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Bandera, TX

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Sugar and Spice Ranch

4.0 (1 review)
Closed • 8:00 am - 7:00 pm

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Stricker Trail  Rides - Fun day.

Stricker Trail Rides

4.8(15 reviews)
18.8 mi

Its been nearly 6 months since I last got a chance to stop on by sticker trails due to my tight…read moreschedule and to this very day I still think back to what an incredible experience it was. The horses were very tame, gentle, and accommodating to the riders comfortability and experience. Both gentlemen directing the trail ride added to the experience with their down to earth and personable approach throughout, establishing a welcoming environment for each and every person attending. I cant say enough about this hidden gem, its something everyone should experience themselves to get the full aura of

This was a great trail ride. One hour is perfect if you haven't been on a horse in a while. We…read morehad a wonderful time however, the only reason why I don't give it 5 stars is only for my own vain reasons. 1) It would have been nice to be able to get a photo of my wife and I together. Or at least to stop somewhere and get a photo either with us on horse back or holding the horse. 2) Also there are some beautiful areas as you climb the top of the hill. Lots of things to look at, deer trails and the view is beautiful. This would have been nice to have the small group (like we did at the fallen tree) gather at the top to get a few photos. 3) And speaking of vistas one side of the hill over looked an area with homes, some very beautiful homes, however I think, I don't know this for sure, but if we could have gone to the other side of the mountain if just a bit, I'm sure there would have been a beautiful untouched vista. Now I did enjoy the story by the tree but a few (just two maybe) more stops like that to tell about the work being done, the wild life, something and (with his accent and ability to tell a story) it would have been nice to have him gather the group (if more than two) and tell them a story of something historic or just a even a fable regarding that area. Now I can go on forever, but I would have thought a small outpost where riders could unmount and get a drink, feel like they were on a real trail ride. Would have been really cool. But that's not his fault, that's just wishful thinking on my part.

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Stricker Trail  Rides - Seattle comes to Texas for Striker Trails

Seattle comes to Texas for Striker Trails

Stricker Trail  Rides - Two separate photos would have been nice to have one of us both

Two separate photos would have been nice to have one of us both

Stricker Trail  Rides - Some of the horses before the ride

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Some of the horses before the ride

Rancho Cortez

Rancho Cortez

4.6(62 reviews)
10.9 mi

Before I even set foot in Texas, Rancho Cortez had already won my heart with their warm and helpful…read moreemails. As a solo traveler visiting the USA for the first time, I had a million questions -- and they patiently answered every single one. By the time I drove up their long, dusty road and caught sight of the charming ranch buildings and heard my first distant neigh, a wave of peace washed over me. I knew I had found something special. My warm welcome included a map to my cabin... which I promptly misread (I have many talents, but navigation is *not* one of them). Thankfully, the wonderful Lisa appeared like a real-life cowboy guardian angel and personally guided me to my cozy cabin. First impression? Spotless. Cool. Authentically Texan. I actually said "wow" out loud -- to no one -- like I was in a commercial. As a true animal lover, I was thrilled to see how well the horses were treated. Guests are encouraged to help groom them, and the wranglers always explain *why* certain things are done -- it's all about respect and care. Whether you're a total beginner or basically Clint Eastwood, they tailor the experience to *you*. Now meet the dream team: Travis, Dawn, Trey, and Cora. Travis and Dawn are the talkers, the entertainers -- always in for a laugh, teasing and challenging each other like true cowboy siblings. Their banter is pure gold, and somehow still leaves space for heartfelt guidance and genuine connection. Trey? He's the quiet cowboy with that dry, perfectly timed humor. When he speaks, you listen -- and when he drops a one-liner, it *lands*. He's got that silent strength vibe going on, and it works. Cora, with her calm and grounding energy, is the soul of serenity. When things get rowdy (and they do), she's the one who gently reins it all in -- the horses love her, and so do the guests. Her presence is like a deep exhale after a long ride. The wranglers feel like a tight-knit family, and you quickly feel part of it. Meals are homey, healthy, and announced by a big ol' bell you'll hear all over the ranch. You'll come running like one of the horses when you hear it. There's always water, coffee, tea, and refreshing drinks during meals, plus your cabin comes with a mini fridge for your own snacks. (The nearest supermarket is about 20 minutes away, but honestly, you won't want to leave.) Between the twice-daily rides, you'll learn to rope like a cowboy, roast smores by the fire, meet the longhorns on a hay ride, or just float in the pristine pool with the sun on your face. My personal favorite spot? A hammock near the dining hall, country music in my ears, goats chilling behind me -- pure bliss. Special shoutout to Miss Katie for the extra riding lessons (worth every penny). The trails are walk-only for safety and horse care, but even as an experienced rider, I never felt bored. They even arranged a more challenging ride when things were quiet -- and let me tell you, there's nothing like the sound of hooves and the warm wind in your ears to remind you you're *alive*. I originally booked one night... I stayed four. The only downside of Rancho Cortez is having to leave. To anyone reading this: whether you're looking for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure or a peaceful place to recharge -- book it. Go. Make memories. Laugh at yourself. Ride a horse. Roast a marshmallow. And let your heart be hugged by the spirit of this magical ranch. Thank you, Rancho Cortez. You deserve every star in the Texas sky. Wendy from Belgium

