The Migdale Full Day Ride starts around 9.30 am when guests arrive to meet and prepare the horse they will have for the day. Once mounted we cross over what was once the most densely populated part of Britain 5000 years ago where the remains of stone huts are still clearly visible. Loch Migdale has some of the most interesting and important ancient monuments in Scotland which were excavated by the BBC Time Team.

Once at the loch edge we ride through incredible natural forest. There is a great opportunity to see wildlife on the loch and Migdale Rock above us. At the bottom of the loch we can take the horses in for a dip before allowing them to graze, whilst we eat the pack lunch provided by Handmade Crafts and Café whose homemade cooking style is greatly appreciated at this point!

Once refreshed and refuelled we continue on through the wood to the gallop up the hill on Skibo Estate. From here we get the most fantastic view over the Kyle of Sutherland, Alladale Estate, Dornoch Firth, Struie hill, Tain, and all the way over west to the hills of Suilven, Ben Mhor Assynt, and Cul Mhor. To the North is visible the statue of the Duke of Sutherland on top of Ben Bragghie above the quaint town of Golspie. We then ride “off piste” Swordale, scrambling over centuries old crofts that are overgrown with heather, and enjoying the view before returning to the yard (with one last blast across the common grazings!) for around 5pm.

 This trail gives the rider the chance to experience the Highlands as it should be – from the back of a Highland Pony, open to the elements and as a part of the landscape which shows evidence of how this route has been used for millennia. It gives the rider the opportunity to learn new skills as well as building fitness and confidence. It is an ideal ride for anyone who wishes to “harden up” before endurance riding in this country or abroad.

The cost of the ride is £100 and includes the picnic. However, if you would like to add a meal on at the end of the day in our local Bistro or Hotel, or perhaps repair tired muscles with a hot stone massage, then these can be arranged for you. You can even make the whole experience into a short break by having a lesson or short trek the day before and staying overnight on site in our luxury static caravan that sleeps six and has en-suite facilities.  Contact us for more details.