Gary & Danielle's Northern Exposure

Driving along in the sunshine with the soft-top down we opened the envelope to discover that our next treat was locomotion of the four legged variety. We were going western style trekking on Quarter Horses, otherwise known as the original cowboy ranch horses. The horses are fleet of foot but also calm and good-natured which pleased us a lot as Gary's only riding experience to date involved the horse bolting!

John McAleavey introduced us to our steeds, Billy and DJ Badger, and we did some simple exercises designed to build up our relationship with the horses. In no time at all we were trekking up a mountainside and fording shallow rivers. The scenery reminded us a bit of Canada and the horses were responsive to the slightest twitch of the reins.

The grand finale was a western style barbeque in the middle of the countryside. We tucked into our burgers with a real appetite.

BACKGROUND

John McAleavey, an ex teacher and outdoor pursuits instructor, has 10 pure bred American Quarter horses. He spent time on a ranch in Canada learning about this style of riding and controlling horses.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO

There are Western Style Horse Riding Trails (with Western tack) in the Mourne Mountains through forests, river crossings or beaches. Trails range from 1 and a half hours, to full day treks with a BBQ. Overnight camps in the mountains, with barbeque and music, are also available.

Individual or group tuition is available and absolute beginners are welcome. The lessons, starting with natural horsemanship, include ground work with the horse, controlling the horse and teaching respect. John will also work with troubled horses and runs courses on desensitizing horses to 'spooky' objects.

See the website for full details Leitrim Lodge Quarter Horses

COST: Half day trek, (4 hours), with a BBQ £65.00 per person Full day trek £80.00 per person. Two half days with BBQ dinner, camping and cowboy breakfast £100.00. Four people maximum on a trail. For more information and individual packages contact John McAleavey.

BOOKING

For bookings and enquiries email info@lanewaylodge.com

Telephone 028 4063 8761 or 07783 425341

More details at Laneway Lodge

Leitrim Lodge Quarter Horses

6 Leitrum Road

Hilltown

Newry

Co Down

BT34 5XS

Opening hours: typically morning trails start at 9.30am, afternoon trails at 2pm. Weekend packages are flexible.

SIMILAR PLACES

Discover Northern Ireland - Adventure www.discovernorthernireland.com/adventure/

Outdoor Northern Ireland www.outdoorni.com/

Mourne Heritage Trust www.mournelive.com/mourneheritagetrust/index

Newry and Mourne www.newryandmourne.gov.uk

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