Estate Activities - Equestrian
Guests are welcome to bring their own horses by arrangement. Horses are available to hire locally (see below) and can be delivered to Lough Cutra Estate for your enjoyment. Our own horses cannot be used. Local hunting includes the Galway Blazers, the North Galway Hunt, East Galway Hunt, the North Clare Hunt and the North Clare hunt. There are also local groups that ride out regularly such as the "Turkey Trotters" based near Gort.
For rental of horses contact: Ballyhannon Equestrian Centre Clare Equestrian Centre SchoolingSchooling courses are available with international rider Aidan O'Connell tutoring. Aidan O'Connell is an accredited equestrian tutor, and former professional international show jumper. Exclusive tuition can be arranged for groups of up to 10 - Booking must be arranged in advance and residential accommodation is available. Hunter Trials
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Horse riding is the perfect way to enjoy the beautiful 650 acre Estate which surrounds Lough Cutra Castle. The estate has certain equestrian facilities which include stabling for 10 horses, an outdoor sand arena/schooling ground and an excellent cross country course as well as plenty of treks.
The cross country course was designed by the internationally renowned Tommy Brennan. The course is c.2.5 miles long and includes up to 34 Jumps with 56 Options - natural fences designed to challenge all from the inexperienced to professional riders. The course winds its way through woodlands, part of the lake itself, the arboretum and across meadow and pasture allowing riders and spectators to really appreciate the beauty and diversity of the Estate. Tommy Brennan has also designed the cross country element of the Punchestown 3 day event course, and is responsible for the cross country course at the 2008 Olympics in China.
Our Hunter Trials used to be held at the end of March of every year around the Tommy Brennan designed course. It was a major event in the west of Ireland. Unfortunately we no longer hold the event, but there were often over 400 competitors from all over Ireland and the UK. People came from far and wide to sample the cross country course and the craic on the day.