We had a really nice time at Vino Vaqueros. Our group did the 9am ride, which ended up being a great call as the weather was cool and comfortable, and it made the whole experience more enjoyable. Char was our guide, and she struck a good balance of keeping things relaxed while still making sure everyone felt comfortable, especially since a few people in our group hadn't been horseback riding before. I rode Boomer, who was steady and easy to ride, and we appreciated that they gave a simple safety overview before heading out. After the ride, we did a casual tasting of both a red and white wine and then chose a glass of our favorite to hang with. The setting was quiet and pretty, and it felt low-key in the best possible way. One of the dogs Nana even joined us for the ride. Overall, it was a calm, well-paced outing that felt thoughtfully run without being overly structured. read more

Vino Vaqueros Horseback Riding - View from the ride - Horseback Riding Near Me - Los Olivos, California

See all

Had a lovely time on our trail ride! Some of the horses were a bit stubborn at times, but whatcha gonna do? Just added some amusement and laughs to the experience hahaha. Our two guides were great and one took plenty of pictures during the ride, which was really nice because we got to have those memories documented without worrying about having our phones out while on horseback. The trail itself was a beautiful view of the springtime flower blooms on the hills. I'd recommend bringing a hat or sunglasses because it can be a bit bright, and there's room for a water bottle in the saddle bags. read more

Vino Vaqueros Horseback Riding - Horseback Riding Near Me - Los Olivos, California

My fiancé surprised me with horseback riding for my birthday, and we had the most incredible time! Christy, our guide, was amazing and we loved our horses. Would recommend to anyone on their trip to SYV! read more

Had the best time!! Stunning views, a great guide, beautiful horses. 10/10 recommend. I can't wait to come back.

My daughter bought me a Gift certificate to Vino Vaqueros knowing i would LOVE to get back in the saddle... i had emergency back surgery and was unable to use G C, was told by my Back Dr that riding horses was not a good idea for me to ride ever again. i called this company about refund and was told that they don't give refund but she was going to double check with??? i never heard from this company again and my daughter never got a refund. Looks like the company does well, i hope to hear from them soon. UPDATE: i just got a response from owner, Thank you J for getting back to me immediately. Owner is looking into this and working to help me out. Thank you so much. UPDATE #2 Wowza Owner has been very quick at getting this resolved, No refunds on Gift Certificates, but Gifts Certificates DO NOT expire so i can give it to a friend or family member to use, if they don't want to use it i will donate to a charity auction. All is good now. Thank you read more

Dara was an amazing guide, and she taught us a lot about riding. The views were breathtaking, and the weather was phenomenal!! I highly recommend Vino Vaqueros Horseback Riding. Oh, and dogs!! Loved them all, Nana, Roger, and Milo were the best hangout buddies while drinking our wine. Very nice wine as well. Nana did the whole course with us, as if she was keeping an eye on us. We had a blast for my birthday and can't wait to go back. read more

Vino Vaqueros Horseback Riding - The ladies of the ranch and some of the horses!! Shout out to Scout & Harley!! - Horseback Riding Near Me - Los Olivos, California

See all

What a blast riding horses through Santa Ynez hills! Our trail boss Kristy made the entire ride enjoyable for my wife and I. Our horses, Harley and Boomer, behaved nicely and also seemed to enjoy the ride. Would definitely recommend this activity! We are not big winos but enjoyed the wines at the end of our ride. The drive out to the ranch is enjoyable with lots to see. We went to nearby Roblar Winery after and enjoyed the outdoor seating and food. Vino Vaqueros is the best! Thank you Kristy!! read more

my friend and I had a wonderful ride through the vineyards near Los Olivos with Vino Vaqueros. We are both experienced horsewomen and were very impressed with the horses and the scenery. Rex was a fabulous leader and we heartily recommend. read more

