Frequently Asked Questions
How do I book?
We recommend booking by phone (071 – 9166156), because that way we can discuss your requirements. During the summer season we advise booking in advance (2 days) to avoid disappointment.
Island Rides, day rides and big groups advanced booking essential.
Please use the buttons below to pay booking deposit securely via Paypal:
What do I need to wear?
Please wear comfortable trousers and sensible outdoor clothing. We supply standard regulation riding hats (PAS 15 or EN 1384) and boots. However walking boots or rubber boots with an appropriate heel are safe to wear for riding, too. Management advises not to wear jewellery. Children will need to wear body – protectors for jumping lessons.
I have never ridden before, is that a problem?
Not at all – our horses are very quiet and experienced – staff will make sure that you are comfortable. Every trek is tailor-made to your needs and ability.
My friend is an experienced rider but I am not. Can we still go together on a trek?
Yes, of course. Most of the time we will be able to send two guides on your trek so that you both can enjoy a ride at your very own pace. Under exceptional circumstances you might only have one guide who will certainly try to give the experienced rider an opportunity to canter. However there are situations where the weakest rider will set the pace.
My husband is very tall and heavy – have you got a suitable horse for him?
Yes we have. Our horses come in all shapes and sizes – from a tiny Welsh Pony to a strong built 17 h.h. Weight carrier. Staff will allocate you with a suitable horse.
We don't have a car – how can we get to you?
Check out www.buseireann.ie Tel.: 071 – 916066. The Sligo – Derry bus passes the stables several times a day. Service Busses will drop you at our doorstep (ask the driver), Express Busses will stop in Grange or Cliffoney. Phone us and we can collect you. Furthermore, there are taxi and mini bus services as well.
Taxi: Jimmy Quinn 087 – 2508509
Jack Connolly 087 – 7707113
Mini Bus: John McGovern 087 – 2553413
Sean Sheerin 071 – 9166466
Sean Dolan 071 – 9166178
Pick up service from Sligo or Ballyshannon can be arranged for a fee of € 25.
My child is only very young – can she still ride?
Small children can experience sitting on a small pony for ½ hour. Our handlers will lead ponies. For insurance reasons we cannot take children under 4 years of age. For lessons we recommend minimum age of 6 years.
Can my child sit up on the horse with me?
Strictly no.
Safe practise and insurance will not permit two people on one horse.
I don't ride – can I still walk along with my riding family members?
Yes, of course. The beach is only a walking distance away from the stables. However we also offer carriage rides for non – riding participants.
Is the beach far away from the stables?
No, the beach is approx. 5 – 10 minutes walking distance from the stables and easily accessed on foot.
I had a riding accident and I am very nervous, can you meet my needs?
Yes, we can. Our horses are all very experienced and quiet, safe in traffic and easy to handle. Therefore, we can meet everybody's requirements. You also have the option of regaining your confidence in one of our tailor-made lessons.
What will I do in a lesson?
That really depends on your riding experience. We offer lessons for all levels – we will also answer all your questions. If you wish to practise a particular skill – let us know about it.
What if something crops up and I need to cancel the booking?
Please pick up the phone and cancel a.s.a.p. – So that we can offer your slot to other customers. At present we don't charge a deposit – but we really appreciate early cancellation. If you don't cancel we take it for granted that you will come.
The weather is promised bad – can we still ride?
We go out in most kinds of weather. Although we have a selection of raincoats for customers we can understand that you may not enjoy riding in bad weather. However, please make sure you contact us by phone to cancel your ride.
What size groups can you cater for?
We try to keep groups small (max. number of 10). However, we can take bigger groups at a slow pace or if all participants are very experienced and management considers it safe.
There is also the option of splitting up the group in two rides or hiring a carriage which seats up to 8 passengers.
Please phone early to discuss a tailor-made solution for your group.
Are you open on Sundays?
We are open 7 days a week from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Open all year round. Please call in or phone for booking enquiries: 071 – 9166156
I want to give a present of riding lessons to my Niece? How does it work?
We issue vouchers for any given amount of sessions. The sessions can be used up as lessons or treks. The recipient can make the appointment for their riding whenever it suits him/her.