Horse Country, Ireland's premier immersive equine tourism experience, was launched at the Punchestown Festival on Wednesday.
Supported by Fáilte Ireland, Horse Racing Ireland (HRI), Kildare and Tipperary County Councils, Horse Country offers 15 visitor experiences that immerse guests in the world of Thoroughbred horses, including access to the yards and training operations of Aidan O'Brien (Tipperary), Johnny Murtagh (Kildare) and Jessica Harrington (Kildare). These globally-recognised trainers are opening their yards exclusively to Horse Country visitors, offering behind-the-scenes access and opportunities to see the training regimes and facilities for the equine athletes in their care.
Visitors can also enjoy exclusive access to renowned stud farms like Kildangan in County Kildare and Coolmore in County Tipperary to explore the very beginning of a Thoroughbred's journey and witness firsthand the life cycle of these incredible animals, from newborn foals to future champions.
Cathal Beale, Horse Country chairman and CEO of the Irish National Stud & Gardens, said, “Through my role in the Irish National Stud & Gardens, I see firsthand how the interest in Thoroughbred horses and racing significantly drives tourism in Kildare.
“We are delighted to launch Horse Country today and excited to see this unique immersive equine tourism product further increasing domestic and international tourism while showcasing our world-renowned racing and breeding industry.”
For more information on the various experiences available, visit www.horsecountry.ie.
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