Ride Like Royalty in Ireland’s Ultimate Equestrian Playground
This equestrian playground delivers pure Irish adrenaline, with 300 cross-country jumps, miles of bridle paths through ancient forests and open pastures, and an indoor arena packed with show-jumping exercises that will have your heart thundering. Between world-class riding for all abilities and a castle-side stay fit for royalty at one of Ireland’s finest estate hotels, this is the ultimate way to experience the Emerald Isle and its legendary horses.
Trip Highlights
• 6 days, 5 nightsRiding levelBeginner • Intermediate • Strong Intermediate • Advanced Centre-based You ride out from the same destination every day.
Details
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Riding levels
Beginner to advanced. There are 2 riding programmes available, designed to suit all riding levels 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 ability is? See the definitions below.
- Type of tack
English all-purpose saddles and bridles.
- Horse breed
A herd of 27 riding horses to choose from including Irish Sport Horses, Irish Draughts, Thoroughbreds, Connemaras, cobs and ponies.
*Please note, you can expect to ride a variety of horses throughout your stay. - Accommodation
- Pace
Variable – depending on the program you choose. There are 2 riding programmes, designed to suit all riding levels and interests with flat work, show jumping, cross country and estate rides on offer. There will be walking, trotting and cantering each day.
- Weight limit
A maximum of 100kg / 220lbs.
It is VERY important that you provide your current weight accurately when booking. If your weight is not accurate, we cannot guarantee that your hosts will have a horse for you to ride.
- Group size
Variable, but you can expect to ride in a group of no more than 6 people each day, often less.
- Minimum age
7 years of age
- Time in Saddle
3 hours per day, split into a 2 hour ride in the morning and 1 hour in the afternoon (or vice versa).
- When to go
Available year-round.
- Languages
English
What’s included (and what’s not)
Included
- Luxury accommodation at The Lodge
- 3 hours riding per day
- Breakfast and dinner each day
Excluded
- International or regional flights
- Travel insurance (compulsory)
- Drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic)
- Transfers to and from the ride
- Lunch is NOT included (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 and prices
Instalment plans available
Lock in your ride with a 10% deposit and pay the rest over time – interest-free in 10 easy payments. Learn more.
Per person
2026
April 12 to 17, 2026
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
April 26 to May 1, 2026
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
May 3 to 8, 2026
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
May 10 to 15, 2026
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
May 17 to 22, 2026
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
May 24 to 29, 2026
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
May 31 to June 5, 2026
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
June 14 to 19, 2026
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
June 28 to July 3, 2026
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
July 5 to 10, 2026
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
July 26 to 31, 2026
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
August 2 to 7, 2026
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
August 9 to 14, 2026
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
August 16 to 21, 2026
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
August 23 to 28, 2026
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
September 6 to 11, 2026
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
September 13 to 18, 2026
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
September 20 to 25, 2026
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
September 27 to October 2, 2026
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
October 4 to 9, 2026
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
October 11 to 16, 2026
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
October 18 to 23, 2026
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
CUSTOM DEPARTURE DATES 2026
are available all year round upon request and subject to availability.
Prices listed in this table are for 5-night stays.
(3-night stays begin at €1635 EURO per person twin share.)
2027
March 7 to 12, 2027
March 14 to 19, 2027
March 21 to 26, 2027
March 28 to April 2, 2027
April 4 to 9, 2027
April 11 to 16, 2027
April 18 to 23, 2027
April 25 to 30, 2027
May 2 to 7, 2027
May 9 to 14, 2027
May 16 to 21, 2027
May 23 to 28, 2027
May 30 to June 4, 2027
June 6 to 11, 2027
June 13 to 18, 2027
June 20 to 25, 2027
June 27 to July 2, 2027
July 4 to 9, 2027
July 11 to 16, 2027
July 18 to 23, 2027
August 1 to 6, 2027
August 8 to 13, 2027
August 15 to 20, 2027
August 22 to 27, 2027
August 29 to September 3, 2027
September 5 to 10, 2027
September 26 to October 1, 2027
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
October 3 to 8, 2027
October 10 to 15, 2027
October 17 to 22, 2027
October 24 to 29, 2027
CUSTOM DEPARTURE DATES 2027
are available all year round upon request and subject to availability.
Prices listed in this table are for 5-night stays.
(3-night stays begin at €1685 EURO per person twin share.)
We'll email you — you'll be among the first to hear when new departure dates are released.
