Colores de Mexico

Introduction
Central Mexico Mexico

Located in a peaceful valley on a high plateau of Central Mexico, the horseback riding at this ranch is unlimited. Surrounded by three waterfalls and at an elevation of 7.500 ft, the ranch offers spectacular views and weather year-round!  There are no boundaries or fences throughout the magnificent countryside. Discover unsurpassed hospitality, scenery and equestrian riding in the heart of Mexico.

Ride and explore the plateau, the highlands and canyons on progressive day rides or chose to make it a more relaxing riding vacation with a riding menu a la carte. Ride past farmers plowing with oxen, longhorn cattle, goats and sheep free-grazing on rocky terrain. Cross flowing rivers with tumbling waterfalls, see egrets and ducks roosting on tranquil lakes as the horses splash along the water's edge.

See the many magnificent panoramic vistas, mountain ranges, historic haciendas, traditional villages and other spectacular scenery in the area. We provide a unique riding experience for everyone - from a gentle stroll along the lake, cantering up the side of a hill, galloping across open countryside, crossing rivers, swimming with the horses in the lake or traversing rocky paths to the top of a mountain. You’ll ride in open, big sky country where you can choose to walk, canter or gallop for miles and miles or go with a separate group on more leisurely rides. There is no nose-to-tail riding here! If you want to experience a bit of the culture of the area with some of the historic places to visit, or your non-riding companion wants to join you, we have daily interesting vehicle sightseeing trips that you can join for a half or full day instead of riding.

This ride has great flexibility and is suitable for all riding levels, since all riding groups are separated by riding level. Speedy and long rides for the experienced riders and relaxed and shorter rides for the more novice riders. Even non riders will have a great time. In the evening everyone meets at the bar and over dinner to swap stories of the day's adventures.

The ranch offers tastefully-decorated Mexican style courtyard rooms and ‘casitas,’ each with luxurious private baths and first class amenities. Staff prepare gourmet meals, provide personalized service and plan activities and excursions customized to the interests of our guests.
The paddocks are filled with beautiful horses - mostly Quarter Horse/Criollo blends – who are in excellent shape, easy to ride, sure-footed in every pace, and trained to accommodate riders at every skill level from absolute beginner to expert rider.

The weather conditions are very moderate. The sun shines, the mountain air is crystal clear, and the sky is bright blue almost every day. The average year-round daily temperature at midday is in the mid 70’s (around 22º C). Depending on the season, the nights may get cool, but the day-time temperatures are perfect for riding year-round.

For non-riders and riders alike, there are numerous ways to relax at the ranch: unwind at the heated pool or in the hot tub; explore three waterfalls on the ranch; enjoy a margarita and refreshing breeze in the hammocks; play a game of pool; learn to make Mexican foods and drinks in the ranch kitchen or bar; or read one of our many equestrian magazines and other books in our living room, lounge, or patio. Or spoil yourself with a hot stone massage, a facial or manicure .... in the new Spa facilities.

We also plan a number of activities and optional excursions to historic sites and colorful markets to help you get to know the real Mexico.

See Trip ratings on TripAdvisor
See Ranch Picture Book   (PDF)

Accomodation

Located at at a 7,500 ft. elevation on a plateau in the mountains, Rancho las Cascadas is bordered by three waterfalls.
The ranch is made up of several Mexican-style buildings, set in beautifully tended gardens. Facilities include a spacious and comfortable lounge and library, a conservatory with guest computer, a well-stocked bar, billiard table and dart board and the heart of any Mexican home, a fabulous open kitchen.
Outside is the beautiful infinity pool with jacuzzi set within the sun terrace, decked with loungers and a hot tub – the perfect place to unwind. All overlooking the breath-taking rolling hills and natural waterfalls below. A walk around the grounds of the ranch offers further 'hidden treasures', including the cactus garden and the hammocks swaying gently under the trees.
The guest rooms are individually decorated in typical Mexican country style. Much attention is given to the finer details creating a seamless combination of comfort and style.
All rooms have private en-suite facilities -- hairdryer, bathrobe, purified drinking water, liquid soap, shower gel, shampoo and conditioner

Built in 2003 by Swiss owner and operator Ursula, the amenities sport an European flare. Three gourmet meals are served daily, prepared with fresh local ingredients and designed to individual guest preferences. Outside dining under the big oak tree or picnic stops during a ride are also guest favorites.



