Fire Horse Wanderlust

Fire Horse Wanderlust

With the Year of the Fire Horse kicking off on February 17, 2026, the Lunar New Year ushered in a bold moment for travel defined by movement, freedom, passion, and momentum. Occurring only once every 60 years, the Fire Horse year amplifies the Horse’s natural drive and independence making 2026 an especially compelling year to spotlight trips rooted in action, exploration, and vitality.

Hotel Drover in the Fort Worth Stockyards, TX

There is no better place to hang your hat, kick up your boots, and celebrate the Year of the Horse than the rustic-luxe Hotel Drover. Named after the cowboys who once roamed the Texas plains, this 200-room property is nestled in the heart of the Fort Worth Stockyards, a historic district renowned for its authentic Western roots. Guests can immerse themselves in the

history and culture of Fort Worth by exploring the historic district: giddy up at The Cowtown Coliseum, the world’s only year-round rodeo; go horseback riding down the original Chisholm Trail; take a stroll through the John Wayne Museum; explore Mule Alley (transformed from restored 100-year-old horse and mule barns) and watch the world’s only twicedaily cattle drive, where real Texas cowhands drive a herd of Texas longhorns down East Exchange Avenue

The Ritz-Carlton O‘ahu, Turtle Bay | O'ahu, Hawaii

The Ritz-Carlton O‘ahu, Turtle Bay invites guests to experience the island’s equestrian heritage in unforgettable ways Rooted in the history of the Paniolo, Hawaiian cowboys who blended Spanish horsemanship with local traditions, the resort’s offerings bring this rich culture to

life. At the weekly Paniolo Dinner Show, set against the backdrop of the property’s working Horse Stables, guests are immersed in the spirit of the Hawaiian cowboy. The evening unfolds with a locally inspired feast and pig roast, live music, and storytelling that celebrates Hawai‘i’s ranching history Guests are invited to join in traditional lūʻau dances led by professional performers before the night concludes with a breathtaking fire knife finale. Beyond the festivities, the stables provide opportunities for riders of all levels to connect with horses and the natural beauty of O‘ahu’s North Shore As the only resort on island with year-round horses, guests can ride oceanfront trails and seaside pathways, exploring the 12 miles of beautiful paths and beaches on the North Shore The resort offers a plethora of riding opportunities including Sunset Rides, Horsemanship 101, Trail Rides, Pony Meet + Greets and more.

Under Canvas | Nationwide Gallop headfirst into the Year of the Horse with Under Canvas, the leader in outdoor hospitality. With locations set near the country’s most iconic national parks and monuments, guests can saddle up to explore some of the nation’s most scenic trails and landscapes. The camp’s upscale, safari-inspired accommodations embrace their natural

surroundings while featuring indoor luxuries, and there’s no better place for travelers to reconnect with nature and within themselves, horseback riding in these destinations:

· Under Canvas Lake Powell-Grand Staircase

o Enjoy an exclusive horseback adventure led by professional cowboys, starting right from the Under Canvas lobby tent! Perfect for all skill levels, this scenic ride takes you to a breathtaking Lake Powell overlook, usually accessible only by off-road vehicles

Under Canvas Mount Rushmore

o Start your day with a private hike through the Black Hills, followed by a peaceful picnic surrounded by nature Then, take in the area's rugged beauty on a serene horseback ride through the Black Hills National Forest for the ultimate blend of adventure and relaxation

· Under Canvas North Yellowstone-Paradise Valley

o Embark on an unforgettable horseback adventure through Montana’s AbsarokaBeartooth Wilderness or Yellowstone National Park, with private or group rides Guided by local experts, you’ll traverse private ranches, ascend into the mountains, or journey across serene valleys and meadows, discovering cultural heritage, spotting wildlife, and taking in breathtaking views complete with the option of a scenic trail lunch on extended rides.

