Ireland, Monaghan – Historic Castle Estate
Discover the beauty of the Irish countryside on horseback, exploring a historic estate where horses, nature and heritage come together to create an unforgettable riding holiday. Located just around 1.5 hours’ drive from Dublin, the magnificent 400-hectare estate stretches across sweeping parkland, ancient woodland and sparkling lakes. Here, spectacular scenery, historic surroundings and genuine Irish hospitality come together in the perfect balance of adventure, riding and relaxation.
With more than 30 kilometres of private riding trails, there is plenty of space to experience the Irish countryside from the saddle. Ride through lush woodland, across open parkland and alongside tranquil lakes, taking in the scenery at every turn. For those who enjoy a little more speed, the estate also features a 1.6-kilometre all-weather gallop track, offering the perfect opportunity for an exhilarating canter or gallop.
The riding centre provides excellent facilities for training, including a 50 × 30-metre indoor arena and a 20 × 50-metre outdoor arena. More experienced riders can also enjoy the estate’s popular cross-country course, while the riding programme is tailored to the experience, interests and wishes of each group.
After a wonderful day in the saddle, return to the comfort of The Lodge for delicious food, relaxing surroundings and a warm Irish welcome. With horses, beautiful scenery, history and hospitality all in one place, this is an Irish riding holiday where every day offers something to look forward to – and plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.
Accommodation & Food
You’ll stay at The Lodge, a beautifully restored and characterful building where historic charm blends effortlessly with modern comfort. Its 50 individually designed rooms retain many original features while offering an elegant country house style. Each room features either a king-size bed or twin beds, together with a spacious bathroom complete with a freestanding Victorian roll-top bath, separate shower and TV – the perfect place to unwind after a day in the saddle.
Located at the entrance to the historic estate, The Lodge is the heart of the property and a natural meeting place where hotel guests, riders and locals come together in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Here you’ll find both Conor’s Bar & Lounge and the award-winning Snaffles Restaurant, while the riding centre is conveniently located right next door. The Lodge is also home to the highly regarded Victorian Treatment Rooms, where you can indulge in a relaxing spa or massage treatment – a wonderful way to soothe tired muscles after a day of riding.
A Taste of Ireland
Both the 3- and 5-night programmes include accommodation, a Full Irish Breakfast each morning and dinner every evening. For dinner, you can choose between a delicious two-course meal at Conor’s Bar & Lounge, the estate’s relaxed and welcoming gastropub, or a main course at the award-winning Snaffles Restaurant, which has been awarded 2 AA Rosettes for its outstanding cuisine.
Food is an important part of the experience, with menus inspired by the seasons and prepared using quality ingredients sourced from local producers. Whether you opt for the relaxed, convivial atmosphere of Conor’s Bar or the more elegant setting of Snaffles, you can look forward to beautifully prepared dishes that showcase the best of modern Irish cuisine.
And for a truly indulgent touch, why not treat yourself to a traditional Afternoon Tea, served in the beautiful surroundings of the estate?
At The Lodge, the experience continues long after you leave the saddle – with wonderful food, beautiful surroundings and the warm hospitality that makes an Irish country estate so special.
Program- Allround
All-round Programme
For those who want to combine trail rides with varied riding instruction. The programme includes training in several disciplines, such as dressage, flatwork, show jumping, and cross-country, together with trail rides through the beautiful castle grounds and surrounding woodlands.
Lessons take place in groups (max 10 riders) and are adapted to the participants’ level of experience. For beginners and less experienced riders, there is also the opportunity to use the centre’s mechanical horse, a highly appreciated training aid for improving position, balance, and the use of aids before riding.
Riding time
3 nights: approximately 9 hours of riding (3 hours per day)
5 nights: approximately 15 hours of riding (3 hours per day)
Example Itinerary – All-round Riding Programme
Day 1 – Arrival
Riding: 1 hour
Arrive at the riding centre and check in during the afternoon. Meet your instructor and enjoy an initial assessment lesson at 3pm, where you can discuss your riding experience. If you arrive too late for the lesson, it will be moved to the following morning.
