The Irish National Horse Stud
Irish National Stud & Gardens – A Must-See in County Kildare Just over an hour’s drive from Dublin city centre lies the beating heart of Ireland’s horse industry and one of the country’s most beautiful attractions – the Irish National Stud & Gardens in Tully, Co. Kildare. This world-renowned stud is home to some of Ireland’s finest thoroughbreds and has a long tradition of breeding champions. For horse lovers, visiting during foaling season is an [...]
The Art & Tradition of Carriage Driving
The Art and Tradition of Carriage Driving: Gary Rollans’s Journey By Tania Huppatz, Snaffle Travel Once the primary mode of transport across Europe, carriage driving has evolved into a refined and specialised pursuit. Australian coachman Gary Rollans, originally from Coffs Harbour, has embraced this tradition, forging a unique path to preserve its heritage in the heart of Europe. A passion discovered Gary’s equestrian journey began at 16. His early years in the saddle eventually took [...]
𝐁𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐄𝐪𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐚𝐧 𝐑𝐞𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐥 𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐩𝐲
𝐇𝐨𝐫𝐬𝐞 𝐒𝐡𝐨𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐠 – 𝐖𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐁𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐄𝐪𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐚𝐧 𝐑𝐞𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐥 𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐩𝐲 One of the most common questions I get from avid shoppers is: “Which equestrian event has the most shops?” If your idea of heaven is wandering through rows of gleaming tack, equestrian fashion, homewares, horse art, and every gadget you never knew you needed, then these events should be on your radar. From hoof picks to luxury horseboxes and even spa baths, these shows [...]
Chantilly’s Living Museum of the Horse
Paris is only a 25 minute train journey from Chantilly, known for its picturesque castle dating back to the Gallo-Roman period, its forest and park. Today the Chantilly Chateau houses the Musée Condé, where collections of the Duke of Aumale, its last private owner, are open to the public. Raphael, Botticelli, and Ingres are only some of the impressive art treasures on display in the museum. But even these gems are seemingly upstaged by the [...]
Australia has 11 Reciprocal Health Care Agreements with other countries
The Australian government has agreements with 11 countries that cover the cost of appropriate medical care when Australians visit 11 countries and tourists from these countries visit Australia. Australian passport holders must check the Comprehensive Health Care Agreement (RHCA) with Australia so that each country can check whether it meets the terms of the agreement. RHCA Countries Read the terms of the agreement of the RHCA country you are visiting from the list below: Belgium Finland [...]
Maryland 5 Star Eventing Fair Hill USA
Maryland 5 Star Event makes seven For many years there were only six five-star rated eventing competitions in the world and the only one in the USA was Kentucky Three-Day Event. With two in the UK including Badminton Horse Trials and the Burghley Horse Trials. The other CCI***** rated events are the Luhmühlen Horse Trials in Germany, the Australian International Three Day Event in Adelaide and the Stars of Les Etoiles de Pau in France. The Fair Hill Organising Committee [...]
Travel packing tips
Helpful travelling tips ? Prepare for a safe trip If you are jetting away soon, you should take it into consideration when packing to make your journey as smooth as possible. Keep up with local rules and regulations Be sure to check entry requirements as these can vary from country to country. Check Smart Traveller AU or Safe Travel NZ, and the official government sites for the latest restrictions and requirements for the country you [...]
A guide to visiting the Royal Windsor Show
Royal Windsor Show: A Premier Equestrian Show Experience the grandeur of the Royal Windsor Show, a prestigious annual event held every May amidst the majestic backdrop of Windsor Castle in Berkshire. This esteemed gathering opens the gates of Windsor Castle's private grounds to host the UK’s largest outdoor premier equestrian spectacle—the Royal Windsor Horse Show. What to Expect: The Royal Windsor Show offers a captivating array of world-class equestrian competitions and captivating displays, including: International [...]
Tips to staying healthy when flying
Travel Health Tips: Staying Well Before and During Your Flight International travel is exciting, but it is important to look after your health along the way. Whether you are heading off on one of our equestrian tours or planning a long-haul adventure, a little preparation can go a long way in making your trip more comfortable. 🩺 Before You Travel: Book a Pre-Travel Health Check We recommend all international travellers schedule a pre-travel medical consultation. [...]
