County Leitrim, with its serene lakes and rolling hills, offers a charming landscape for equestrian enthusiasts. Its scenic bridle trails and welcoming riding centres make it an ideal destination for those eager to explore on horseback.
A Historical Bond with Horses
Horses have long been part of Leitrim’s rural heritage, integral to farming, transport, and local traditions. The county’s agricultural past relied heavily on horses, with families breeding them for work and sport.
This legacy continues at places like Moorlands Equestrian Centre, where modern facilities uphold Leitrim’s equine traditions. The county’s deep connection to horses provides a rich foundation for visitors seeking to experience its countryside through riding.
Development of Equestrian Tourism
Equestrian tourism in Leitrim has grown through efforts to create accessible trails and modern facilities.
Bridleways along Lough Allen and through the Sliabh an Iarainn hills offer riders diverse routes across unspoiled landscapes. Centres like Moorlands Equestrian Centre and Hayden Equestrian Centre have expanded opportunities, providing lessons, treks, and pony camps. These developments ensure Leitrim remains a welcoming hub for riders of all abilities.
Bridle Trails and Local Opportunities
Leitrim’s bridle trails showcase its diverse landscapes, from the shores of Lough Allen to the forested paths of Drumhierny.
- Moorlands Equestrian Centre, near Drumshanbo, offers all-weather trails along Lough Allen, where riders can enjoy panoramic views of Sliabh an Iarainn and let horses splash in the lake.
- Hayden Equestrian Centre, in Ballinamore, provides treks through the Leitrim countryside, with routes tailored to all skill levels.
- Drumcoura Lake Resort, also in Ballinamore, specialises in Western-style riding, with trails through 50 acres of parkland.
These trails cater to riders looking to explore Leitrim’s natural beauty at their own pace.
Tour Operators and Facilities
Leitrim is home to several operators and facilities catering to equestrian tourists.
- Moorlands Equestrian Centre, a family-run, AIRE-approved facility, offers lessons, treks, and pony camps, with indoor and outdoor arenas for year-round access.
- Hayden Equestrian Centre provides a 12,000-square-foot indoor arena, floodlit outdoor arena, and cross-country courses, with experienced instructors teaching riders from age four.
- Drumcoura Lake Resort features Western riding experiences, with a large covered arena and trails, guided by instructors like Ron Weisz, certified by the Western Equestrian Society.
These facilities, equipped with modern amenities like showers and changing rooms, ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
County Leitrim:
Ireland’s county Leitrim is a haven of waterways and unspoilt scenery, with the Shannon-Erne Waterway offering tranquil boating and fishing opportunities. Carrick-on-Shannon’s historic Costello Chapel and vibrant marina provide cultural and leisurely appeal, while Glencar Waterfall adds natural beauty. Leitrim is Ireland’s seventh smallest county by size (1,525 square km) and smallest by population (35,199). Population peaked at 155,297 in 1841 and reached its lowest point, 25,057 in 1996. In terms of hospitality, Leitrim is Ireland’s 29th most visited tourist county with around 39,000 international visitors per year.
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