Race Courses.
Horse riding is a wonderful way to enjoy the spectacular scenery of the Highlands and as Atholl Estates prides itself on having some of the best views in the region, what better way to see them than from the back of one of our safe, steady Highland ponies? The Atholl Estates Trekking Centre is one of the oldest in the UK, having opened its doors to the public in the 1950s. However, the Atholl ponies were in use long before then for carrying deer in from the hills and travel across the moors.
Even Queen Victoria enjoyed a hack during a visit to Blair Castle, so much so that she wrote about her experience of horse riding in Scotland in her diary.
The trekking experience
Whether you are an experienced rider, or have never been on a horse before, Atholl Estates offers challenging treks.
The guidance from trek leaders, and the sure-footedness of our ponies, ensures the safety of the outing. The leaders will also be able to answer any questions you may have about the buildings, wildlife and landscape that you pass by.
There is a new sight and a new story around every corner and horse riding with us will give you an enhanced understanding about this wild yet fascinating country.
Use the menu on the left to find out more about the centre, the treks available and the ponies themselves. Please note it is essential to book in advance.
The History of the Atholl Highland Ponies
The Atholl herd are traditional Highland ponies, whose bloodlines can be traced back to the 1860's. The ponies were traditionally used to carry culled deer off the hills, a task they still perform to this day during the red deer stalking season (1st July to 15th February). The late 10th Duke of Atholl recognised a need for summer employment for the ponies and established the trekking centre in the 1950s, making it one of the oldest riding establishments in Scotland today.
In order to carry out their deer work, the Atholl ponies are bred carefully, maintaining the herd as true hill-type ponies rather than diluting their traditional Highland qualities to breed lighter, showier ponies. The hill ponies have wonderful even temperaments, are very docile and are often described as 'bombproof'. Incredibly strong, the ponies can easily carry large stags, and their strength, steady temperament and sure-footedness comes to the fore both out on the hills and when carrying inexperienced riders.
Our herd averages 30 ponies, including foals, and of these around 16 are regularly used for trekking between Easter and late summer when their role on the hill with our deer stalking starts. We currently use 15 ponies regularly on the hill to extract deer to the larder for preparation.
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