With the recession finally relinquishing its grip on everyone’s purse strings, consumers can focus on their personal health rather than that of their bank balance. According to Ranch Rider, fitness holidays are not simply concerned with trekking and hiking into the hinterland (although many guest ranches will offer these pursuits), as riders can burn up to 650 calories an hour while in the saddle.
The Argentinian Tipiliuke Lodge in Northern Patagonia features special programmes including, the “Alchemist Trail,” where guests can combine riding and trekking with meditative techniques. 7-nights from £1,899pp. Excludes internal return flights from Buenos Aires to Chapelco Airport from £325pp. Year-round departures. Return flight from £695pp.
The Dryhead Ranch in Montana has recently introduced mini-horse drives. A new activity geared towards novice riders, wannabe wranglers can spend a whole day in the saddle and round up the horses from May through August. 6-nights from £975pp (no single supplement). Excludes transfers £90pp and gratuities left to guests’ discretion. Departures: 23 – 29 May, 20 – 26 June, 18 – 24 July and 15th – 21 August. Return flight from £549pp.
The Elkin Creek Guest Ranch in British Columbia features a Cowgirl Boot Camp with opportunities to hit the trail and rope the livestock; yoga, massage and life-skills coaching round off the 2-night stay. 7-nights from £1,145pp. Departures: 11 – 13 June. Excludes car hire from £249 per week and gratuities left to guests’ discretion. Return flight from £579pp.
South Africa’s malaria free Waterberg region is home to the Ant Collection. Riders will be able to get up close and personal with the wildlife, the horses living and grazing amongst the various game on a daily basis. 6-nights £1,380pp (save £600pp). Excludes transfers £160pp and gratuities left to guests’ discretion. Year-round departures. Return flight from £695pp.
The Stagecoach Trails in Arizona has a no barriers approach to fitness and the ranch features a mounting ramp for senior cowboys. 7-nights from £724pp. Excludes car hire from £210 per week. Year-round departures. Return flight from £489pp.
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All prices (unless otherwise stated) are based on two sharing and include full board accommodation, all ranch based riding, use of all facilities, gratuities, taxes and transfers. Subject to availability. Telephone Ranch Rider on 01509 618811, email [email protected] or visit www.ranchrider.com for further information. ATOL PROTECTED No 4660 ABTA 96395/V9150.
For press enquiries please contact tion London on 020 8180 1614 or email [email protected].
