By Cameron Mellin
Those seersuckered memories of Foxfield still fresh in mind? Or perhaps American Pharoah’s Triple Crown win has you reminiscing about Virginia original Secretariat’s dominance in 1973. Whatever your reason, Virginia is considered horse country for many reasons. Do your part as a commonwealth citizen this summer and get yourself, the kids or your significant other back in the saddle.
River Chase Farms
Love horses but feeling a little nervous to cowboy up? Some liquid courage should help. And when you throw in some cheese and a summer night ride along Goose Creek in Aldie, the city slicker will soon be trading in the trousers for wranglers and those heels for a pair of boots. At River Chase Farms just south of Leesburg, wine-and-cheese rides are offered monthly. Arrive no later than 3:30 to “tack up” and take the short but beautiful ride that gets you back in the stables just in time for happy hour. Wine, cheese and horses are included. However you’re welcome to bring your own steed.
40332 Courtland Farm Lane, Aldie; 703-777-1809
Fort Valley Ranch
If you’re looking for some back country adventure, head for Fort Valley Ranch deep in the heart of George Washington National Forest. Trail rides to Shenandoah peaks provide spectacular views while horse-drawn wagon rides give families with cowpokes still learning the ropes a chance to ride with the horses safely. Bunkhouse cabins are open to those who’d like to stay the weekend, and trail rides range from 90 minutes to a full day.
299 S. Fort Valley Road, Fort Valley; 540-933-6633 or book a reservation online.
Marriott Ranch
Trail rides for two capped off by countryside picnics and tours of surrounding wineries are just a few of the romantic options open to Northern Virginia couples at the Marriott Ranch. Fifty miles from the city and with 4,200 acres of Blue Ridge foothills to explore, this working cattle farm and bed-and-breakfast offers a Chaps and Chardonnay package ideal for lovebird’s weekend getaways.
Don’t hesitate to bring the kids either—every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 90-minute trail rides are open to those 10 and up. Meanwhile the “horse vacation” puts you and your little ones in the saddle for three days of riding, herding and fishing at any of the Marriott’s stocked fishing ponds.
Want the true Western experience without the weekend commitment? Opt for a dinner ride instead. The package features a 90-minute evening trail ride that ends up at the Ranch’s recreated Western town for a country-style steak dinner and acoustic cowboy concert.
4441 Fiery Run Road, Linden; 540-364-2627 (Chaps & Chardonnay reservations); 540-364-3741 (Horse Vacation reservations)
