For a true taste of the wild west, head to America's lone-star state on an action-packed ranching holiday.
Whether you fancy yourself as a bit of a cowboy or are just bored of the usual resort holiday, a ranching trip might be just the thing you are looking for.
If like me, you have little riding experience, this needn't put you off as many ranches cater for all levels of abilities. I opted for the Beaumont Ranch (website: www.beaumontranch.com) in Texas, home of the Stetson-toting cowboy, and they are well versed in handling complete novices, such as me, up to the more experienced rider.
With its own herd of Texas longhorns, horses, two huge events barns and central location near Austin, Dallas and Fort Worth, the vast 323-hectare (800-acre) Beaumont Ranch is perfect for those looking for the ultimate taste of Texas, both in the saddle and out of it.
I first arrived at the Beaumont Ranch in the dead of night, unaware of the stunning scenery and active farmland that surrounded me. However, the ranching experience immediately began when I was shown into my impressive suite. Each room has been especially designed to emulate Texas at the end of the 19th century, and certainly set the scene for the week to come.
After waking at dawn, and marvelling at my stunning lake view, it was time to get stuck into my western experience. My first day on the ranch saw me practising lassoing skills, and quite frankly, mine required a bit of work. Apparently it's all in a well-timed snap of the wrist used to encircle the cow, or in my case a plastic longhorn, and proved a lot harder than it looked but highly entertaining nonetheless.
One of the best things about the Beaumont Ranch is the choice in activities on offer. For those looking for the complete cowboy experience you can opt for activities such as branding, cattle drives, fence checking, horse riding and overnight camping trips. Alternatively, those looking for a less hands-on experience can partake in a country dance lesson, enjoy a round of golf or relax with a spot of fishing at the well-stocked pond.
Personally, I opted for the more active experience and decided to saddle up and ride out with the longhorns in true cowgirl manner. Sat astride my sturdy steed, Black Jack, many a morning was spent trekking out in search of the cattle and then helping the experts herd them up. Being a complete city slicker, the beautiful blue sky, rolling hills and vast open plains made the ride a completely unforgettable experience.
My last night on the ranch was spent relaxing in true western style as we sat around the flickering campfire toasting smores - a delicious mixture of toasted marshmallows, chocolate and biscuits. This favoured snack of the modern-day cowboy certainly made great campfire fodder and the perfect end to a fantastic ranching holiday in the lone-star state.
For more information contact the State of Texas Tourism Office at www.traveltex.com.
Alternative ranching destinations:
Estancia Huechahue, Argentina
Situated 1,609km (1000 miles) southwest of Buenos Aires, Estancia Huechahue is a 6,070-hectare (15,000-acre) self sufficient working ranch. Ride against the stunning mountain panorama with the Andes rising majestically on one side and the vast Patagonian expanses stretching out on the other. Rides take in the vast array of wildlife, Indian reservations and Indian burial caves, formed during previous eras of volcanic activity. Follow the Huechahue stream through the basalt canyons, where you can break into a canter through the water meadows.
Price: From £159 per person per night.
Booking: Unicorn Trails (website: www.unicorntrails.com).
Horizon Ranch, South Africa
This 10,000-hectare (24,710-acre) ranch lies deep within the Waterberg Mountains and is home to the Baber family who have been operating the working cattle and game ranch for over a century. The ranch offers varied and exciting riding for those of all levels - with long and short rides at various paces available. Join in on the daily cattle work or head to the neighbouring game reserve where you can catch a glimpse of giraffe, zebra and many more game species.
Price: From £109 per person per night.
Booking: Unicorn Trails (website: www.unicorntrails.com).
La Reata Ranch, Canada
La Reata Ranch is a unique working ranch nestled in the beautiful Saskatchewan river valley, overlooking the sandy shores of Lake Diefenbaker. Experience the cowboy way of life with a ride across the rolling prairies. Depending on season visitors can assist in the calving, branding, doctoring and cattle drives. After a hard day's work you can head down to the lake for swimming, canoeing, fishing and boating or hike up the backdrop of rolling hills where you can see anything from deer and owls to golden eagles and pelicans.
Price: From £995 per person per week.
Booking: La Reata Ranch (website: www.lareata.com).
Julthorp Ranch, Sweden
After visiting Montana, Lollo and Eva Nilsson decided to set up Sweden's first western-style ranch. Situated an hour's drive northeast of Gothenburg, Julthorp Ranch is the closest thing to a traditional American ranch in Europe - complete with animal heads adorning the walls and booted cowboys greeting you at the door. However, there is one thing missing and that's the cattle. Although technically a riding school, the saloons and roping lesson give you a taste of a real working farm, without getting your hands dirty.
Price: From £350 per person for two nights full-board.
Booking: Julthorp Ranch (website: www.julthorpranch.se).
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