If you are filled with the D.C. Beltway Blues, or are tired of all the big-city grime, crime, and lack-of-time, then a trip to the Marriott Ranch might be just the escape you need.
About 45 miles outside the beltway, Marriott Ranch is a working cattle ranch in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, in Hume, Virginia. The ranch has about 4,200 acres, and, in addition to cattle, has a bed and breakfast called the Inn at Fairfield Farm. You can also go horseback riding, hiking, off-road jeeping, and fishing. In addition to people wanting to get back to nature, the site is also a popular destination for company retreats and weddings. Around the ranch there are vineyards and wineries, fishing, rafting, canoeing, Civil War Trails, the Shenandoah National Park, and the Skyline Drive.
We went on a guided trail ride and had a great time. We have been to other destinations for trail rides, but this one was much better—the horses were healthy and well-kept, and the trail ride was more relaxed and natural than some other rides I have been on.
My horse was not too thrilled with having his picture taken.
Saddle-up!
Here’s one happy camper.
Here we are, heading out.
This is an active cattle ranch, so sometimes you see some of the other residents.
Great scenery too!
And an old timey saloon is a great place for a picnic after a hard day’s ride.
They also offer other rides in addition to the basic trail ride: you can go on overnight rides, mountain rides, cattle drives, and even learn how to be a cowpoke.