· Under Canvas West Yellowstone

o Saddle up for guided horseback rides through Gallatin National Forest, with options ranging from one hour to four, including evening rides and extended journeys with a trail lunch Along the way, you’ll pass towering pines, wildflower meadows, and hidden lakes, while keeping an eye out for elk, moose, and deer for a true Montana wilderness experience

Under Canvas Zion

o Join professional cowboys in an amazing ride to explore the epic scenery and terrain during the morning, afternoon, or evening Saddle up for a ride overlooking towering sandstone cliffs, deep canyons carved by the Virgin River, and beautiful landscapes – a true western experience in the heart of Zion National Park

Under Canvas North Yellowstone

· Cataloochee Ranch, a Relais & Châteaux property, | Maggie Valley, NC

o Located just 40 minutes from Asheville and an hour from Tryon International Equestrian Center, overnight and daytime guests alike can embark on an exhilarating journey upon horseback through the Great Smoky Mountains at Cataloochee Ranch, a recently reopened adventure-focused destination with a new luxurious flare Beginner to advanced riders can seize the reins for private or group trail rides across the 400-acre property and beyond, witnessing historical sights and majestic views, or choose to embark on a ride to Gooseberry Knob at Cataloochee’s esteemed sister property, The Swag, ending in a chef's picnic at 5,000-foot elevation Cataloochee Ranch offers a variety of other adventurous activities-- treetop adventure course, axe throwing, expert-led hikes, and more -tastefully paired with luxurious stand-alone cabins and elevated dining.

· Cataloochee Ranch, a Relais & Châteaux property, | Maggie Valley, NC

o Located just 40 minutes from Asheville and an hour from Tryon International Equestrian Center, overnight and daytime guests alike can embark on an exhilarating journey upon horseback through the Great Smoky Mountains at Cataloochee Ranch, a recently reopened adventure-focused destination with a new luxurious flare. Beginner to advanced riders can seize the reins for private or group trail rides across the 400-acre property and beyond, witnessing historical sights and majestic views, or choose to embark on a ride to Gooseberry Knob at Cataloochee’s esteemed sister property, The Swag, ending in a chef's picnic at 5,000-foot elevation. Cataloochee Ranch offers a variety of other adventurous activities-- treetop adventure course, axe throwing, expert-led hikes, and more -tastefully paired with luxurious stand-alone cabins and elevated dining.

· The Horse Shoe Farm | Hendersonville, NC Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains just south of Asheville sits The Horse Shoe Farm, a once bustling cattle farm that transformed into a one-of-a-kind boutique hotel.

Taking its name from the horseshoe-shaped bend the French Broad River carves into the surrounding landscape, this picturesque retreat is a haven for equestrian enthusiasts Often greeted upon check-in by the property’s resident black stallions, Nelson and Marley (who are named after some of the owner's favorite musicians, wink wink), days on the farm are best spent frolicking around and taking advantage of everything it has to offer from feeding the boys (and the other farm animals) to unparalleled wellness experiences in the property’s horse-stable-turned-Spa, selfreflection in The Grains of Truth Silo Tower, communal dining that offers the best in farmto-table cuisine at The Silo Cookhouse, and so much more. While Nelson and Marley are also in vacay mode and don't offer horseback riding on-site, the hotel can arrange trail rides through an outfitter nearby for rides through the Pisgah National Forest. Better yet, for guests who are traveling with their own horses, the hotel offers guests the ability for them to stay on property, too, and be boarded in their paddocks.

Pisgah View Ranch – Candler, NC - A beloved Western-style dude ranch near Asheville with horseback riding, rustic cabins, and sweeping mountain views Great for families and group getaways.

· Clear Creek Ranch – Burnsville, NCNestled in the Pisgah National Forest, this peaceful ranch offers all-inclusive stays, horseback riding, and a relaxing mountain escape with old-school charm.

· Leatherwood Mountains Resort –Ferguson, NC - A luxury mountain retreat with vacation homes, an equestrian center, over 75 miles of private trails, and upscale amenities perfect for horse lovers

River Valley Stables & Lodging – Lake Lure, NC - A charming ranch near Chimney Rock offering guided trail rides, cozy cabins, and easy access to one of NC’s most scenic regions.

