Do you ever feel like progress is overrated? Who cares if a new smartphone has an even smaller and yet somehow more powerful processor? What does it matter if you’ve got a faster wifi connection than the neighbours. If you’re anything like us, you’ll agree that the things which are really impressive are natural beauty, ancient traditions and genuine connections with each other and the world around us. We have the perfect way to reconnect with what matters - come to the stunning Scottish region of Argyll and Bute and take a ride on a majestic horse.

This is a fascinating part of the world, comprising mountains, peninsulas, lochs and islands. In the north, the peaks rise to over 1,000 metres above sea level. In the south, the Kintyre Peninsula juts across the ocean to within sight of Northern Ireland. Between the two, a beautiful coastline of inlets, cliffs and coves is separated from isolated islands of the Inner Hebrides by dark blue sea. Roads were few and far between here for centuries, and the arrival of the motorcar is a fairly recent occurrence. The most rewarding way to get around has always been on horseback, and you can have this magical experience with a minimum of fuss - keep reading to find out more.

Where are the best places to go horse riding in Argyll and Bute?

• Craignish Peninsula: The Lunga Estate manages 4,000 acres of land on the Craignish Peninsula. This is a spit of land which divides Loch Craignish from the Slate Islands, a small archipelago in the Inner Hebrides. This area is the stuff of fantasy for horse riders, where open hills alternate with forests, and there are breathtaking views of the coast and the islands whenever you reach a hilltop or a gap in the trees. Best of all, this ranch style estate hosts horse riding in the great American riding tradition known as Western, in which the focus is comfort in the saddle, communication with the horse, and balance. A visit to the Lunga Estate is sure to be an experience that will transport you far away from the stress of normal life, and leave you feeling fulfilled and rejuvenated.

• Inveraray: The seat of the Dukes of Argyll is Inveraray Castle, which sits at the head of the longest sea loch in Scotland, Loch Fyne. You can ride along ancient trails through the grounds of the castle, as well as along the shore of the loch. This is a unique area, where habitats for land and sea life interlock with each other. You might observe red squirrels, deer and seals in the space of a few minutes as your horse carries you through this natural paradise. And if that’s not enough, you can combine horse riding with other outdoor activities in Inveraray to make this an adventure that stays with you for a lifetime. Crossbow shooting and even laser tag are some of the activities on offer.

• Isle of Bute: Horses love the Isle of Bute, and if you give them a chance to show you around, we know that you’ll love it too. The island is like a Scotland in Miniature, with both highland and lowland landscapes, and, of course, surrounded by a stunning coastline. One of the most popular places to go for a horse ride is the huge sandy expanse of Kilchattan Bay. The beach is sheltered from the prevailing westerly wind by a headland, so you can gallop across the sand or splash through the shallows with nothing more than a light sea breeze in your face.

What are the options for an equestrian experience?

- It may be a remote area and the landscape might be rugged, but there’s so much variety in Argyll and Bute that there are equitation experiences of all kinds. We’ve mentioned the Western riding style which you can take part in Craignish, and whether you choose this or the English riding style, there are trails that take you through beautiful scenery at a difficulty level of your choosing. These rides can last anywhere from 1 hour, taking you on a short circuit in the area of the stable, to 4 hours which might lead you to a fantastic viewpoint, a secluded beach, or even a couple of countryside pubs. And there are special activities for children too, lead rein rides, in which a pony is led by a guide. These are just twenty minutes in length, perfect for your little ones to get their first experience.

- More advanced level rides are known as hacks. Hacks usually last an hour or two and are a work out for horse and rider. You’ll canter and gallop through the landscape of the region, feeling like a Clan Chief of old. But if you need some time and practice in the saddle before you’re comfortable with this, don’t worry because you can take lessons right here.

Requirements to do this activity

If you think that the life changing experience of horse riding in this land of legends is out of your reach, think again! The stables here are welcoming places where both the stable managers and their horses will be delighted to see you and committed to giving you the ride of your life. It doesn’t matter if you’re a complete novice when it comes to horse riding, or if you’re an experienced jockey, you’ll find the right kind of ride for you. Short rides on well maintained trails are suitable for beginners, while those who are confident in the saddle can take a horse out hacking. And children can get involved from the tender age of 4 years old if they go for a lead rein excursion on the back of a patient pony.

One thing to bear in mind is that a good match between the horse and rider always needs to be found. Each horse that lives in this area has its own capabilities and limits on the weight it can carry. If you weigh over 14 stone, or 88 kilograms, you should get in touch with the stables in advance to find out if there’s an animal that you can ride.

Whether this is a lifelong dream, or something you’ve never thought about until now, you won’t be satisfied until you make it happen. Let us help you today.