Ireland

DISCOVER IRELAND ON HORSEBACK:

Ireland is also known as the “Emerald Island” due to its lush green countryside.

The main geographical features of Ireland are its coastal mountains with low plains towards the center of the island. The mountain ranges are not high but are pleasant for horseback riding, and the low plains offer superb grounds for horseback riding. The island is divided by the River Shannon, the longest river in Ireland.

The fauna is varied in Ireland, you can discover: red foxes, badgers, hedgehogs, deer, Irish hares, pine martens. The number of foxes and the excellent terrain for equestrian practice, make fox hunting part of the Irish culture. Some large birds, such as the golden eagle, have been recently reintroduced, and the many large species of aquatic life can be seen off the coast. In medieval times, Ireland was covered with great forests, but much of the land is now open plains and pastures. You can discover a variety of beautiful flowers in Ireland thriving in a mild climate, some of which are unique and provide great scenery for riders.

Ireland has a rich history and a great culture, having made an excellent contribution to literature, art and science over time (the famous being Oscar Wilde, George Bernard Shaw, John Butler Yeats and Robert Boyle). Irish folk music and dance are known around the world, as is their Guinness ! And the Irish are known for their warmth and friendliness.

Besides Guinness, one of the pride of Ireland is the horse ! Irish horses, originally a mix between Irish Drafts and Thoroughbreds, have been used for a variety of practices, but are becoming coveted competition horses. They have natural athleticism and speed, thanks to their thoroughbred blood, but they also exhibit the wonderful nature and poise of the Irish Draft: an exceptional horse originally bred for agricultural work. The Irish horse is recognized as an excellent mount for horseback trail riding.

The horse has always played an important role in Irish literature and folklore. From the legend of the great warrior Oisín who disappears under the waves astride a beautiful white horse to join his true love Niamh in Tír na nÓg, the land of eternal youth, to the story of the great Cúchulainn and his mighty horses of Gray Macha and Black Seanglan tank, there is a kind of magical legacy. Many ancient accounts portray the horse as a spiritual protector from the forces of evil, and the powerful relationship between man and horse is a recurring theme.