Las Catalinas | Guanacaste, Costa Rica

Located on the Guanacaste Coast of Costa Rica, Las Catalinas is a vibrant car-free beach town founded on the principles of New Urbanism, a model for how thoughtful community design can foster healthier, more connected, and a more sustainable way of life Guests and residents can take part in guided horseback rides through La Estancia and Sugar Beach, led along the hillside of Vivero La Estancia and through a path of untouched tropical dry forest, culminating at a scenic ocean viewpoint. From there, riders may descend to Sugar Beach, known locally as Playa Pan de Azúcar. The horses of La Estancia Canela, Luna, Cangrejo, Palomo, Lucero, Juancho, and Jalapeño are happy, healthy, and cared for daily They stretch their legs in open pasture during the day and rest at night in

spacious, individual stalls that provide comfort and security. Throughout the experience, guests and residents of Las Catalinas learn about La Finca and Las Catalinas’ current and future initiatives, as well as their Collective Impact efforts within the community.

Triple Creek Ranch, a Relais & Châteaux property | Bitterroot Valley, MT

At Triple Creek Ranch, horseback riding is a year-round activity – guests can saddle up at Rider’s Roost and set out with a wrangler through wildflower meadows in spring, under blue mountain skies in summer, among the richly scented needles of the ponderosa pine forest in fall or across freshly fallen snow in winter. For more adventure, try a crosscountry ride on Triple Creek’s beautiful 26,000-acre CB Ranch from May through midOctober, with breathtaking mountain vistas, wildlife and a delicious packed lunch prepared by the kitchen. Or bring out your inner cowboy or cowgirl on a cattle drive from June through September, helping move anywhere from 100 to 800 head of cattle. (Rider's Roost rides included a nightly rate; additional fee for CB Ranch rides and cattle drives ) When you’re done for the day, savor gourmet cuisine and an award-winning wine cellar in the main lodge before retiring to your private, cozy cabin for the night

Magee Homestead, a Relais & Châteaux property | Saratoga, WY

The all-inclusive, adults-only Magee Homestead provides guests with an unparalleled range of luxury ranch activities and endless opportunities to explore the surrounding landscape. Our bespoke horseback riding experiences are tailored to the riding level of each individual guest and include group or private trail rides across our pristine meadowlands; cattle drives; private riding lessons which can include general horsemanship, barrel racing, pole bending, arena games and team penning; and full day rides with a picnic lunch.

Blackberry Farm, a Relais & Châteaux property | Walland, TN

Blackberry Pony Time is designed for children of all ages and their families This confidence building experience includes an introduction to grooming and leading a mini horse or pony. Each child will have leadline time on horseback Not to miss, guests can experience an introduction to the philosophy and practice of Natural Horsemanship- learn to speak the language of the horse and establish an appropriate relationship Savor the opportunity to “join up” with a horse in the round pen, explore the essence of the human/

horse relationship through non-verbal communication, action and perception. Arrive seeking an understanding of the horse and leave with a powerful connection. Ages eight and up Only offered when paired with a Field and Stream Trail ride.

Coworth Park | Ascot - Berkshire

Set just 45 minutes from London, Coworth Park is a luxury country house hotel and spa that offers guests the chance to explore the beautiful Berkshire countryside by horse Guests are invited to discover the enchanting beauty of the estate through horse riding experiences including expert escorted rides, as well as private/and group lessons With Coworth Park’s own Polo fields (only hotel in UK with) and an exceptional equestrian center; current facilities include stabling for 30 horses together with self-contained accommodation for grooms; guests can connect with nature, find tranquility, and uncover hidden gems that may be inaccessible by foot or car.

Pendry Natirar | Somerset County, NJ

Somerset County is home to some of the region’s most idyllic horseback riding trails and excursions, offering riders a serene and scenic experience amidst rolling hills and lush landscapes. At Pendry Natirar, an in-house team of experts is available to guide guests to the best equestrian offerings, ensuring a memorable and tailored adventure. The most notable locations include: Lord Stirling Stable in Basking Ridge (features 14 miles of wellmaintained trails across 450 acres) or the Watchung Reservation (a vast natural area offering picturesque trails that meander through woodlands and fields). Back at the property, guests can enjoy countryside charm at its finest, complemented by seasonal experiences such as Pumpkin Patch & Paint events, Mat Pilates and scenic fitness walks, seasonal farm tours and more The resort’s 500acre grounds offer opportunities for hiking and exploring – ideal to experience the countryside in its full autumnal glory

