Hotels Offering Authentic Ranch and Polo Experiences

Hotels Offering Authentic Ranch and Polo Experiences

These hotels and lodges offer authentic ranch and polo experiences, inviting guests to try their hand at the “sport of kings.” One of the earliest team sports, Polo has long stood as the ideal activity for those seeking excitement and experiences on horseback in the great outdoors. As the sport continues to grow in popularity, some of the world’s most beloved luxury hotels offer entrée into the sport, promising unforgettable escapes.

Estancia Vik, Uruguay

Estancia Vik (pictured) is a romantic, rustic and traditional ranch situated on 4,000 acres in José Ignacio, Uruguay. Estancia Vik features 12 singular suites which pay homage to Uruguay’s nature, architecture, art and design. The Spanish style estancia boasts a rustic golf course, two grass tennis courts, a swimming pool, spa, chapel, and one of the world’s best professional private polo fields. The polo field features stunning panoramic views across the lagoon and out towards the Atlantic Ocean. The retreat also offers an array of unparalleled polo experiences for the novice, the professional, and the polo aficionados alike. Guests who want to brush up on their riding skills can spend the day riding crillo horses through the property’s horsetails. Guests enroll in polo lessons with professional polo trainers or sign up for a 5-day polo training package. Estancia Vik also plays host to some of South America’s premier polo matches, including the Polo Champagne Tour. Estancia Vik Polo matches are the social events of the season, and guest are invited to attend matches and tournaments. After a day on the field, guests can enjoy a traditional Uruguayan asado under the South American stars. Polo lessons start at $130 per person.

Caldera House, Jackson Hole

Caldera House, the 8-suite luxury hotel and alpine club in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, invites victors to connect with the staggering raw beauty of the American West. An inspiring place to connect with nature, Caldera House encourages guests to fully immerse themselves in Jackson Hole, and offers an array of extraordinary activities. Guests can spend the day at a stunning private polo field, where they will saddle up and learn the fundamentals from professional polo player, Marcos Villanueva. Marcus will teach guests how to hold and swing the mallet and customize the experience based on skill level. Guests will finish the day with an authentic open-fire Argentinian asado. After a day of adventure, guests can relax and unwind in one of Caldera House’s luxurious suites. The experience starts at $650 per guest and 20% of the proceeds are donated to the Teton County Youth & Family Services.

Dude Ranchers Association - An all-inclusive vacation experience like no other

Dude and guest ranches offer an all-inclusive vacation experience like no other destination. The Dude Ranchers' Association was formed in 1926 to preserve the special way of life and wonderful environment in which dude ranching takes place. When you vacation at a Dude Ranchers' Association member ranch, you can be sure of a quality vacation. Member ranches endure a rigorous inspection and approval process that ensures guests are treated to genuine western hospitality combined with the lodging industry’s highest standards. Horses, hats, hospitality, heritage, honesty and heart - these are the foundations of every DRA ranch. There is a little cowboy in all of us. There are over 90 DRA ranches to choose from located in 10 different Western US States and 1 Canadian Province. The DRA will help you narrow down the list and get you on your way to your next unforgettable vacation destination. Find the perfect ranch for your next vacation by visiting www.duderanch.org. You can also contact a ranch vacation expert at info@duderanch.org or 307-587-2339.