Wilder Ways

Groundwork was a new experience for me – working with a horse in the school without being mounted, which I found both interesting and educational.

As this was a retreat, the pace was generally relaxed, with other experiences on offer, mainly centred around animal feeding, as Wilder Ways is also a sheep farm. As this was April and therefore lambing season, this presented to opportunity to bottle feed some lambs, whose mother was unable to provide sufficient milk on her own for triplets.

There was plenty of grooming and tacking up, providing the opportunity to get to know the horses better and bond with them. The exercises in the school encouraged you to work with your horse. While the trail riding took place in the rugged but beautiful surrounding landscape, with steep ascents/descents and river fording.

The Haven retreat is open to riders of all abilities. Being a relative novice, I have to compliment Cara and Nikki for ensuring I felt safe during all activities, and equally importantly, ensuring the welfare of the horses at all times.

Accommodation at the Glen Kerran Farmhouse is comfortable and cosy, with excellent homecooked meals provided, including the use of produce from the farm.

We were well informed. There is no better way to see the country side from the back of a beautiful, safe and trained horse. Great meals and accommodations! They went above and beyond our expectations.

The positive female energy that emanated from Cara and Nikki powered us through the week. Horses were super and activities were amazing!

We had a great time. The people were so so very nice, they take very good care of the horses as well! Dinner was cooked deliciously and everything inside the house looked nice and clean as well. Although we were very lucky with the weather, the trails they chose to ride were different each day and fun to experience! Overall we had a very nice stay, and loved being here!

I especially liked the authentic, friendly and kind way of the hosts and instructors. The horse I had was also kind and well trained, everything was very well prepared and organized. The whole atmosphere of the week was relaxed and familiar.

The tours were really adventurous with spectacular climbing and wonderful views

Wilder Ways is a really special place. I went for a fun 'extreme riding' holiday with my daughter, archery off a cantering horse, cross country jumping and swimming with horses in the sea. And it was all that! What I didn't expect was how much more I would learn about horses, about myself and about my daughter. Cara and Nikki have created lovely and welcoming environment in a stunning setting. The horses are so happy and carefully suited to each rider. We loved it.

Cara and Nikki are superb guides who share their knowledge of horses and the the environment. The horses are beautiful and fantastically well cared for. The guides ensure that everyone has a good experience with a well-matched horse. All in all it was a great experience in beautiful surroundings. Definitely want to come again!

Instructor’s gave clear instructions, especially the day we were at the beach. Didn’t expect to have a swim in the sea, with the horses, that’s a first for me. Loved every moment. Very friendly people and patience. Totally agree with encouraging guesses too take care of the horses. Food, home cooked and tasty. Rooms, clean light and airy. Thank you all, for giving me a great holiday.

This 3day ride surpassed our expectations to celebrate my husband and my milestone birthdays. Cara and her partner have chosen a very special part of the world to ride in. They’ve worked closely to support the Knoydart sustainable community to provide an experience of local fresh fish, brewed beer and hospitality. Everyone on the team was so helpful matching our riding abilities well, with our horses. We rode through some breathtaking country and were challenged, riding through rivers, up and down embankments, gentle controlled canters, and playing on the flats. We met some lovely people. I would highly recommend Wilderways and hope to return and do another ride with some day!