General Info

Explore Ireland's famous Ring of Kerry with its lakes, mountains and golden sandy beaches on a six night or two night riding vacation, staying in B&B's and small hotels to experience life in this stunning area of Ireland. Explore the highlands of Kerry, taking in the majestic MacGillycuddy Reeks, Ireland's highest mountain range as you ride the Ring of Kerry. The trail ride covers a variety of terrain including country lanes, forests, mountain tracks, bogs and some of the beaches at Waterville and on the magnificent 6.4km (4 mile) stretch of golden sand at Rossbeigh. The Iveragh Peninsula stretches southwest from Killarney and has many places of historic and archaeological interest along the world renowned Ring of Kerry.

You'll be riding with Killarney Riding Stables. The stables were established in 1968 by Donie O'Sullivan. Over the years, Donie has developed the stables into an internationally known center for trekking and trail riding. The stables are run by the entire O'Sullivan family, with Donie's wife Noreen and three adult children: Lorraine, Aoife and William. The Stables are home to over 120 horses, suitable for a variety of riding levels.

Situated in the south-western corner of Ireland, with its three famous lakes reflecting the ever changing skies above the great mountain ranges, Killarney has been the inspiration of poets and painters for many centuries, and now it is also a thriving commercial and tourist center. Killarney Riding Stables is located just 1.5 miles west of the town of Killarney, on the 'Ring of Kerry'.

Ring of Kerry Trail Ride- 6 nights (5 riding days) - Novice to Advanced
Ring of Kerry Mini Trail- 2 nights (3 riding days) - Novice to Advanced

Awards & Accolades
Featured in the Equitrekking Irish Countryside episode as a part of Equitrekking’s second season. Aoife O'Sullivan, Donie's daughter, is featured riding with Equitrekking host Darley Newman in the Equitrekking Irish Countryside episode.

The Stables are approved by the Irish Tourist Board and the Association of Irish Riding Establishments (AIRE). 

Mr. O’Sullivan, owner of Killarney Riding Stables was involved in the selection and training of horses for the famous Tim Severin Crusader project and the locally filmed Oscar winning movie “Ryans Daughter,” in which, he had a small part. Killarney Riding Stables have also been featured on CNN Travel Guide, Vox Television in Germany, and Irish Travel Shows Bon Voyage & No Frontiers.

"Our journey was over, but along the way we had met very friendly people. We would never forget their hospitality to four strangers from America." Horse and Pony

"I took my farewells from our guide, the group, O’Sullivan and my good buddy Misty, I embraced them all, just as I had embraced them all, just as I had embraced the land of Ireland." Sunday Times

"The morning had been a sample of the Killarney Reeks Ride, a five-day trek with overnight stops at hotels and inns. We have many people coming to us from all over the world who have little experience and don't realize hours a day in a saddle can be tiring," Donie said, "and we just want everyone to have a lovely safe ride and enjoy the beautiful country. Which is why," he added confidentially, "offering the smallest sip of good Irish whiskey has become part of the ride -- only to take away that little bit of soreness or weary. And, truth be told, everyone who starts the ride has always finished together. It's part of our tradition." Practical Horseman

"The second day we started our trek to the Ring of Kerry and up the mountains. Heading for our first destination, Lake Caragh, we rode through a landscape in constant change, with cloud formations roaming overhead bathing a hillside on our right in a splash of sunlight and forming a halo over a valley to our left. Crayola Crayons, in their box of 500 colours, has yet to capture all the shades of green featured in Ireland’s countryside." New York Newsday

"Cherub-faced Donie O'Sullivan, wisely decided we should visit that pub for a lunch of salmon and brown bread and a steaming pot of tea" The New Times

 

Packing

Please see Equitrekking Travel's General Packing Suggestions.

Riding helmets are obligatory in Ireland and current European standards apply.

The weather in Ireland varies, but the climate does not reach extreme hot or cold temperatures. Layers are best, and travelers can pack their saddlebags daily with the necessities.

Waterproof clothing such as a rain jackets, and rain pants that fit over riding clothes work well.  Travelers that have full length rain coats need to ensure that these coats can be secured around the legs so as not to flap in the wind. Ponchos and cycling capes are not permitted.