The fun bits
Payment details
- A fixed Booking Fee of €91 EUR
- All bookings are charged in the local currency of the ride destination.
- Accepted payment method is by credit or debit card only.
Cancellation policy
We understand that plans can change. If you need to cancel your ride, please let us know as soon as possible. Cancellation fees apply based on how close your departure date is, and deposits are non-refundable. We strongly recommend travel insurance to protect your booking. Read our full cancellation policy.
International fees
If you're paying in a currency different from your own, your bank may charge a conversion or international transaction fee.
Please note
Solo travellers are required to pay the single rider price, unless we can find another guest willing to twin share.
Please also note, the child rate applies to children aged between 7 to 11 years only.
Itinerary
These are sample itineraries only and subject to change at the discretion of your guides due to your riding ability, local weather conditions, and other influencing factors.
For groups with varying abilities, or where some riders are eager to jump and others are not, it is possible for everyone to ride together on the ‘Horse Sport’ programme, provided everyone is comfortable riding at a walk, trot and canter. Those who do not wish to jump will be under no pressure to do so on any of the scheduled rides.
While every effort will be made to confirm all elements of each programme, availability of each equestrian activity cannot be guaranteed. Thanks for your understanding.
- 5-night Horse Sport
- 5-night Happy Hackers
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Horse Sport Program
Intermediate to advanced riders with jumping experience (even if only limited).For more experienced riders looking to improve their skills. A mix of cross country, show jumping, dressage and trail rides. Cross country jumping is very different to jumping in an arena, and on this programme you’ll make that transition safely and with confidence. Please note, you won’t be allowed out on the cross-country course until day 4 of your itinerary.
*Please also note that you will only be allowed to participate in jumping and cross-country if the instructors deem you capable and safe to do so. This is for the safety of both you and your horse.
ALL riding holidays will begin with a one-hour assessment lesson to determine which horses will best suit you. Remember, you’ll be riding a variety of horses throughout your stay, which helps you become a better rider, as you’re introduced to different equine personalities and abilities.
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Day 1: Arrival & Assessment Lesson
1 hour in the saddleWith bubbles of excitement and anticipation, you’ll arrive at the castle in County Monaghan today. You’ll check in and be shown to your deluxe room in The Lodge where you can unpack, settle in and pinch yourself – you’re finally here!
Then you’ll head to the on-site equestrian centre where you’ll have a one-hour lesson/assessment in the afternoon. This is purely an introductory ride so you can be matched to a selection of horses that best suit your ability. The castle has a herd of 27 riding horses from Thoroughbreds to Irish Draughts, Irish Sport Horses, Irish Cobs and even ponies (for the children). Generally, you’ll ride a different horse every day.
As part of your stay, each night you’ll have the choice between a 2-course meal at Conor’s Bar, a traditional Irish pub with hearty country cooking located on the ground floor of The Lodge, or 1 course at the more intimate and award-winning Snaffles Restaurant (also located at The Lodge).
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Day 2: Around the Estate
3 hours in the saddleWake up and feast on a full Irish Breakfast. From traditional porridge topped with cream, to fresh fruit and pastries, to hot breakfast made to order, it’s so elaborate and filling you won’t look twice at lunch! (Remember, lunch is not included in the price, but is available from Conor’s Bar. Alternatively, you can ask for a takeaway container at breakfast and fill it up with some pastries or fruit to snack on throughout the day.)
Today you’ll be in the saddle for three hours, broken up with a two-hour estate ride and a one-hour jump lesson. An estate ride will see you exploring the 1000-acre estate, winding through ancient woodlands and skirting shimmering lakes. Your Irish riding guide will be a wealth of knowledge about the region, the castle and of course its rich history. The afternoon’s riding activity will see you head to the indoor arena for a one-hour jump lesson to gain confidence and pointers from your instructor.
When you’re not in the saddle, there are plenty of opportunities to do absolutely nothing, or walk around the estate, lie under an elm tree and read a book, or stroll into the nearby village. This riding holiday has the perfect balance between riding and relaxation, that’s for sure.
Dine again tonight in either Conor’s Bar (2 courses) or Snaffles Restaurant (1 course) before hitting the hay.
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Day 3: Indoor Cross-Country
3 hours in the saddleAnother exhilarating day ahead, where the nerves have well and truly abated and the smell of horse sweat, jumping and intoxicating Irish landscapes makes you tremble with excitement. Another estate ride might be on the agenda this morning, where you’ll trot and canter to your heart’s content. With a riding group of no more than six, plus your guides, you’ll have the flexibility to explore a range of terrain and soak up your emerald green surrounds.
