Yee Haw; Ranchos Las Cascadas

*This is a sponsored post-All opinions are my own*

I was interested in going horseback riding while on vacation. I decided to look on Trip Advisor and stumbled upon a great review of Ranchos Las Cascadas. I was very intrigued and decided to inquire about further information. The price per night includes lodging, food, drinks, horseback riding and access to amenities such as pool and hot tub.  I decided I wanted to visit the ranch and that is how I begin to plan my trip to Mexico City, Mexico.

The ranch is located in San Franscisco Soyaniquilpan de Juarez, about an hour and a half from the airport. Transport from the airport can be arranged at an additional fee. I finally arrived in Mexico City after an 8-hour delay in Los Angeles. I was exhausted and excited to see the ranch as the photos on their website gave me a glimpse of what I would experience in person. After I arrived, I was introduced to the grounds and given a mini tour of the property.

I’ve never been so happy to see a bed as I had not properly slept in the last 24 hours.

Room kept warm by the fire

Soon after arriving, I prepared to have dinner. I enjoyed dinner because it allows guest to dine with each other. If you are traveling alone it allows you to meet others and if you’re are introvert you will come out of your comfort zone. In addition, I like meeting people from various walks of life. All the guest I met were nice and welcoming.

Fresh Vegetables in the Pantry

Dining Area

We had a delicious 4 course meal.

First course: carrot soup that was pureed and delicious (I don’t have children but I thought this would have been great for a baby who can not eat solid foods)

Appetizer: shrimp, avocados in a spicy sauce accompanied with saltine crackers.

3rd course: Rice with corn, green beans and  pork in sauce.

Dessert: cake sprinkled with powdered sugar.

I saw the Jacuzzi on my mini tour and knew that I wanted to relax after dinner. I grabbed some hot chocolate and chocolate chip cookies and headed outside to the hot tub. The Jacuzzi felt wonderful due to the heat and bubbles in contrast to the cold air outside. Did I mention that it was pitch black outside and the only thing I could see is the steam in front of my face? I felt super relaxed in the tub and didn’t want to get out. It was absolutely wonderful and enjoyed myself.

Enjoying Hot Chocolate in the Jacuzzi tub!

View of the Jacuzzi in the daylight!

The next morning, I had breakfast in the common area. In one area was the cold food; dry cereal, yogurt, and fruit. In another area were the hot food; vegetarian & chicken tamales, cheese, ham, and toast. If you have a special request, don’t hesitate to talk to the chefs. For example, eggs were not included with the breakfast but when I requested them they were quickly prepared.

After breakfast, I went on my first horse ride. Although I was afraid, I was very excited to learn how to ride a horse. I was introduced to Calypso and felt very safe while riding. I was instructed to ride the horse like I was driving a car. If you want the horse to stop; pull the reigns, if you want it to go forward; gently kick the horse on the side and if you want to go left or right; pull the reigns in the direction you want to go. I enjoyed the peaceful and serene scenery while riding.

I would advise future riders to stretch before going horseback riding. While I enjoyed, my legs were on fire after a riding. Thank God, the pain only lasted 10-15 minutes! Overall I enjoyed the experience and would ride again in a heartbeat.

Horses, I love the spotted one!

Trying to hop on Calypso

Calypso and I posing for a picture

Travel Buddy enjoying our horse ride

The view was great

I rode with my wrangler who is a volunteer from New York. Her mother brought her to the ranch as a child, and she loved it so much she decided to return to volunteer as an adult. She was great and made sure that we were safe, stopped for breaks when needed, communicated while riding and was very patient with me who is a first-time rider.

  

Lunch: Zucchini soup, Taquitos with Tomatoes and Broccoli , Warm apples with cherries & garnished with cinnamon.

I love natural waterfalls and was happy to see them at the resort! I hope I can return in the summer time when the temperatures are warm. The cool thing about the waterfalls is you can ride the horses to the falls and go for a swim.

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I noticed they offered massage services and I immediately signed up. I got an hour-long Swedish massage. If you are like me and the Swedish message is a little rough make sure you say “suave” in Spanish aka soft in English.

I loved the infinity pool. Although it was too cold to swim, I made sure I snapped several photos in the pool.

Now, that I’ve told you about my weekend at the Ranch, let me take your on a tour of the lovely grounds.

Rooms located near the horse stable

Overflow Claw tub located in the honeymoon suite

Pond

Wagon

Fountain

Art Work

Sewing Machine used to make fabric

Toucan

Picnic Area

Trunk with Black & White Photos

Sitting Area

Books in several languages

Lounge Area

Courtyard

Lovely flowers in the Courtyard

Images of Horses located throughout the ranch

Courtyard

Dining Area

Espresso Station

Refrigerator filled with both alcohol, non alcoholic drinks and water

Bar Area

Pool Table

The Staff at Ranchos Las Casacadas were excellent and I was very pleased with the service.

Chefs: the food was delicious

Gracias Jenny !