Riding in denim jeans is not advised unless travelers are used to doing so, as they may chaff the legs. Riding breeches/jodhpurs with chaps or long boots are recommended.  

Footwear must be supportive of the ankle and have a heel.

Sun Block and gloves are also suggested, especially when accustomed to riding with them at home, the same applies to a riding crop.

Each horse is fitted with a saddle bag, so riders may carry personal items with them, such as; rain clothing, water bottle, camera, sun block etc.  

About the Horses

The horses used for the trail are a mixture of Irish Drafts, Irish Cobs and Percheron Crosses. All horses have English saddles and bridles. The saddles are predominantly the ‘Swiss Ranger’ saddle, made by Peter August Spirig (Switzerland). These saddles are designed for comfort for the long distance rider and their horse, so extra gel pads etc. are not necessary, but if riders wish to bring them, they are more than welcome to bring them.

Activities/Events

Area Activities
Famed for the splendor of its scenery, Killarney is one of the world's best loved travel destinations in Ireland. It is the ideal playground for the sporting enthusiast. For those interested in history and archaeology, there are many outstanding items of interest to be seen. The town of Killarney has so much to offer in the way of shops, restaurants and hotels. Travelers may want to spend extra time to visit the Killarney National Park which is 10,289 hectares of lakes mountians and woodland. Country Kerry has the famous 'Ring of Kerry' driving/touring route in the south. Quaint Dingle Town is only one hour away.

Riders and their non riding companions may enjoy: Fishing, Golfing, Hiking, Biking, Traditional Farms, Period Houses, Castles, Abbeys, Churches, Boat Trips, Gardens, Spas, Islands, Diving, Canoeing, Caves, Museums.
 

Accommodations/Food

Accommodations
Small family run hotels and Bed & Breakfast accommodations along the route. All rooms will have a private shower & toilet with towels.

Some of the accommodations might include:
Foleys Townhouse, in the heart of Killarney with shops, pubs and restaurants within walking distance.
Towers Hotel, Glenbeigh
Golf Links View, Waterville

During the 6 night vacation, you will visit and stay 2 nights in the village of Glenbeigh. The town is almost entirely surrounded by mountains, and the area offers a friendliness and humor which is found nowhere better than in this tranquil and charming region of Kerry. The scenery is breath-taking, with the River Behy and Rossbeigh Strand close by. The area is full of history and destinations such as Winns Folly Castle-- well worth a visit. Two additional nights are spent in the town of Waterville, meaning 'the little whirlpool.' Waterville is nestled on a narrow strip of land between Lough Currane and the Atlantic Ocean, in the very centre of southwest Kerry. Situated as it is between the seashore and the impressive mountains and headlands, the area has many interesting routes to offer and many fine beaches. The first Celtic invaders are reputed to have landed in Ballinskelligs Bay, coming ashore near Waterville. These beginnings of the Gaelic Nation are echoed by the archaeological remains such as those on Church Island, at Derrynane Abbey or Skellig Michael, giving the area a wealth of history. The last night is spent in Killarney.

Food
Breakfast is at your accommodations; full Irish or continental style breakfast.
Lunch; Picnic style out on Trail (bread, fruit, meat, cheese etc.) Tea/Coffee/Water.
Dinner is not included; all villages and towns have a selection of Pubs & Restaurants.

While in Ireland, the traveler can expect to eat and enjoy traditional Irish meals which might include Irish stew, bacon & cabbage, Shepard’s pie, and a wide variety of seafood dishes. Dining in Killarney Town is second to none, with a variety of seafood and steakhouses, offering fresh local produce, from traditional Irish meals to more internationaly influenced fare. There are Restuarants, pubs and cafes to accomodate all budgets and tastes.
 

The Ideal Traveler

Pleasure riders who are comfortable at walk, trot and canter in an English saddle, as well as travelers who are coming to Ireland to see the countryside from horseback and enjoy the company of the warm Irish people.