Our family of five just returned from a wonderful overnight visit to Rancho Cortez in Bandera, TX…read more This was the first time we've been out on any overnight since Covid and it was so special. My sons smiles were huge as they rode friendly horses along beautiful terrain in Hill Country. Everyone that works there, works hard! Not only providing for the horses and their care but the the commitment to quality, Texan hospitality. All were friendly, helpful, knowledgeable, and fun! Mr. Cortez is a hoot! As well as a very welcoming host. The food was good, trail rides lovely, evening entertainment of roping magic, and a nice chill chat around the fire pit complete with s'mores and relaxing guitar music strumming. I highly recommend Rancho Cortez! We will be back.

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Rancho Cortez - So much fun!

So much fun!

Rancho Cortez
Rancho Cortez - So pretty

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So pretty

Dixie Dude Ranch - Kevin the Peacock

Dixie Dude Ranch

4.5(48 reviews)
9.2 mi

at first i was hesitant and reserved about this place. keep an open mind, prepare to unplug and…read moredon't even use the wi-fi provided and just have a tech-cleansing for however long your stay is. take advantage of their meals, it is superb, tasty, leave you wanting for more. horseback riding is exciting and fun. we didn't grow up with horses so most if not all 7 of us were first time riders. their horses are rescue horses which makes double cool. Bubba lead our ride and Tammy came along to make sure we were safe. they made sure my special needs son maxwell was well taken care of. they instead of doing everything for him, they taught him to kick the horse to make it go and let him do it himself. Bubba kept encouraging maxwell saying "hee haw! cowboy up, you're doing great maxwell!" this was the first time i saw Hill Country and i now understand why people would move from say Plano, Dallas and other bigger cities to Hill Country. saying it is nice would be conservative. the other guest were from all over the country and even some from england and another ireland. i love my waitresses. so friendly and you just feel the sincerity in their care and love. i love it that i catch the bunch of them after serving our meal and cleaning up sitting outside smoking a cig. my kind of gals. thank you so much for helping us feel at home. to alec and kim, thank you for your generosity and hospitality. kim thanks for warning me not to traverse near the border wall because it's dangerous. you saved me from being on the 6 o'clock news. alec, thank you for your attentiveness and willingness to accommodate us with a later check out time. hanging out, swimming to cool down and fishing in the late afternoon were wonderful activities. maybe y'all can add archery with parent supervision. that would be fun. no wonder Dixie Dude Ranch is super popular in England/London with the travel agents as i was told by one family that is from there. the ranch experience totally surprised me and also when i see my sons enjoy themselves without screen time and have people that genuinely care for maxwell then i know i made the right choice. say hello to Poncho, Pecos and Hondo.

It may be a nice place but don' count getting your deposit back if you need reschedule. We are…read moreout 728.00 and I'm not happy.

Photos
Dixie Dude Ranch - Armadillo

Armadillo

Dixie Dude Ranch - Getting ready for the afternoon ride!

Getting ready for the afternoon ride!

