Horse Riding

No holiday is complete without riding and there's no better way to explore the spectacular landscape of the Highlands than on horseback.  Whether you're a very experienced rider or have never been on a horse before, there is little to rival the stunning scenery and variety of terrain. Enjoy exhilarating riding on quiet forest tracks and trails high into the hills with tremendous views of loch and glen. Treks and hacks can last from an hour to all day to several days and lessons are also available.

As Outdoor Inverness providers we supply well-mannered horses and ponies, cater for all riding abilities and can assure you of a quality experience in breathtaking scenery. If  you are a complete beginner we can offer sound instruction in the basics or even the 'Only Fools on Horses' experience of zero to jumping in a week. We understand that it can be daunting climbing on a horse for the first time and are there to help you have fun and stay safe. Intermediate and advanced riders can benefit from friendly, qualified instructors and gain experience on new terrain.

For strictly experienced riders, our area is well known for its trail rides (stopping at different locations every night for up to 10 days) and Inverness-shire is the birthplace of the Scottish Endurance Riding Club. The area hosts competitions of up to 160 km in 1 day, and you can ride some of these courses or embark on the Trail of the 7 Lochs. We're not short of miles of deserted beaches either. Fit endurance and general purpose horses are available to suitable riders, or bring your own horses which will be looked after while you stay in local accommodation. If you want to hone your skills in eventing, endurance, ‘Trec’ or horse management, then courses can be tailored to suit (either privately or for small groups). If long canters, steep ascents- crossing rivers and bridges and leading over soft and craggy bogland sounds like the equestrian challenge for you then you will not be disappointed.

So go on, whether you are a novice or expert, come and enjoy the wind in your face as you ride along hill tops and paddle through streams! Our local riding guides and instructors can make riding even more special for you!

- Written by Rhoda McVey, Making Strides and Candy Cameron, Loch Ness Riding

Providers offering Horse Riding