English, French, German, Spanish and Swedish are spoken at the stables. Riders may be as young as age eight. It is recommended that riders participate in horseback riding lessons for least 12 months on a weekly basis prior to riding with Killarney stables and that the rider is comfortable at the walk, trot, and canter outdoors and in an English saddle.

Ring of Kerry Trail Ride

Dates & Rates 2010
6 nights (5 days of riding) B&B Package
$1,643.41 USD (1,150 EUR) per person sharing*
Single Supplement $271.40 USD (190 EUR)
Departures on Saturdays May 8, May 15, May 22, May 29, June 5, June 12, June 19, June 26, July 3, July 10, July 17, July 24, July 31, Aug 7, Aug 14, Aug 21, Aug 28, Sept 4, Sept 11, Sept 18, Sept 25, Oct 2, Oct 9 (crossed out dates are currently booked. Please inquire about wait list)

* Prices may fluctuate due to currency conversions. This price includes 5 days Trail riding (4+ hours per day), 5 picnic lunches out on trial, 6 nights B&B accommodations, horse, tack & guide. Price does not include evening meals, arrival or departure transfers.

If there is a group of 6+ riders wishing to travel out of season, please contact us and we can try to arrange special departures. 

Riding Ability: Novice through Advanced. All riders participating on the Trial Ride must be able to walk/trot and canter competently in an English saddle. It is advised that Western riders to take some English style lessons before participating on this trip in order to familiarize themselves with English tack and style of riding.

The trail provides an unequalled opportunity to explore the highlands of Kerry with the majestic McGillicuddy Reeks, Ireland’s highest mountain range. Ride on country lanes and mountain tracks and some of the beaches at Waterville and on the magnificent 6.4k.m. (4 miles) stretch of golden sand at Rossbeigh. The Iveragh Peninsula, with many places of archaeological and historic interest stretches Southwest from Killarney for nearly 40 miles and is highlighted by the world renowned Ring of Kerry.

SATURDAY 
Day of arrival/ check-in for all riders.  There are no formal plans and no riding on this day as riders will be checking in at different times throughout the day. (check-in before 6pm, if later you must advise the Stables). All travelers are required to check-in at Killarney Riding Stables to meet with one of the O’Sullivan Family, to discuss exp level and general trail ride information’s. You will then be taken from the Stables to you overnight accommodation in the Killarney area. The O'Sullivan family, who runs this ride, tries to keep all rides at the same location each night, so you may bump into any other people from your trip at your accommodations. On Sunday morning at breakfast, you may recognize them in riding clothes.

SUNDAY
With riders, horses and all luggage ready for transfer, the day begins with a short trip to the base of Seefinn Mountain, where the first days ride starts. When horses and riders have been introduced, the ride heads off, and up over the Windy Gap, viewing the splendor of Caragh Lake and the valley beyond. The ride then continues on to Coomasaharn Lake enclosed by Horseshoe Mountain, followed by a scenic ride over an Irish Bog, finishing for the day at the stable in Mountain Stage.

The overnight stop for Sunday and Monday nights is by the quaint village of Glenbeigh.  (Glenbeigh comes from Gleann Beithe, the Glen of the Birch Trees).  Surrounded almost entirely by mountains, Glenbeigh is famous for its friendliness and humur. The beauty of the area is breath-taking, with the River Behy and Rossbeigh Strand close by.  History is evident throughout the area. Winn’s Folly Castle is well worth a visit.

MONDAY 
After breakfast riders are collected and returned to the stables of the previous evening to begin Monday’s ride. The day is spent on Rossbeigh beach, galloping along stretches of golden sand.  You'll pass by a tower built more than a century ago, serving as a marker for ships entering Castlemaine Harbour. Take in the panoramic views of Dingle and the Iveragh Penninsulas to the North and South.  Enjoy lunch on the beach. Afterwards you'll be able to try more galloping, returning from the beach via the Cliff Road.

TUESDAY 
Breakfast. Riders are collected.  Luggage ready for transfer to Waterville.  A morning ride takes horse and rider from Kells Station through the bogs of Cnoc Bawn and on to Liss Bawn, taking in some spectacular views of Caherciveen and its surroundings.  Lunch is served alongside a nearby forestry. After lunch continue on through Island Boy and the Inny Valley. You'll finish for the day alongside the Tulligane Woods.

