Testimonial of the Week

“I can’t say enough! This trip was magical, and exceeded all our expectations. My 18 y.o. daughter and I had an extraordinary time. Horses, food, countryside all spectacular!”

Lisa Dobberteen

Recent Testimonials

“I'm SO glad I went ahead and made my reservation on the trail ride. My thoughts were WHY do I keep waiting. Life's too short to spend ALL your vacation time at horse shows! I'm over it! AND, when I realized that I could experience a different culture, meet new people, create wonderful memories and still have my love for horses involved - ALL for less than what it costs me (when it's all said and done) to go to one regional show only to show my horse in ONE class - it was a NO BRAINER!!!”

Australia's Beach and Bush Inn-to-Inn Trail

I have returned from my Australian adventure and want to let you know how wonderful my trip was. From the trails to the guides to the incidentals, all my expectations were exceeded. I cannot think of a better way to see Australia.

The riding: I was the least experienced rider on the trip. At the beginning, I was very nervous that I would not be able to keep up or would hold everyone else back. There were always so many guides with our group, however, that we could all go at whatever pace we were comfortable with.

The trails: Most of my past riding has been in arenas or on fairly flat trails. The variety of terrain we conquered was not only magnificent to see, but presented new challenges for riding. At the end of the week, I felt like I was a much better rider, just because I now knew the feeling of riding on sand, dirt, mud, tree stumps, ocean, creeks, through vines, etc…

The guides: The guides were extremely knowledgeable, capable, and helpful, but more importantly, they were FUN. Alex, Wayne, Vinnie, Anna, and Breanna added so much to our experiences everyday. They became our dependable friends – adding to our riding experiences and dinner conversations. In addition, while in Kilkivan we were joined by a couple of local ‘cowboys’ who knew the local terrain and stories and that was a treat.

Please know that I am still on a high from my riding trip and cannot wait for my next vacation when I will visit another country through CCI. My only concern is that your partners in the other countries be as well rounded as Equathon!

Thank you for your help as I got prepared – you certainly did not lead me astray!

California Wine Country Trail Ride

I just wanted to thank you again for your warm hospitality and all of your help during my stay; I felt like I was staying with friends or family. I'm very glad that I got to spend so much time with you.

Bill, Gail, Laurie, Jimmy and Robert were all such warm, friendly & wonderful people. Jeff too! I miss everyone already.....

We ALL had a wonderful time in Hungary. It is the best trip I have ever taken. I have traveled all over the world and have never been part of a tour before. I wasn’t sure what to expect, and it was so great. I am so glad I went. Everyone involved was so willing to go out of their way to make sure we had a truly memorable experience, I was impressed. So much, in fact, that my family has been discussing a trip for next year!

Just a note to thank you for setting everything up for my trip. Everything went great. The man who met me at the Vienna airport waited 1 1/2 hours for me with a smile on his face. All the hotels were comfortable and the staff was friendly. In Hungary our guide was great. She translated and drove and was so helpful. The Lipizzaner ride was wonderful. I felt like I was 20 again. The horses are very BIG movers. My horse, Maestoso Nefelicz, and I got along great. The people at the stud farm were friendly and helpful. We rode about 4 hours through beautiful country of all types. The people in Austria and Hungary are the best when it comes to someone who only speaks English. All the vegetarian food you ordered for me came through without a hitch. Thank you - I ate very well everywhere. The Spanish Riding School performance was wonderful and the seat was perfect. It was on the floor and as close to the horses as you could get. In total - this was a trip of a lifetime! Thank you!

Our equestrian trip to Hungary was absolutely amazing. Our group was great and we had a lot of fun together. This trip overall exceeded my expectations...the horse riding through the countryside, food, hospitality, castles we stayed in really were wonderful. Our guide, Andras Maus, and his team seemed to have gone above and beyond what was expected of them to make it so special for us.

Costa Rica's Beaches

I returned yesterday morning from the most fabulous vacation I have ever been privelaged to take. Costa Rica was amazing: the horses, the trails, the people, the food, and best of all the unforgettable feeling of cantering along the shoreline. I was astounded at how well our group members immediately began to bond and how well Erika and Connie had matched us all up with an appropriate horse. They, too, were wonderful and I will never forget them.

The diversity of the country, coupled with the slower pace and friendliness of the people also contributed. This was my first experience with an equestrian vacation, but undoubtedly, it will not be the last! I am also sending some pictures of highlights of the tour—as you can tell, we all had a great time.

I had no expectations for my Costa Rica beaches ride. Nevertheless, the trip surpassed all of them! Being completely away from telephones, televisions and newspapers was the first joy. The food was delicious, fresh and ample, the hotels were comfortable to exquisite, and the people were so friendly and positive. Even our taxi drivers became our best friends! The humble little Criollo horses will win your heart as well as your respect. They are tough and capable athletes getting you up and down challenging hillsides one minute then giving you a heart-stopping gallop on the beach the next. I came back from this trip a better, more relaxed rider thanks to the diversity of the terrain and the capabilities of my horse. Our guide, Erika, and her horsemen went out of their way to give us a memorable and interesting ride. They even took us swimming in the estuary — much more challenging and exciting than it looks from shore! On this ride, the sounds of nature replaced the urban and city sounds we've become so accustomed to. Howler monkeys, parrots, unidentifiable creatures, iguanas and crabs scurrying along the ground — everywhere you look there is something unique. We even got to see turtles nesting on the beach. Everything about the trip was wonderful, but perhaps the best part of all was that everyone in our group got along magnificently. It was such a pleasure to spend every day, all day, with the people on this trip. And even better, I've made a new traveling buddy for more equestrian adventures!

