Horseback Riding in Argentina
JOURNEY FROM LOS POTREROS |
Estancia Los Potreros is a secluded working cattle ranch situated on top of the Sierra Chicas at an altitude of 1,000 metres, between the pampas and the Andes, in the heart of the Cordoba region. Known for its breathtaking views and healthy climate, the higher lands of the Cordoba Hills are bare of trees and covered in long straw-like grass called 'paja brava'. From early spring to autumn the hills are covered with a mosaic of wildflowers with a large number of tree species at lower altitudes. Many bird species and occasional wildlife may be seen from your saddle.
The point of this distance ride is diversity, you will experience the rich natural and human history of the area. Throughout this riding trip the accommodations vary from beautiful estancias and local cottages, to camping in very remote areas.
The pace of riding is dictated by the diverse terrain, though it is usual to ride at a walk to save the horses for long days in the saddle. There is the occasional canter and fast gallop, and at times you will be riding among herds of cattle.
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| Itinerary |
| Day 1: | On arrival in Cordoba, you will be met and transferred to the beautiful 2,500 hectare Estancia Los Potreros. A beautiful sunset ride to get your bearings is followed by a traditional candle-lit dinner and the chance to discuss the plan for the rest of the week. |
| Day 2: | Ride out this morning to the "Top of the World" for a spectacular 360 degree view of the estancia, and a chance to see the route of the trail ride. After passing the cattle ranch, hear the sound of the `bellstone` that inspired the original bell-shaped cattle brand of the estancia.
Lunch is a traditional Argentine “asado” (barbecue) and the afternoon may be spent swimming or walking, or preparing for the trip ahead. Watch the sun go down and enjoy a drink on the “Patio Verde”. Dinner and night spent at Potrero de Los Melados. |
| Day 3: | Start the trail "across country” past the “Cañada de los Condores” (Canyon of the Condors)and perhaps a dip in the waterfall. Arrive at “La Estancita” for a picnic lunch at the local rural school which is supported through the kind donations of guests, and visit the local Dominican church dating back to the 1870’s. The night is spent at ‘Cañada del Molle’, the
childhood home of Kevin and Robin Begg, and perhaps enjoy some folklore music under the stars. |
| Day 4: | Set out towards Candonga, going north along the top of the Sierras Chicas, through some truly dramatic scenery. Pine forests give way to rocky descents, and you will marvel at the
sure-footedness of the horses. Arrive for a late lunch at Mentas farm. Menta is a wonderful host and an excellent cook, who together with her brother ekes a meagre existence from
their smallholding. A dip in the natural rock pools is followed by a late afternoon ride to Candonga church (C1650), riding back at sunset along the river to our hilltop accommodation. |
| Day 5: | This long days ride sets out west across the sierras, climbing above La Cumbre to the “Loma Grande”. A picnic lunch is taken on the way, and after crossing a wide variety of landscapes
and scenery, dinner and the night are spent at a charming and secluded stone lodge, which cannot be reached by any other means than walking or riding. The stone-constructed house has no road or electricity but hot showers, excellent food and spectacular views. |
| Day 6: | The morning ride descends from our beautiful retreat to the town of La Cumbre at the top of the Punilla valley, which was originally an English settlement. Lunch is in a typical Cruz Chica home, and the afternoon is spent at leisure exploring the local town. The night is
spent at the lovely Reydon Hotel, an old girl’s boarding school, tastefully restored into a charming and comfortable guest house. Your hosts are well-known for their impromptu
tango lessons! |
| Day 7: | Set out early for the long ride home, winding down towards La Falda along the “Camino de Los Artesanos”. Pass by La Falda a town of German origin, with a picnic lunch at the famous Eden Hotel (funded by Hitler during the war and now a museum). Climb the ridge to
vermiculite mines (Cerro Sapo), make your way along the top with views across the Valle de Punilla. You will feel the horses pulling towards home as you pass the restored farm house at
“El Vergel” (C1700). Farewell dinner and overnight at Los Potreros. |
| Day 8: | After a morning at leisure or a farewell ride, transfer to the airport for your departing flight. |
| THIS ITINERARY IS FLEXIBLE. CHANGES MAY OCCUR DUE TO WEATHER OR OTHER UNFORESEEN CIRCUMSTANCES. |
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| Pricing and Dates |
| Meeting Point | Cordoba, Argentina |
| Length of Ride | 8 days, 7 nights and 6 days riding. |
| Riding Ability | Strong Intermediate Intermediate |
| Group Size | Minimum-4 Maximum-8 |
| Riding Per Day | 4-7 hours |
| Pace | moderate |
| Tack | McClellan with sheepskin and polo saddles |
| Horses | Criollo and Paso Peruano |
| Weight Limit | 185 lbs |
| 2010 Dates | February 13-20, February 27-March 6, October 23-30
Other dates can be arranged-please enquire for availability. |
| 2010 Price | $2,695 |
| Single Supplement | Not available |
| 2011 Dates | Feb 19-26, April 2-9, Oct 22-29
Other dates can be arranged- please enquire for availability. |
| 2011 Price | $2,895 |
| Single Supplement | not available |
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