I hadn't been on a horse since I was 7 or 8 years old, so when my roommate suggested horseback riding I was like uhhhh But I'm glad that she pushed me to do it again, because I ended up having a great time at Vino Vaqueros. Charlene was firm enough to know how to properly handle the horses, but laid back enough to where I felt I shouldn't be too worried about their behavior. The deal was pretty good; for $150 you get over an hour-long ride and a wine tasting afterward. The views are breathtaking and the stables and barn areas were really clean. Charlene made sure we felt comfortable with her removing her mask at a far enough distance from us, but for the first time in a while it felt normal to be maskless. The horse I rode, Nacho, was mostly pretty well behaved but did bite at one of the other horses a few times whenever he got next to him. He's a more experienced horse, so most people should be fine on him as long as they pay attention to how close the other horses are getting. I felt that the wine tasting was a bit rushed and there was probably a bit more to be said about each wine than was said, but alcohol is alcohol so I drank it and didn't complain. Charlene was also generous with pours and when we paid an extra $10 for an extra jar of wine, we felt it was well worth it. She also took some really cute pictures of us! In general, we felt the experience was worth it. My recommendations to you: -wear sunscreen if you have fair skin -wear comfortable clothes and shoes that you don't mind getting dirty/dusty because they all will -remember that horses are huge and tall and that you won't fall off just by sitting on one -bring a packed lunch or charcuterie box AND WATER to enjoy during your post-ride wine tasting read more

See all

Amazing experience. Booked this as a gift for my husband's birthday, as well as our anniversary. Our wrangler, Mary was just lovely and made it a wonderful ride. We loved and enjoyed the experience as it was a first for both my husband and myself riding. Would definitely do it again if we come back to the area. read more

See all

We had a ride with Char yesterday and had the best time. She was so knowledgeable and our ride was so beautiful and peaceful. We will definitely be back! read more

My friend and I randomly decided to go horseback riding since we couldn't make the trip to Big Sur anymore and I'm glad we did. This was by far the highlight of our weekend in the santa ynez area. The people running the business are safe and made sure everything was sprayed down appropriately for us. They walked through how to communicate to the horse and it was really easy. We went on a 90 mins tour through the vineyard and a neighboring canyon area. It was really nice to take in the views. My horse was a little slow but really cute and friendly. The woman who owns the business is sweet. After you go through your tour they have a small cabana where they let you taste two wines and then choose which one you'd like a glass of. The rose is really good! I thought the experience was a little pricey but then again I've only been horseback riding one other time. Wish there was an option for 45 or 60 mins for a lower price. Thanks so much read more

See all

We just experienced this, and we had a blast! It was everything we expected and more. Charlene, our guide, was great and patient with us first-timers. The trail was surreal and peaceful. It had just rained the day before, so the air was clear, the wind was calm, and the scenery was just perfect. My wife and I come up to the Santa Ynez Valley every December. This experience will be part of our regular routine from now on. Highly recommended!!!! read more

See all

My daughter and I booked a ride for a Saturday morning, we received very detailed instructions and directions for how to arrive. We were greeted by the most friendly person (Charlene) as we approached. We proceeded on our ride through the beautiful hills and vineyards with Nana (the ranch dog) by our side. Charlene made sure to take amazing photos of my daughter and I as we rode so we didn't have to worry about it. We were happy to just be able to take it all in without grabbing our camera to document the beauty. At the end of our ride Charlene offered us each a glass of rosé and we relaxed in the shade and soaked up the view and great conversation. Highly recommend requesting Charlene if you book a ride!!! read more

Vino Vaqueros Horseback Riding - Ride through the beautiful vineyard - Horseback Riding Near Me - Los Olivos, California

ABSOLUTELY THE BEST. To whomever said they aren't COVID friendly, that is absolutely false. Jaye and her team are incredibly professional, and the friendliest group of people. We have been doing weekly trail rides throughout the pandemic and never once felt that our safety was compromised. HIGHLY recommended! read more