Just wanted to let you know that we made it back to the hotel safely, and back home safely. We miss Costa Rica already. This was truly the "VACATION OF A LIFETIME." Looking forward to seeing everyone again sometime in the future. Tell everyone we met hello. Tell Helmut I had fried chicken for dinner today.

My husband Steve and I want to thank "Kaiser" (and you, of course!) again and again for taking such good care of him! Steve is actually interested in other Cross Country International^SM trips now! Of course, we would love to return someday and bring all of our riding friends with us.

We had a wonderful time… I keep dreaming about our bareback swim day — what memories we have. Your horses are wonderful — thank them ALL for us. Here's hoping to our return someday.

P.S. The riding that I did while with you has really improved my riding back home… even my horse can tell the difference!

France's Loire Valley

I have been remiss in not contacting you sooner, but I had to tell you what an absolutely incredible time we had on your trip to France.

To say Patrick is wonderful would be such an understatement! He totally made the trip even more spectacular. The countryside, the chateaus, his friends, his employees, but most of all his genuine ease and ability to show you a great time.

He was a wonderful guide and truly cared about showing us the absolute best time possible. Please feel free to contact me for more information if you need any references.

By the way, a funny thing happened when we arrived home. We were at a local restaurant telling a friend about this truly marvelous vacation and he said that he was just in the other room of the restaurant hearing similar praises from someone else who just came back from a similar trip. We went to find the other people to share our experiences and it turned out being friends of ours who booked with you and went through Provence. What a coincidence. You definitely had some great marketing going on that night at the Tewksbury Inn!

I cannot describe what a glorious time we had on our Loire Valley trail ride. The entire experience far exceeded any expectations. Some highlights: we never had a bad meal, we rarely saw other tourists, we rode through unspoiled countryside, we stayed in Chateaux's of extraordinary beauty and history. Our guide was extremely well organized and we flowed from one event to the next seamlessly.

My friends and I planned for a year to take the Loire Valley Ride in France, and it was well worth the wait. Our guide, Patrick Germain, put together a truly memorable trip. First, the horses we rode were beautiful, very comfortable, and very well taken care of by all who handled them. The trails were outstanding with long stretches to gallop and scenic portions to just leisurely walk and breathe in the fresh air. The accommodations were another wonderful part of the trip. I knew several of our nights stays were in chateaux but I didn't fully appreciate what that meant until I was there. It was like going back in time, and it was fun to imagine what life must have been like hundreds of years ago as a wealthy royal landowner. Last but not least the food would be reason enough to go. We ate and drank like royalty! I really can't say a negative thing about the whole experience except that it ended to soon. Patrick along with Cross Country International, Corp. have put together a first rate trip!

France's Provence Inn-To-Inn Trail

Our trip was a fabulous experience. What a way to see Provence! The trip offered a truly unique experience with intriguing trails each day and well appreciated inns each night. The attention to detail was extraordinary from the timing of the exquisite lunches to our grand champagne celebration at the trips end.

France's Castle's and Villages

It was the perfect trip-able guide, spectacular horses, fantastic saddle- lunches were lengthy lovely affairs- safety was a top priority for me and I felt completely safe and whatever speed we were going. It was a terrific trip for me!

The riding vacations from Cross Country International, Corp. have been an exquisite cap to my thirty years of riding dressage. I did want to pass on to you some thoughts on my most recent trip with you.

My two rides in France were professionally managed, providing horses to ride with confidence. Meal times established camaraderie among fellow riders. By caring for our own horses and feeding them sugar cubes filched from the table, we developed partnerships with our mounts.

My seatbones do take a real beating despite using a deep sheepskin seat saver on the five hour per day rides. At that point I think, why am I doing this? Why not take a cruise instead? By the end of the ride, I know that I have experienced something special that I could never get on a cruise: relationships with our charming guides and hosts, friendships that last beyond the ride, closeness to the countryside that one would not get on a bus tour, feasts for all the senses including the fragrance of the French countryside, the taste of local cheeses, wine, and wild grapes, the coolness of the silent, dark forests, the clanging of church bells, and the rhythmic clatter of shod hooves on cobblestones as we parade into a small village for our night's stay.

Greece: Kefalonia Trail Ride

Lynn -- My ride in Kefalonia, Greece was a lot of fun. The Halflinger horses not large horses - which fit me perfectly - but were very sturdy mounts. Their temperaments were very easy going and they made excellent mounts for the mountain trails.

I liked the fact that we rode in the mornings, came back to the guesthouse for a very late lunch, and then had the remainder of the afternoon and evening to enjoy the sights of the island. The beaches were absolutely beautiful and the views from the mountains were awesome! Connie, our host, was very knowledgeable about the country and the horses and made an excellent guide. She catered to our whims and helped us plan our afternoon excursions.

Since we didn't finish our wonderful home cooked lunch until around 3:00 each afternoon, we usually didn't eat much dinner. We opted to shop at a local grocery store in town and buy snacks and drinks so we could sit on the patio at night and enjoy visiting with each other.

All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed the trip - and I would recommend this trip to anyone. Also, it's a great way to visit Athens on the way to Kefalonia.

Hungary's Lippizaner Carriage Driving

Just got back from our vacation on the Hungary Lippizaner Carriage Driving ride - .what a fabulous trip!

