Seeing the world on horseback is a luxury and at these equestrian vacation destinations, horses and riders are treated like royalty as they discover diverse cultures, captivating traditions and posh accommodations in settings from Botswana to California.
You don’t have to be an expert equestrian to saddle up at stunning equestrian-friendly locations around the world. Many welcome beginners, children and more experienced riders to mount up and explore.
From an estancia in Uruguay offering polo lessons by the beach to an Irish castle where cross country jumps challenge even the most well-heeled horse lover, check out these luxury destinations where you can enjoy horseback riding… if you can bring yourself to leave the comfort of your room.
Estancia Vik, Uruguay
Romance meets rustic at Estancia Vik in Uruguay, set among 4,000 acres in the rolling hills of José Ignacio, outside of Punta del Este. This is where the elite of Argentina and Brazil come to play, as well as A-listers ranging from Leonardo DiCaprio to Mark Zuckerberg.
Travelers enjoy both beaches and countryside, galloping through the pampas along challenging horse trails on Criollo horses, a hardy South American breed that’s synonymous with gauchos, South America’s iconic cowboys.
Always wanted to try the Sport of Kings? Polo lessons are on offer here on professional polo fields with views of a tranquil lagoon and the Atlantic Ocean.
Nights are spent in the stylish, eco-friendly Spanish colonial style estancia, where murals from local artists evoke a true sense of place. Travelers can hop over to Jose Ignacio or Punta del Este to dine with chic locals or choose to stay super local and feast on gourmet fare amid the comfort of the ranch.
Estancia Vik, Camino Eugenio Saiz Martinez, 20402 Departamento de Maldonado, Uruguay; +598 94 605 212
The Alisal Guest Ranch and Resort, California
Located in charming and quirky Solvang, known for its Danish architecture and dozens of surrounding vineyards, The Alisal Guest Ranch and Resort combines upscale Western and California flair with Hollywood history.
This 10,000-acre working cattle ranch mixes cowboys and country club amenities, offering couples and families lessons in horseback riding, along with golf, fishing, archery, hiking and tennis.
Wranglers showcase rodeo styles of riding and invite adults to try their hand at cattle work. Kids, too, can learn to ride, including lessons on communicating with horses.
Sunrises and sunsets at Alisal are hard to beat, with light streaming between the branches of Alisal’s old sycamores and Santa Ynez mountain views. It’s this serene setting that attracted special guests throughout history, including “the King of Hollywood,” Clark Gable, who married Lady Silvia here, and Hollywood’s golden girl, Doris Day. Today, families and groups cozy up in suites with vintage artwork, wood burning fireplaces and authentic American charm.
Alisal Guest Ranch and Resort, 1054 Alisal Rd, Solvang, CA 93463, United States; +1 805 693 4208
Mountain Lodges of Peru
A once-in-a-lifetime horse riding adventure to Machu Picchu takes in stays at luxury, sustainable, mountain lodges in ultra-remote locations. Riders can soak in a hot tub with views of snow-capped peaks or enjoy a massage after a day on the trails.
Mountain Lodges of Peru’s owner is passionate about horses and nature, going as far as using helicopters to bring in the appropriate materials to construct each individual lodge where travelers spend nights during their horse trekking adventure to the Inca citadel.
An equestrian himself, he also takes care of his hardy Quarter Horse type mounts, which are outfitted with comfortable Uruguayan and American endurance saddles. The horses are well adapted to the high altitudes on this difficult mountain trek, meaning riders have the opportunity to explore places that are lesser trod.
Though each lodge is secluded, marvelous amenities have not been forgotten. Travelers sleep on 400-threat count linens, soak in outdoor hot tubs and dine on Andean cuisine and organic coffees.
Days spent riding with views of the Mt. Salkantay, Soraypampa Valley and Mt. Humantay are worth the trip.
Travelers end their journey at the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge, a luxury hotel at the entrance to Machu Picchu.
Mountain Lodges of Peru, +1 877 491 5261
C Lazy U Ranch, Colorado
This five-star dude ranch is a popular, family friendly luxury riding vacation and has been for over 100 years.
Located in Granby, Colorado, C Lazy U has collected numerous awards and accolades, but it’s the clientele who return year after year that really speak volumes for this Colorado guest ranch.
While on their current ranch vacation, families sign up for next year, many returning to form bonds with the same families again and again. This bonding time amid everyone’s hectic lives is a true statement of luxury these days.
From horseback riding to hatchet throwing, there are lots of activities on offer, but almost everyone is there to saddle up at least once, whether young or old.
An active kids’ program teaches young longhorns the basics, while adults can enjoy trail rides together, before heading to the C Lazy U spa. Situated in a series of large tents over a flowing stream, the spa’s atmosphere is serene and boutique Western, with large copper soaking tubs for bubble baths and personal or couples massage tents.
Meals are a special occasion, with world class wines on offer and hearty, yet gourmet main fare. The holidays are a special time to visit this ranch, which offers riding through the snow, as well as romantic sleigh rides.
Guests stay in distinctive rooms or private cabins, complete with cozy fireplaces and large porches with rocking chairs. Families can easily stay together and play together or choose time apart at this Colorado ranch.
C Lazy U Ranch, 3640 Colorado Hwy 125, Granby, CO 80446, United States; +1 970 887 3344
Cuixmala, Mexico
Want to feel like you own a piece of paradise in Mexico? At Cuixmala’s Pacific Coast retreat in Jalisco, travelers can ride on wild beaches, through tropical jungles and a wildlife sanctuary that’s home to zebras and eland.
With 30,000 acres abutting three private beaches, equestrians have lots of room to roam, including exotic trails within a wildlife sanctuary. The stables were designed by renowned French architect, Robert Couturier, and are home to a range of horses to fit riders of varying abilities.
Bungalows, private villas with full staff, casitas, and suites in the opulent main home are individually decorated and invite guests to lounge in tranquil open air spaces. Organic cuisine and products, including soaps, honey, mango and cheese, are produced from the on-site farm, helping guests to enjoy a truly local experience.