Vino Vaqueros Horseback Riding - Horseback Riding Near Me - Los Olivos, California

The perfect little experience on my weekend getaway. The horses are so well behaved and as a first time rider I felt so safe and cared for. Our guide made sure to pair us with an appropriate sized horse and made us comfortable in the saddle. The views are gorgeous, the location is relaxing, and it ends with a glass of wine! Truly a 10/10 experience. After all this California rain, the hills and valleys were so green. It felt like walking through a slice of heaven. read more

Vino Vaqueros Horseback Riding - Horseback Riding Near Me - Los Olivos, California

We had so much fun! Amazing trails, beautiful horses and Andrew led the way!! He was awesome! I brought cheese and wine to finish off our experience and what a great time!THANK YOU read more

Vino Vaqueros Horseback Riding - We had a blast! Thank you Andrew - Horseback Riding Near Me - Los Olivos, California

Had a great afternoon riding during our girls weekend getaway. Charlene was an excellent guide and my horse Chile was such a good boy. Definitely recommend would definitely come back read more

Vino Vaqueros Horseback Riding - Horseback Riding Near Me - Los Olivos, California

BEST TOUR EVERRRRR! Charlene was me and my fiancés tour guide and she killed it! The horses listened to every command we gave them, they were obedient as can be. The scenery's was unbelievable, Iv never seen a landscape like this property! If you've never been on a horse, you have no need to worry, that's for sure! We also got a complementary glass of wine at the end of the tour. Thanks for the experience Charlene!!!!! read more

See all

Gravy, my horse, was a snack-a-holic. He kept trying to eat trees during the ride, but it was endearing. I was able to keep him off of most greenery, but every now and then he sneakily grabbed a leaf or two. We came by for a late ride, 4pm, on a Sunday afternoon. This ended up being amazing, because it wasn't as hot by that hour and we were able to see the sun set over the hills as we came back. The scenery was a little more brown than I anticipated, but it's the end of the summer and all the rain has died down. Cora, our guide, was lovely. She was super sweet and friendly. We both were able to chat her up during our time on the trail. All the horses were gentle and manageable, and they all seemed happy and well taken care of. The entire experience was a great end to our weekend away from home. At the end of the ride, we sat in the stables with glasses of wine to close out the evening, and it couldn't have been more perfect. I would do this again in a heartbeat and recommend it to anyone looking for a fun activity in the area. read more

See all

An amazing experience for my birthday our tour guide Andrew was cool took pics with my phone to capture the day ! My husband and I had a wonderful experience ! I had a spicy horse loved it ! Finished up with some wine you gotta visit this place if you visit solvang or the surrounding areas and buy a cute hat to ! read more

See all

Wow! What a beautiful ride through Santa ynez! The staff is great and personable and we felt very safe on our horses. The guide brought her 2 dogs which made the ride more fun! We loved the views and the glass of wine after the ride. Thanks for making g this a memorable trip for my family read more

Char gave us an amazing tour on our mini-moon! We loved the horseback riding and the wine was so great.. what a beautiful location to spend an evening in! Would highly recommend if you're looking for a fun two-hour experience. Try it closer to sunset! read more

Vino Vaqueros Horseback Riding - Horseback Riding Near Me - Los Olivos, California

Charlene was amazing we loved her to much. Couldn't have imagined a better first experience if i could! It is definitely a experience i will never forget and i will continue to talk about for years to come. Amazing views, amazing guide, and amazing wine... formula for the perfect experience! read more

Vino Vaqueros Horseback Riding - Yee-haw - Horseback Riding Near Me - Los Olivos, California

What a great experience - Thank You Megan and Leonard.... they made this experience and amazing one. My wife and I are celebrating our 25th wedding anniversary and they made this experience an AMAZING one. Super helpful and careful as we are inexperienced and too the time to take our picture while we were out on the ridge. Thank you again Megan for your genuine hospitality and care. Wishing you and yours all the best! Kim & Tracy Ewing read more