Our guide Andras Maus was very hospitable, accommodating and informative as our travels took us across the beautiful wine country of Hungary.

I would recommend this ride to anyone who enjoys beautiful scenery, wonderful horses and great food – this ride has it all.

Cross Country Training in Ireland

Dana and I want to thank you for the wonderful time that we shared with all of you, in the week that we were there. You guys definitely know how to "do it first class" and we thank all of you for letting us share the Clonshire experience. It is folks like each of you that make Ireland and the equestrian experience so pleasant, fun filled, and memorable. Thanks for sharing your home, facilities, stories, activities, and making us feel like part of the family. It is becuase of your caring nature, that has made us miss being there, and the feeling of loss when trying to explain that experience.

The knowledge and dedication of each individual employee goes well beyond any expectations. The Clonshire team knows how to teach, train, instruct, communicate, manage, ride, and develop relationships with the folks who visit, board, and who come to learn.

Once again thanks a million for the experience, it is one that will we will treasure, hold close to our hearts, and remember in our lifetime. Each of you have an open invitation, if you would like to experience Maryland in the USA.

Youth Riding Camp in Ireland

Please extend my warmest thanks to all who made my week at Clonshire run so well. I enjoyed every moment of my stay and when I rode yesterday, my trainer commented on how many good habits I had picked up at camp. You are so lucky to have such a great staff and wonderful horses and I am excited to come back next year.

My daughter did the Ireland Youth Camp last summer and it was the highlight of our year (or maybe many years!) and made an incredible difference in her riding -- both in terms of skill and passion.

During her week, the kids actually rode more than the number of hours posted (a good thing!!). It was phenomenal...they basically got three 90min + lessons each day, plus warm up time, etc. An arena jumping lesson, a cross country lesson, and then a hack out across the countryside or another lesson.

Wow. While Zoe stayed with me at the hotel, she would leave by about 945AM and return around 4PM.

Ireland's Connemara Coastal Trail

I returned home a few days ago from spending a week with your Connemara and Coastal trail ride in Ireland. I have to say that it exceeded my wildest dreams. I country itself is beautiful. (Even on the rainy days- and we did have a day of being drenched!) We got to see parts of the country that you could only see by horseback. It was breathtaking! As far as the guides, Caroline and Siobhan, we could not have asked for better people. You can tell that they really enjoy their jobs. The hospitality of John, Judy and Enda as the owners, was incredible. They are some of the nicest people I have ever met. Not only are they fantastic people, but they are wonderful horsemen as well. Oh, and I can't forget Brendon, our driver. I think any one that ever meets him has a smile on their face. What a genuine, nice guy! Our group was fantastic, we all got along great. In fact, we have talked about the potential of doing another Cross Country International trip together. Thanks again for helping me chose this trip. Once again, it exceeded my wildest dreams. (If you could please pass this on to John, Caroline, Judy, Enda and Siobhan, that would be greatly appreciated).

Lynn, My daughter and I returned from Ireland this week. We had a marvelous time. I liked the first part of the trip a bit better than second, but everyone was wonderful. The driver, Brendan, who picked us up at the airport and was our driver throughout the trip, was friendly and very accommodating. John and Carolyn were wonderful. The scenery was beautiful. Judy and her daughter Chevon were very professional and friendly. Everyone made sure we were well taken care of and enjoyed our trip. The food was good. The accommodations were clean and pleasant. The horses were wonderful.

You may recall, I said I was a cautious rider. I felt very secure and comfortable on the horses I rode. I was doing some things on this ride I never did before, and felt comfortable. I would recommend the ride to anyone. My daughter didn't want to come home. It was a wonderful experience. Thank you.

I just returned from my week long vacation "the Connemara Coast" (May 28-June 3). What can I say? It's a dream come true! I've been looking at your brochure for 6 years, and finally did it!

The trip was everything I expected and more. Our two stable hosts, John and Judy were outstanding! The horses were in excellent condition, healthy, and a joy to ride. Our hosts made sure that we were happy with our mounts (and every other part of the ride). The riding was awesome!

I was asked by one of the hosts which part of the ride I enjoyed the most, the beach riding or riding the area around Burren. Both areas are very unique. Both were exceptional! The famine road and the view from the mountain top, to riding full out on the beaches. I can't choose. We rode one day in the pouring rain. Judy, our host expected us to be complaining and tired. She found all of us laughing and smiling (and soaked to the skin) when we arrived for lunch!

All our meals were great! They've got me hooked on smoked salmon… for breakfast, lunch and dinner! Our accommodations were very comfortable and our hosts at the B&B were wonderful. I can't say enough about our driver, Brendon. He was as much a part of our trip as our stable hosts. He made sure we were taken care of!

The horse riding was only a part of the trip. The history and the Irish people made the trip! All around us were happy, laughing, smiling faces! Everyone we met (or ran into) was happy! Even the animals were happy! A herd of cows came running (actually running) down the side of the mountain as we rode past. Horses ran across the fields to run with us! In Doolin we experienced some of the best Irish music in the world! Even our hosts twin sons played a tune on their whistles for the whole pub! There were 6 riders in our tour. We all became such good friends, that one couple from Canada invited all of us (including our new found Irish friends) to their home for Canadian Thanksgiving! We're all bringing our horses, too. For anyone considering an equestrian vacation, I'd recommend this ride to everyone! You'll ride a lot, and you'll meet some of the best people in the world!

