Long before the first grapes were grown in the Temecula Valley, the region was known as “horse and cattle country.” During the days of Spanish exploration and settlement in California, Temecula’s mild climate and fertile landscape provided an ideal environment for raising horses. Today, equestrian culture is alive and well, and the region continues to be a cherished equestrian destination. Visitors will see ranches, event venues, and a variety of horse properties dotting the landscape, particularly in Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country.
Whether pleasure riding, showing, or competing, there is something for every equiphile to enjoy and appreciate in Temecula. Fans of Western equestrianism can enjoy rodeos, barrel racing, and cutting competitions that celebrate the rich heritage of the American West. Meanwhile, aficionados of English riding can experience the elegance of dressage, show jumping, and eventing.
Here is a curated list of premiere horse venues and equestrian experiences in the Temecula Valley:
California Ranch Company
Located on the outskirts of wine country, the California Ranch Company stands as a testament to the region’s enduring Western equestrian heritage. Celebrated as a premier horse training, competition, and event venue, CRC Ranch effortlessly merges the past and present. Here, guests can witness barrel racing, cutting, ranch riding, team penning, sorting, and roping, or they can saddle up for a trail ride. Event participants can reserve horse trailer/RV hookups, stalls, or pens. For a calendar with upcoming equine events, which are free to the public, visit www.californiaranchcompany.com/home.
Galway Downs
On a property that has been home to equestrian events for more than 50 years, Galway Downs is an expansive property, surrounded by the natural beauty of Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country. It is a premiere multipurpose event facility for riders of every discipline and sits on 242 acres, with 400 permanent horse stalls, a one-mile racetrack, a 5/8-mile training track, 14 arenas for training and competition, and 15 miles of trails. Open for a variety of equestrian events all year long, the venue really comes alive in spring. Upcoming shows include the Galway Downs International Horse Trial and Intercollegiate Team Challenge, the RCAHA Spring Horse Show, the Temecula Valley National, the DASC Spring Benefit, and the Galway Downs Spring Horse Trial and Preliminary Challenge. All events are free to spectators. For a full schedule and more information, visit www.galwaydowns.net.
Los Caballos de Raúl Ramirez
Raul Ramirez Winery is a Spanish-themed winery and Andalusian horse ranch located in Temecula Valley Wine Country. With a history that can be traced back through the annals of time, the majestic Andalusian horse embodies the essence of Spain’s equestrian tradition. Beautiful, intelligent, and known for their long-flowing manes, the horses at Raul Ramirez Winery are featured in a horse show on the property five times a year, for members and their guests.
Horseback Rides/Carriage Excursions
The trails throughout Temecula Valley's wine country are perfect for exploration on horseback on a guided tour. California Ranch Company (CRC), Wine Country Trails by Horseback, and Old Town Ranch offers horseback riding in wine country.
Wine Country tours that include tastings are available through Temecula Carriage Company. Their offerings include a horse-drawn carriage for an intimate experience or a horse-drawn trolley.
Enjoying the Temecula Valley on horseback offers an authentic and more traditional way to explore Temecula Valley Wine Country, connect with nature, and experience the natural beauty of the region. Riders can traverse vineyards and scenic trails while disconnecting from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It is a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and appreciation for nature and wine culture, making it a must-try for visitors to the region.