Napa Valley is not short on beautiful vistas. Between expansive vineyards stretching into the horizon and meandering hiking trails, and world-class golf courses, there are many ways to enjoy the nature scape.
What if we told you that many of the best views of Napa Valley can be enjoyed via horseback riding?
Horseback riding is the hidden gem guaranteed to put the cherry on top of your Napa Valley wine experience. Whether you’re looking for horseback riding lessons, all-inclusive packages with wine tastings, or you’re on the hunt for the best glimpse at wine country, there’s no shortage of exceptional horseback riding opportunities.
In this list, we’ve done the work of coming up with the best horseback riding companies in Napa Valley. So when you stay at Chateau de Vie, you’ll be uniquely positioned to access some of the best glimpses of California’s wine country, all without having to step off your faithful horse.
Tour Shadybrook Estate
- Address: 100 Rapp Lane, Napa
- Notable features: Estate wine tour followed by wine tasting and charcuterie
When it comes to horseback riding in Napa Valley, touring the Shadybrook Estate Winery is one of the can’t-miss opportunities.
Located on the historic Rapp Ranch property, guests can choose between either a 30-minute or 50-minute trail ride hosted by the Napa Valley Trail Rides company. Through the tour, you’ll be supported by an experienced trail guide who will provide insight into the history of the estate.
This estate also offers a romantic 2.5-hour private horseback ride around the Estate vineyard. Following the ride, you’ll have a chance to meet the winemaker and have private access to a sample from one of their upcoming vintages. A romantic setting high above the cellar overlooking the vineyard from our winemaker’s overlook is the perfect spot for a private tasting paired with a variety of cheese and charcuteries.
Then, at the conclusion of the ride, you’ll be rewarded with an afternoon of wine tasting and charcuterie as you overlook the vistas of Rapp Ranch and the surrounding Coombsville hills. The view alone is reason enough to book your ride.
Sonoma Valley Trail Rides
- Address: 1340 Napa Rd, Sonoma
- Notable features: Vineyard and estate vineyard tours, horseback riding lessons
Sonoma Valley Trail Rides is a horseback riding company that offers two experiences to choose from. First, guests can either tour a vineyard or an estate vineyard, the latter of which includes a bottle of wine at the end of the day. Then, along with expert staff, you’ll be guided using seasoned, friendly horses up and down the rolling hills of the beautiful Sonoma Valley.
This experience is accessible regardless of your skill level, so don’t think that will get in the way of you and this truly epic adventure. If you’re keen on mastering the experience, you can even take dedicated horseback riding lessons.
Valley Brook Equestrian Center
- Address: 1132 El Centro Ave #1949, Napa
- Notable features: Individual or group lessons
Valley Brook is a popular spot for those of us looking for a more one-on-one horseback riding experience as opposed to a winery tour. Rather than exploring the vineyards, you’ll be instructed by expert staff on how to ride a horse properly. This foundational knowledge makes Valley Brook a popular destination for first-time riders eager to have a comprehensive horse-riding experience.
The Valley Brook Equestrian Center offers both individual and group lessons, so there’s no need to ditch your crew in order to enjoy a day of horse riding. Then, when you’re done, you’ll be less than a 10-minute drive from downtown Napa.
Triple Creek Horse Outfit
- Address: 2400 London Ranch Rd, Glen Ellen
- Notable features: Private tours outside of town.
If you’re less concerned with touring the vineyards of Napa and more looking forward to breathing the fresh air of the rolling hillsides, then Triple Creek Horse Outfit is for you. It’s about a 40-minute drive from downtown Napa which puts you just far enough away from the crowds so you can get a truly intimate experience.
Guests can choose between a one-hour to two-hour private ride, with options for large groups as well. You’ll begin the tour through the Jack London State Park on Sonoma Mountain. Then, you’ll be offered a complimentary wine tasting of the nearby VJB Cellars Estate to reward you for your efforts.
Tulucay Farm Stables
- Address: 5310 Biava Ln, Napa
- Notable features: Private and semi-private lessons
Just a short drive from downtown Napa off of Silverado Trail is Tulucay Farm Stables. This small, family-owned operation is run entirely by expert trainers. It is a perfect spot to brush up on your horseback riding skills, take a lesson if it’s your first time, or enjoy a small private lesson with your friends.
Tulucay offers private and semi-private classes, which can extend from 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on how long you want to savor the experience. This is an excellent option for kids and adults alike looking to get hands-on attention and learn how to become competent horse riders.
Plan a Day of Horseback Riding in Napa Valley
Now that we’ve gone over the best spots to experience a true Napa Valley horseback riding experience, it’s safe to say there’s a lot more to Napa than just wine tasting. Though don’t get us wrong, there’s nothing more rewarding after a long day of horse riding than ending with a nice chilled glass of Napa Valley wine.
Before you book your horseback riding experience, book your accommodations at Chateau de Vie.
When you book your stay with us, you’ll get a first-class experience with luxury treatment and amenities. We don’t care how dirty your riding boots are! You can consider us your home away from home, the place to hang your hat and relax after a long, hard day of wine tasting, horseback riding, and experiencing all that Napa Valley wine country has to offer.
Featured Image Credit: Nancy Brown via Flickr CC2.0