Ireland's Wicklow Inn-to-Inn Ride

What a wonderful trip, indeed. The horses, the guides, the accomodations, the driver — all top-notch. The scenery was breath taking — at times it seemed we were on top of the world as we could see forever. Although the weather was unpredictable (sun, rain, sleet, and snow), my memories will be with me forever. Thank you Cross Country International, Corp. for the best vacation I have ever take. Will I do another ride? You betcha!!

Meg and I thank you for all of your help putting our Wicklow ride together. We've just returned and wanted to let you know that the week was an experience of a lifetime and couldn't have been better.

Ireland was more beautiful than we could have imagined and the riding was a a wonderful way of seeing it. We were able to experience so many different types of countryside in all kinds of weather. Absolutely spectacular. My horse, May, was perfect for me and did all the things I needed her, and me, to do - road riding; galloping across open spaces; up and down steep rocky paths; winding through forests, moors, bogs, and creeks; and, over jumps (not big, but jumps - just my speed). She was amazing; safe and steady with just the right zip! Meg fell in love with Jackie; we both wanted to bring them home with us.

The crew, Terry, Anthony, Amanda, young Grainie, and Nicole, were fabulous; fun, thoughtful, helpful, and accepting. Amanda was a great guide - behind that smile she was always thinking about the well-being of the horses and our safety and quality of experience. Anthony and Terry, with their twinkling eyes and Irish cheer, brought it all together!

Dear Sir or Madam:

I am writing to thank you for the wonderful time I had on vacation that was inspired by one of your articles about touring Ireland on horseback. I went in April on a one week trip to Ireland and rode from each house to another. The accommodations were good but the food was exquisite. Every night there was a new type of delicious fish, chicken or pasta. For lunch we stopped for a picnic where a truck met us with sandwiches and other horse supplies. Breakfast was typical breakfast of cereal, eggs, bacon, fruit and pancakes. I know my mother liked the food situation because you decided on the food served according to what the people on the trip were allergic to. I especially enjoyed how you organized the trip to put all of the kids in the same riding group. I had a lot of fun playing the complimentary board games and exploring the different farms. I remember how we were even allowed to help care for this baby lamb who couldn't walk because of growing problems. As for the riding, it was extremely fun. We were able to walk through forest paths, trot by purple and green mountain ranges, canter on the beaches where our horses would race, and gallop fields of flowers and grass. In some parts the path would go through rivers and lakes. During this time we would stay on the horses backs while they swam through the water. This was probably my favorite part out of the whole thing. While every bit of the ride was fun, this was by far the best part. This whole trip was the best that I had ever been on. I would just like to thank you for this experience.

Sincerely,

Sarah MacDonell

Ireland's Kinnitty Castle Trail

We just got back from Kinnitty Castle and had a tremendous time. The castle was stunning, and the room was right out of the opulence of the middle ages. The horses were magnificent and the guides (Sharon and Suzanne) were unsurpassed in my experience. I learned more about riding in the past 5 days than in the past 15 years. We have already been on your website picking out next trip.

After almost a year has passed, I am longing to return to Kinnitty Castle! Thank you so much for all that you did to make our stay a dream come true. Every aspect of our stay at the castle was perfect, true first class service and accomodations. John's quick wit kept us laughing and he provided us with a variety of experiences and challenges. We were having so much fun that we didn't even notice our sore legs. This trip made me a more confident rider and I'm looking forward to a trip back!

My 19 year old daughter and I just returned from Kinnitty Castle and there are no words to describe our experience. From the moment we were met in Dublin by our driver, Colm Spain, we felt as if we were among family and friends.

The staff at the castle, Bridgitte, Colin, Dearmid, Tom, Csila, Bea, Sandor, Andy, and Nigel welcomed us and made us feel as if we were home. The riding portion of the trip was incredible. The horses were magnificent.

My daughter is an experienced rider and I am a beginner. Charon and Keith were very accomodating and we were both able to ride within our comfort zones. Well Done!!

Dorothy, Charon, Chris, Keith and Paula made sure we experienced as much of the Irish culture as possible. I was already planning my return visit on the plane ride home. I am told I must experience the Irish canter. So I shall when I return.

Ireland's Galway and Clare Trail

Everything about our trip to Ireland was a dream come true for my two friends and me. The accommodations, people, countryside, food, and most importantly the horses. I had heard from friends who had taken other trips that the horses were thin and not very well cared for, but EVERY horse in Bertie and Nicola's program were fabulous, well trained, conditioned and in great condition. The tack was of the highest quality and the staff took the extra time to ensure it fit us properly. The riders were required to catch and groom their own horses and tack up, but the staff checked each and every saddle for positioning, tack rubs, leg swelling, shoes and by the end of the week, we became very lazy and enjoyed being “served”.

The most amazing thing about our adventure was the ability Nicola had to group riders of similar ability together so we really moved along. The other group felt the same way. Thank you so much for our dreams come true.

I just wanted to let you know how wonderful my trip to Ireland was that past week. I had a great time riding and our hosts at Au Sibin were great. Ireland is such a beautiful country. I had such a wonderful vacation. I would not hesitate to use Cross Country International for my next equestrian vacation. Thank you for a perfect vacation.

We would like to thank you so much for affording us an absolutely extraordinary Ireland riding vacation experience. The versatility and expertise demonstrated by yourselves and your staff was incredible. As horse owners and enthusiasts we were especially pleased to see how well your horses are cared for and the priority given to their health and well being. We were no less impressed by the lodging, meals and enchanting atmosphere at An Sibin.

