5 Ireland Horseback Riding Tours Worth Flying For

1.Dublin to Wicklow, Glendalough Small Group Tour with Horse Riding

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 522 reviews · 8 hours (approx.) · from $151Our pick

Travel from central Dublin with a group of up to eight for a 1.5-hour guided ride at Killegar Stables, lunch in Enniskerry, and scenic stops at Guinness Lake, Sally Gap, and Glendalough. Guides such as Derek, Kevin, and Linda are noted for friendly commentary, while the ride suits beginners as well as capable riders.

“The stables for the horse rides were very professional and we had a blast!! John and Kayley were great guides and we would go again!!!”

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2.Kerry: Guided Horse Riding Tour in Killarney National Park

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 226 reviews · from $115

Ride into Killarney National Park from stables near town, following a guide through Knockreer Estate and past Lough Leane. Calm horses, riding hats, boots, and support for beginners are included. Tell the stables your height, weight, and riding level so they can choose a suitable horse. Natalie and other guides keep a close eye on the group.

“Loved my ride! It was so much fun, beautiful, and the horse I rode was lovely. Would absolutely do it again!”

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3.Killarney: Gap of Dunloe Pony, Trap & Traditional Boat Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 188 reviews · from $153

Start at Ross Castle and transfer to Kate Kearney’s Cottage for a seven-mile pony-and-trap ride through the Gap of Dunloe. After a lunch stop at Lord Brandon’s Cottage, cross Killarney’s three lakes by traditional open boat. Guides such as Patrick, Patsy, Rory, and Donal bring local stories to the route.

“This was a fantastic day from start to finish and the 2 guides were so friendly and informative Highlt recommended!”

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4.Wicklow Mountains Horse Trekking

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 118 reviews · 1 hour 20 minutes (approx.) · from $90Best value

Ride from Hollywood Horse and Pony Trekking into the Wicklow Mountains and along the Kings River valley. Ray, Lisa, Nicole, and Jack help match horses to riding ability, give beginners a short lesson, and guide groups of up to six. Expect about 1 hour 20 minutes on horseback, with beautiful countryside and possible lake riding.

“We are still talking about this incredible trek through the countryside—from two months ago! It was absolutely the highlight of our one-week trip to Ireland! It was the first time our teenage boys went horse-back riding, and that wasn’t a problem at all. They LOVED it. There’s no better way to experience the beauty of Ireland. Ray and Lisa were fun, knowledgeable, and patient hosts. We enjoyed every aspect of this little adventure and highly recommend adding this to your next Ireland visit. What an experience!!!”

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5.Beach & countryside horse riding outside Westport. Guided. 1 hour

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 56 reviews · 1 hour (approx.) · from $102

Ride for one hour from Carrowholly Stables outside Westport to the shores of Clew Bay. Guides such as Helena, Emily, Alex, and others provide patient instruction for beginners, while experienced riders may trot or canter when conditions allow. Look for seals at Seal Rock, see Dorinish Island, and ride through shallow water when the tide permits.

“This was a lovely, scenic ride through the countryside outside Westport. I was pleasantly surprised that they encouraged even the novices to get up into a trot for some portions and that we got to traverse a shallow bay.”

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