Description
Ireland is known as "the land of the horse"; a claim that can be evidenced by its great green landscapes and the Irish people's natural affinity with their steeds. Irish horses have been bred to be able to cross any country and as a consequence they are generally very sure-footed and know how to look after their riders. Located on the Western coast of Ireland, the Foy family have been involved with horses in the locality for generations and began leading out rides from their family farm in 1995. Most of the horses used on their trails have previous competition experience and have been started out at the family stud farm, established in 1963. Their trail herd includes Irish Draughts, Irish Cobs, Irish Sport Horses and Connemara Ponies, all selected for their good temperaments and stamina.
The riding here encompasses some of the most fantastic scenery surrounding the Clew Bay, from the steep slopes of Croagh Patrick in the East, to the wild expanse of the Atlantic ocean in the West. Clew Bay is a natural ocean bay situated in County Mayo, home to many islands. Riders will explore small villages, country lanes, mountain paths, various sea and off-shore islands and, of course, the beautiful sandy beaches. The area is known for its wonderful heritage, as well as the part it played in the story of St. Patrick, patron saint of Ireland - he spent the forty days of Lent on Croagh Patrick (a holy mountain which overlooks the bay) in 441 AD and is said to have cast a spell to drive out snakes! Throughout the area you will find perfect country for horse riding, with a veritable mix of landscapes which will challenge you to daring climbs, fast canters and the chance to immerse yourself in the nature around you. You do not need to be an expert rider as guests are matched with a suitable horse, you just need to be able to ride confidently at walk, trot and canter in open country and fit enough to spend full days in the saddle.
Padraic Foy personally leads out all of his trail rides and is a qualified Instructor as well as an accomplished horseman. He and his family pride themselves on being able to provide quality Irish horses (many of which are born and raised on the farm) who are the perfect partners for traversing the splendid Irish countryside. The riding centre itself has developed, over many years, into a modern equestrian facility with an indoor and an outdoor arena, as well as a sand gallop track.
