There’s a reason Ireland is known as the Land of the Horse - horses are intrinsically tied to Ireland’s history, culture, and people, and many Irish children grow up on horseback the way American children grow up riding bicycles. The gentle nature, brave demeanor, and steady resilience of the Irish horse is a testament to the spirit of the Irish people, and there is no better way to explore this lush landscape than from the back of a steady Irish steed. 

Travel to Northern Ireland to discover the Causeway Coast, known for its spectacular scenery - white sand beaches, enchanting forests, rugged coastlines, historic castles and villages, and of course, genuine Irish hospitality.  Visit iconic locations such as Giants Causeway, Dunlace Castle, Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge, and Mussendun Temple. 

Next, visit Castle Leslie Estate and its world class Equestrian Centre, located in County Monaghan just 80 minutes from Dublin airport and 60 minutes from Belfast airport. Nestled on 1,000 acres of undulating Irish countryside, dotted with ancient woodlands and glittering lakes, the Estate offers an idyllic setting for outdoor activity and adventure. It is the perfect place to discover the thrill of exploring the beautiful Irish countryside on horseback, offering expert tuition, gentle hacks and exhilarating cross-country rides.

Ireland is known as the “Land of the Horse” for its horses’ reputation for bravery, agility, stamina, intelligence, and gentleness. Guests’ mounts will be Irish Sport Horses, Connemara Ponies, Irish Cobs, and Irish Draughts. On the North Coast and at Castle Leslie, the guides make sure to match each guest carefully to an equine partner that is suitable for his or her skill and confidence. 

Intermediate-Advanced

Riders should be able to ride comfortably at all paces, and spend several hours in the saddle daily.

Riders will ride English, and should be prepared for several hours in the saddle daily at all paces.

Helmets are required on the North Coast, and can be provided if you do not bring your own. 

Castle Leslie requires a helmet, and a cross-country vest when jumping. If you do not bring one, or do not have one that complies with regulations, they will be provided for you. 

During the North Coast ride, riders will be housed at a hotel in the town of Ballycastle (specific hotel will be determined and sent to you prior to your trip).

At Castle Leslie, riders will stay in the lodge.

On the North Coast, your accommodation will include a full daily Irish breakfast, and lunch will be provided daily on your ride.  Riders are responsible for their own dinners - there are quite a few dining options in Ballycastle, and we will send you a list of recommended restaurants prior to your trip. We are happy to make dinner reservations on your behalf.

At Castle Leslie, riders will get a daily full Irish breakfast. Lunch and dinner will be on your own account, but should be booked in advance if dining at Castle Leslie, in either Conor's Bar or Snaffles Restaurant.

Activity options at Castle Leslie include Victoria Spa Treatments, Traditional Afternoon Tea, Clay Shooting, Falconry, Archery, Carriage Rides or an exquisite picnic lunch! We can book these on your behalf, and they will be charged to your final bill at Castle Leslie.

Day 1 - Arrival

Arrive on the North Coast. Start with a riding assessment in the countryside, to the summit of Croaghan for a panoramic view towards the northernmost point in Ireland. Accommodations will be a B&B in County Londonderry.

Day 2 - Benone Beach & Mussenden Temple

Begin today’s ride at Castlerock Beach and then head to the white sands of Downhill & Benone Beach with views across the water to Scotland and Donegal. Enjoy a swift canter on miles of flat, open sand to Mussenden Temple, the summer library for the Bishop of Derry, which you can visit on foot along with the ruins of the Earl’s 18th century home, Downhill House. After lunch, ride to the top of Binevenagh Mountain. Accommodation in B&B in the coastal town of Ballycastle.

Day 3 - Dunlace Castle

The day starts at Whiterocks beach, flanked by white chalk cliffs and caverns. Ride to the iconic Dunlace Castle, perched on the edge of the Atlantic, and then head towards the tiny harbor town of Portballintrae and the Giants Causeway. Accommodation in B&B.

Day 4 - Ballintoy & Whitepark Bay

From the village of Ballintoy and Whitepark Bay, ride across white sand alongside “sunbathing cattle,” and then up the dunes and farmlands to the small fishing village of Ballintoy (recognizable from Game of Thrones) for a traditional Irish tearoom lunch. Final destination of the afternoon will be Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. Accommodation in a B&B.

Day 5 - Departure

Breakfast in Ballycastle, and then depart for Castle Leslie. 

Day 5 - Arrival

Arrival at Castle Leslie - 1,000 acres of undulating Irish countryside, woodlands, and lakes, considered to be one of the finest castles in Ireland and the epitome of Irish aristocracy (one of the last great Irish estates still in the hands of its founding family). Named after Bartholomew Leslie, whose 11th century passion for horses was passed down through the ages. Spend the evening relaxing with a pint of exploring the grounds.

Day 6 - Enjoy the Estate

Delectable full Irish breakfast at Castle Leslie, and then spend the day exploring the estate on horseback. Head to the cross country course or enjoy miles of bridle paths, and take the horses swimming in the lake in front of the castle. Spend the afternoon relaxing or enjoy a spa service in the Victorian Treatment rooms. Take Tea in the Castle’s Blue Room. Gourmet dinner for your final evening.

Day 7 - Departure

Breakfast and departure. 

*specific ride times, meal times, spa treatments, and other activities will be booked on your behalf and posted here once confirmed.