The overnight stop for Tuesday and Wednesday is spent by the coastal village of Waterville. Waterville (the little whirlpool), nestles on a narrow strip of land between Lough Currane and Atlantic Ocean, in the very centre of south-west Kerry.  Situated as it is between the seashore and the impressive mountains and headlands, the area has many interesting routes to offer and many fine beaches.  The first Celtic invaders are reputed to have landed in Ballinskelligs Bay, coming ashore near Waterville. These beginnings of the Gaelic Nation are echoed by the archaeological remains such as those found on Church Island, at Derrynane Abbey or Skellig Micheal, giving the area a wealth of history.

WEDNESDAY 
After breakfast, Wednesday brings an adventurous morning spent in Tulligane Woods. You'll eat lunch alongside the Inny River. Afterwards, you'll ride into Waterville via the Old Glencar/Waterville road, along the shores of the famous fishing lake, Lough Currane.

THURSDAY 
Breakfast.  Have your luggage ready for transfer to Killarney for final accommodation move. The day begins with a brisk ride to Waterville Beach, spending the morning enjoying some exciting gallops. The panorama of Hoggs Head and Ballinskelligs Bay is beautiful. Afterwards, both horses and riders are transferred back to Killarney.

FRIDAY
Breakfast & Departure. If you need to arrange transfers, etc. or need bus or trail times, it's best to do all this on check-in on the previous Saturday.

* This sample itinerary is flexible. Itinerary subject to change based on weather, the trip guide's discretion or other factors. Please note that times for Monday and Thursday rides are unpredictable to tell until the evening before due to tidal conditions.

Ring of Kerry Mini Trail

Dates & Rates 2010
3 nights (2 days of riding) B&B Package
$650.26 USD (455 EUR) per person sharing*
Single Supplement  $135.71 (95 EUR)
Departures on Saturdays May 8, May 15, May 22, May 29, June 5, June 12, June 19, June 26, July 3, July 10, July 17, July 24, July 31, Aug 7, Aug 14, Aug 21, Aug 28, Sept 4, Sept 11, Sept 18, Sept 25, Oct 2, Oct 9 (crossed out dates are currently booked. Please inquire about wait list)

* Prices may fluctuate due to currency conversions. This price includes 2 days Trail riding (4+ hours per day), 2 picnic lunches out on trial, 3 nights B&B accommodations, horse, tack & guide. Price does not include evening meals, arrival or departure transfers.

If there is a group of 6+ riders wishing to travel out of season, please contact us and we can try to arrange special departures. 

Riding Ability: Novice through Advanced. All riders participating on the Trial Ride must be able to walk/trot and canter competently in an English saddle. It is advised that Western riders to take some English style lessons before participating on this trip in order to familiarize themselves with English tack and style of riding.

The trail provides an unequalled opportunity to explore the highlands of Kerry with views of the majestic McGillicuddy Reeks, Ireland’s highest mountain range. Ride on country lanes and mountain tracks and some of the beaches at Waterville and on the magnificent 6.4k.m. (4 miles) stretch of golden sand at Rossbeigh. The Iveragh Peninsula, with many places of archaeological and historic interest stretches Southwest from Killarney for nearly 40 miles and is highlighted by the world renowned Ring of Kerry.

SATURDAY
Check in with Killarney stables any pre-arranged time up until 6pm, if later, another time can be arranged also. No riding this day, trail begins Sunday morning. Overnight in Killarney town, where there are a multitude of shops, pubs and restaurants.

SUNDAY
Assemble. With riders, horses and all luggage ready for transfer, the day begins with a short trip to the base of Seefinn Mountain, where the first days ride starts. When horses and riders have been introduced, the ride heads off, and up over the Windy Gap, viewing the splendor of Caragh Lake and the valley beyond. The ride then continues on to Coomasaharn Lake enclosed by Horseshoe Mountain, followed by a scenic ride over an Irish Bog, finishing for the day at the stable in Mountain Stage.