We would like to offer a special thank you to Aude, Basha, Anya, Iris, Frankie and Julian for their patience and cheerful encouragement in guiding and supporting our rather boisterous group. They skillfully managed our group's varied riding abilities, allowing us a safe foundation for enjoying our journey to the fullest. We particularly enjoyed the often colorful historical anecdotes given by our guides along the way. Through their extensive knowledge of both horse and trail we were able to confidently navigate, at all gaits, the often-challenging rides through bogs, across lakes, through mountain forests and over the hauntingly beautiful terrain of the Burren. We not only witnessed the beauty of the Western Irish landscape, we were truly a part of it!

The stunning scenery viewed from the saddle along the Galway and Clare Burren Trail has left indelible images in our minds. Our time spent in the spacious, but wonderfully cozy farmhouse at An Sibin has given us memories and friendships to cherish for a lifetime. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

Steve and Jeanne Fletcher
Amy Lamm
Patty Miller
Kent Reichow and Sharon (Boomer) Algya
Craig and Nadine Cain
Howard and Kathy Miller
Kevin and Nancy Ruth
And of course,
Marky Monkey

Ireland's Country Estate Training and Trail

My husband and I wish to thank Cross-Country for handcrafting the most sensational honeymoon package ever! Every moment of our stay at the Mount Juliet Estate in Ireland was divine!

Mount Juliet is located outside of Thomaston, a town with lovely hidden features. There was the medieval monastery, nice river walk over the Nore, and a thriving little haute-cuisine enclave.

The Mount Juliet Estate is sprawling and luxurious. From the world-class spa to the ultra-manicured golf courses … this oasis had everything we could have imagined. And I haven’t even gotten to the best part – the horses!

Ireland has the best horses in the world. Eleanor and Tara, our human guides, paired my husband and I with two splendid steeds, aptly named Caesar (to carry my 6’3’ framed husband) and one jolly grey gentlemen named Henry, who was my highly-educated four-legged tutor for the X-Country course.

My husband had only ridden two times before agreeing to go on an “equestrian vacation” with me for our honeymoon. I’m a more experienced rider, but have lacked consistency through the years in jump and X-Country training. Eleanor, who is the equestrian manager, quickly came up with a program for us that focused on improving our abilities which turned out to be the perfect regimen for training and fun! By the end of the week my husband had the skill and confidence to gallop and even pop over a few little obstacles on the trail! I was thrilled too … by the end of the week I had managed all the obstacles on the X-Country course and had increased my jump height to 4’.

As honeymooners … we were treated like royalty. We were given the Mount Juliet Suite, a lavish 3-room suite that overlooks the Ballylinch Stud. Thank you Cross-Country for a great start to our married life and also for arranging a fly-fishing lesson for the hubby and a spa-facial for me!

With Great Thanks & Gratitude to All of You at Cross Country International and the Mount Juliet Estate …

We just got back from our trip to Mt. Juliet. I can't tell you how much we enjoyed being there! From the moment we met our wonderful driver at the airport (David), we knew that we were in for a great time in Ireland. The estate is gorgeous and the staff there couldn't have been nicer. I thought that we would be staying at the Hunters Yard, but they upgraded us to one of the beautiful rooms in the main house that had a view to die for.

I was a little nervous about the whole riding thing, (I have never been on a horse!) but Amy at the equestrian center was such a great instructor that within the first hour of instruction, we were trotting around the ring (ouch!). We rode our horses through the trails for about two and a half hours daily. Although I was very sore, I couldn't wait to get back on every morning.

Thank you so much for this wonderful experience. John and I are very much looking forward to riding again in the near future.

Sarah and I have returned from our trip to Mt. Juliet and want to let you know that we had an absolutely wonderful time. I don't know whether it was the Irish horses, the instructors, the magic of the place, or a combination of all three, but we did far more than we ever expected. Sarah and I both fell in love with our respective horses (Merlin and Harry); the instructors (Eleanor and Elaine) were so encouraging that I really did believe them when they said, “Harry will take care of you.” And he did!

All of the travel arrangements and other details of the trip worked out flawlessly as well.

Thank you so much for helping to provide such a great experience. We look forward to travelling with Cross Country International again.

P.S. thank you so much for everything you did. the trip was truly incredible. The instructors and horses were all fantastic.

Hunt Seat Training In Ireland

One of your riding counselors convinced me to go alone- I cannot thank her enough. The arrangements were perfect; the trip fabulous. The staff at the Dunraven Arms Hotel were wonderful, they made me feel at home- making a point to speak to me whenever I left or entered the hotel- and they were extremely helpful.

Clonshire was the highlight of the trip. Sue and Dan were great. Sue was a brilliant instructor- I learned so much. I hope to return to Clonshire next year with some friends. Thank you for a wonderful vacation and for an experience I shall never forget.

Italy's Roman Training and Trail Ride

Our trip was so perfect that it is hard to believe any other riding trip could have surpassed it. We were treated wonderfully and rode through beautiful and amazing countryside. Everyone was friendly and courteous and was anxious to accommodate our preferences about riding and sightseeing. The two final days of riding in the nature preserve were almost unbelievable, as we rode among the ancient ruins that emerged above miles of isolated woods and fields occupied by grazing animals. I often dream of it now.

Maine's Equestrian Photography Workshop

I had a wonderful time and learned a lot. My photos of the water near the Lighthouse that I took came out and I got it from you showing me when we stopped along the side of the road near that bridge. I hope you too had a good time, you made sure all of us did. I made some new friends and had a lot of laughs. Maybe I will be at Monhegan next summer when you do another Photo workshop or run into you in Castine sometime.

