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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. 75ºF. 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.

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.

Tack:		Mexican Charro
Horses:		Criollo, Azteca, and Quarter mix
Pace:		All paces according to riding level - split into different riding groups | Walk | Trot | Canter |
Level:		(2 to 3 out of 5)    Novice +
Age:		Min 8
Weight:		Max 270 lbs
Riders:		Min 2 riders	Max 8 riders (per riding group)	Max Capacity 12

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.
Rides are suited to any riding level, from complete beginner to very experienced riders.
Advanced riders have the opportunity to enjoy really great, faster paced riding.
Less experienced riders can go out with a separate guide to ensure that everyone gets the best experience.
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

Passports
Passport valid for at least six months after date of entry required by all nationals referred to in the chart .
Passport Note
(a) Applicants for Blue Tourist Cards should have a valid passport, return/onward ticket and proof of financial means. (b) Tourist Cards must be kept by the visitor during the entire length of stay as they will have to be presented and stamped on leaving.

Visas
Not required by nationals referred to in the chart above, who can obtain a Blue Tourist Card for touristic purposes from their airline on direct flights, at port of entry, or from the Mexican Consulate before travelling, for 180 days, except nationals of Australia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Estonia, France, Greece, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Portugal, Slovak Republic and Slovenia who can stay for up to 90 days.
Visa Note
(a) Nationals seeking to visit Mexico on business are advised to check with the consulate regarding visa requirements as they may need to apply for a Non Immigrant Business Visitor carnet (FM3). (b) Nationals not referred to in the chart above are advised to contact the embassy to check visa requirements