White Stallion Ranch

8 Days | From £1440pp

USA ( Best airport: Tucson, Arizona)

Discover the Southwestern charm of Arizona and the saguaro-dotted deserts of Tucson at this family ranch in the foothills of the Tucson Mountains and neighbouring Saguaro NAtional Park.. Just 70 miles north of the Mexican border, this is a fabulous slice of the American West with a real frontier feel. With 3000 acres to explore and varied riding itineraries there is something to suit all levels at this friendly and welcoming ranch.

As well as riding there are tennis courts, swimming pools, hiking opportunities and rodeo demonstrations. Ideal for both families with children as well as single travellers the ranch is renowned for its warm welcome, Wild-West heritage, and the spectacular, unspoiled landscape of the Sonoran Desert.

The Riding

What better way to explore the rugged Tucson Mountains than on horseback. Exciting and beautiful, you can ride on steep, rocky trails that take you to the top of the surrounding mountains where the panoramic views are breathtaking.

There are slow rides of 1-1.5hrs for less experienced riders. These are mostly at a walking pace with the occasional trot. Fast rides are available for those with more experience with plenty of cantering opportunities and mountain rides on very steep and rocky trails. Cattle work and team penning in the arena are available to all guests and all day rides into the Saguaro National Park are other riding options. This ranch offers a bespoke riding itinerary so whether you want to ride as much as possible or you want a mix of slower rides and time to relax by the pool, this can all be accommodated.

There is no riding on Sundays.

Level of Riding and Fitness

The ranch can cater for all levels of rider and all age groups. Horses are selected to match your riding skills and abilities. Advanced riders can join the faster paced trails and mountain rides and less experienced riders can enjoy the stunning scenery on slower trail rides. The weight limit is 110kg.

Guides and Group Size

Your guides for this trail are all experienced adult wranglers and you’ll ride out in groups of between 2-8.

Any questions?

The Horses

There are over 120 horses at the ranch and the wranglers are experts and pairing guest with a suitable mount. Many are Quarter Horses and there are also some Draft crosses and some Arab crosses. Heights range from around 14-16hh. The tack and riding style is all Western.

Accommodation and Dining

You’ll be staying in one of the ranches 40 rooms dotted throughout the grounds, all with air-conditioning, along with patios, fire pits, paddocks, and inspiring desert landscaping, which incorporates the towering cacti of the region. The interiors blend western style with exceptional attention to detail such as Western style wool blankets and knotty pine furniture. Deluxe rooms have hot-tubs and fireplaces. Complimentary, wireless internet service is available in guest rooms and throughout most of the ranch.

Meals are all included in your stay and are served at long family-style hacienda tables inside or relax on the patio when the weather is good. Some nights feature delicious barbecues, and adults can even join the wine and cheese tasting rides. Breakfast and lunch are buffet style with a lot of options such as blueberry pancakes, omelettes and huevos rancheros. Dinners are always three courses, expect tacos and grilled meats to dominate, although there are also vegetarian options, lighter sides and salads. Snacks are also included in your stay; fruit, peanuts, crisps and dips, and homemade trail mix. Alcoholic drinks are not included but there is an excellent wine and whiskey selection available to buy.

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Itinerary

Day 1 Arrive at Tucson and transfer to the ranch. Settle into your room and explore the ranch, maybe take a dip in the pool or meet other guests in the bar. There is no riding on arrival days.

Days 2 to 7 The riding programme at this destination is tailored to suit you. You can choose between long or short trails and fast or slower-paced. Chat with the wranglers after breakfast about the kind of riding you would like to do and an itinerary will be put together. All day and half day rides are available as well as mountain rides for spectacular views over the ranches 3000 acres. Riding is available for children from age 5.

Day 8 Check-out after breakfast and transfer back to Tucson airport. There is no riding on departure days.