Classical Dressage Training in Portugal

Portugal turned out to be thoroughly enjoyable! Coralie is a fine instructor. She helped refine my seat, steady my hands and on her wonderful horses the flying changes I had been stuggling with at home came like a breeze. I am absolutely thrilled & can't wait to try it on my own horse at home.

Coralie & her sister Cendrine kept our afternoons interesting with a variety of activities that included trail riding, carriage riding through Arraiolos, visits to a tack shop and a stud farm. On our own, we visited Evora.

The pousada was a real treat! I couldn't have asked for anything more. Excellent accomodations, great food and friendly service. What a nice place to return to after riding in the outdoors.

So there you have it Lynn. The Portugal trip was truly worth it! I hope to make it back there some time in the future.

My Mom and I returned home on Saturday after the week with Coralie. I can't say enough good things. I LOVED her! She fixed my right shoulder; I got a ton of new ideas for doing ground work with my young horses and I solidified my aides for several lateral movements that have been giving me trouble at home.

My Mom learned to canter and gained a tremendous amount of confidence. I was really hoping this would be a good refresher and that I might come home with a couple of new ideas. i got much more out of it and the trip far exceeded my expectations. Coralie is a very talented teacher and trainer and I am so impressed at how well she handled our lessons when my Mom and I are at such different places with our riding.

The horses were far nicer and much better schooled than I was expecting. And Coralie's staff - Katerina and Marisa - were super nice and took great care of us and the horses.

The Pousada was wonderful, the food great and the staff in the hotel were so, so nice. I would love to go back! Thanks!

I just wanted to let you know that we very much enjoyed our training vacation in Portugal with Coralie Baldrey. It was indeed as advertised; very well trained horses, excellent instruction and a most enjoyable time. The luxurious facilities in the beautiful pousada together with the superb food and fine wine also made this a memorable vacation. I would strongly recommend Coralie as a dressage trainer. This has been our second equestrian vacation with Cross Country International, Corp. and I am sure it will not be our last one.

I can't begin to tell you what fun Brittany and I had in Portugal! Riding the famous Lusitanos was a privilege and an honor. How many times do we just get to see one of these horses in the U.S.? And we had our very own Lusitano for one whole week to ride everyday! Thank you for all your help in getting this fantastic equestrian vacation set up for us.

My Mom and I spent a week with Coralie Baldrey last Dec. I want to tell her that my horse won the dressage at championships this year -- I am convinced it is because of the ground work training I learned from Coralie!

Portugal's Atlantic Coast

The coastal ride in Portugal was really great. Claudia matched the rider and the horse exceptionally well. And the ride offered both challenges and quite beautiful country side scenery and cliff side views of the ocean. Paulo, our guide, was intuitive with his ability to see what the riders were feeling and how much to push and when to pull back. Oh bye the bye Quiballa, my horse was "the best". And Claudia allowed me to sit on Pavarotti, a dressage horse — the experience was a real treat. The weather was also co-operative. And the food was excellent. My room at Teresa's guest house was more than comfortable and Teresa was most accommodating. Overall I had a great time and felt most welcome.

Simply fantastic!!!!!! Fantastic trip. Teresa and Paolo and Claudia are wonderful. Beautiful countryside and the food!!!!!! We ate seafood like queens! Fantastic!!!! Teresa is a real kick!!!!! She is wonderful and full of life! Her place is great.

Dressage Training in Spain with Juan Matute

I wanted to let you know about my stay in at Salvador's home - the accommodations were most delightful, the hospitality made you feel a member of the family, the food (I asked for Spanish) was most enjoyable and plentiful, the training was patient, detailed, continuously genuine, complimentary, positive and fulfilling, the videos I watched for every minute possible, the horses were exciting and full of life, controllable yet eager. I would gladly recommend this experience to anyone.

The Dressage Training in Spain was FANTASTIC!!!!! Far and away more than I ever expected. Juan is a consummate professional — pushes you and challenges you and really makes you learn. Juan really focuses on getting riders to understand how to ride upper level horses and will work with you on specific learning objectives like tempi's and flying changes, all the while reinforcing the basics of strong seat and soft hands. The quality of the horses immediately allows you to feel when you've done something right - or wrong! He is extremely focused on the rider and horse team; he seems to have a magical eye to see every detail of your riding. He pushes you to the limit while always considering the horse's ability and ensures the horse has adequate break periods. Although he will challenge the rider's ability to the limit, he leaves you with positive comments and great advice on what to work on and what to expect when you get it right. You must be willing to learn and hear some things about your riding that will make you want to throw it all away!! -- but it is sooo very worth it in the end because after just 5 days you really feel a difference in your riding. Wow is all I can say.

Salvador and Augusta are fabulous hosts. The house was wonderful, the food was terrific and the company was very good. Salvador was a "slave" to our every whim; he really treated us like special guests.

There were a few blips throughout the week as they sorted out all the fine details (right tack, right horses, timing, etc). The horses are lively and fun.

I could go on and on about the week because I want to use every flattering word in my vocabulary to explain how excited I am about the vacation! This is a week I will never, ever forget.

I have arrived back from my course in Spain and just wanted to tell you how wonderful it was. Firstly, the Molino itself is so pretty it looks like something out of a fairytale! The accommodation is very comfortable and Salvador is an extremely entertaining and enthusiastic host who went out of his way to ensure that everyone's needs were catered for, whilst Augusta whipped up inspired feasts for us at lunch and dinner.