This afternoon you’ll saddle-up for an indoor cross-country jumping session where you’ll get invaluable tuition and pointers from your instructor. As riders, we’re always learning, so there is nothing better than being in a small group on capable horses with knowledgeable instructors.
When the sun sets, you can enjoy a bevvie at Conor’s Bar before choosing whether to stay and dine there or head upstairs to Snaffles Restaurant. No matter which one you choose, you’re in for an exceptional dining experience.
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Day 4: Cross-Country Time!
3 hours in the saddleJust another day waking up in the stunning grounds of a castle – say what?! And TODAY is the day your Globetrotting posse hit the cross country course, with over 300 jumps and water elements. Hip hip HOORAY! All the training and tuition leading up to this moment will have given you the confidence and ability to enjoy the cross country course wholeheartedly and, most importantly, safely.
The afternoon’s session will be a one-hour dressage lesson where you might even try your hand at a musical ride. ALL will be discussed over a hearty Irish dinner that evening, either at Conor’s Bar or Snaffles Restaurant.
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Day 5: Developing Technique and Control
3 hours in the saddleToday is ALL about the love and desire to fly on horseback. That’s right, you’re jumping for three whole hours (rest assured, globetrotters, if jumping is not your thing, you can easily ride around the jumps, or take a flat lesson, depending on your riding programme). At 10am, you will head to the cross-country course for a two-hour leap-frog session. Then in the afternoon, you’ll enjoy a one-hour show jumping lesson.
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Day 6: Course Practice & Departure
2 hours in the saddleBOO HOO! Today is your final day in the castle and estate that you’ve called home for the past five days. The good news is that you’ll be going out with a BANG! At 9am you will mount up for the last time and hit the cross-country course for two hours of uninterrupted jumping time. This is what Globetrotting dreams are made of: scooting over logs, through brush and splashing through water in an equestrian wonderland.
After an adrenaline-filled morning, you’ll bid farewell to your horses (who you’ll no doubt secretly want to take home with you!), hosts and guides, and depart for your onward travels.
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Non-rider information
Non-riders have plenty to enjoy on the 1,000-acre estate beyond the horses. You can explore private walking trails through woodlands and around lakes, visit historic estate features like the walled garden, Gothic Lodge and St Salvator’s Church, or try activities such as falconry, archery, clay-target shooting and picnics in scenic spots (additional costs involved). There’s also relaxing spa treatments, and casual or fine dining options on site, plus opportunities to wander the picturesque village of Glaslough and its heritage trail. For added freedom to explore the surrounding region at your own pace, we strongly recommend non-riders have a rental car during your stay.
Transfer information
The estate is located in County Monaghan, Ireland, a 90 minute drive (121 kilometres) from Dublin International Airport.
There is a taxi service available between Dublin or Belfast and the estate. The costs are €200 for one guest one way, €100 pp for 2-5 guests one way, or €90 pp for 6+ guests one way (prices are subject to change).
*Please note that these prices apply to airport pick-up and drop-off only. Transfers from city centre hotels are available but will incur significantly higher costs.
Bus Eireann also has a frequent and well-priced service between Dublin city centre and Monaghan town, which is a 15 minute taxi ride from the estate. Taxis from Monaghan to the Estate need to be pre-booked.
There is also the option of hiring a car so you have the flexibility to explore the surrounding region in your free time.
Please note
Please aim to arrive at the Estate in County Monaghan at least 30 minutes prior to your assessment lesson on the first afternoon (please refer to your personal ride schedule, which should have been sent to you via email, for your lesson time). On the final morning, you’ll finish riding at approximately 11am and can depart after that. Please take driving distances and times into consideration if booking departing flights home that day.
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. 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*
Food
You’ll start each morning with a traditional full Irish breakfast – a feast of bacon, sausages, eggs, mushrooms, black and white pudding, tomatoes, potatoes and fresh breads, with porridge, fruit and pastries for good measure – giving you more than enough fuel for a full day in the saddle. Lunch isn’t included, but after such a breakfast you likely won’t need it, and Conor’s Bar is on-site if you get peckish. Evenings bring hearty, delicious dinners with a choice between the cosy, casual Conor’s Bar or the award-winning Snaffles Restaurant, ensuring you’re well fed and ready for the next day’s adventures.
