Horseback Riding Vacation

If you've got a love of horses and enjoy the outdoors, a horseback riding vacation could be a wonderful idea for your next family venture. There are so many locations and packages available, not only in the United States, but internationally as well. Let's look at a few to get you some information and background on this exciting retreat concept.

How about planning a stay at one of the many dude ranches across the country that offer beautiful settings with accommodations available for just about any size group from one or two people to six or more. You can stay in a rustic style cabin or bunkhouse, equipped with modern conveniences including a private bathroom, refrigerator and even air conditioning. Most ranches provide a variety of daily rides to choose from and some even allow you to bring your own horse providing boarding in covered stalls. Packages can also include two meals a day or you can also cook up a hearty meal of your own in an outdoor barbeque pit. And a nice, old-fashioned front porch offers a great place to sit and relax after a full day of riding and fun or you may choose to mingle with some of the other guests at the main lodge.

If you're really adventurous, you might want to try an authentic, old-west cattle drive or round-up. You'll get an orientation when you arrive at the ranch and afterwards, set out with your team for an exciting, week-long experience into the great, wide-open. Your day will consist of between five to eight hours in the saddle rounding up the cattle before setting up camp for the evening. You can also get in some fishing or hiking while you're at it. Image sitting around the campfire at night soaking in all the sounds and sights of the territory around you - talk about a peaceful and relaxing setting. These packages include all of your food and camping needs and are really an awesome choice for seeing how the real cowboys live and what the original pioneers experienced. Additionally, ranchers say another great part of the journey is the unique 'partnership' and bond that develops between you and your horse.

Horseback riding vacations are a wonderful way to experience the unspoiled beauty of the land. With so many options and amazing locations to choose from, nationally and internationally, how could you go wrong with a trip like this? Just thinking about the excitement and adventure it will bring, along with all of the memories you'll take away with you, it's an incredible experience that will last you a lifetime!