Days 2–3 / Days 2–5
Riding: 3 hours per day
Each day includes approximately three hours of riding, combining a varied programme of dressage, flatwork, show jumping, cross-country training, and scenic rides around the estate. The exact mix of lessons and trail riding is tailored to your experience, confidence, and personal goals.
Lessons are taught in groups
Final Day – Departure
Riding: 2 hours
Enjoy a final morning ride or lesson before checking out and departing from the riding centre.
3-night programme: Day 4 – departure on Wednesday after 12.00
5-night programme: Day 6 – departure on Friday after 12.00
Program - Happy Hackers
Happy Hackers
For those who primarily want to enjoy the beautiful Irish countryside from horseback. This Programme is for anyone who enjoys the simple pleasures of riding without wanting to jump. Each day you have a two hour guided horse ride around the estate along with a flatwork lesson.
Riding time
3 nights: approximately 9 hours of riding
5 nights: approximately 15 hours of riding
Example Itinerary - Happy Hackers
Day 1 – Arrival
Riding: 1 hour
Arrive at the riding centre and check in during the afternoon. Meet your instructor and have an initial riding lesson at 3pm. You will then be allocated a horse suited to your experience and riding level. If you arrive too late for the lesson, it will be moved to the following morning.
Days 2–3 / Days 2–5
Riding: 3 hours per day
Each day, you will enjoy a two-hour guided trail ride around the beautiful estate, giving you the opportunity to experience the Irish countryside on horseback. The trail ride is combined with a one-hour riding lesson, either focusing on flatwork or ground poles, depending on your level and wishes.
Final Day – Departure
Riding: 2 hours
Enjoy a final guided trail ride around the estate before departing from the riding centre.
3-night programme: Day 4 – departure on Wednesday after 12.00
5-night programme: Day 6 – departure on Friday after 12.00
Horses
The riding centre has around 30 horses, carefully selected to suit both beginners and experienced riders. The herd includes Connemaras, Irish Cobs, Thoroughbreds, Irish Draughts, as well as other Irish breeds and crossbreeds.
All riding is done using English-style tack. Saddles and bridles are of high quality, well maintained, and individually fitted to each horse to ensure the best possible comfort and safety.
Travel Information
Ability description: dressage level 1-3, jumping 2-4, cross country 2-4
Included in the price:
Week: 5 nights, 5 days ridning, 15 hours, half board (breakfast and dinner) excl. beverages.
Weekend: 3 nights, 3 days ridning, 9 hours, half board (breakfast and dinner) excl. beverages
Not included: Travel to and from Ireland, lunch, drinks, spa treatments, other activities, and transfers.
Travel: Flights to Dublin or Belfast.
Bus: From Dublin Airport to Monaghan, just over 1.5 hours by Bus Éireann.
Transfer: Can be booked in advance through HorseXplore and paid locally.
From Dublin Airport: approximately 1.5 hours, around EUR 260 per way.
From Belfast Airport: approximately 1 hour 15 minutes, around EUR 185 per way.
Car hire:
If you would like to explore the surrounding area independently, we recommend hiring a car.
Arrival/departure day:
Check-in from 4.00 pm. Check-out by 12.00 noon.
Weekly programme: Arrival at the riding centre on Sunday afternoon. Departure the following Friday at approximately 12.00 noon.
Weekend programme: Arrival on Sunday afternoon. Departure on Wednesday at approximately 12.00 noon.
Number of riders: Maximum 10 riders per group.
Single room: It is possible to book one of the rooms for single occupancy (the single supplement price can be found under Dates & Prices; booking on request). If no one is available to share a room with, a single room supplement will apply.
Child discount: Available up to and including 11 years of age.
Maximum weight: Approximately 100 kg.
Season: Open all year round.
Wi-Fi: Yes.
Currency: Euro.
Electrical outlets: An adapter is required. UK-style three-pin plug.
Credit cards: Accepted at the riding centre.
Gratuities: Not expected, but appreciated.
Nearest town: Monaghan.
Golf: 1 golfcourse within 5 minutes and 1 within 20 minutes, both 18 holes.
Swimming pool: No. However, a jacuzzi and sauna are available (must be booked and paid for locally).
Dietary requirements: Please inform us at the time of booking.
Other: Helmets and safety vests are available to borrow if you do not have your own.