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Novice Dune Rides at Donegal Equestrian Centre - Sligo

Novice Dune Rides at Donegal Equestrian Centre

Bundoraneasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2 hours

Fitness Level

Riders should have basic riding fitness and ability to trot independently for short periods.

Overview

Tackle the sand dunes of Bundoran’s coast with Donegal Equestrian Centre's 2-hour novice ride. Gain skills, soak in mountain and sea views, and enjoy a private group experience tailored for confident beginners.

Bundoran, County Donegal

Novice 2 Hour Dune Ride

Ages 10+ • Beautiful scenery • Suitable for riders who can rise (post) to the trot.

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Adventure Photos

Novice 2 Hour Dune Ride photo 1

About This Adventure

Experience an exhilarating two-hour sand dune ride tailored for novice riders with prior experience. Journey through breathtaking coastal and mountain views alongside Tullan Strand, after a half-hour assessment lesson to ensure safety and skill. Enjoy a private ride for your group, creating unforgettable memories in stunning natural surroundings.

2 hour Sand Dune ride for novice riders

Duration

2 hours

All Riders must have prior experience

NOT SUITABLE FOR BEGINNERS Minimum Riding Skills Needed All riders must have received prior instruction in horse riding and must be able to demonstrate the following:-

  • Mount/Dismount - Mounting blocks provided
  • Hold Reins Correctly (English Style)
  • Walk on a quiet horse/pony
  • Turn and Steer a quiet horse/pony
  • Slow down and Stop a quiet horse/pony from walk & trot
  • Rise (post) to the trot independently without holding saddle or neckstrap.
  • All riders must be able to ride off the lead rein
  • Participants must be capable of leading their horse/pony to the mounting area

All riders will receive a ½ hour assessment lesson in the arena before going out. The lesson will cover all the pre requirement skills needed to go out into the dunes. The lesson time is included in the 2 hours.

About

The two hour novice ride goes deep into the sand dunes alongside Tullan Strand this trail has stunning mountain & coastal views.

All riders will receive an assessment & instruction in the arena before going out. If you do not show you have sufficient skills to control the horse safely the ride will stay onsite. Our decision on the riding assessment is final. Children from 10 years are welcome on this ride.

All rides are just for your booking. We no longer run mixed group rides. Your booking can be for up to 4 people and can be a mixture of adults and children. If you have over this number in your group please email us with full details and we can set up a group booking for you.

Booking Conditions

Our upper weight limit is 220lbs, 16.5 stone or 105kg. For safety and horse welfare reasons, we are unable to accept riders over this weight.

Child rates apply for under 16 years old. All riders please turn up 15mins before the start of your ride to allow time to book in and to fit hats.

Mounting, dismounting & rider assessment are included in the ride time. Prices are per person and exclude booking fees.

Photography

All guides carry a camera and if asked are happy to take photos for you. Please ask your guide before going out to the beach. These will then be posted to our photo galleries on Facebook. Or can be sent via What's App but you need to give your permission & number to your guide. Be aware that all photos/videos (like all our photos & videos) are taken from horseback. If you particularly want photos/videos please arrange for a family member/friend meet you at the stables to take pictures, or a list of local professional photographers can be supplied on request. Please bear in mind that the guides are qualified riding trail guides and not trained photographers! Photos taken subject to weather conditions, how busy the Dunes are with other users and the general safety of the group.

Adventure Tips

Skill Assessment Required

All riders must pass a half-hour skills test before heading out to ensure safe control of the horse.

Arrive Early for Check-In

Arrive at least 15 minutes before your ride start time to handle paperwork and get fitted properly with safety gear.

Weight Limit Enforced

Maximum rider weight is 220 lbs (105 kg) to ensure horse welfare and safety on sandy terrain.

Group Size Cap

Rides are limited to 4 people per booking to maintain a personalized and safe experience.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Red foxes often spotted near dunes
  • Seabirds like oystercatchers and curlews

History

Bundoran developed as a seaside resort in the 19th century, with the dunes and beach playing a long-standing role in local recreation.

Conservation

Efforts to minimize erosion and protect dune habitats are ongoing, with Donegal Equestrian Centre committed to responsible trail use and horse welfare.

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Adventure Hotspots in Sligo

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Helmet

Essential

Protects your head and is supplied by the centre but personal helmets are welcome.

Riding boots or sturdy shoes

Essential

Provides grip in the stirrups and support on sandy, uneven ground.

Layered clothing

Essential

Prepare for changing weather with moisture-wicking base layers and a waterproof outer shell.

all specific

Sunscreen and sunglasses

Essential for protecting skin and eyes from strong coastal sun exposure during summer rides.

summer specific