Reviews
Zara Vallance
Tamsyn Brownie
3 rides with GlobetrottingSandra Goldsworthy
2 rides with GlobetrottingAnastasia Bulkley
7 rides with GlobetrottingDanielle Smith
2 rides with GlobetrottingAnna Avery
3 rides with GlobetrottingFlorence Holcomb Phillips
3 rides with GlobetrottingLindsey Sokolich
7 rides with GlobetrottingSusan Trinity
1 ride with GlobetrottingRichard Phillips
Marshall Waters
Yvonne David
2 rides with GlobetrottingHope Towle
7 rides with GlobetrottingRachel Jones
2 rides with GlobetrottingMoira Fisher
2 rides with GlobetrottingNancy Berg
2 rides with GlobetrottingChristina Sandel de Labouchere
1 ride with GlobetrottingDebbie Walker
2 rides with GlobetrottingPatricia Faust
1 ride with GlobetrottingHeather S
1 ride with GlobetrottingKellie Paul
1 ride with GlobetrottingEmily Price
1 ride with GlobetrottingRianna Stoll
2 rides with GlobetrottingMelissa Sammut
1 ride with GlobetrottingRudolf Jaffe
1 ride with GlobetrottingErica B
1 ride with GlobetrottingTracy K
2 rides with GlobetrottingChelsey U
1 ride with GlobetrottingTarni K
2 rides with GlobetrottingKim H
1 ride with GlobetrottingLauri O
1 ride with GlobetrottingMelissa A
1 ride with GlobetrottingEmma W
4 rides with GlobetrottingEllie W
2 rides with GlobetrottingKIRRALEE D
1 ride with GlobetrottingGenevieve W
2 rides with GlobetrottingStephanie S
5 rides with GlobetrottingSusanne K
5 rides with GlobetrottingIsabelle C
1 ride with GlobetrottingAlison B
3 rides with GlobetrottingCaitlin S
1 ride with GlobetrottingDeborah O
2 rides with GlobetrottingCynthia H
1 ride with GlobetrottingSophie L
4 rides with GlobetrottingCatarina D
1 ride with GlobetrottingEmily R
1 ride with GlobetrottingAlexandra F
2 rides with GlobetrottingNora R
1 ride with GlobetrottingChristina B
1 ride with GlobetrottingNicole W
1 ride with GlobetrottingAnne G
1 ride with GlobetrottingElena K
2 rides with GlobetrottingAnna K
1 ride with GlobetrottingPenelope H
1 ride with GlobetrottingJeanine Y
1 ride with GlobetrottingAngela D
1 ride with GlobetrottingLaura K
1 ride with GlobetrottingKristie M
2 rides with GlobetrottingSue T
5 rides with GlobetrottingBrittany B
1 ride with GlobetrottingNancy M
1 ride with GlobetrottingCarol M
3 rides with GlobetrottingShona M
1 ride with GlobetrottingCatherine K
1 ride with GlobetrottingLucia T
2 rides with GlobetrottingSally J
1 ride with GlobetrottingStephanie H
1 ride with GlobetrottingHeather S
1 ride with GlobetrottingWhat's my riding level?
Not sure what your riding level is? Watch our videos to see all our levels.
Beginner
Reasonably confident riding a horse at a walk, a rising trot, and learning to canter.
Intermediate
Confident and in control riding at all paces outside an arena, but not riding regularly. Comfortable and competent using aids {the language of your leg, seat and hands} to communicate with your horse.
Strong Intermediate
An intermediate rider who is currently riding regularly outside of an arena and is fit enough to ride for at least six hours per day. Strong intermediate riders are comfortable and competent in all three gaits; able to post or sit to the trot; have an independent seat while cantering (don’t hold onto the saddle); and can pick up the correct canter lead. They can also navigate more complex terrain, including asking a horse to sidestep and jump over a small obstacle.
Advanced
A frequent rider who is very fit, comfortable in the saddle for at least six hours per day, and has an independent seat and soft hands. Advanced riders are confident on a forward-moving horse at all paces over rough and variable ground on open terrain. They can ride over small jumps and know the techniques used to collect a horse
Not sure? Contact our team to help you figure out your riding ability.



































