The horses were fantastic - they have quite ruined me for my warmbloods at home(!) - and trained to a very high level. The instruction was also superb - Salvador has an eagle eye and in the space of one week had successfully re-mouldered my position - lets hope it lasts... Juan was very professional and within one lesson had me riding movements I had only ever dreamed about before!

Spain's Andalusian Costa Brava Trail

I'm writing to thank you for an opportunity of a lifetime. I just got back from the Spain Costa Brava Andalusian ride, and I am absolutely in love with the place as well as people.

I have been treated with as much respect by every individual I came in contact with especially Rudi Stolz who was our guide. This man made everything possible to make sure every one was accommodated and had a great time. We rode through trails which have not been touched by a human hand. The beauty of this place is unspeakable; the atmosphere is unreal, and the horses you ride are out of this world.

Every day would be a different adventure, and it held its own mystery to where we would end up, and it felt like a fairy tale where you have to pinch yourself to make sure you are not dreaming. It's a heaven on earth. It was a dream come true for me, and I want to thank you again for this fantastic adventure.

I would recommend it to everyone who is looking forward to experience the great pleasure of past and present on a horse. One of the best parts of the ride is riding through villages which were built in the 13^th and 14^th centuries and feel like you live through the times of King Arthur.

The Andalusian Cross Country ride exceeded my expectations. Our guide Rudy helped everybody feel apart of the group including my 80 year old vet who elected not to ride since his luggage didn't arrive and a 60 mile an hour wind. Rudy arranged seperate things for him to do in addition to his normal duties. Rudy even spent three + hours on the phone trying to rearrange our flight from Madrid due to the short 1 hour transfer time.

The ride was fantastic. I rode Bandito who was an spirited Andalusian who liked to take the bit in his mouth. The first day I rode in tennis shoes and half chaps. Rudy lent me his gloves. At the end of the day when I got off I fell under another horse. I was so tired I didn't even move. Two people (Pam CC Staff) helped push me up the hill.

It took me three days to convince Bandito who was boss. The crowning gift was Rudy said I rode like a god. I'll never forget the friends and the experience. I am an accomplished horeman playing polo and working on a ranch. The horse I road was equivalent to my horses at home.

Spain's Andalusian Coast and Villages Trail

I want to thank you for directing me toward the ride for Spain's Andalusian Coast and Villages Trail lead by Rudi Stolz. This trip is all about riding as well as the magnificent scenery and castle visits. It is a ride well suited for experienced and adventurous riders who are ready at a moment's notice for a fast gallop or a climb up a steep and rocky mountain. Don't worry though, we always stopped at a beautiful location for a picnic and siesta or at a local castle for a cava break during our five to six hours on horseback each day!

The horses are fit and very well cared for. It is easy to form a bond with your trusty Andalusian steed. Our guide Rudi took us to places that would be nearly impossible to find as a tourist traveling by others modes. This is a vacation for riders who want to spend quality time on horses to really get a feel for a part of Spain, its history, and its culture.

California's Northern Coast Trail

The California trip was spectacular! Just got back last night and we absolutely loved it. Our guide, Robbie, was wonderful and we all enjoyed our horses. She really matched riders with horses well. Once again, we were delighted with CCI location and personel. Thank you! We will be booking with you again.

I just returned from your northern California trail and beach ride (June 5^th-10^th, 2005) and I had to write to tell you that it was truly an unbelievable experience. Everything was wonderful and the guides in particular were superb in providing us and the horses with attention and fun. I have never ridden Tennesee Walkers before and these women were knowledgeable, accomodating and helped us to get the most out of our vacation. The beach ride was one of the most amazing experiences I have ever had, as there is nothing like cantering through the waves on a beautiful sunny day, on a horse that feels like a rocking chair.

I have attached photos… some show how “walker” they are. Coincidentally, I was riding Luke, the horse in the large photo in your brochure. He is like no other.

We just returned from your Northern California Coast ride and I just had to let you know it was one of the best riding vacations we have ever taken! The guides were not only attentive, helpful, and interesting, but were such fun, too. I can't compliment Sue and Jana enough! Our itinerary was waiting for us upon arrival and we couldn't have felt more welcome. Most important were the horses! What great care they are given was clearly evident. They are truly loved by the owners and staff. We were matched perfectly and every minute in the saddle was a joy! If we could have brought Mocha and Boots home with us the experience would haave been PERFECT! We are waiting for our next trip to California. It will be like going back to visit great friends.

I wanted to drop you a quick note to let you know that my husband and I just recently got back from our California Trail Ride. It was one of the best vacations we have ever been on. We enjoyed our stay very much. The sign of a good vacation is when you're sad to be leaving and we definitely were. The accomodations were great. We loved the rusticness of Costanoa and coupled with the incredible views of the ocean and the hills, it was truely a relaxing retreat. We also enjoyed our 1 night stay at the Pescadero Inn. We had a great time with Ken, the innkeeper and one of the other couples from our rides. We all had dinner and drinks at Duarte's Tavern and spent the night talking and laughing as if we were old friends. But the horseback riding… Where do I even begin? The guides gave us the time of our lives. Typically when you ride horses for a commercial trail ride, the horses are very slow and very set in their ways and all you can do is walk and trot nose to butt. These horses were the opposite. They were well cared for and each rider was matched up to their horse extremely well. We had plenty of opportunities for canters and side by side riding. The guides, Lisa, Sue, and Jana were all fantastic and they obviously love what they do. They took us on all sorts of different types of trails so we never got bored with the scenery and they offered up all kinds of stories and interesting facts about the trails and parks we were riding in. Our happiness came first with them and I think they had just as much fun as we did. I hope you'll continue to offer this particular ride in your offering because it was well worth it and I would do it again in a heartbeat.

