Snowdonia National Park on horseback
On a horse, you can immerse yourself in the smells and scenery of Snowdonia National Park. With miles of traffic-free bridle paths Snowdonia National Park horseback riding is a treat for your senses and your soul.
I’m often heard saying that I enjoy seeing the world from the back of a horse and our trip to North Wales was no exception. On my ride with Snowdonia Riding Stables we passed sheep grazing in vibrant green pastures, rode by miles of dry stone walls, a nod to Wales farming heritage, and stopped on a high vantage point to view the surrounding countryside, Caernafron Castle and the coast in the distance.
Horse holiday in North Wales
What I love about Wales is how easy it is for beginners and advanced equestrians to get up into the saddle on a horseback riding holiday. The Welsh take their riding seriously with pony trekking serving as an easy introduction to equestrian life. Pony Club and British Horse Society approved courses are available to eager riders in a fenced riding arena. This arena also serves as the proving ground to see how well riders are able to handle their mount.
The pace of the rides are dictated by the ability of the riders and the condition of the surrounding terrain. All rides include a brief assessment to match horse or pony with rider. Rides are offered at a walking pace, trot or a canter may be arranged for more experienced riders.
Riding in the Welsh countryside
As an experienced equestrian, I signed up for the 1.5 hour countryside ride and I was not disappointed. Our route took us on a scenic bridle path with Scotch Broom embracing horse and rider on either side. We rode up the mountain to admire the Welsh countryside, Caernarfon castle and the coastline beyond.
It was not a problem at all for the experienced riders to canter with a guide while the walk/trot equestrians waited behind on very patient and well trained horses. If you have the time, a full day 5 hour ride is offered for the advanced equestrian.
Need to know:
Snowdonia Riding Stables is accredited by the British Horse Society.
In addition to trail rides, the stables offer riding lessons and Pony Club.
They also have riding helmets available for use.
Rides are priced by the hour, 1.5 hour, half day and full day.
Insider Tips:
In additional to horse riding in Snowdonia National Park, we hiked around the park. Snowdon is the highest mountain in Wales and England and can be explored for many days. To our delight, we came across a wild herd of Carneddau ponies in the park. For additional insider tips follow luxury travel writer @Nancydbrown on Twitter or Instagram @Nancydbrown and Snowdonia Riding Stables on Instagram.
If You Go:
Snowdonia Riding Stables (01286) 479435 email info@snowdoniaridingstables.co.uk
Waunfawr, Caernarfon, Gwyedd, Snowdonia, North Wales LL55 4PQ
Snowdonia National Park Horseback Riding review, YouTube video and all photography by equestrian travel expert Nancy D. Brown. No compensation was received in return for this review.