The kitchen is always open, encouraging a late night snack or early morning mug of coffee and a well stocked bar is located in the great room for guest use on a trust bar system.
The Swiss Management combined with Mexican Hospitality guarantee a well organized and unforgettable equestrian vacation!!

Patio Classic and Deluxe Rooms
These spacious Mexican Style decorated rooms are situated in the Main House open to the colorful Mexican courtyard.  Four clean, well-appointed rooms with king beds, private baths and tiled shower all open onto a fresh air courtyard with fountain. Two of them are a bit bigger and have an additional lounge area. Hidden Trails clients are automatically upgraded to these rooms when available at check in.

'El Pueblito' Rooms
'El Pueblito' means Mexican village. These newly decorated rooms are nestled between the Main House and the Corral. They surround a central terrace with cactus garden and water feature, all adding to the traditional atmosphere of a 'Pueblito', a Mexican village. Each one is individually designed to reflect the vibrancy and color of Mexican life.



Casitas: Casa Luna & Casa Sol
Two free standing casitas for maximum privacy and additional space with their own shaded porch. Sitting area inside.
Desk and Internet connection in the room. Sitting area on the veranda.

All rooms are available with either one king size or two generous twin beds (on request). Rooms are made up daily. We also offer laundry services, not included. Also provided in every room:  A hairdryer, shampoo, conditioner, liquid soap, towels and drinking water.

Our packages include lodging in the Patio or El Pueblito rooms. If you like to stay in one of the Deluxe Casitas, there is an extra charge for the upgrade unless there are 3 or 4 sharing.

Meals
Hot Mexican chili pepper...
The meals are specially created to introduce the characteristic flavors of this region. Whether a simple lunch or a festive dinner, you can be assured of great service and attention to detail. Chilli is a common ingredient in many of our recipes, but we can always adapt to your taste preferences.
The finest local ingredients are combined by our highly skilled chefs to create authentic Mexican, as well as international cuisine.
A rich and varied breakfast awaits you each morning, served on the veranda, overlooking the picturesque valley below.
Lunch is served under the big oak tree or as a picnic when riding.
And every evening, a gourmet four-course dinner with wine is served in our stylish, rustically-designed dining room.
If you have special dietary requests (i.e. vegetarian, diabetic, Atkins) just tell us in advance and we will accommodate your needs.
There is seating in the dining room, outdoors on the patio or under the trees, where you may watch the sunset and listen to the rushing waters.
You are welcome to hang out and chat in the kitchen. Many guests have enjoyed watching and learning as meals are prepared. Fresh fruit drinks and cool purified water are always available there.
Breakfast and lunch rides to scenic areas are regular events. Don't worry if you are a non-rider, we'll take you to the picnic spots!
According to ranch tradition the meals are served family style, with plenty of second and third helpings and lots of good conversation.

Lounge Activities:
Take time out to enjoy our lounge and challenge one of your fellow guests to a game of darts, pool, or chess, while listening to music and enjoying a drink from the bar.

Bar: There is a "honor bar" at the lodge. You help yourself and write down the drinks. At the end of the week you pay your bar bill (very reasonable prices). Wine with dinners is included (some limitations)

Spa --  For a real treat, book yourself a massage. We have a tranquil massage room and offer a 50 minute Swedish massage (USD 50) or a hot stone massage (USD 70). Either one will leave you relaxed and invigorated.

Swimming Pool: Enjoy the fantastic real swimming pool.
Heated with solar panels and with an integrated jacuzzi it is one of the favorite spots to spend a lovely afternoon as well as enjoy an early morning swim.

This trip includes and can accommodate special dietary requests.

