Ranch Holiday Information
Ranch Descriptions
To help you choose the Western experience that is exactly right for you, we've gone to great lengths to describe each ranch and its location accurately and to present their facilities clearly. Guest rooms, suites and cottages vary in style, from old adobe buildings to traditional log cabins. All have modern conveniences and are clean and comfortable. Homely touches are a feature of all ranches and those in the luxury categories have the amenities of a first class hotel. If you are adventurous enough, you can be a cowboy on a working ranch, where accommodations may either be in the bunkhouse, in a tent (or teepee!) or just under the stars. Some riding tours have camping accommodation. Please do ask if you are not sure. We do try very hard to be accurate with the descriptions of the properties and they are regularly visited and inspected. However, subsequent to printing this information on our website there can be changes beyond our control, for example a swimming pool may be out of commission especially in the low season when the weather is cool and the pool may be emptied for cleaning but we will do our best to keep you advised.
Come and go as you please
Our programme allows you to plan your own holiday exactly as you want. You can stay at your selected ranch for a week or more and then hire a car and tour around - select one of our many self-drive tours - or enjoy a tailormade tour. All of our ranches are situated in areas of outstanding natural beauty and provide a great base for touring. Our knowledge extends beyond the ranch gates - just ask and we will be pleased to help with touring itineraries.
Children are especially welcome
Children and dude ranching just plain go together. Every child profits from the exhilaration of horseback riding, games and fun activities. Some ranches have full-time counsellors supervising children's programmes during the peak holiday months. Parents are free to relax and enjoy their holiday knowing their children are being looked after and having a good time. At other ranches families enjoy all the activities together. At many ranches children under 6 do not participate in the regular horse programme, although counsellors help with lead rides, games and other activities for this age group.
Do you have to be a rider?
We pride ourselves on being able to cater for every level of rider. Our ranches know that many visitors have limited experience of riding and have sure-footed horses for tenderfoots. But you may prefer to laze around the pool, read a book, go for peaceful walks or get to know the rancher and his family.
For keen riders
We understand the importance for good riders to find the riding adventurous. Experienced riders enjoy the opportunity to ride western horses and exciting rides in some of the most magnificent scenery in the world. Please give us the opportunity to help you choose the best ranch for your riding holiday.
Transfers to ranches
Many ranches provide transfers from the nearest airport to/from the ranch. Occasionally there is a charge and this will be advised to you and will show in the price panel for that ranch. The transfer cost is not always built in to the price to enable guests to arrive independently by rental car.
Alcohol
Traditionally ranches have not had licensed bars but guests are welcome to take their favourite tipple. In many cases mixers and ice are available. We have indicated whether a ranch has a licensed bar or not in the description of each property. Liquor laws are strict and if you are under 21 years you will not be able to purchase alcohol.
Dietary needs
Ranches are quite happy to cater for special dietary needs if they have advance warning. Please let us know at the time of booking.
Hats and safety equipment
Riding hats, body protectors and other safety equipment is not usually provided at the ranches. Most ranches will loan boots and wide brim hats but if you require safety hats/body protectors it is best to take your own.
Travelling in the summer months
Please bear in mind that if you are staying at a ranch in the hotter, more southerly states eg Arizona, the daytime temperatures will almost certainly be over 100F approx. 35C (see the Climate charts on each region's home page) and you might find that riding is limited to early morning - late afternoon and/or limited to walking and trotting. Similarly, activities such as tennis might not be a good idea in the midday sun! This is why some ranches in Arizona do not operate in the summer months. If you are visiting a ranch during the summer months be prepared - take sun block, hat and have proper clothing to protect you from the sun.