The overnight stop for Sunday and Monday nights is by the quaint village of Glenbeigh.  (Glenbeigh comes from Gleann Beithe, the Glen of the Birch Trees). Surrounded almost entirely by mountains, Glenbeigh is famous for its friendliness and humour. The beauty of the area is breath-taking, with the River Behy and Rossbeigh Strand nearby. History is evident throughout the locality. Nearby Winn’s Folly Castle is well worth a visit.

MONDAY 
After breakfast riders are collected and returned to the stables of the previous evening to begin Monday’s ride. The day is spent on Rossbeigh beach, galloping along stretches of golden sand. Pass by a tower built more than a century ago to serve as a marker for ships entering Castlemaine Harbour. Take in the panoramic views of Dingle and the Iveragh Penninsulas to the North and South.  Lunch on the beach. Afterwards, you'll have time for some more galloping, returning from the beach via the Cliff Road.

TUESDAY
Breakfast. Departure is from Glenbeigh Location, not Killarney. There is a public bus from Glenbeigh to Killarney each morning at 08.30am approx. time varies from season to season.

* This sample itinerary is flexible. Itinerary subject to change based on weather, the trip guide's discretion or other factors. The itinerary, and ride start times each day may change and vary for reasons out of our control at short notice; due to tides, weather and unforeseen circumstance.
 

Related Blog Posts

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Traveler Reviews

Just wanted to tell you thanks for the great two-day trek. My friend, Anne, and I went together, as you might recall. We have children and pets and husbands and just couldn't get away for the full trek, but we'd like to come back and do days 3-4-5 next time! We've been corresponding with some of the other riders on the trek, the German girls, and we're all sharing stories and photos. You and your family really made our (rare) getaway a fantastic experience and one I'll treasure forever.

-- Kathy, United States
 
Thank you so much for the wonderful ride, and for working so hard to accommodate all of us! It was a fantastic experience and everyone had a wonderful time. I really appreciate your willingness to work with us to ensure we had fantastic memories. 

-- Crystal, United States

We had a wonderful week in Ireland, luckily very warm, sunny weather. The O'Sullivans run a thoroughly well organized trip. I can't say enough nice things about them. It was like a well oiled wheel. It really was a trip of a lifetime, thank you so much. 

-- Sheila, Canada
 
On behalf of myself and my husband, I just wanted to send you a quick email to say THANK YOU!! Thank you all once again it was a very memorable part of our holiday to go with celebrating our 10th Wedding Anniversary.

-- Sam & Barry, United Kingdom

I just really wanted to say thank you again for the wonderful time we all had on the trail ride last week! It was the best holiday I ever had and I will surely come again. 

-- Katy, Germany

We'd like to thank you again for the nicest holiday we've ever experienced abroad! After returning to Finland, we decided to have the same experience all over again in summer 2010. 

-- Meeri, Finland

Just a note to say I had a lovely time on the 5 day trail, and what a wonderful way to spend my birthday on the beach and a picnic,  It was a good choice and worth considering again.  I will recommend your stables and maybe see you all again sometime.

-- Bridie, United Kingdom
 
It has been a week now that I have left Ireland, and I still have a hint of nostalgia. The trekking was fantastic and I was extremely pleased to discover the Irish countryside and its people. 

-- Francesco, Italy
 
I just wanted to let you know that we absolutely enjoyed the short trip with you and definitely look into coming back (perhaps for the 5 day tour). The tour was very good, organized and the hotels were well chosen. Please also forward our thanks to the rest of your team, as everyone was very kind and helpful. 

-- Tomy and Kathleen, Germany
 

Reading List

General Guidebooks & Novels

Fodor's Ireland 2010 (Fodor's Gold Guides) (Paperback)
Updated annually, Fodor’s Ireland provides the most accurate and up-to-date information available in a guidebook.

Ireland: Eyewitness Travel Guide (Paperback) by Tim Perry
Amazon.com Review-- You'd be hard-pressed to find a more comprehensive, engrossing and just plain fun-to-read guidebook than the Eyewitness Travel Guide: Ireland. Spilling over with all sorts of useful information for the traveler, you'll find three-dimensional drawings, floor plans, detailed neighborhood maps with a street-finder index, and even historical timelines.