Riding

On some days there are morning and afternoon rides and on others there are all-day rides with some fantastic surprises along the way.
Riding groups are kept small - usually 4 to 6 riders with a maximum of 8 riders per horse guide.
This ride has great flexibility and is suitable for all riding levels, since all riding groups are separated by riding level.
This week has is suited for any riding level, from complete beginner to very experienced riders.
Advanced riders will join the regular riding itinerary and have the opportunity to enjoy longer and faster paced riding. Less experienced riders can opt go out with a separate guide on shorter or more relaxed rides, to ensure that everyone gets the best experience. In the evening everyone meets at the bar and over dinner to swap stories of the day's adventures.
Or, if you are a mixed level group, like a family or group of friends, we are able to send you out together as one group but with 2 wranglers, giving you the opportunity to ride together during your stay.
We take a great deal of pride to ensure that whatever length your stay is, your experience leaves you with unforgettable memories. We organize our rides to be varied and to provide an insight into the local area, giving you a flavor of the different terrain and landscapes of this beautiful part of Mexico.

The Horses
The horses are in excellent shape, easy to ride, sure-footed at every pace and trained to accommodate riders at every skill level from absolute beginner to expert rider. Currently there are 30 mixed breed, Criollo, Azteca, Quarter amongst others, suited to confidently handle the variety of terrain this wonderful countryside offers. The herd consists of geldings and stallions - but not to worry they are all very well behaved and get along just fine due to the way they can freely roam and form small 'famiuly units'.
The corral is located beside the barn and you can spend some time with the horses and help with feeding or grooming whenever you feel like it. After the rides you can treat your horse to a sugar or watch the sunset from the paddock wall. If you love horses you will fall in love with ours. Each one has its own character and yet is trained to be responsive with any level of rider. Our Wranglers work hard to ensure that the horses are always at their best in terms of fitness and training.

Tack
The tack is ‘Charro’ style (similar to Western) and provides an exceptionally comfortable ride.

Private Riding Lessons - US$ 30 (50 mins)

Staff
There are around 15 staff members, some of whom speak English, German and French, as well as Spanish. Almost all of the team is Mexican, including the wranglers.
A permanent, dedicated staff is employed to ensure that your holiday is an unforgettable one.
The quality of the service we provide is paramount to our success. The expectations are high and our staff are well-trained to accommodate guests from all over the world.

Other options
Mexico has a lot to offer and we suggest participating whenever possible. Just having a drink in a local store lets you have a glimpse at how the locals live.
Local Fiestas
Every village holds fiestas periodically. There are many Saints to be celebrated, many Mexican holidays and often also the unexpected horse race in the middle of nowhere or a Charro or Peales event in one of the small villages in the region.
We will check dates and plan to attend if you are interested in experiencing this part of the rich Mexican culture.

Evening Entertainment
Every evening we have an enjoyable four course dinner with occasional live Mexican or International music. Colorful folkloric events may also be presented on special occasions here at the ranch including traditional dance and music. You may even be invited for an impromptu Salsa lesson.
Do you play an instrument? Why don't you bring it along?

Relax
If you don't feel like riding, just relax in one of our hammocks, play billiard, darts or one of the many games we offer. Take a drink at the bar and learn to prepare a Margarita or Piña Colada on your own.
Use the hot tub, read one of the books from our library, take a massage (optional) or take a stroll along the river and visit the surrounding 'Cascadas' (waterfalls).

Hot Tub
Nothing better then to chill out in the whirlpool, enjoying a drink from the bar and listening to the relaxing sound of music in the background.

Massages
Give yourself the luxury of a relaxing massage and experience a renewal of energies. No advance reservation needed!

Relaxation Massage   - extra charge
Foot Reflex Massage - extra charge

Riding Lessons
Private riding lessons - extra charge
If you booked as a 'Non Rider' you may join one of the outings on a horse (per hour)-extra charge

Itinerary

We provide a unique riding experience for everyone, anything from a gentle stroll along the lake, cantering up the side of a hill, galloping across open countryside, crossing rivers, swimming with the horses in the lake or traversing rocky paths to the top of a mountain. Advanced riders can enjoy really great faster paced riding. Less experienced riders will go out with a separate guide to ensure that everyone gets the best experience.

We take a great deal of pride to ensure that whatever length your stay is, your experience leaves you with unforgettable memories. We organize our rides to be varied and to provide an insight into the local area, giving you a flavor of the different terrain and landscapes of this beautiful part of Mexico.

