Are you considering joining us this October at Alisal Ranch? I’d love to introduce myself and share what makes our retreat with horses so special. My name is Janet Solie and I’ve been hosting these retreats for ten years—this upcoming gathering will be our eleventh. Over the years, I’ve gained valuable insights, both from the saddle and from life’s winding paths.
Why I Host This Retreat: A Story of Resilience
I’ve been riding most of my life, but the past few years have brought unexpected challenges. In 2020, I suffered a serious fall off a horse. I remember nothing about the accident, but thankfully, I was wearing a helmet. That experience taught me firsthand how essential helmets are for brain protection. While it had been many years since I last fell from a horse, it’s a reminder that such risks are part of the journey for anyone who rides.
As it turns out, life was about to get even more difficult. Having survived breast cancer, I then faced my husband David’s declining health. Unbeknownst to me, he was battling advanced prostate cancer, as well as Parkinson’s and dementia. At the same time, fires threatened both our homes in Colorado and California. I found myself stepping up as head of household, making tough decisions for my daughters and my husband. This year, David moved to assisted living, allowing him to receive the care he needs and giving me the space to be more of a wife, rather than a round-the-clock caregiver.
These experiences have shaped the way I approach our retreats, ensuring that every participant feels supported no matter their circumstances.
Who Comes to Women of the Rancho—and Why
Over the years, I’ve noticed that many women are drawn to my retreats after facing significant loss or adversity—whether it’s the passing of a spouse, a divorce, a diagnosis, or another life-altering event. Once together, we spend our days riding and adventuring, and each evening, we come together to share our stories. There’s no pressure; everyone decides how much they wish to share. Some open up more than others, but regardless, the sense of support and connection is strong.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by loss or stress, this retreat might offer the break and renewal you need. Women of the Rancho at Alisal Ranch is a wonderful choice if you are in recovery from a difficult time. Our time together fosters healing through the unique bond between horses, women, and nature. I believe deeply that connection is what heals us, and our equine wellness retreat offers that in abundance.
Every Level Welcome: Riding at Your Own Pace
One concern I often hear from prospective participants is the worry that they haven’t ridden much lately, or they’re dealing with a physical limitation or old injury. Some wonder if they’ll be able to keep up with the program. At Women of the Rancho, we offer three levels of trail riding: walking, walk-trot, and walk-trot-canter. You choose your level, and I encourage everyone to start at a pace that feels comfortable. We want you to feel safe and confident as you work through any limitations or anxieties.
Expert Guidance: Horsemanship Lessons with Malena
On the morning of the second day, we offer a horsemanship lesson in the big arena. Malena, a wrangler at Alisal, is an outstanding teacher. Last year, she coached women wanting to trot or learn to post, riding ahead while filming and guiding each participant. Malena comes from a studio family renowned for training animals for the movies, and if you get a chance to sit next to her at dinner, you might hear some fascinating stories about animal training. Malena has become an integral part of our retreat as we head into our third gathering at Alisal Ranch. I’ve included some video clips from our horsemanship lessons for you to enjoy.
What Women Say: Moments That Stay with Us
The supportive environment we create is what truly sets this retreat apart. Here’s a moment I’ll never forget: last year, during our group closing ceremony, one participant said, “I arrived anxious and unsure, but I’m leaving with new friends and a renewed sense of hope.” Another woman thanked the ranch for matching her with the perfect horse she needed as she heals from the loss of her husband. It’s these connections—between women, horses, and nature—that make our retreat so meaningful.
Join Us This October at Alisal Ranch
If you’re searching for renewal, camaraderie, and healing, I encourage you to join us this October. Women of the Rancho at Alisal Ranch offers the space, support, and adventure you may need. I look forward to meeting you and sharing this transformative experience together.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Women of the Rancho is a women’s retreat with horses held at Alisal Ranch in the Santa Ynez Valley. Founded and hosted by Janet Solie, it brings women together for trail riding, horsemanship lessons, evening sharing circles, and connection in nature. This will be the retreat’s third year at Alisal Ranch.
Women of the Rancho takes place in October at Alisal Ranch in Solvang, California. For exact dates and registration details, visit the Women of the Rancho website.
No. The retreat offers three trail riding levels—walking, walk-trot, and walk-trot-canter—so participants of any experience level are welcome. Janet encourages everyone to start where they feel comfortable and safe.
Women of the Rancho is especially meaningful for women navigating loss, grief, health challenges, or major life transitions. The retreat creates a supportive community where women can ride, rest, and reconnect—at whatever pace is right for them.