Unique to WildLand, the Pony Picnic begins with the team preparing a generous picnic using seasonal local ingredients, which is then packed onto the back of a trusty Highland pony. Led by WildLand’s keepers and a guide, guests set out across Cairngorms National Park through forest tracks and open moorland to find the perfect spot to pause, often beside a river, on a quiet hillside, or with sweeping

iews across the estate, before settling in for lunch and stories of the land’s restoration.

alongside a choice of dining options, including Scotland’s only 2 Michelin-starred restaurant.

Blackberry Farm

· Available to book from both Glenfeshie Lodge and Killiehuntly Farmhouse, the pony picnic captures WildLand’s ethos in one experience: low-impact, deeply connected to place, and shaped by the people doing the conservation work on the ground

Head to Scotland’s Gleneagles for the Ultimate Equestrian Break

· No visit to Gleneagles is complete without heading outside to breathe in the Perthshire air and experience a country pursuit – with over 50 on offer, including an extensive programme for avid equestrians.

· Whether guests are total beginners looking to try a new sport, improve their show jumping skills, or master the art of classical dressage, the sporting estate offers expert tuition from highly qualified coaches

· To take in the Scottish surroundings from the saddle, guests can choose from estate riding experiences including the relaxing “Countryside Walk” or an exciting hack, following an assessment to match guests with their perfect mount.

· For adrenaline-seeking riders, a Cross Country lesson is a must-do, with over 60 fixed fences ranging from 20cm high to over 1 metre, and a variety of horses to introduce guests to the discipline or improve their skills

· To wind down, The Spa at Gleneagles offers treatments inspired by, and containing, botanicals from the Scottish landscape,

BALLYFIN, COUNTY LAOIS: DISCOVER 614 ACRES OF HISTORY BY IRISH DRAUGHT HORSE

· Set at the foot of the Slieve Bloom Mountains in County Laois, Ballyfin is one of Ireland’s most distinguished country house hotels. The restored Regency mansion sits within 614 acres of parkland, lakes and formal gardens, offering a rare sense of scale and privacy

· Ballyfin’s equine experiences offer an enchanting way to discover Ballyfin’s story beyond the main house, with horse-andcarriage rides led by Head Butler Lionel taking guests on a winding journey through the estate’s history and lesser known secrets.

· For guests looking to take the reins, horse trekking and riding lessons with experienced guides take visitors through hidden meadows, past the majestic tower and along the centrepiece lake, with routes tailored to different levels of experience.

· Afterwards, dining reflects the estate and region, with seasonal Irish produce, ingredients from the working kitchen garden and foraged finds, served across both formal rooms and more relaxed settings within the house.

Château Troplong

Château Troplong Mondot places horses at the centre of its sustainable viticulture, with twelve resident horses fully ploughing the vineyard from March to November, reducing soil compaction and supporting biodiversity.

· The estate has farmed without insecticides or herbicides for over 30 years, with equinepowered cultivation forming a key part of its long-term environmental approach.

· Animals play an integral role across the estate, from vineyard horses to Indian runner ducks used for natural pest control, alongside pigs and chickens that recycle organic waste.

· Sustainability extends beyond the vineyard to the wider property, from a zero single-use plastic policy to eco-conscious accommodation heated using recycled vine shoots.

· The estate’s Michelin-starred restaurant, Les Belles Perdrix, holds both a Michelin Star and Green Star, reflecting a broader commitment to responsible land stewardship from soil to table

TROT THROUGH TUSCANY’S MAREMMA REGION WITH HORSEBACK RIDING EXPERIENCES AT CASTELLO DI VICARELLO

· Located in the heart of the beautiful Maremma region of Tuscany, Castello di Vicarello is an exclusive, award-winning 12thcentury castle hotel, owned by the BaccheschiBerti family and offering private horseback riding experiences

Set across nearly 100 acres of centuries-old vineyards and olive groves, the property was hand-picked for its exquisite location, offering seclusion and rolling views across the Tuscan countryside

· Guests can choose from three private, twohour riding routes that explore the Maremma hills, the Monte Labbro nature reserve or the Maremma coastline.

