Knockillaree Riding Centre & Stud
Discover Connemara on Horseback 🐎🏔️
Located in the picturesque town of Oughterard, Knockillaree Riding Centre specialises in providing authentic Connemara equestrian experiences that showcase the rugged beauty of the West of Ireland. Situated as the “Gateway to Connemara,” the centre offers a diverse range of activities, from professional riding lessons for all ages to breathtaking mountain and lake treks.
Known for its friendly, family-run atmosphere, the facility is highly regarded for its well-schooled Connemara ponies and horses, ensuring a safe and memorable journey through the Irish wilderness. Whether you are a beginner looking for your first saddle experience or an advanced rider seeking a scenic trail, the centre focuses on high-quality instruction and spectacular views of the Twelve Bens and Lough Corrib.
Services & Equestrian Activities
The centre is a full-service equestrian hub, offering both leisure trekking and professional training in a stunning natural landscape.
| Activity Type | Service Details | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Mountain Treks | All-Year Scenic Trails | Guided rides with breathtaking views of Connemara’s mountains and lakes. |
| Riding Lessons | Beginner to Advanced | Professional tuition for children and adults in a safe environment. |
| Stud Services | Connemara Pony Stud | Breeding and sales of high-quality, athletic Connemara ponies. |
| Competition Prep | Training & Transport | Coaching and support for riders competing at SJAI levels. |
Operating Schedule
Riding Sessions: Monday – Saturday (By Appointment)
Trekking: Morning and Afternoon slots available daily.
Lessons: Year-round availability for all skill levels.
Note: As trekking and lessons are highly popular with both locals and tourists, advance booking via phone or Facebook message is essential.
Contact & Location
Phone: +353 (0)87 960 4517
Location: The centre is located just outside Oughterard village. Follow the N59 from Galway
FAQs about Knockillaree Riding Centre
Do they provide riding equipment?
Yes, the centre provides safety-standard riding helmets and can often provide boots for those who don’t have their own. It is recommended to wear comfortable trousers or leggings and sturdy footwear with a small heel.
Is there an age limit for children?
Knockillaree welcomes children and offers lessons tailored for young beginners. While there is no strict lower age limit mentioned, it is best to call ahead to ensure they have a suitable small pony available for your child’s age and height.
Can more advanced riders go faster on treks?
Tours are generally walking-based to ensure the safety of all participants and the welfare of the horses on rugged terrain. However, the guides do their best to accommodate group ability levels where safety allows.
About the Riding Centre
Knockillaree Riding Centre is set in Oughterard – the gateway to Connemara. We have lessons which run all year round for beginners to the more advanced for children and for adults. We also have pony trekking all year round for tourists and locals on which we bring you along mountain trails with the most breathtaking mountain and lake views to be found in Connemara. Contact Roger on 087-9604517.
Tip: If you’re a beginner, don’t worry — the instructors are famously patient and the horses are chosen for their steady nature. For the best photography, ask for a mountain trail session in the late afternoon; the light over Lough Corrib and the surrounding bogs is truly magical.
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