I don't have an email address for Sam and Hosam but if you could pass this note along to them so they know how much we enjoyed ourselves I would appreciate it.

Colorado Mountains and Meadows Trail

Have you ever had the experience of listening to the Elk “bugle” at night or in the early morning searching for a mate?

Watched the horses you will be riding graze in the early morning before you have a great breakfast?

How about a doe and her youngsters grazing and running thru a meadow from your front porch?

Views that are absolutely un-describable…Horses that are wonderful to say nothing of the guides!

Denny and Jan the hosts are so gracious and wonderful people! Jan is a great cook so be careful not to eat too much as I did.

The accommodations are wonderful….enjoy a Jacuzzi after the ride to relax those tired muscles.

An absolutely wonderful experience! Highly recommend to anyone who wants to ride the high country.

Virginia Hunt Country Trail

Just back from that TERRIFIC new trip you have put together in Virginia. What a great time I had, as did Eileen Mullarkey....I'm sure you'll hear from her as well. Thomas and Hillary are the perfect host and hostess: Willow Grove Inn is so atmospheric and evocative of the Old South...yet there's plenty of hot water, excellent water pressure, good heat when you need it...and did I mention the chef supreme, Douglas? (Thomas is not so shabby in the kitchen, either....we had the pleasure of tasting his grilled shrimp and pineapple appetizer one evening...quite memorable....) And with all of the riding we did, it was easy to be guilt-free tackling the tasty desserts each evening.

Thomas is a born teacher...he is very articulate and willingly shared his extensive riding knowledge- all the while keeping a sharp eye out for our safety: the whole experience was like having a private three day riding clinic with a top instructor....Everything Thomas had us practice-on very able and well maintained mounts-- we used on our 4th day hunting with Bull Run. It was obvious both Thomas and Hillary are known and well liked in the hunt community...this made it so comfortable for us to join the hunt for a wonderful day of riding the countryside and watching hounds work.

Eileen and I both look forward to coming back to Virginia during the cubbing season, so you'll be hearing from us for a booking!

Nancy

European Training in Upstate New York

You may use this as a testimonial to the wonderful program at Cedar Crest Equestrian Center. It was a dream vacation for me. Although the first week of July had us riding in a heat index of 104° one day, the horses seemed to fare better than the adults! What a wonderful place and the staff could not have been better. I know that it is still in the growing/finishing process but it is so very well run. Everyone was so friendly and helpful. And talk about a full service barn! I am used to cleaning and tacking up, hot walking and hosing down but Paul's staff was fantastic. Staying in the apartment over the stables was wonderful for me as there is nothing better than waking up to the sound of sliding stall doors and hungry, neighing horses. The riding arena both inside and outside are state of the art as it the barn itself designed with great ventilation and light. The town of Pine Plains was sweet and offered great places to dine.

I was so happy to meet and become friends with Laurie who was also part of the CCTI program - we became lunch partners and friends. The quality of the horses and tack were top rate.

Paul, Gerry and Rachel were the best instructors and I learned so very much. When I returned home, the horse I lease wondered who was the "new and improved" rider on his back!! Once again, thank you and Cedar Crest for the best vacation ever and I would love to return next summer. Are there any openings in the late fall?

I am now back home in LA safe and sound and thanks to the experience of having spent a week with you and the Cedar Crest crew, a much better rider (as well as a much finer person).

If I thank you for the riding instruction, it won't nearly express my appreciation for the warm and gracious welcome that all of you gave Peg and myself. I cannot imagine spending time with a nicer group of people and I hope you will let me visit again sometime soon.

That said, I am totally "chuffed" that thanks to your guidance and encouragement I was able to ride over the course that Jo and I created.

I want also to thank Harry and the Vin Man for putting up with my amateur ability without so much as a snicker. And, of course, a special thanks to the lovely Penny Sparkle for getting me safely around the course and jacking up my heartbeat to red-line with the gallop up the hill.

To you and all of the others at Cedar Crest, once again, my most sincere "thank you" for a really great time.

World Equestrian Games 2006 in Aachen, Germany

Jill and I are back from our trip to Germany to see the equestrian game and we certainly had the time of our lives. The seats were the best in the arena, and the VIP tickets were absolutely the only way to go in this event.

The biggest asset of the whole trip was Andras! I have to tell you, you guys are missing the mark here by not selling him as a big asset to your packages. The way it was presented to me and the others we were traveling with was that he was just a point of contact if we needed anything. This guy went well out of his way to not only work with all of us to accommodate our schedules for travel, but he was also helping some of the travelers that you had on this trip get different (better) seats in the event. Additionally, he would show us where to go and when, translate for us when needed and he was probably one of the most accommodating people I have ever met. This guy even got up on our departure day at 4am to take us to the airport and then he stayed with us and walked us through ticketing and to the gate as we went through security. I can't say I have ever had better service anywhere.

Anyway, I thought the package you put together was very good and well worth the money. Keep me on your list because my wife as already said that she is ready to go to the equestrian games in Lexington in 2010!