Some 20years ago Shauna was gifted little Tod and from there a love for horses grew! A few ponies later, a lot of mucking out, pony club, some shows and endless beach rides was evidence enough that a keen interest and dedication was there!
However Horse Back West was not to emerge immediately!
A few career paths were explored and failed to make the final cut! Nothing felt right until the decision was made to harness that horsey love and head east to get the qualifications need to make a career out of this horse business!
With hospitality running in the veins of this O’Malley Clan along with an Irish farm that has fields rolling down to the most magnificent White Strand beach, it was clear what needed to be done.
Qualification in hand and an abundance of work experience it was time to head west to Kinadoohey County Mayo to put these skills into action! Shauna got the full support of her parents and so works alongside her father where sheep farming complements an equestrian tourism business.
This location is unique as most of the countryside is untouched and access to beaches is without limit. Direct beach assess from the farm is a golden ticket to where a wilderness paradise exists in either walk, trot, canter or gallop. Comradery and support amongst neighbors brings an inviting feeling and sparce landscapes that are widely shared.
Under Covid influence the official opening of Horse Back West was in June 2021. Plenty of time was given for the preparation of the horses so when we got our chance we were more than ready! Everybody and their sister came out to support us that first summer and grateful we were for the brilliant start to our ongoing success.
The wellbeing of the horses is essential here and it is believed a happy horse results in a happy customer. The horses get to keep an active mind with their spacious environment, varied work and generous access to grazing.
Our steeds are a variety of Irish breeds with good temperaments and a liking for their work.
This business is a combination of what horses and Mayo has to offer. An area steeped in history and culture awaits every rider! The Wild Atlantic Way is with us and our variety of servicers provided. Lessons take place mostly over
the winter months followed with our ever popular pony camps during school holidays.
As of now camps are stretching to adults , which will link in with our onsite accommodation that’s is brand new and beautiful. Groups or couples, adults or families, our sea view house and apartments tend to all Horse Holiday
Needs.
Our treks run all year round and are second to none. We are unbelievably lucky as to what is on our doorstep.
Beginner, intermediate or advanced. One hour, three hours or three days we can design a package for you.
This business is expecting to include self sustainable pods in the near future. An organic vegetable garden is under way as are yoga retreats or yoga and horse riding retreats . Equine massage techniques are under study and the
lesson and schooling focus is from a self awareness and harmonious angle. Shauna’s Yoga teaching practice currently brings an element to this. All round this is a peaceful, developmental place with intentions set for learning and growing skills amongst our equine friends.