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I found myself in Los Angeles ready to travel the Big Sur to San Francisco. With a couple of days to spare I got in touch with my friend and fellow Best Job in the World finalist Chanel, who invited me down to Temecula.
But not just to visit, to go Horse Riding and Wine Tasting in Temecula – two things I love combined in one fun afternoon, perfect.
This guide is all about my experience horseback riding Temecula, as well as the wine tasting session which was excellent. Let’s get started.
Horseback Riding and Wine Tasting in Temecula – Summary
Is it Worth it Horseback Riding in Temecula?
Absolutely, as a horse ride, riding one in Temecula is a unique experience that combines the thrill of equestrian adventure with a wine tasting session, and you’ll love the moment.
Coupled with wine tasting, it’s an unparalleled opportunity to enjoy the region’s renowned wines directly from the source.
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The Cost of Horseback Riding and Wine Tasting in Temecula
I joined the experience with Saddle Up Wine Tours, and they offer different prices.
The cost starts at $115 for a 1-hour horseback ride and 5 wine tasting to their Diamond package at $485 per couple, which includes 2 hours riding a horse and a total of 16 wine tasting at 3 wineries!
Each package is designed to cater to different preferences and budgets, and I recommend checking their options to have all the details.
Best Time to Travel to Temecula
The best time to visit Temecula for horseback riding and wine tasting is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) months.
During these periods, the weather is comfortably warm, with minimal rainfall, allowing for pleasant riding conditions and the opportunity to enjoy the outdoor scenery.
Spring offers the added bonus of witnessing the vineyards in bloom, while fall presents the vibrant colors of the harvest season.
These times also avoid the peak summer heat, ensuring a more enjoyable experience both on horseback and while savoring the wines.
Horseback Riding and Wine Tasting in Temecula: My Experience
Saddle Up Wine Tours run tours, lessons and rides, but better than that all of the horses are rescued, and were either abandoned, abused or neglected.
Each horse on our tour had a heart warming story behind how, why they ended up there, and what they’ve been through.
I grew up riding horses, so I’ve always been a confident horse rider. After asking about our experience, our guide Jennifer matched me with Sampson, a Spanish Mustang crossed with a Quarter Horse, and a real character.
Apparently he needs a confident rider, and I got on with him just fine, in fact I wanted to take him home!
He was also a bit of a pretty boy with some dressage moves, so it was fun trying to get him prancing up the hill with his nose tucked in!
The tour starts with a quick safety briefing, how to turn right and left, where the brakes are and what means go faster. And then we set off, casually strolling through the vineyards and learning about the background of the horses.
Our tour included two wineries; the first was Robert Renzoni Vineyards, where you get tokens in the form of poker chips to try the different wines. And if you’re cheeky and English there’s a chance you’ll get the odd glass extra.
There was a nice atmosphere inside, with a mixture of families, couples and hen parties enjoying an afternoon wine tasting!
A short ride away and we’re at the next stop, and my favourite Fazeli Cellars. In a stunning looking building over looking the valleys, there’s a great atmosphere and vibe to Fazeli’s.
I’m not sure if it’s the live acoustic music or the fact the owner is helping clear away plates and introducing himself to the guests.
Then there’s the food in Baba Joon’s kitchen. It’s incredible, a mix of ‘Ancient Persia with Contemporary California’. Last but not least, the wines here were amazing, and my favourite was called Pandemonium, a mix of flavours thrown together that in theory shouldn’t work, but it does.
So if you’re looking to escape from LA, and try something different, an area dubbed as the ‘new Napa Valley’, then get down to Temecula.
Conclusion – Horseback Riding and Wine Tasting in Temecula
In conclusion, horseback riding in Temecula is an exceptional opportunity to immerse oneself in the beauty and flavors of one of California’s most celebrated wine regions.
Ultimately, the combination of scenic trails, exquisite wines, and the sheer joy of horseback riding through Temecula’s vineyards makes for an unforgettable moment, and I’m confident you’ll love the experience.
Support Intrepid Escape by adding this article using the photos below to Pinterest, Twitter or Facebook. For you to read later and share with your friends. Have you been to the Temecula? Would you try Horse Riding & Wine Tasting? I’d love to hear from you in the comments below. Thanks for reading and happy travels!
Cool photos 🙂
Good morning! You appeared on my IG this morning and it led me here! I love Temecula, I lived there for a little while in ’15. Couldn’t make a go of it due to lengthy drives to and from work in LA…yes, people drive that far every day for work! Crazy! Look forward to seeing your travels and stories. Cecilia (@ceciliaruns)