The Connemara pony and Clifden show

Born on the rocky coast of western Ireland, the Connemara is hardy and sure-footed, able to navigate difficult or stony terrain with ease, and coping well with the unpredictable Irish weather. 

Most ponies are gray but other recognised colours are bay, brown and dun, with occasional roan. Connemara ponies also can be cremello in colour – known as a Blue Eyed Cream, with occasional Roan & Chestnut, Palomino and Dark Eyed Cream ponies. You won’t find any piebald or skewbald Connemaras, and you should be careful not to confuse them with another well-known Irish breed, the Gypsy cob! 

Not all Connemara ponies are the same but they tend to have well laid-back shoulders and a short, strong back, a small expressive head with "pony ears" and round hindquarters. They are compact and well-balanced, usually standing at around 14hh. You can find slightly smaller or taller individuals. As such, Connemara ponies can be ridden by children and adults alike. I personally love to ride smaller horses/large ponies on trail rides, as it makes my life easier when I have to mount from the ground…!

They normally have rather even temperaments, although they are not lazy – some even have quite a bit of spunk in them! It is a resilient breed, very adaptable and showing strong abilities in a variety of disciplines. They excel at showjumping and cross-country jumping. Despite their small stature, they can be found in high-level eventing competitions.

You can jump Connemara ponies on our cross-country jumping holidays in Ireland, for instance. They are excellent trekking ponies and are a companion of choice on several of our trails, such as our trail ride around the Ring of Kerry or riding trails in Connemara.