Unique approach to riding:

From beginner to expert, all are catered for in small groups with a wrangler, but truly different, is our ability to also offer combined rides for partners, friends or family of different levels.

Sample Riding Itinerary

-- For non riders or if you like to split your time between riding and sightseeing - have a look at our Sightseeing Program (extra cost)

Saturday – Day 01  We will arrange private pick up from Mexico City 'Benito Juarez' international airport. At the ranch you will get a full guided tour of the ranch and then you can settle in, unpack, check the place out, and rest after your trip.  Depending on your time of arrival at the ranch, you can go for a ride, relax, swim in the infinity pool or enjoy a Margarita in the hot tub. Take some time, walk over to the corral and get to know the horses. Tonight you meet your pals for the week in our dining room. At dinner you have the chance to get to know each other.



Sunday – Day 02    Lake District  &  Sunday Market in Daxthi  or a la carte
After a tasty breakfast overlooking the pool and surrounding countryside, you start your ride crossing the Rio Rosas and passing through the quaint little village of Los Colorados. Heading along country lanes you ride through the community of Heroes before you enter the lake district, which offers incredible views and great varied terrain for some delightful and diverse riding. At the small town of San Juan Daxthi, where the Sunday market takes place, enjoy a local Mexican lunch, before taking a stroll through the vibrant market. In the afternoon, your ride leads you across a large variety of open fields which invite for many canters. Here they practice mixed farming and there are many small villages with local shops, schools, health care centers etc. all interlinked by small roads and a myriad of  trails. Local cowboys 'Charros' and farmers use these same trails to tend to their farm plots and small herds. Along one of these trails you reach the church and the village of Santa Cruz, where our car picks you up. Back at the ranch enjoy a Sunset Cocktail in the hot tub or at the bar and have a lovely dinner with your new found friends.



Monday – Day 03   Xochitlan de las Flores -  Atlants of Tula - Western & Charro Shops   or a la carte
Today's ride takes you along a stunning canyon to the village of 'Xochitlan'. Follow the canyon, pass by giant rocks and ride down into part of the canyon. Here you have time to marvel at your horses amazing surefootedness. 'Xochitlan de las Flores' got its name from the many flowers who grow here thanks to the temperate climate the place offers. Experience their leisurely way of living, visit their beautiful old church and have a little rest and some refreshments. The ride continues through green mountains tops and into the rugged terrain of Tula. Horse and rider both enjoy the glorious display of nature from the mountain ridge before leaving the horses at the watering hole under the trees for a rest and some food. On the bails in the back of our pick up we will drive you into Tula for a lunch stop in a little local restaurant where you can try some traditional Mexican food. You then head for a short visit to the archaeological site of the Atlantes of Tula. The great Atlantes are four huge (6 m high) and impressive warrior statues of black basalt on the top of the pyramid. The site is thought to be the most important Toltec settlement in Mexico. The Toltecs preceded the Aztecs. Before you head back to the horses you have a chance to shop for some boots or hats in the local Western and Charro shop. Back to the horses, ride along the old train rails into the quiet village of San Antonio. After a little break the horses take you along a creek through beautiful Mexican Countryside. Drive back to the ranch for another gourmet dinner.



Tuesday – Day 04   Cerro de las Caballos - Colorful Market in Deguedo - Hacienda La Goleta   or a la carte
Start the ride today with a visit to the old stone bridge 'El Puente del Muite' (built in the late 17th century). The horses follow the beautiful green path along the river. Take some time to really enjoy, there is nothing better than experiencing this countryside on horseback as they did in the olden times.  Today you head towards the 'Cerro de los Caballos' the horse’s mountain. A couple canters take you through a whole different world of corn and cactus fields. The low intensity of the farming means that wild saguaro and nopal cacti, agaves, and thorn bushes predominate on the common grazing land. The green season (June – October) produces a colorful riot of wild flowers. The flat fields and quiet unpaved roads offer excellent gallops for confident riders, one of the great thrills on offer!

