Mount Juliet's Equestrian Escape: Thigh-clenching stickability means that you’re hot to trot

"As a born-and-bred Corkonian, I’ve seen plenty of horses around my native northside but honestly, I don’t think I even graced the back of a donkey on a beach as a child."

Denise O'Donoghue on Pepsi the horse Mount Juliet Estate's new Equestrian Escape package is designed for both seasoned riders and beginners. From €270, it includes overnight accommodation in the Manor House or Hunter’s Yard, full Irish breakfast, and a guided equestrian trail across Mount Juliet Estate. See mountjuliet.ie.

‘Stickability’ is a new word I’ve added to my vocabulary, and I’m very smug to learn it’s something I finally have in abundance. Let me set the scene.

I’m in Kilkenny on a changeable autumn afternoon and eyeing up Pepsi. No, not the drink, but my soon-to-be noble steed.