Location: Flowerhill Equestrian Centre, Galway, Ireland
Duration: 5 days / 4 nights / 4 riding days - 2 farm days and 2 hunt days
Accommodation: Local B&B
Dates: Flexible dates year-round
Riding Level: Intermediate+
Group Size: Up to 8 people
Accompanying non-riders welcome
Ireland is known the world over for its hunting, with 41 recognized packs of hounds in Ireland. Irish hunt country is varied (and, at times, more challenging) than any other hunt terrain in the world. In some areas the land is cross-crossed by stone walls, in other parts of the country the obstacles can be logs, drainage ditches or banks. You’ll be the guest of honor of two famous packs in County Galway.
This hunt holiday has a bit of everything that makes hunting in Ireland world famous: ancient stone walls, seasoned hunters, enchanting forests, verdant countrysides, Irish hospitality and plenty of shenanigans!
At a controlled and safe pace, follow hounds over stone walls and natural jumps on seasoned hunters through forests, rivers, and the Irish countryside. This itinerary combines cross country jumping with drag hunting on some of Ireland's best horses. No animals are hunted, the hounds follow an artificial scent as you ride and jump along with them - the scent is pre-laid over a course of inviting fences such as stone walls, logs and solid XC fences (there are no ditches on the hunt routes!).
Ireland is known as the “Land of the Horse” for its horses’ reputation for bravery, agility, stamina, intelligence, and gentleness. Guests’ mounts will be Irish Sport Horses, Connemara Ponies, Irish Cobs, and Irish Draughts. Each guest carefully matched to an equine partner that is suitable for his or her skill and confidence.
Hirelings for the hunt are sourced from some of the best stock in Ireland, ensuring guests a fun but safe hunting experience. These hunts are a perfect balance between excitement and leisurely enjoyment.
Riding Level: Intermediate-Advanced
Riders should be able to ride comfortably at all paces, and spend several hours in the saddle daily. Riders will only be allowed to participate in the hunt if their riding is of a suitable level, and the instructor will have final say.
Accompanying non-riders are welcome!
Riders will be housed in a local B&B with access to dining options in the quaint town of Portumna.
A daily full Irish breakfast is included, as well as a sack lunch on riding days. Dinners are not included, but there are several local restaurant options to choose from.
Single or shared rooms
Full Irish breakfast daily
Packed lunch on riding days and pre-hunt refreshments on hunt days
2 days riding on-property, 2 days hunting
Flights to/from Ireland
Transfers to/from Galway and riding locations (recommended to rent a vehicle)
Mandatory for all riders
Take a riding assessment upon arrival, then settle into your accommodation in time for dinner in town.
Rides go out at 10am and 1pm.
School over fences on the Flowerhill Estate.
Rides go out at 10am and 1pm.
Ride out with a local hunt. Details provided closer to the hunt date.
Ride out with a local hunt. Details provided closer to the hunt date.
Depart after the hunt