See all

This was AH MAZING! Charlene and Mary are the best, the property is beautiful, the horses were so fun. Highly recommend, we hung out after and had wine from the vineyard, this is a must! Book it today and be on time! read more

See all

Y'all! This was the best bday gift ever 2/20/21. My husband took me and my parents on this amazing horseback ride. Charlene was a great guide. She helped me and my mom since we were a little nervous about riding. The views were spectacular! I highly recommend this place! read more

Vino Vaqueros Horseback Riding - It was really windy that day, but it was so beautiful!! - Horseback Riding Near Me - Los Olivos, California

My Sister gifted me an amazing ride for my birthday. Charlene was our guide who was so wonderful. She's close to my age but was so warm, friendly and full of great stories. I got to ride Dude. Yes he wants to be in the lead, but the sweet boy listen to my body when I sat down he slowed right back down. I hardly had to use my reins on him at all. read more

Vino Vaqueros Horseback Riding - Dude and Boomer took great care of us. - Horseback Riding Near Me - Los Olivos, California

Amazing experience! My bf and I came to celebrate our anniversary and the guide was so so sweet and kind. The views were breathtaking and the horses were well trained and calm. We really enjoyed the experience and the wine they provided was delicious. We will definitely be back and recommend this horseback riding to our friends and family. read more

Vino Vaqueros Horseback Riding - Horseback Riding Near Me - Los Olivos, California

See all

Highly recommend this experience. Let loose and enjoy the open space in California wine country. Charlene was our guide and she rocks! All the staff was great. The horses were very mellow. Can't say enough positive things about this ride! read more

See all

Outstanding experience! Charlene was a fantastic guide. She gave us a refresher course on riding, since it had been a while for both of us. Then we mounted up, and went for a ride. The scenery was beautiful, the horses were amazing and the company was to die for. Couldn't recommend more. read more

What an AMAZING DAY!!! Gentle horses with experienced riders that are fun, informative and personable!!! Through the hills and valleys and vineyards!!! Highly recommend! read more

Vino Vaqueros Horseback Riding - Horseback Riding Near Me - Los Olivos, California

We had a wonderful ride through the back country with great views of the Santa Ynez valley and surrounding mountains. Thanks to Andrew for being such a great guide. read more

Vino Vaqueros Horseback Riding - Horseback Riding Near Me - Los Olivos, California

We had a great ride! Beautiful property and fun guide. Highly recommended and look forward to next time!

I had a great time at Vino Vaqueros. Kristy was my group leader, and Chava was my horse. I felt that my horse was well taken care of and very easy to ride. The trail was beautiful, my guide was so pleasant and knowledgeable. I am very impressed by Vino Vaqueros and definitely want to return , and will recommend it to my friends . A perfect riding experience!!! Irene read more

