Riding in South America

Estancia Los Portreros, Argentina

Straddling the Sierras Chicas between the pampas and the Andes, in the heart of the beautiful Córdoba region, Los Portreros is the quintessential Argentine estancia. This exclusive 6,000-acre working cattle farm, which has remained in the same Anglo-Argentine family for four generations, is steeped in history.

Accommodation is in comfortable en suite rooms, charmingly furnished with eclectic family pieces, whilst delicious meals are taken in the family dining room. The pleasures of life on an estancia cannot be overstated - riding is the main attraction be it ‘stick and ball’ polo or rides in the spectacular countryside, but there are also enjoyable walks, local excursions or you might relax by the pool.

Estancia Huechahue, Argentina

The estancia is a quintessential part of Argentine folklore, and nowhere is this better illustrated than at Huechahue, Jane Williams’ 15,000-acre working cattle ranch in the Andean foothills of northern Patagonia. Life here is always an adventure, and a stay in this unique and beautiful place is a delightful experience.

There are three comfortable guest lodges, housing a total of 8 attractive en suite rooms, just a short stroll from the main house. Each lodge has a communal sitting room whilst meals are taken in the main house. Riding is the main attraction here and ranges from gentle outings on the estancia to full treks. Guests can also swim or fish at the Alumine River, enjoy superb bird watching or take local excursions.

Riding in Uruguay

One of the best ways to explore this small and little known country is to join an 8-night riding adventure. In the company of entertaining and skilled gauchos, these rides combine the diverse landscape with special visits, magnificent wildlife and nights spent at authentic working estancias and comfortable beachside hotels.

The journey takes you across the rolling grassland pastures of large estancias and into the forests of National Parks, over shifting sand dunes and along spectacular deserted beaches on the Atlantic coast, through palm groves, and past wetlands teeming with wildfowl. The pace is fast but the grassy pastures and firm beaches allow this on the wonderful Criollo horses. A very special adventure.