s sleep in your boudoir fit for a king and queen.

  • Day 7

    After your last hearty breakfast, you’ll bid a fond farewell to John and Nora, who have opened their hearts and their grand home to you throughout the week, and depart for your onward travels, no doubt promising to return again one day… perhaps for the hunt season!

    Departing flights can be booked from Dublin Airport after 2pm today.

  • Transfer Information

    Transfers to/from Dublin Airport are included in the ride price on the first and last days of the itinerary only. It’s approximately a two hour drive each way.

    In order to connect with this transfer service, please ensure your flight arrives no later than 2pm on day one of the itinerary. Departing flights can be booked anytime after 2pm on the final day.

  • Your Head Instructor

    MARK MOLLOY
    Mark is the owner and manager of the equestrian centre where you will be riding, and he has developed the facilities over the past 28 years on what has been the family farm for the past five generations. He has focused on teaching cross country over the years, as well as successfully breeding and training steeplechase horses. His passion is all for the jumping, and he enjoys helping riders and horses develop their skills and confidence around a cross country course.

What our valued Globetrotters say about The Cross Country Ride

Cross Country, Tipperary, Ireland, Globetrotting Horse Riding Holidays.

Kristie Mahan

‘Everything was terrific, from our cheerful driver to the top-notch food! The visit to Coolmore Stud was amazing. Four of us had booked the ride together, and all the other single riders who were on the ride were fantastic and so fun to get to know and ride with. We have all stayed in contact Four of us booked as a friend group. The other five riders were so fun to get to know and ride with. We all bonded and shared moments and laughs, and have stayed in contact.  The coaches were so encouraging and confidence-building: the best! I rode Muldoon was a real gentleman; he knew his job and was quiet enough not to cause me any timid moments. He jumped the centre of every fence. Do this trip!’

Cross Country in Tipperary, Ireland - Globetrotting horse riding holidays

Terry Fisher

‘I loved, loved, LOVED this trip – it was everything I had hoped for and more! I rode Tommy, a lovely cob who took great care of me. He was a little cheeky, but just what I needed to push my riding. I was so impressed by how each rider was partnered perfectly with the right horse for them – I actually cried when I said goodbye to Tommy. It was such a magical experience, and I am already collaborating with my barn mates to schedule our next ride! I only have great things to say about Globetrotting – exceptional trip, riding, and value. I will definitely be on another ride soon!’

Cross Country in Tipperary, Ireland - Globetrotting horse riding holidays

Mary Duffy

‘This was the BEST trip. The riding, food, accommodations, and transportation were superb. Our instructor Celine was very capable, upbeat, positive and kind. I rode Muldoon, a big gelding who was a very safe and capable mount. Inch House was the perfect place to stay and our host Nora made us feel so welcome. The food on this trip was truly off the charts. After a full Irish breakfast at Inch House, we arrived at the equestrian centre to find coffee, tea and fresh croissants or scones laid out for us; and the only thing that competed with the amazing dinners at Inch House was chef Jason’s lunches at the equestrian centre, which included beautiful homemade desserts. We were truly treated so well, and everyone was happy and relaxed.’

Cross Country in Tipperary, Ireland - Globetrotting horse riding holidays

Kelsy Vaughn

‘I loved every minute of this holiday! Inch House was so pleasant and wonderful – Nora was the kindest and most respectful host. Our guides were all great and lunches at the equestrian centre were just jaw-dropping. I rode Bobby, who was very well suited to me! He was so spirited and always willing. The tour of Coolmore Stud Farm on the non-riding day was unforgettable. I honestly can’t think of any way that this ride could be improved!’

Cross Country in Tipperary, Ireland - Globetrotting horse riding holidays

Penny Grove

‘This trip exceeded my expectations. From the beautiful accommodation to the riding, every day was full of excitement, laughter and great horses. Meeting new friends from different countries was so good; having the same interests made us all very comfortable with each other from the very beginning. Nora and Sinead at Inch House are the most beautiful people, and our guides were top quality. The food was delicious and plentiful. I rode Gandalf, a Connemara cross gelding. He was such a great little horse and was matched perfectly to me. I’d definitely recommend this holiday!’

Cross Country in Tipperary, Ireland - Globetrotting horse riding holidays

Karolina Carlsson

‘The entire trip was just magical. The horses were all rock stars, the accommodation was everything I could have asked for, the scenery was beautiful and the food was amazing. Nora and John went above and beyond to make our stay comfortable and enjoyable. The fireplace was always prepared for us to light a fire after dinner and gather on the couches with a glass of wine and talk about the day’s cross country adventures. I rode Pyjama and Gandalf – both were kind and a lot of fun. Pyjama was a sweetheart, always ready to jump over anything I asked her to, and she let me get comfortable with the different fences and obstacles. Gandalf was a powerhouse and I really enjoyed jumping the long cross country course on the last day with him. Every day was an absolute blast. All the jumping sessions were great and we had a lot of laughs. The team at the equestrian center were outstanding. I always felt safe yet challenged and it was a great experience. I highly recommend this ride to anyone who wants to fly over the green fields of Ireland on horses that truly enjoy what they do!’

Cross Country in Tipperary, Ireland - Globetrotting horse riding holidays

Angela Hauer

‘The best ride I have had in many years, and I’m 53 years old. Nora is the friendliest host ever. Our coaches Connor and Mark were very social and friendly, and they knew very well what they were doing. I rode Micky and he was a champ. The last day of riding was my favourite. Everything came together. Beautiful weather and the best cross country experience. By the end of the trip I was much more confident while jumping. Do it!’

Cross Country in Tipperary, Ireland - Globetrotting horse riding holidays

Jodi Morgan

‘Globetrotting in Tipperary, Ireland was everything I dreamed! Every day was a great day. Our coaches Mark and Conner were very personable and knowledgeable. My horse Patch was so great! She had a super sweet personality and was always willing to listen and help. The entire experience at Inch House was incredible and Nora was amazing! She always made sure that we were all happy with everything. This was the experience of a lifetime. Looking forward to my next destination!’

Cross Country in Tipperary, Ireland - Globetrotting horse riding holidays

Lana Ostojic

‘I have done a few holidays with Globetrotting and I have had divine experiences. Every part of this holiday was well planned and every day was spectacular! We had amazing coaches, guides and hosts. All the staff were very professional. I rode an Irish Thoroughbred and I was very happy with him. He was well trained, reliable and a good boy, yet he also pushed me to learn more. I highly recommend this ride!’

STORIES FROM THE SADDLE

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