The Star of the Sea, a novel by Joseph O’Connor
Publisher’s Weekly-- First published in the U.K. and shortlisted for Irish Novel of the Year, this brooding new historical fiction by novelist, playwright and critic O'Connor (Cowboys and Indians) chronicles the mayhem aboard Star of the Sea, a leaky old sailing ship crossing from Ireland to New York during the bitter winter of 1847, its steerage crammed to the bulkheads with diseased and starving refugees from the Irish potato famine.                                                 

History Enthusiasts

How the Irish Saved Civilization (Hinges of History) (Paperback) by Thomas Cahill
Amazon.com Review-- In this delightful and illuminating look into a crucial but little-known "hinge" of history, Thomas Cahill takes us to the "island of saints and scholars," the Ireland of St. Patrick and the Book of Kells.

Short History of Ireland (Paperback) by Richard Killeen
Since its first publication in 1994 Richard Killeen's Short History of Ireland has been widely accepted as the most accessible introduction to Irish history. It presents the history of Ireland in attractive double paged spreads, which can be quickly read to give an easy overview of the key events of Irish history. It is superbly illustrated with over 150 full color photographs, paintings and drawings.

A History of Ireland (Paperback) by Mike Cronin
Publisher’s Weekly-- A research fellow in history at De Montfort University Leicester (U.K.), Cronin offers synopsis with little insight in this overview of Irish history. 

Modern Ireland: 1600-1972 (Penguin history) (Paperback) by R.F. Foster
Publisher’s Weekly-- In what PW described as an "engaging revisionist chronicle," the author traces Irish history from 1600, when the country had a subsistence economy and was home to a welter of peoples, each of whom defined their "Irishness" differently, to the 1970s, when Ireland--despite three centuries of conquest and fissure--was a country with a powerful identity.

Equitrekking Coffee Table Companion Book & DVD

Equitrekking Travel Adventures on Horseback by Darley Newman with Photographs by Chip Ward available at ShopDarley.com
This companion to the PBS TV series, Equitrekking, proves that the world's most beautiful views are often best seen from atop a horse. This gorgeous book features dozens of scenic rides in the U.S. and around the globe, including Iceland. Denver Post review: For horse folk and dreamers, as well as fans of the show, it's a beautiful trip through stunning equestrian-friendly possibilities.   

Equitrekking: Season Two DVD featuring Emmy winning PBS episode two Ireland episodes! Available at ShopDarley.com

Get off the beaten path to see some of the world's most beautiful horses and classic riding destinations with host and equestrian travel expert Darley Newman on the second season of Equitrekking, the horseback riding travel series on Public Television. This seven episode two disc set includes half hour episodes from Iceland, Coastal Ireland, Hawaii's Big Island, Irish Countryside, Maui, Virginia Hunt Country and California Wine Country.

Good Books for Horse Lovers and Equestrians

Animals in Translation: Using the Mysteries of Autism to Decode Animal Behavior (Paperback) by Temple Grandin
Philosophers and scientists have long wondered what goes on in the minds of animals, and this fascinating study gives a wealth of illuminating insights into that mystery. ---Publishers Weekly

The Horse: A Miscellany of Equine Knowledge (Hardcover) by Julie Whitaker with Ian Whitelaw
The Horse is an informative gallop through everything to do with the horse:  evolution, history, biology, breeds, behavior, training, competition, health, and care—all gathered into an accessible gallery of solid information, essential facts, and fascinating trivia.                                                           

Hunter Seat Equitation (Hardcover) by George H. Morris
A classic by a world-renowned teacher and master equestrian--the definitive work on the art of teaching and riding the hunter seat, now updated to include refinements in Morris's insightful program of riding instruction.

The New Encyclopedia of the Horse (Hardcover) by Elwyn Hartley Edwards
Chronicling the history of the horse, this guide encompasses the early domestication of the horse, classical riding styles, as well as a survey of the great stud farms and current international sporting events.