Newmarket the UK, Racing Capital of the World
Newmarket is the heart of the horse racing world and is known as the capital of the horseracing industry in the UK, both in national and international terms. This arises from the range of horse racing interests in the town covering all aspects of the racing industry. There are more racehorses, trainers, stable staff, stud farms and racing organisations based in the town of Newmarket. Than anywhere else in the world. If you like horses [...]
Our tours are suitable for the “Solo Traveller”
So, you’re a solo traveller When travelling alone, a great way to make new friends is to share a room with another traveller, as well as keep your costs down. You might be anxious about going it alone, and you’re not the only one. We have had a few self-confessed ‘group tour sceptics’ and first-time solo travellers and after their first tour, they just keep coming back for more. Many have shared with us that [...]
Equestrian Museums for the Horse Lover
Looking for something Equestrian related to visit on your travels. Here are some Equine museums dedicated to all things equestrian from around the world. Whether you’re interested in learning more about specific breeds or sports, delving into equestrian history, or just admiring beautiful paintings and sculptures, there is a museum out there that will capture your interest. (We will provide a separate list for the USA as there are so many) FRANCE CHANTILLY HORSE MUSEUM [...]
Some interesting facts about the Household Cavalry
Interesting Facts about the Household Cavalry The Household Cavalry consists of two regiments, armoured reconnaissance and mounted ceremonial, with both units manned equally by soldiers from two regiments, the Life Guards and the Blues and Royals. It is one of the oldest regiments in the British Army and has taken part in every major campaign since 1660. The Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment is based in Hyde Park, Knightsbridge and provides ceremonial troops for all state [...]
The Piber Federal State stud farm, Austria
The Piber Horse Stud where the famous Lipizzaner white horse is breed Austria’s historic Piber Federal Stud is the home of the oldest cultured horse breed in Europe the Lipizzaner, the noble white horse famously used at the iconic Spanish Riding School in Vienna dates back to 1580. Since 1920 the Piber stud farm has been responsible for the breeding and birth of the white Lipizzaner stallions that performs at the Spanish Riding School in [...]
Saumur the “Equestrian Capital” of France
Saumur: The Equestrian Heart of France and Home of the Cadre Noir Saumur, often regarded as the equestrian capital of France, is the birthplace of the world-famous Cadre Noir. Founded in 1815, this elite group of riders originally trained officer cadets in classical riding at the National School of Horse Riding. Today, the Cadre Noir represents the pinnacle of French equestrian expertise, performing at national and international competitions and promoting the art of French riding [...]
UK Travel Scheme
Travelling to the UK - ETA Australians must now obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before travelling to the United Kingdom, as part of the UK’s efforts to enhance border security. The ETA scheme, first introduced in November last year, has now been extended to include travellers from non-European countries, including Australia. Under this scheme, those who do not require a visa to visit the UK must secure an ETA before their trip. From 8 [...]
The Royal Mews in London
The Royal Mews is a busy working Mews looking after the transport of the Royal household and is owned by the British Royal Family. The Mews was first established in Charing Cross, London in the 1820s. Today the Royal Mews is located very close to Buckingham Palace. It is still very important in providing road transport for The King and the members of the Royal family by both horse-drawn carriage and motor car. The Royal [...]
Some Essential Travel Tips
Below are some of my essential travel tips that are very important and can save you a lot of headaches. Essential Travel Tips: Be Prepared for Every Situation 1. Scan, Print, and Email Copies of Your Passport and Identity Papers Losing your passport or ID can be a traveller’s worst nightmare, but being prepared can ease the stress. Carry a Copy: Always keep a printed copy of your passport and identity papers with you, separate [...]
Golegã National Horse Fair – Portugal
The description of the Golegã National Horse Fair and its significance in Portugal's equestrian culture is captivating. From an agricultural fair to a renowned event showcasing the Lusitano breed reflects the deep-rooted connection between the town of Golegã and its equestrian heritage. The diverse range of activities and competitions, from Lusitano showing classes to dressage, working equitation, endurance, and eventing, offers a comprehensive showcase of the versatility and excellence of the Lusitano breed. The inclusion [...]
“Ireland beach ride”
HAVE NEW ALWAYS WANTED TO RIDE IN IRELAND The Clew Bay ride is a unique ride on the West Coast of Ireland and offers trail riding on quality Irish-bred horses. This includes visits to historical sights, riding along stoned walled ancient roads, visits to quaint Irish villages meeting the locals, and riding on the beaches of the Atlantic Way. Ireland is known as “The Land of The Horse”. A temperate climate and good soil conditions [...]