· Experiences can be arranged for individuals or small groups and tailored to both seasoned and novice riders

THE IMMERSIVE HORSEBACK RIDING EXPERIENCE ACROSS THE MAREMMA

AT LA ROQQA

· LA ROQQA’s horseback riding experiences offer a remarkable way to explore the natural and cultural wonders of Monte Argentario and the southern Maremma Guests traverse sundappled trails winding through silvery olive groves, fragrant rosemary fields, and rugged Mediterranean terrain, all framed by sweeping views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the protected Orbetello Lagoon.

· Guests begin with gentle paths across historic farms, forming a bond with their horses before venturing onto ancient Etruscan trails, hidden valleys, and dramatic coastal routes.

· Rides cater to all levels, from gentle farm trails to longer, more challenging coastal treks, offering an immersive, restorative encounter with Tuscany where history, nature, and the spirit of the Maremma converge

AND LOCAL

FROM OKU KOS

· OKU Kos, is an adult-only village-style beach hideaway located on the shores of the Aegean Sea

· Inspired by the laid-back Greek way of life, the property offers 100 spacious guest rooms, including suites with private and semi-private pools and a handful of private two-bedroom villas for the ultimate secluded luxury

· Just moments away from the resort, OKU Kos’ private beach is connected to the property by wooden walkways; where guests can choose from sunbeds lining the shore, or further up the banks, spacious open air cabanas dotted throughout the dunes

· Beyond the hotel, OKU Kos works closely with local partners to connect guests with the island’s landscape and traditions One of the standout experiences is horse riding through Kos’ coastal and rural scenery

· Guided rides depart close to the resort and take guests along sandy tracks, open countryside and stretches of coastline. Rides are tailored to experience level, making them suitable for both beginners and confident riders, and are often scheduled for early morning or late afternoon to capture the softer light and cooler temperatures

OKU Kos offers a considered base from which to explore the island, while returning each day to a calm, design-led setting

DISCOVER SUMBA ON HORSEBACK WITH NIHI SUMBA’S NATIVE SANDALWOOD HORSES

· At NIHI Sumba, a remote hideaway on Indonesia’s Sumba island, with just 28 villas set across a vast, protected landscape, horse riding is a core part of the experience. The resort’s Sandalwood Stables run from the white sands of Nihiwatu Beach up towards the sanctuary of Nihioka Spa, and NIHI’s local horses feature across a wide range of riding and equine-led activities for all experience levels

Guests can ride with guides along back tracks that pass rice paddies, villages and open hillsides, before reaching NIHI’s 2.5km private beach, with the option to pick up the pace and gallop along the shoreline early in the day.

· For confident riders, NIHI can also arrange the opportunity to swim bareback with the horses in the Indian Ocean, which has become a signature experience based from the beach.

· For something quieter, the Equine Connection Programme offers grounded, therapeutic sessions focused on mindfulness, movement and time alongside the horses, with equine-led wellness options including horse yoga, horse massage and horse reiki Whether out on the trails or at the stables, it’s a considered way to experience Sumba’s landscapes and local horse culture.

BAWAH

THE YEAR OF THE FIRE HORSE AT THE ENDS OF THE EARTH

· The Year of the Fire Horse arrives as a rare and powerful moment in the Chinese zodiac, marked by intense energy, transformation, and bold action occurring once every 60 years.

· Accessible only by private seaplane, Bawah Reserve is Indonesia’s earth-first, ultra-remote resort, located just 120 nautical miles from Singapore, where guests can mark this rare occasion with an island escape that channels that spirit in the most restorative ways.

· Shaped by freedom and movement, guests can channel unstoppable momentum with sunrise yoga, open-water swims, hiking, and paddleboarding, and recharge with grounding rituals at the Aura Wellbeing Sanctuary.

