Description
The Point Pony Trekking & Horse Riding Centre is a premier family equestrian hub located in the rugged coastal expanse of Ballyconneely, County Galway. Operating along the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, this friendly, Association of Irish Riding Establishments (A.I.R.E.) approved centre offers riders a unique way to experience the West of Ireland on horseback. It provides a peaceful, structured introduction to the world-famous Connemara pony breed for visitors of all skill levels. If you are looking for the best things to do with kids in Connemara, a coastal horse riding centre like this provides an incredible mix of nature and outdoor activity.
Saddling up for a trek is straightforward, with clear flat-rate pricing based entirely on the length of your chosen ride. Individual entry rates start from €60.00 per person for a standard one-hour beach trek. A ninety-minute beach experience is available for €80.00, while a comprehensive two-hour coastline trail is priced at €100.00 per person. All required safety equipment is provided directly on-site at no additional charge, allowing families to book their sessions without encountering unexpected rental premiums.
If you are looking for the best place for a day out with family and kids that balances spectacular marine landscapes with calm, well-schooled animals, this equestrian centre is an essential stop. The venue places a major emphasis on coastal trail safety, ensuring every single group is accompanied by qualified local guides. It is a wonderful location to build children's confidence around horses, capture memorable family photos, and explore pristine white sand beaches along the Wild Atlantic Way.
Features
- Paid
- Host birthday parties: No
Features
What Makes The Point Pony Trekking & Horse Riding Centre Unique?
- A.I.R.E. Approved Safety Standards: Holds full official approval from the Association of Irish Riding Establishments, guaranteeing well-schooled animals and trained supervision.
- Direct Beach Access: Positioned directly alongside dazzling white sand beaches, allowing riders to experience walking, trotting, or cantering through the surf.
- Connemara Pony Specialist: Houses an exceptional herd of traditional, hardy Connemara ponies perfectly suited to navigating the unique West of Ireland terrain.
- Spectacular Island Trajectories: The extended two-hour trekking route regularly takes riders across shallow coastal waters to explore historic local tidal islands.
Detailed Highlights
- The One-Hour Beach Trek: A calm, slow-paced introduction to horse riding that guides participants along local sandy shores. It is specifically structured to build confidence for beginner riders and younger children.
- The Two-Hour Coastline Trail: An immersive trekking experience designed for adventurous families who want to journey further along the Atlantic edge. The path leads through wide-open pastures, sweeping sands, and rocky inlets.
- The Tidal Island Crossing: A unique section of the extended ride where horses walk through shallow sea channels during low tide. Children love the novelty of splashing through waves to reach secluded offshore land.
- The Tack Room Welcome: The initial staging area where riders are fitted for safety gear and paired up with a horse or pony. Staff take great care to match each child’s height and experience level to the perfect animal.
- The Panoramic Atlantic Loop: A highly scenic portion of the trail that provides elevated views of the Twelve Bens mountain range and the neighboring Connemara Championship Golf Links.
What to See and Do
- Meet the Connemara Ponies: Spend time observing and petting the well-behaved herd of native Irish ponies before mounting your horse.
- Explore Pure Sand Tracks: Ride along wide coastal strands where children can watch the Atlantic waves break right beside their stirrups.
- Spot Marine Wildlife: Keep an eye out for local coastal birds, seals, and marine flora that thrive around the rock pools and tidal shallows.
- Take Iconic Family Photos: Pause with your guides at specific scenic lookouts to snap memorable holiday photos with the mountains and ocean in the background.
152.18 miles
