REVIEWS FOR LUXURY HOLIDAY WITH CULTURAL & FOODIE EXPERIENCES
‘An 11 on a Scale of 1-10!’
Hard to say what we enjoyed the most – the riding, the hosts, the food, the variety of both riding and dining experiences, the “cultural” sites we visited, including the whiskey distillery at Powerscourt; the historic home and treetop walk at Avondale; and Avoca, the oldest wool weaving mill in the country. This trip was fabulous, and so personalized both to what we wanted to do and see AND to the different riding levels as between my daughter and me. Kieran, Niall, and Carole were all such great hosts: attentive, gracious, engaging, considerate. From the big picture (riding, dining, transportation, shopping, cultural sites) to the personal details, like (i) Niall’s preparing egg salad sandwiches from his chickens’ eggs at the yard (the barn) and Kieran’s elderflower tea made from a bush at the yard on the day we didn’t have time to go out to lunch between morning and afternoon rides, (ii) lovely tailgates from the back of the Range Rover on the days we did our cross-country ride and our early morning beach ride, complete with fresh sliced fruit, yogurt, Irish brown bread and jam, butter (oh, that Irish butter!), juices, and sparkling as well as flat water, and (iii) arranging a food pairing with the whiskey tasting at Powerscourt. Did I say the horses were wonderful? And Kieran was determined to find a perfect fit for each of us – I think I rode 6 different horses while I was there (and enjoyed every one!). We loved the whole trip and would go back – in fact, we hope to!
Wendalin, USA
Recently got back from a week riding holiday hosted by CCS, and it was an absolute dream! Kieran, Niall, and Carole went above and beyond to tailor a week of riding and countryside excursions for us, from arena lessons, to riding on the beach, to braving the cross country course at Devil’s Glen… and non-riding adventures, like seeing local historical sites and a food and whiskey tasting that was extraordinary. We had fantastic dinners arranged at different nearby restaurants every night, each one different and delicious. Our hosts went above and beyond in every way, from adjusting the agenda to meet our needs, to having refreshments and snacks waiting for us at the end of nearly every ride. They kept us well outfitted for the days with extra rain and protective gear on loan. And we absolutely loved the little country estate we stayed at, which felt special and authentic. As for the riding, the horses were fit and mannerly, with plenty of options to accommodate our desires and the different activities. This was my first trip to Ireland, it couldn’t have been better, and I hope to visit CCS again. Many thanks!
Annie, USA
Kieran and Niall hosted me and my 11yr old daughter for a week at the stables and helped us tour the surrounding area. It was incredible. I am an inexperienced rider but felt so well taken care of, with assured guidance and calm horses. As well as their lovely arena, we rode on the beach and up in the Wicklow mountains, which are stunning. The atmosphere at the stables is calm, homely and so friendly, yet also highly professional and safety / welfare conscious. We have already planned to go back.
Neil, UK
REVIEWS OF OUR TAILORED HOLIDAYS
I had no idea how to ride horses before this trip—it was my first time! Over the course of two weeks, I learned so much. By the end of the first week, I was ready to enjoy some amazing trails in the mountains, where we saw a stunning waterfall, and I even rode on the beach—an unforgettable experience!
The horses were incredibly gentle and well-cared for, which made each ride so enjoyable. I will never forget Bowie, Rothko, and Guinness—what amazing horses to ride!
Niall and Carole were fantastic guides, providing expert instruction and warm Irish hospitality that made me feel right at home. They taught me everything, from tacking a horse to washing and getting them ready for a ride. I learned so much and can’t wait to go again.
This adventure combined the beauty of nature with the charm of the people, making it truly unforgettable. I can’t recommend CCS highly enough!Mark, Netherlands
I spent last week at the piece of heaven that Kieran and Nials keep for horse people from near and far. What first catches your eye, as soon as you arrive at Country Cottage Stables, is the wonderful Sugrar Loaf Mountain and green Irish pastures. It was with that view that we set off on fabulous hacks masterfully guided by Kieran into the surrounding nature and also onto the nearby seashore. I take away great technical riding tips that Kieran shared with during an enlightening lesson at the arena. Last, but not least, Niles’ and Kiean’s hospitality and warm spirits can be felt by all riders at the stable. I truly hope to return.
Leonel, Mexico