This estate is home to 300 cross country jumps (including PLENTY of water obstacles) to leap, ping or pop over on your Irish Sport Horse. Kilometres upon kilometres of bridle trails (yep, that’s what they call trails in Ireland!) are sprawled across the 1000-acre grounds, flanked by ancient forests and open grazing pastures. The Castle and surrounding estate is awash in history, and is one of the LAST great Irish estates still in the hands of its founding family.
Back to the equestrian wonderland, the indoor arena (let’s face it, this is a MUST in Ireland) has show jumping courses that will make your eyes water with excitement. We also love the flexibility of this holiday: non-riders will be welcomed with open arms (they can clay target shoot, kayak, fish, walk the numerous trails, enjoy a hot air balloon ride, a horse and carriage ride, or relax at the on-site spa) and riders of all abilities are welcome, too, from beginners through to advanced riders. There are a number of instructors and guides, so if you’re not up for a cross country scoot, you can always opt for an estate ride or a dressage lesson.
Now when you’re out of the saddle, you’ll feel like part of the royal family, staying at the castle’s Lodge (which overlooks the equestrian centre). It’s known as one of the finest castle hotels in Ireland – so much so that former Beatle, Paul McCartney, and model Heather Mills got married at the Castle back in 2002.
For any globetrotter who has a desire to visit Ireland and ride their revered horses, THIS ride is the perfect fit.
Fast Facts
- Horse Breed:A herd of 27 riding horses to choose from including Irish Sport Horses, Irish Draughts, Thoroughbreds, cobs and ponies.
- Pace:Variable - depending on the program you choose, you will have the choice of dressage, show jumping, cross country and estate rides. There will be walking, trotting and cantering each day.
- Weight Limit:A maximum of 100kg / 220lbs.
- Type of tack:English all-purpose saddles.
- Seasons:The equestrian program is available all year round.
- Group size:Variable, but you can expect to ride in a group of no more than 6 people each day, often less.
- Time in Saddle:A scheduled 3 hours per day. Guests have the option to book additional ride hours at an additional cost (subject to availability).
- Riding Ability:Beginner to advanced - there are programs available to suit all riding abilities and interests.
*Please note that for health and safety reasons, all guests must complete a brief practical riding assessment regardless of level and ability. Guests MUST be deemed safe and capable before they will be allowed to jump. Not sure what your riding experience is? Watch THIS video to find out. - Accommodation:One of the highlights of this entire itinerary is the ancient castle and the surrounding 1,000 acre estate. As a globetrotter, you will be staying in The Lodge, which overlooks the stables (both are subject to availability). The guest rooms in The Lodge are chic, country-house boutique, each offering blissful king size bed or twin-bed accommodation, a free-standing Victorian roll top bath, and separate walk-in shower. The lodgings are said to be some of Ireland’s finest. *Insert squeal of excitement HERE.
- Ride Length:There are 5 day, 5 night and 3 day, 3 night itineraries are available. *Please note: 4 day custom equestrian itineraries are available upon request.
- Inclusions:
The price includes all accommodation, 3 hours riding per day, breakfast and dinner.
- Exclusions:
The price does not include international or regional flights, travel insurance (compulsory), alcohol or transfers to and from the estate.
Lunch is also NOT included in the riding package, but after eating an Irish breakfast, you normally don’t need to eat anything until evening. However, if you do become peckish, Conor’s Bar (on-site) is open for lunch.
DEPARTURE DATES & RATES
NEW! Secure your saddle seat NOW with a 10% deposit - as part of our 10x 10% payment plan!Please note: Solo travellers are required to pay the single rider price, unless we can find another guest willing to twin share.
A reduced rate applies to children aged between 7 to 11 years. The price is €1385 per child for a 5-night package, and €900 per child for a 3-night package.
WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE PRICE?
The price includes all accommodation, 3 hours riding per day, breakfast and dinner.
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE?
The price does NOT include international or regional flights, travel insurance (compulsory), alcohol or transfers to and from the ride.
Lunch is also NOT included in the riding package, but after eating an Irish breakfast, you normally don’t need to eat anything until evening. However, if you do become peckish, Conor’s Bar (on-site) is open for lunch.
Accepted payment is by credit or debit card only. There is a 2% surcharge on all card payments. 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
Expand AllCollapse All*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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Important Itinerary Notes
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Day 1
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Day 2
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Day 3
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Day 4
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Day 5
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Day 6
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Transfer Information
What our valued Globetrotters say about The Castle & Estate Ride

Anna Avery
‘This was the ride of a lifetime. The Irish countryside combined with the romantic castle setting, the cleanest village in Ireland, the excellent instructors and the well-kept and reliable horses, all made for such a very special time. The inclusion of a spa on-site was a great bonus. My companions on the ride were all friendly, and we all felt incredibly well looked after. I rode a variety of very reliable horses, all making me feel safe. As one of the older riders in the group, I felt well cared for. The guides were the best! They all had sense of humour and safety, and provided confidence to all. Lessons were well conducted with a positive atmosphere, and suited to the needs of the students. The sights, smells, flora and fauna of the country trails were a real treat. There were even herds of deer to observe on our rides. This trip was everything I expected, and more.’

