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A pony trekking holiday offers companionship, new interests, the opporunity to enjoy magnificent countryside and clean fresh air. And what is perhaps most important it's good fun.

Pony Trekking is a combination of riding and seeing the countryside on horseback. The speed of the trek is governed by the person with the least experience, however there are many chances to trot, and canter, which can be accomplished by those wishing to do so. Just as the scale of the experience is unlimited so are the ages. Children the age of six are welcome as are the agile elderly both find the average trek well within their capabilities.

Sturdy welsh ponies and cobs are used ranging from 12 to 16hh, which are hardy and surefooted and suitable for either children or adults, experienced or beginners. Like their riders, horses differ in temperament and habits, which make part of the fun lie in getting to know the ponies as well as ones fellow riders.

Riding can be done by the day with or without accomodation. The Day Ride starts at 10:00 a.m. Each rider is individually allocated to their mount, and given instruction and demonstrations on handling, grooming, and tacking up, also for those wishing to take part there is basic instruction on riding, all with our help and knowledge gained over forty years of experience. The ride goes up into the mountains stopping at a scenic spot for your packed lunch (carried on the horses in a pannier bag) and returns to the stables at 4:00pm Half days are available which are about three hours long including instruction etc.

Riders are encouraged to take an interest in looking after the horses generally as this leads to better horsemanship. The treks will take you over heather covered mountain tops, through forests, past waterfalls, visiting reservoirs and many natural beauty spots. There is an abundance of beautiful scenery and wildlife, including about ninety different species of birds.

To go trekking, the visitor need not be an experienced rider, both beginner and competent riders are given the utmost help and attention. If you know little of horses at the outset it is inevitable you will know a great deal more at the end of your visit.

From the top of the beautiful Black Mountains it is possible to view no less than seven counties, magnificent views of the Wye Valley, Brecon Beacons, Holy Mountains, Herefordshire Plain, Golden Valley and the Vale of Ewyas. On a clear day you can see as far as the Bristol Channel - about 60 miles away. Also to be seen are LLanthony Abbey (founded 1103) and the Monastery of Father Ignatius. Later the home of Eric Gill, famous sculptor and Typographer.

If you love horses, animals and the countryside, and wish to gain knowledge on these subjects, then you will enjoy Pony Trekking in the Black Mountains.

Week, Part Week and Weekend Breaks

The week takes in five days trekking. Thursday is a rest day for guests to follow their own pursuits. Although, if you wish at an extra charge you may ride
Those who wish to, may go walking, canoeing, swimming or visit the book town of Hay-on-Wye, etc. Transport available by arrangement.

The nearest shops are at the interesting town of Hay-on-Wye. At the market town of Abergavenny there is a larger selection of shops and also a leisure centre and heated swimming pool. There are many castles and places of interest to visit.

A location for Pony Trekking is necessarily many miles from a town, and all that goes with town life. Therefore bring with you a supply of cigarettes, films, sun cream, etc, and other personal necessities you may need. You are advised to bring warm clothing, jerseys etc, long warm socks are very useful, wellingtons or strong walking shoes, a complete change in case of rain (we hope you won't need them). Hard hats of the current safety standard are available on hire.

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