Dixie Dude Ranch - Kevin the peacock

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Kevin the peacock

Westcreek Trail Rides

Westcreek Trail Rides

4.4(107 reviews)
33.5 mi

I haven't been riding since I was a kid. So a LONG time. When I moved to SA, I immediately wanted…read moreto look for horse riding- something small, nice, and, of course, affordable. I found this place while browsing online and I noticed all the reviews were really nice. $50 for an hour + $3 fee ? Hella yah! At first when I pulled into the neighborhood, I was confused and thought I was at the wrong place, but the place is actually immediately right outside of the housing division, it's not hard to miss at all. The driveway can fit one vehicle at a time- so be careful entering and exiting. I am 4'8" & weigh about 130lbs. And I'm always worried whether I can fit the saddle and stirrups. Main reason why I just haven't really found a place to get back to riding. There are so many horseback riding places that won't allow someone like me to ride their horses because of size. Which is hella crazy to me because jockeys are KNOWN to be my size riding 15-20 hands. We're born for this lol. Let's talk about arriving: once you make it into the driveway, it's a small parking area and there're some horses and some cute miniature horses for you to pet. There are a few stable hands setting up for the 9am ride (I had) and working really well as a team. Check-in was a breeze. Now Riding: Now I was put on Gigi's who's a bit smaller (of course) and the guy (can't remember his name) noticed that the stirrups couldn't be adjusted higher for me. But they said it was fine because as long as I can put my foot in and rest them a bit while pointing my toes down, Gigit will follow the leader regardless. And honestly, I wasn't worried. The guy was super genuine and everyone really trusts the horses. Like so much faith in them. That's how I knew I- personally- was in good hands. I was right behind Miranda who was our front-of-the-line trail leader. She was great. Patient. Got to know me a bit. But the trail itself was amazing. Went through some woods, then a a beautiful opening. Even saw a baby deer. They have a dog who followed along with us. He/she kept trailing in front of me and Gigit was right on his/her tail and the line behind me was slowed down further because I was already a slow rider lol. I was worried he would step on the dog, but I was like- it's an animals instinct to move lol (some times). I hardly had to tell Gigit what to do. He just kept following along and made his own turns and I felt so at ease. And when he wanted to reach for a leaf, he listened very well when we needed to keep going lol. They all do. All in all, best damn horse ride I've had in a LONG time. Very affordable too. You can bring a Fanny pack and keep your phone in your back pocket and wear a hat/sunglasses. Def wouldn't mind mentioning about getting some stirrups that fit petite folks like me but I ain't complaining too much because the experience was well worth it and they never once doubted that I wouldn't be able to ride. HIGHLY RECOMMEND FOR BEGINNERS and if you're petite like me and/or if you want to go by yourself like how I did!

Such a cool experience! I have never been on a horse before and it was actually pretty easy! My…read morecousin invited me since she had already been here and really enjoyed it. We went on a very rainy day and got soaked but it was still really fun. The owner gave my bf some tips and what to do when the horse stops and stuff like that so it was really cool! I can't wait to come again.

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Westcreek Trail Rides - My sweet horse Paco!

My sweet horse Paco!

Westcreek Trail Rides - Lindsay our guide & her pup coozie

Lindsay our guide & her pup coozie

Westcreek Trail Rides - I forget his name but he is a great guide!

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I forget his name but he is a great guide!

Deer Creek Camp - Deer Creek Camp...the place to be

Deer Creek Camp

5.0(5 reviews)
9.1 mi

We (Medina Community Church) had a marriage retreat at Deer Creek Camp in September of 2022. It…read morewas our church's first marriage retreat, and everyone at Deer Creek went above and beyond to make the retreat successful. The Camp is beautiful, and you know you will have a good experience from the moment you start down the drive. There are a variety of activities available for all ages. Our retreat was primarily in the pavilion, but our attendees enjoyed spreading out over the camp for our break-out sessions. It was a joy to work with the full-time staff! They are wonderful Christian people, and we loved having the staff join us at different times. They make you feel like you are part of their family. Deer Creek Camp catered all three meals for us, and the food was wonderful. The breakfast and lunch were tasty, and there were a number of options to please everyone. Our evening dinner was a nice sit-down dinner, and the food was delicious. Alma knows how to cook! The coffee and smoothie bar was also enjoyed by our couples. The drinks were delicious. The staff and the interns who served us at dinner were fabulous. They were respectful young men and women who went out of their way to make sure the meal was a pleasure for our married couples. They were obviously well-trained, as they were better than servers we have had in nice restaurants. We strongly recommend Deer Creek Camp for your retreats or other events. It is our go-to place for events for all ages.

2021 will be our son's third year attending Deer Creek Camp's Friends Week. He has the absolute…read morebest time while he is there. Even the first year I had no reservations leaving him in their care. This is the most amazing camp ever. My only regret is that we didn't know about them sooner! Lynda N. 04/10/2021 Odessa, TX

Sugar and Spice Ranch - horsebackriding - Updated October 2026

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