*Please keep in mind that this review is from my experience as a novice rider, my husband (who has lots of experience riding) would give 5 stars... I'll explain why* I booked this experience for my husband and I as a gift for our wedding anniversary. My husband grew up riding horses but has not been on one in 10+ years. I have only ridden on a horse a few times, but am very comfortable around them as we live in an equestrian area and they are around our property constantly. We arrived on time and met our tour guide, Charlene. She was very nice and made us feel comfortable. She looked at the roster and told us we would be riding the horses Nacho and Boomer. She mentioned that the horses did not get along from time to time, and even said something to the effect of "nacho and boomer- really? Are you sure?" I thought this comment was weird and did not sit well with me. Why would they pair 2 horses together that didn't do great together? It gave me a bad gut feeling. I should have listened to it! But I brushed it off and thought these people know what they're doing. So we got a very brief safety rundown and went on our way. A dog tagged along on our ride, who was either the barn working dog or a staff members dog (I can't remember). Our guide said that the dog likes to tag along on a lot of rides and chase animals. In the first 5 minutes of the ride, when we were riding by the grape vines, the dog started chasing an animal and spooked the guide's horse. This caused a chain reaction and spooked the horses my husband and I were riding on. My horse (Nacho) started jumping in the direction towards the fence, my husbands horse (boomer) literally started running in the opposite direction. All I remember hearing was the guide yelling "pull! pull!" So obviously, me- scared as shit- started pulling. Then she yells "stop! stop!" Which I did- and when my horse calmed down she looked and talked to me like I was an absolute idiot. My husband knew exactly what to do in that situation, thank god, and was able to calm his horse on his own. If I would have been on the other horse who bolted, it would most likely have ended very badly. After the horses calmed down, the guide asked if we were ok. My husband was working on getting back to where the guide and I were, the guide looks at me and yells, "what are you doing? You can't do that!". Yelling at me everything I was doing wrong, like somehow I was responsible for the horses freaking out. She was talking about how I was holding the reins incorrectly, and I'm sure I was- because remember this was minute 5 of our ride, have not been on a horse in 12 years, and I literally just thought I was going to get thrown off the horse. I was really shaken up and was holding back tears. My problem with this situation was how rude and unprofessional her demeanor was after the spooking incident. Let me first say, I get that in the heat of a moment, especially when safety is compromised, it is so easy to say things that in hindsight are inappropriate. I get it. I really do. But it still doesn't make it right how she spoke to me. Everyone was lucky that nothing serious happened that resulted in injuries. We continued with our ride after we took a minute to pause, but it really put a huge damper on the whole experience for me. I tried to shake it off but it really bothered me how the guide spoke to me like an idiot after the horses spooked. It made me uneasy to continue with the ride because I didn't know if this would happen again. In the end I pushed through, and it was a beautiful ride- but that experience really ruined it for me. My husband loved it and didn't know how shaken up I was until I could speak with him privately. The spooking incident was no big deal to him- he knew exactly what to do. For me it was freaking terrifying. Here are my recommendations: I'm sure the majority of their customers are novice riders- you MUST include in the safety briefing what to do if a horse gets spooked. Horses can be unpredictable. NO EXCEPTIONS! Not including this is negligent of the company and staff! Do not pair together horses that don't do great together. Part of the problem could have been that the horses didn't trust each other and therefore reacted differently than their norm. Thirdly, do not be rude and belittle your customers for something out of their control. I wish I would have asked for a refund. read more

In December 2020 my husband and I went on the 90 minute trail ride, our guide was Charlene. She is professional and a great guide, as well as quite interesting and informative. The horses are well trained, the dog that walks with you is adorable and the wine was delicious, we bought two bottles. Thank you for the great experience. We felt safe and I don't believe there should be any concern about mask safety. The views were beautiful. We went at 1pm I'm thinking the sunset time frame is even more fantastic. read more

Vino Vaqueros Horseback Riding - Horseback Riding Near Me - Los Olivos, California

This place was incredible. Charlene was a amazing tour guide. Definitely recommend this place! read more

See all

My husband and I went on a 90 minute ride yesterday and we had an amazing time. One of the owners, Jaye, was really great with communicating everything we might need to know before the ride. Andrew was our guide's name and he was really gracious, helpful, and informative about everything that had to do with the horses and the ride. He was really great about accommodating our requests, if we felt like talking he was great about answering questions. After the ride which was beautiful and very relaxing, the horses are beautiful and even tempered, we went to taste wine in the barn. I enjoyed them and picked the Sauvignon Blanc and my husband chose a red blend for his full glass. We met Jaye after the ride and she was really friendly and kind about making sure we had a nice time. I would 100% go back to do another ride there in the future. read more

Vino Vaqueros Horseback Riding - My horse Sandspit following my husband's horse Captain! - Horseback Riding Near Me - Los Olivos, California

We had a great ride with Charlene. It was so peaceful and my horse, Little Joe, was so cute. Highly recommend, oh and the wine after was great! read more