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Luxury Escape in County Wicklow

This luxury horse riding holiday in County Wicklow offers a perfectly balanced blend of equestrian adventure, Irish culture, and indulgent comfort. In the “Garden of Ireland”, guests stay in elegant 4-star accommodation surrounded by rolling green hills and easy access to Ireland’s most scenic landscapes.

Your time in the saddle is wonderfully varied: from relaxed countryside hacks through quiet lanes and forest trails to exhilarating beach gallops and optional cross-country jumping sessions. Out of the saddle, the itinerary is brimming with local flavour and experiences: explore the gardens and waterfall at Powerscourt, enjoy a guided whiskey distillery tour, discover Avondale Park, and soak up traditional Irish music and dancing. Everything is taken care of, so you can simply sit back, savour the charm of Ireland, and enjoy each carefully planned experience.

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Trail Riding
7 days (5 days riding)
From £5,732
  • Luxury Escapade in County Wicklow
  • Luxury Escapade in County Wicklow
  • Luxury Escapade in County Wicklow
  • Luxury Escapade in County Wicklow
  • Luxury Escapade in County Wicklow
  • Luxury Escapade in County Wicklow
  • Luxury Escapade in County Wicklow
  • Luxury Escapade in County Wicklow

Itinerary

Highlights

- Enjoy varied riding with a great mix of cross-country, hacking, and exhilarating beach rides.

- This itinerary is suitable for all riders from strong novices to experienced.

- Enjoy luxury 4-star accommodation near Powerscourt Estate, just south of Dublin.

- Plenty of cultural visits and activities, showcasing the best of County Wicklow.

- All-inclusive 5- or 7-day packages with no need to drive or plan.
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  • Day 1 1: Arrival in Dublin - Approx. 1h

    Summerhill House Hotel
    Fly to Dublin airport. Flights are not included but can be booked on request.

    Please check the transfer times under “Dates&Prices”, before booking your flights.

    Upon arrival at Dublin airport, you will be transferred to the stables where you will meet your fellow riders and Kieran, the head instructor, and Niall your host.
    After a tour of the stables, at about 3pm, you will meet your horse for the week and then proceed to the arena to have an assessment lesson.
    You will then be transferred to the hotel, where you can relax before your fist dinner at a premier restaurant, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the Wicklow Mountains.

  • Day 2 2: Powerscourt Waterfall - 2-4h riding

    Summerhill House Hotel
    This morning, set out on horseback through peaceful forest paths towards the Wicklow Way. Ride along unspoiled mountain trails revealing panoramic views of Powerscourt Waterfall - the highest in Ireland - cascading through the valley below.

    Return to the stables for lunch, where a hearty home-cooked meal awaits. In the afternoon, enjoy a lesson focused on flatwork, dressage, or jumping. If you prefer, instead of the lessons, you can head out on another scenic hack to explore more of the surrounding countryside.

    This evening brings a change of pace as you head to Dalkey, a charming seaside heritage town known for its elegant atmosphere. Upon arrival, you will have the chance to wander through Dalkey’s narrow streets lined with boutique shops, traditional pubs, and inviting cafés before dining at a much-loved local restaurant that has been welcoming guests for over six decades.

  • Day 3 3: Brittas Bay & Sightseeing - 2-4h riding

    Summerhill House Hotel
    After enjoying a light breakfast, you will be transferred to the golden sands of Brittas Bay, a five‑kilometre stretch of pristine beach framed by wild dunes and the sparkling Irish Sea. Here you’ll meet your horse for a memorable ride along the shore. Whether you choose a gentle stroll or a faster paced ride, the experience is pure joy.

    At the end of the trail, a brunch setting will offer you a chance to relax and take in the beauty of the coastline before returning to the hotel to freshen up.
    In the afternoon, you will discover the area’s natural and cultural highlights: wander through the historic Avondale House and its scenic Treetop Canopy Walk, visit the poetic “Meetings of the Waters,” and stop by the original Avoca Handweavers for a glimpse of traditional Irish craftsmanship.

    Dinner this evening is enjoyed at the hotel.

  • Day 4 4: Cross-Country - 2-4h riding

    Summerhill House Hotel
    After a leisurely breakfast, you’ll be collected from the hotel around 10am for a memorable day of cross-country riding at a beautiful estate nestled at the foothills of the Wicklow Mountains. The 40-acre course offers a mix of open fields, wooded stretches, banks, and water jumps - tailored perfectly to your experience level and confidence. Whether you’re keen to tackle a few jumps or simply prefer a relaxed ride through the estate’s rolling countryside, there’s something for everyone.

    At lunch time, you will enjoy a tailgate picnic overlooking the picturesque landscape, where the ruins of a castle form a timeless backdrop to your afternoon rest.

