If you’re wondering whether this horseback riding retreat for women is right for you, ask yourself one simple question: are you a horse girl at heart?
If you’ve ever felt a powerful connection with horses, longed to get back in the saddle, or dreamed of finally learning to ride, this retreat was designed for you. Many of our women rode as children or teens, then got busy with college, careers, and families. Years—sometimes decades—go by, and they arrive at Alisal Ranch ready to reconnect with that joyful, grounded, horse-loving part of themselves.
A Riding Program That Meets You Where You Are
At Women of the Rancho, you’ll experience a carefully curated riding program that meets you exactly where you are. Whether you’re a brand-new rider or highly experienced, whether you’ve ridden English or Western, you’ll discover just how fun and freeing trail riding can be at Alisal Ranch.
Trail Riding at Alisal Ranch: Wildlife, Wonder, and Wide-Open Country
Imagine riding through stunning ranch country, watching for wildlife along the way. You might hear blackbirds along the lake, spot wild turkeys and deer near the bald eagle nest, or catch a glimpse of a bobcat or bear. Even the small surprises—a tarantula crossing the path—add to the sense of adventure.
Build Real Confidence: Horsemanship Sessions and the Obstacle Course
We don’t just put you on a horse and send you out. You’ll build real confidence and skills. Our horsemanship session is perfect if you feel a bit rusty or want to expand your abilities. Then, on the third day, you’ll take what you’ve learned into our signature trail-riding obstacle course.
This is where the magic happens. You and your horse will navigate patterns that challenge your reining, practice halting after a trot, move through an L-shaped corner, and walk a pinwheel. Because we’re on a working cattle ranch, we often add a cattle activity to the course—an unforgettable way to deepen your partnership with your horse and stretch your comfort zone in a fully supported environment.
Ready to Say Yes to Your Inner Cowgirl?
By the time you leave, you’ll feel more confident, more connected, and more fully yourself. If you’re ready to say yes to your inner cowgirl and create memories you’ll treasure for years, Women of the Rancho is your retreat.
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.
Book NowFrequently Asked Questions
Absolutely. Women of the Rancho is designed for all experience levels—from first-time riders to lifelong equestrians. You’ll start with a horsemanship session to build or refresh your skills, then progress at your own pace through trail rides and, on day three, our signature obstacle course. Many of our guests haven’t ridden in years, and they leave feeling more capable and confident than they expected.
Trail riding is the heart of the program at Alisal Ranch—miles of working cattle ranch country with wildlife around every bend. You’ll also have a horsemanship lesson in the arena and, on the third day, tackle our trail-riding obstacle course, which often includes a cattle activity.
Yes—Women of the Rancho is held at Alisal Ranch in Solvang, California, in the heart of the Santa Ynez Valley. While the retreat is rooted in horsemanship and trail riding, the experience is deeply restorative. Women come to reconnect with themselves, build new friendships, and leave feeling grounded and renewed. It’s as much about wellness as it is about riding.
Yes. You’d be surprised how many of our guests say exactly that. The horsemanship session is specifically designed to bring you back to riding gently and confidently. We meet every rider where she is—no pressure, no judgment, just the joy of being back in the saddle.
The retreat takes place each October at Alisal Ranch in Solvang, California. Visit the Adventure page on the Women of the Rancho website for exact dates and to reserve your spot.