A short climb takes you to the monument at the top of the mountain. The panoramic views from there are stunning. The monument stands for the battle that took place here, where the Mexicans defended this territory using cavalry and dragoons, and won!  Lunch will be served in a 'Fonda' a little local Mexican restaurant in Deguedo. Enjoy the market which takes place here once a week, where you can find everything from chilies and sombreros to live sheep and great food. Back on the horses enjoy some nice canters this afternoon through this open sky country. Encounter ancient churches, lakes and rivers. At the end you take a beautiful stroll to the hacienda called ‘La Goleta’ which was built around 1690 by the Spaniards. The wrought iron in the windows was brought from Sweden, the tiles covering the front porch from Spain and you can still admire part of the original blue wall paintings. The old aqueduct continues to produce water for the many families living around the hacienda (estate). Back at the ranch enjoy a shower, a swim, pre-dinner drinks and a chance to catch up with your email. A nice candlelit dinner completes the day.



Wednesday – Day 05   The Forests & The Cathedral of Canalejas   or a la carte
Your journey today embarks through the extinct volcanic geology of the region which has created a landscape crisscrossed with ancient lava flows. These have partially eroded over millennia and evolved into a rich landscape of micro-environments, creating habitats such as: low undulating hills, volcanic outcrops, narrow stream valleys, ancient barren lava fields and dry seasonal common pasture. The landscape changes later on and the trail leads you into the green forests of Canalejas. There the fallen needles of the pine trees have created some amazing paths. Cantering over them provokes the most incredible feeling. You do not hear a sound... it is like cantering on air. A most magical moment to remember. After lunch visit the Cathedral, which was built by the locals after they split open a rock in that spot and discovered inside an image of the 'Virgin of Guadalupe'. The black Virgin of Guadalupe is a national icon in Mexico and represents a fusion of pre-Columbian religious ideas with popular Catholicism. The image of her, inside that rock, can still be seen on the altar in the Cathedral. A relaxing ride through the village takes you to the horses’ night stop in Canalejas. Today's drive to the ranch is a bit longer, take in the views and enjoy... .



Thursday – Day 06   Orthodox Monastery - Picnic El Fresno - Black Virgin of Guadeloupe Shrine   or a la carte
333 days of sunshine should guarantee you -  'Another day in Paradise! - as we say quite often here. After leaving Canalejas you canter through stunning pathways on your way to the remote Russian orthodox church. Admire the ceiling frescos which took 3 Russians 6 months to complete. This is also the place to have a coffee and chat with the monks, who tend to this monastery. Depending on the season the ride continues through lush shallow lake shores, hill climbs with over  looking views, dry plains, rich seasonally irrigated maize, wheat, oat, bean, squash and sunflower fields. On the route you come by the remains of the hacienda of 'Tandeje'. Built in 1685 the walls still try to tell you of the past. A cobbled stone path guides you to the waterfalls of 'El Fresno' with its breath-taking old oak trees covered in Spanish moss. After lunch your incredible horses take the short but steep climb up to another little sanctuary of the Virgin of Guadalupe from where you have a beautiful view down into the canyon which hosted your picnic. Back at the ranch relax by the fountain in the patio with a refreshing ‘Cerveza’ (beer) or a tasty Margarita before joining at the nicely decorated table for dinner.



Friday – Day 07   Los Organos - Peregrinos Petrificados    or a la carte
Back into the more rugged landscape, you might think you were returning to a western movie set. Trails cross old overgrown train rails hidden between cacti. You ride to 'Los Organos' a place forgotten in time. The trail leads you by San Miguel de las Piedras down into the canyon along rivers, where wild horses roam. You visit the 'Peregrinos Petrificados' a big rock formation in the middle of nowhere, where it is said that “the Pilgrims turned into stone because they did not want to finish their pilgrimage”.

The lunch time picnic is taken by the river. Goats and sheep graze nearby. Here the river is mixed with a volcanic warm spring so it is quite nice for a swim while the horses are resting.

Homeward bound you climb up the canyon and pass through the village of Carranza with its church dating from 1697. On to the Presa of La Goleta, where the soft flat lake shore invites you for a final opportunity of a nice canter or even a gallop arriving at the ranch late afternoon.