· Among Bawah’s 36 accommodations, travelers can opt for bamboo-made Garden Suites, luxurious tented-safari style Beachfront Suites, or intimate Overwater Bungalows, each offering comfort, privacy, and direct access to the white-sand beach or clear blue sea that surrounds Bawah. Just a three-minute boat ride away from the main island sits Elang Private Residence, home to six cliffside lodges on a previously untouched island for visitors seeking an ultra-remote experience with groups of up to 20 guests.

AWASI MENDOZA, ARGENTINA

TRAVERSE

ACROSS THE FOOTHILLS OF THE ANDES, GAUCHO-STYLE

· Awasi Mendoza, formerly known as Cavas Wine Lodge, was the first luxury lodge to open at the foothills of the Andes, nestled in the Agrelo district of Luján de Cuyo - the beating heart of Argentina’s celebrated wine region Here, each guest enjoys private guides and bespoke customized itineraries including exclusive horseback rides led by local gauchos.

· Riders have the opportunity to gear up in traditional gaucho attire before setting out, traversing the open plains alongside expert horsemen – guardians of the land for generations

· Experience the region from a new perspective by pausing for panoramic mountain views, quiet moments among the vineyards, or learning to gallop across the rolling fields while taking in some of the world’s most breathtaking views at the foothills of the Andes

After a day of horseback riding, unwind and savor Argentina’s Asado tradition on property, with a private chef grilling local specialties paired with estate wines in the brand-new open-air kitchen, offering sweeping views of the Andes.

Set amidst 35 exclusive acres of vineyards, this sun-drenched sanctuary enjoys over 300 days of sunshine annually, a climate that has nurtured generations of Italian and Spanish immigrant winemaking traditions

TRAILS IN THE COLCA VALLEY

Pioneering and family-owned, Andean is a hand-crafted collection of intimate properties and bespoke journeys through Southern Peru’s most awe-inspiring and lesser-known destinations

· Deep in the heart of the Colca Valley, one of the world’s deepest canyons, PUQIO sits amongst sweeping grasslands and untrodden pathways awaiting exploration, with its intimate tented hamlets offering a blend of raw wilderness and understated luxury

· Horse riding is one of the most compelling ways guests experience the valley. Guided by local experts, rides follow ancient trails used for generations, crossing open plains, high-altitude pastures and dramatic canyon edges

· The experience offers a quiet, immersive way to understand the scale of the landscape and its cultural history, with routes adapted to each guest’s riding ability and interests. Encounters with grazing vicuñas, traditional shepherd settlements and expansive Andean horizons are common along the way

· Each stay includes all meals, beverages and snacks, along with the guidance of an Exploration Advisor

THE SPIRIT OF THE AMERICAN WEST ON HORSEBACK AT LONE MOUNTAIN RANCH, MONTANA

· Established in 1915, Lone Mountain Ranch in Big Sky, Montana has welcomed adventurous travelers for more than a century, with horses central to ranch life and experienced wranglers guiding riders of all ages and abilities. Each winter, the herd winters offsite in Twin Bridges, Montana, returning in spring after a period of “legging up” for trail rides, rodeos, and wagon pulling.

· The roughly 100-horse herd spans quarter horses to drafts, including a Gypsy Vanner and a Friesian, aged from one to 34. Each horse has a unique name and holds a special place within their close-knit community, from the eldest Jester, who has been making the trip for 32 years, to the youngest, Levi, born at Lone Mountain Ranch. Children fall in love with Strawberry Wine, a 25 year old who has been at the ranch for 19 years, while confident riders grow fond of Goose, the most handsome halfdraft who is a blast to ride

· Trail rides trace the North Fork of the Gallatin River with sweeping views of Lone Peak, while experienced riders can advance to loping rides, lunch rides, all-day excursions, or arena lessons

· Twice-weekly horsemanship clinics deepen the rider–horse connection, Tuesday summer rodeos feature bull riding, barrel racing, and ranch roping, and guests are always welcome to visit the stables, stopping by The Outpost to pick carrots for the horses.

In the winter, the legendary sleigh ride dinner invites families and friends to bundle up and set off in a horse-drawn sleigh, arriving at an oil-lantern-lit cabin for a family-style prime rib dinner accompanied by cowboy singerstorytellers who bring the evening to life with music and tales