Danielle Smith
‘This was a trip of a lifetime! Such a beautiful place. The castle and estate were out of a fairytale! The horses were all amazing and knew exactly how to take care of you. I rode 6 horses in total and loved them all. My favorite was Russell, the 18-hand draft who sailed over jumps effortlessly. The ride guides and instructors were so knowledgeable and friendly. They made the experience so fun and built up everyone’s confidence! The group of women who traveled on this trip from all over the world were some of the most friendly and supportive people I have had the pleasure of knowing. I cannot wait to go back!’

Anastasia Bulkley
‘We are speechless…. this trip definitely exceeded our expectations! Words can’t describe it. I wouldn’t even know where to start. The service was outstanding. The scenery was magnificent. The food was delicious. Hangover free beers, and believe us, we tested it! The horses were incredible – I rode Mary Ellen, Charlie, Henry, Bumble and Russell. Their disposition and high level of training was amazing! The instructors were extremely caring, professional, and outstanding riders – they made me feel so safe. In short, everything was phenomenal!’

Sandra Goldsworthy
‘The Castle and Estate Ride in Ireland was a dream vacation. I had thought about going on a Globetrotting vacation for a very long time and am so glad I finally did! It pushed me out of my comfort zone and the rides were exhilarating! My favourite moments were my first ever canter through the forest and a very exciting gallop across a field. I had wonderful horses – Bumble and Jessica. I am already planning my next Globetrotting trip!’

Tamsyn Brownie
‘Signing up for my first Globetrotting ride was easy and Laura and Kate were amazingly helpful, providing advice, scheduling, suggestions, answers and basically making me feel like everything was taken care of. Payments were super simple, and the preparation materials provided were exceptionally helpful!
Words cannot even begin to describe how wonderful this trip was. I hadn’t ridden in 15 years and was honestly terrified they’d just send me home! But I had nothing to worry about, it’s clear Globetrotting picks their partners with care. An amazing group of very supportive and knowledgeable instructors, plus the BEST stable of horses to take you from nervous beginner to soaring intermediate (in my case at least!). Pair that with gorgeous surroundings, sumptuous rooms and services and belt-challenging meals and you have a winning combination. It’s no wonder I booked the same package again for next year! I will also be on the lookout to join other Globetrotting rides, confident in the knowledge that I’m in safe (and fun) hands!’

Zara Vallance
‘An amazing luxury week in beautiful Irish countryside, surrounded by lovely people. The castle and estate is beautiful and well set up. Everything you need is right there, with wonderful staff. The close proximity of the equestrian centre and the lodge, and the integration of the two, made for an incredible experience full of luxury and convenience!
The horses are all lovely and safe. I rode Summer, Bumble, Squire, Arnie, Traveller, Blueberry and Wilson. The last day of cross country riding was the highlight of the week, especially jumping a few of the bigger jumps on the course.
Overall, the week was absolutely worth every cent. The scenery was lovely, the lodge and estate provided a luxury week away, the horses were well cared for. All the riding instructors were lovely, helpful and fun. The staff at the lodge were also great, going out of their way to help with anything, including ringing the chocolate shop to open up for us!’

Roz Beinke
‘A fantastic experience with the atmosphere of a stately home complete with lots of memorabilia, and enjoyable riding in beautiful, colourful countryside having great fun over cross country fences. It didn’t matter if it rained, it was an awesome time catching up with wonderful friends, and meeting new ones who were riding in Ireland for a myriad of reasons. Unbelievable Irish fun with delicious breakfasts and meals. Feeling so very lucky. Must be the shamrock!’

Deborah Osborne
‘We had a wonderful time on the Castle & Estate Ride and made some great friends. Every day was different but wonderful! I especially enjoyed our lovely night up in Snaffles Restaurant with a few of the other girls on the ride – the staff treated us like royalty. A big thank you to all staff at the lodge and equestrian centre, especially Tina, Emma, Chris, Orla and Briggetta. Wonderful, experienced staff and a lot of fun.’

Michelle McWilliams
‘From Tina at the reception desk to all the guides, we had excellent service and were well cared for. Everyone was friendly and loads of fun. My friend and I were so pleased to see how well the horses are treated by not only the trainers but all the staff we saw interacting with them. They were well fed and the staff have a good handle on what each horse needs and enjoys.
When we were discussing this trip, I told my friend I did not want to canter as I was not comfortable going that fast on unfamiliar horses. Once we got to meet these gentle giants, though, all we wanted to do was canter! We were always excited about our daily rides and lessons. I had the opportunity to ride four different horses. I especially LOVED Arnie. I would have packed him in my luggage if he fitted! He was my jumping horse and I enjoyed every minute on him.
The castle is gorgeous! The rooms were far better than we expected. The balcony overlooking the stables was a great place to wind down. Having two restaurants on-site made life much easier and the food was delicious!’
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