FEATURE RANCH HOLIDAYS
RANCH HOLIDAYS A bit of an adventure
You don’t have to be a rootin’ tootin’ John Wayne wannabe to enjoy a ranch stay, whether in Argentina or Australia, says Howard Carr
F
rom the cowboy plains of the US to the gaucho pampas of Argentina, there are lots of
opportunities for riders of all abilities to saddle up. And with more holidaymakers seeking a
taste of adventure in the great outdoors, the choice of ranch deals is growing. Options range from luxury ranches in
the Canadian Rockies and estancias in Uruguay to trail rides in Chile and sheep stations in the Australian Outback. Clients keen to earn their spurs don’t
have to be experienced riders to get the most out of a ranch stay. Many places cater for beginners, with gentle horses that are used to carrying novices who don’t know their bridle from their bit. Larger, glossier ranches also offer plenty for non-riders and those who want to take a break from life in the saddle from sunbathing by the pool to luxury spas, golf and tennis. And the equestrian element does not
have to take up a whole holiday. Many operators feature just two or three days at a ranch in a more general fly- drive itinerary. There are four main types of North American ranch, making it easy to match the client to suitable accommodation. Working ranches are the real McCoy and are likely to be enjoyed by adventurous travellers who have some horse-riding experience and want an authentic taste of the West. Dude ranches and guest ranches are
often a better bet for families. They offer lots of activities for all ages and usually cater to riders of all standards. Resort ranches are usually large and luxurious. Many are not real ranches at
all but are purpose-built hotels. They can be a good choice for first timers keen to sample just a bit of the Western lifestyle while still enjoying modern comforts. Ranches of all types are available in
most western and southern US states with Kansas and Oklahoma offering an especially wide selection (see pages 38-39 for more). Most ranches feature a wide
programme of western-style entertainment and activities, usually included in the price. The selection can include cattle drives, hayrides, and cowboy cookouts under the stars. South American estancias cater for
riders of all abilities, as well as featuring other equine activities such as polo lessons and dramatic displays of horsemanship by gauchos. Remote homesteads and sheep stations offer comfortable bases for exploring the Australian Outback. As well as horse riding, there are guided walks, sheepdog trials to photography lessons and wine tasting. The Great Australian Outback Cattle
Drive in South Australia bills itself as the ultimate Outback holiday. Visitors climb into the saddle and help to herd cattle along the Oodnadatta Track. The five- day camping adventure is usually staged every two years, although no plans for 2012 have been announced so far. Meanwhile, safari lodges in countries including South Africa, Botswana, Kenya and Tanzania offer an unusual way of viewing African wildlife from horseback.
What’s New Ranch Rider has expanded its 2012 portfolio to include five more ranches
in the US, a five-star safari lodge in South Africa and a luxury camp in Botswana. Sample price, excluding flights, is from £1,095 for one week’s full board at the Klondike Ranch in Wyoming. New to Western & Oriental’s
ranch holidays programme are Echo Valley Ranch and Spa in British Columbia and Lone Mountain Ranch in Montana with one-week prices from £1,165pp and £1,779pp, flights extra. Horseback safaris in the Makgadikgadi
salt pans of Botswana have been introduced by riding holidays specialist In The Saddle. Lead-in price, excluding flights, is £1,871 for five nights.
Tourism Talk JANE DAWKINS
Sales and Marketing Account Director, Arizona Office of Tourism
“Arizona has the Old West covered – from historic shoot ’em up sites to locations for cowboy flicks and from dude ranches, rodeos and boot-scootin’ bars to Western art, steak-outs and bolo ties. “We have numerous ranching options throughout the state, mostly in the south but elsewhere too. “Ranch holidays continue to be a popular choice for UK holidaymakers. The all-inclusive concept is perfect for those looking to plan holiday finances in advance. Not only do they know their meals and beverages will be taken care of but also most of their activities. “We will continue to push ranches as
a great alternative to sun-and-sand packages. They are more experiential and perfect for the entire family to experience the great outdoors.”
34 June 2012 •
www.sellinglonghaul.com
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