County Mayo, with its sweeping beaches and rugged mountains, offers a stunning landscape for equestrian enthusiasts. Its scenic bridle trails and well-equipped riding centres make it a prime destination for those eager to explore on horseback.
A Historical Connection to Horses
Horses have long been part of Mayo’s cultural and agricultural heritage, integral to farming, transport, and sport. T
he county’s equestrian legacy is tied to the Connemara pony, a hardy breed developed in the region’s challenging terrain. This tradition continues at places like Ashford Equestrian Centre, where breeding and training uphold Mayo’s equine roots. The county’s deep bond with horses provides a rich foundation for visitors seeking to experience its countryside through riding.
Development of Equestrian Tourism
Equestrian tourism in Mayo has grown through efforts to create accessible trails and modern facilities.
Bridleways along Clew Bay, through Achill Island’s bogs, and near Croagh Patrick offer riders diverse routes across coastal and mountain landscapes. Centres like Calvey’s Equestrian Centre and Drummindoo Stud have expanded opportunities, providing lessons, treks, and unique experiences like Ride & Tide, combining horse and kayak adventures. These developments ensure Mayo remains a welcoming hub for riders of all abilities.
Bridle Trails and Local Opportunities
Mayo’s bridle trails showcase its diverse landscapes, from the sandy shores of Keel Beach to the woodland paths near Cong.
- Ashford Equestrian Centre, in Cong, offers treks through 3,000 acres of forest and parkland, with views of medieval woodlands and Lough Corrib, suitable for all levels.
- Calvey’s Equestrian Centre, near Keel in Achill, provides daily pony treks to Keel Beach and the Deserted Village, with rides across 35,000 acres of commonage, priced at around €45 for a 1.5-hour beach gallop.
- Drummindoo Stud, in Westport, features three- and six-day Clew Bay Trail Rides, winding through country lanes and offshore islands.
- Carrowholly Stables, also near Westport, offers guided coastal treks with stunning views of Clew Bay, tailored to families and groups.
Tour Operators and Facilities
- Mayo is home to several operators and facilities catering to equestrian tourists. Ashford Equestrian Centre, set on the historic
- Ashford Castle Estate, provides lessons, pony rides for children from €25, and scenic treks, with indoor and outdoor arenas.
- Calvey’s Equestrian Centre in Achill specialises in beach and bog track treks, using Connemara ponies for all abilities, with daily rides to Keel Lake.
- Drummindoo Stud, a family-run centre in Westport, offers trail rides, lessons, and pony camps, with well-cared-for horses and professional staff.
- Carrowholly Stables provides coastal treks and training, with discounts for groups and a focus on safety.
- Upper Mace Equestrian Centre, near Knock, offers AIRE-approved lessons and pony camps, with international-sized indoor arenas.
- Iceford Stables, in Ballina, provides beach rides extending to Sligo and countryside treks, with tailored lessons for all ages.
These facilities, equipped with modern amenities, ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
County Mayo:
Ireland’s county Mayo offers dramatic scenery and ancient heritage, with the Cliffs of Moher’s rugged beauty and Croagh Patrick’s pilgrimage trail providing stunning vistas. The town of Westport features Georgian architecture and access to Clew Bay’s islands, while the Ceide Fields showcase a prehistoric farming landscape. Other attractions include the celebrity beaches of Achill Island. Mayo is Ireland’s third largest county by size (5,398 square km) and 18th largest by population (137,970). Population peaked at 388,887 in 1841 and reached its lowest point, 109,525 in 1971. In terms of hospitality, Mayo is Ireland’s tenth most visited tourist county with around 218,000 international visitors per year.
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