    In the evening, you will head to the Dublin Mountains for dinner at Ireland’s highest pub. Enjoy lively traditional music and world-class Irish dancing, accompanied by a four-course feast of classic Irish fare. For those who prefer a gentler atmosphere, a quieter dining experience is available in the same venue.

  • Day 5 5: Valley of Glendalough & Wicklow Countryside - 2-4h riding

    Summerhill House Hotel
    This morning, set off to explore the valley of Glendalough, nestled within the heart of Wicklow National Park. Known for its serene lakes and the ruins of a 6th‑century monastic settlement, this remarkable site offers a glimpse into Ireland’s spiritual and historical soul. Stroll through the glacial valley, where ancient stone towers rise against a backdrop of heather‑covered hills.

    Lunch is served at the Glendalough restaurant, home to a fascinating “writers’ room” featuring first editions of Dracula by Bram Stoker and Ulysses by James Joyce.

    In the afternoon, return to the saddle for another memorable ride through the lush Wicklow countryside.
    Depending on the weather, in the evening, you may gather for a gourmet barbecue or an elegant dinner at the cottage.

  • Day 6 6: Dawn Ride & Powerscourt Estate - 2-4h riding

    Summerhill House Hotel
    Today you will set off on a peaceful dawn ride, accompanied by the morning birdsong as the countryside slowly comes to life. Return to the hotel for a hearty breakfast and a chance to unwind before the day’s excursions begin.

    Late in the morning, you will visit the magnificent Powerscourt Estate and Gardens - a masterpiece of landscaped beauty ranked among the world’s top three gardens by National Geographic. Stroll through the formal terraces, sweeping lawns, and ornamental lakes framed by the Sugarloaf Mountain before enjoying lunch on the estate.

    In the afternoon, you will saddle up for what may be your final ride, soaking in the views of the countryside.

    This evening, you will celebrate your journey over a memorable farewell dinner at one of the area’s finest local restaurants.

  • Day 7 7: Departure from Dublin

    Depending on your departure time, you may wish to enjoy one last ride through the countryside or a final lesson at the stables.

    After your ride or lesson, it’s time to say goodbye and depart from your hotel.

    Please check the departure timings under “Dates&Prices”.

Dates & prices

Price details

- Flights or transportation to your destination (international/domestic) are not included but can be booked on request - please contact us for rates.

- It is possible to arrange other departure dates different from the ones listed, please contact us for more information.

- Rates are per person, based on two riders sharing a twin or double room during the ride.

- Groups are composed of a minimum of 1 rider and a maximum of 6 international riders, plus guides.

- There is no single supplement if you are willing to share a room with another guest of the same sex. To guarantee your own room there is a single supplement of €/£/$ in 2026.

- Transfers are included from Dublin airport or hotel. Please make sure to arrive before 10:30 am on the first day to make the most of the morning ride and depart after 4:00 pm on the last day.

- Children from 7yo are welcomed provided they match the riding requirements and are accompanied by an adult.
Please Note
The itinerary may be modified at anytime for security reasons, meteorological or events beyond our control such as blocked roads, rivers in flood, drought, strikes and local holidays. Equus Journeys, our local partners and their local guides will always strive to find the best solution and will alter the itinerary as needed.
The names of the hotels and accommodation are given for information only and depending on availability, they may be modified without notice and replaced by another of a similar standard.

Price includes

Support Team

1 English-speaking horse guide

Logistics

1 vehicle and driver
1 horse equipped with saddle and bridle per rider

Accommodation

Double/Twin room in a 4* hotel

Meals

Full board from dinner on arrival to breakfast on departure

Extras

Excursions mentioned in the itinerary
Whiskey tour and tasting session

Price doesn't include

Meals

Personal extras

Transport

Return airport transfers
International flights

Extras

Tips to the local team

Insurance

Cancellation and travel insurance are not included in the above listed price. Please note that insurance is mandatory. We recommend taking out an insurance policy as soon as your trip is booked to cover you in case of cancellation
Visas and personal purchase
  • Departure Return Price without flights Status
    14/06/2026 20/06/2026 £5,732 €6,534 $7,394
    Guaranteed departure
    		Book now
  • Departure Return Price without flights Status
    12/07/2026 18/07/2026 £5,732 €6,534 $7,394
    Guaranteed departure
    		Book now
  • Departure Return Price without flights Status
    01/09/2026 07/09/2026 £5,732 €6,534 $7,394
    Guaranteed departure
    		Book now

Equestrian info

Horses

A well-loved and well-mannered herd of around thirty, carefully selected to suit riders of all abilities. Living out for most of the year, they are relaxed, happy, and well-adjusted. You’ll find a great mix of traditional Irish cobs, Connemaras, and some Irish Sport Horses - each with their own personality, but all calm, willing, and enjoyable to ride.