Back at the ranch get ready for an entertaining and unforgettable evening. The theme tonight is 'Noche Rosa Mexicana' Pink Mexican Night. If you feel you would like to coordinate with the table deco, wear something pink – the choice is yours! This night is filled with music and Mexican folklore, another unforgettable memory of Mexican life to take home…



Saturday – Day 08 Departure
If you have time - enjoy a short morning ride and then individual transfers to Mexico airport depending on your flight's departure.



                 Itinerary subject to change!

Rates and Dates for Colores de Mexico

Dates Note:
Shorter and longer stays are availbale. Arrival is availabel daily, but transfers are only included on Saturdays at set times.

Other Info
Meeting: Hidalgo
Airport: Mexico City
Transfer: Mexico City Airport

Climate:

 
333 days of sunshine a year

Thanks to its special geographical situation in a valley at an altitude of 7'500 feet above sea level and protected by high mountains, the weather conditions are very tempered and the sun shines almost every day.
The average daily temperature all year round is of approx. 70ºF. Only depending on the season the nights get more or less cool.
The ranch is open and operating year round. Guests often ask... "which is the best time of the year to visit?" The only way to answer that question is...

EVERY SEASON HAS IT'S HIGHLIGHTS

SPRING - March - May
Changes take place. The local farmers start to prepare their fields for the corn crops. The plough makes it's way through the acres drawn by oxen or horses.

Imagine passing by farmers working the fields in the way they have done for generations. Go back in time to a glorious past.

SUMMER - June - August
Known as the 'rainy season', which is (unfortunately for the farmers here) not really the case at our place. Due to the geographical situation (we are in a valley at an altitude of 7500 ft) the clouds can't gather as much as in other regions of Mexico. But we do get the occasional shower (downpour) of an hour or two in the evenings or at night (last summer we had a total of aprox 20 individual 'days' with 1-2 hrs of rain here).
Just enough to allow all of the usually dormant plants to bloom, creating spectacular vistas of vibrant color, with cosmos flowers everywhere.. see pictures on the left. This is for me the most beautiful time of the season. The nights are cool and in the morning a bright sunny blue sky awaits you for another perfect ride.
Imagine cantering through millions of cosmos flowers, like floating through a sea of blossoms, the horses almost hidden in the fields covered with pink.

AUTUMN - September - November
Until the dry season begins at the end of October there are still flowers everywhere. Now harvest arrives... The local farmers usually let the corn dry until the end of November and then take it in, using it primarily to feed their animals during winter. They grind part of the crop to make the meal for the famous tortilla.
Imagine listening to the wind whispering through the dry, high standing golden corn fields, while you cross between them into the sunset.

WINTER - December - February
The driest season with practically no rain at all. This means that the fields are very dry, painted a golden color against a brilliant blue sky, spotted with green cactus and mesquite bushes the exception.
Imagine late afternoon, as you ride through fields set afire by the setting sun. A spectacular image you will never forget.

All year round at midday we have temperatures of approx. 24º centigrade / 76 Fahrenheit. In the mornings and in the evenings it is good to have some long sleeved shirts or sweaters to take on the rides. It is always good to pack something of both so you can’t get wrong. Don’t forget your swimming trunks, if you like to use the hot tub or swim with the horses (depending on the weather).

For riding we recommend jeans and short boots. Training shoes are not really apt for riding as you may not be comfortable and get stuck in the stirrups. In any case you may buy short leather boots in the markets around here for about US$ 25.- to US$ 35.- depending on the size.

A pair of bicycle pants underneath your jeans can be helpful for beginners or guest which have not been riding for a long time (to help prevent rubs).

We do not provide riding helmets, if you want to use one you will have to bring it along. Most people here use only simple sombreros against the sun (you may also get them at the market) as it can be really hot beneath the black helmets… but this is your decision.

The sun on 7500 feet of altitude is very strong. We highly recommend a sun cream with high protection factor which you should use daily. The hotel is fumigated against mosquitoes and there are normally not many around.

Laundry: We do offer laundry services – ask for the actual rates.

Also provided in every room:  a hairdryer (110 V), shampoo, conditioner, liquid soap, towels, bathrobe and drinking water.

The electricity voltage here is 100V, the same as in the US.