Whether you’re a confident novice or an experienced equestrian, there’s a horse to match your level and preferences. None are overly “spicy,” yet they are forward-going, responsive, and a pleasure to ride across Wicklow’s varied terrain. Regular schooling, trail work, and consistent exercise keep them fit, balanced, and well-prepared for every kind of rider. Please note that as there are no ponies in the herd, young riders should already be comfortable handling and riding horses.

Guide & local team

Your hosts are Kieran and Niall.

Kieran Morrin was born in Co. Dublin, the youngest of a family of eight children, in 1959. He started riding at the age of six and has competed all over Ireland at the national level. Kieran has represented Ireland in show jumping and has competed many times in the RDS Horse Show. He is both a host and lead guide.

Niall is the holiday co-ordinator and host. He provides exceptional service to the guests, beginning with their airport pickup and continuing throughout their entire stay. He is the heart of the operation. Niall is an electrical engineer by trade and a Dublin man. He owned and ran a successful business before retiring to the “Good Life” in The Garden of Ireland. Niall’s passion after horses is his free-roaming hens. He has been the National Riding Club Show jumping champion two years in a row and now competes regularly on the dressage circuit.

Their beloved dogs, Bear and Harvey, are also part of the team!

Minimum riding ability

Minimum riding ability

This holiday welcomes different riding abilities. From novice riders who can already walk, trot and have started to canter, to more experienced riders.
Riders can be sorted into 2 different groups, based on their riding ability.

Rider weight limit: 95kg / 210 lbs / 15 st

Pace

The pace is varied to include walk, trots and canters. The beach canter in particular is a highlight of this holiday! This is however not a “fast” ride due to the nature of the terrain.

Tacking ability and participation

Horses are groomed and tacked up for you, although you are welcome to help if you wish to.

Trip conditions and Requested experience

The terrain is diverse, but mainly smooth and pleasant, giving you the opportunity to ride free from strain and enjoy the scenery.

Equestrian equipment

English saddles and tack. A limited amount of seat savers are available on request.

Saddlebags are not provided on this ride.

Helmets are mandatory and there are some available locally for guests to borrow. Equus Journeys highly recommends that riders bring their own hats to ensure a proper fit.

Travel info

Comfort

Accommodation is at Summerhill House Hotel, a 4* hotel with spa facilities. It is located near Powerscourt estate and a short walk to the picturesque village of Enniskerry.

Meals

- Gourmet breakfast at the hotel, with a very large choice of continental and cooked to order options.
- Lunch at the Cottage prepared by your hosts, which includes wine in reasonable quantities. Some days you will enjoy a gourmet picnic instead.
- Dinner is at top restaurants in the area. Refreshments, water, tea, and coffee are included in the price but alcoholic drinks at dinner is payable separately.

Climate

The weather in Ireland is similar to that in the rest of the British Isles, although it is more likely to rain. You should always be prepared with a good quality raincoat and dress in layers as you might enjoy a glorious sunny day followed by one which is rather more wet and cold.

Tips

Tips are welcome but not mandatory and left to your own discretion.

Packing list

Head
- A riding helmet is mandatory and we recommend that you take your own to ensure a correct fit.

Upper body
- Long sleeved shirts provide protection from the sun or extra warmth
- T-shirts
- Lightweight fleece or jumper
- Rain jacket

Lower body
- Lightweight, comfortable riding trousers or jodhpurs - we recommend riding in them at home before taking them on holiday to ensure they don't rub
- Casual clothes for the evenings (jeans or walking trousers)
- Non-irritant cotton or synthetic underwear

Hands and Feet
- Comfortable riding boots.
- Lightweight shoes for the evenings
- Several pairs of warm socks
- Gloves

Other useful items
- Toiletries
- Ear plugs

Medical kit
- Any medication you regularly take
- Painkillers
- Imodium or similar anti-diarrhea medication
- Sunscreen and lip balm - should be high factor
- Eye drops
- Hydrating/soothing cream
- Plasters
- Blister plasters in case of any rubs
- Antiseptic cream, plasters, aspirin, anti-histamine, insect-bite salve etc..
- 10cm wide bandage
- Spare prescription glasses/contact lenses

Our Recommendations
- Backpacks cannot be worn whilst riding. We recommend a small bumbag or a coat with pockets so that you can carry small items with you during the day (camera, sunscreen, lipbalm etc)
- We recommend travelling in your riding boots and carrying your hat and some riding clothes in your hand luggage - then if your luggage goes astray you are still able to ride!
- We recommend taking a copy of your passport and insurance documents with you in case you lose your originals