Published 15th Apr. 2025
Reading time
Who hasn't, at some point, imagined themselves galloping across a prairie, Clint Eastwood-style, decked out in leather and a Stetson? Just us? The growing popularity of ranching holidays would suggest otherwise, as more and more people are opting to swap their usual summer holiday for a bit of Western wish fulfilment. You could say it's just for the children (what youngster wouldn’t want to channel their inner Sheriff Woody?), but really the adults have just as much, if not more, fun. If you’ve been swept up in the ‘cowboy core’ trend, read on as we trot you through the best cowboy holidays around the world, from the Wild West of the USA to the Australian Outback...
It doesn’t get much more iconic than America's Wild West, and Big Sky in Montana is one of our favourite destinations for cowboy holidays. In the rocky terrains of the Wild West, you’ll typically find ranches that offer a host of activities alongside plenty of riding – and if you’re travelling as a family, then these charming retreats are perfect. According to our USA expert Dave, thorough planning is one of the most important things to consider when preparing for a ranching holiday, especially with children – so Montana’s lively mix of fabulous children’s programmes and varied ranch activities make it a great choice. Whether you want to go horse riding from dawn till dusk or would prefer to sneak in some fly fishing and helicopter tours, Montana boasts a smorgasbord of ranches, each offering a different (but equally excellent) cowboy experience.
Image by Alexander Bailey / Unsplash.com.
Texas has a long and rich history with cowboys, so it’s no surprise that it’s home to some of the best cowboy holidays in the world. The state boasts a lively mix of working cattle ranches and ‘dude’ ranches – a ranch set up to host city slickers looking to learn about the cowboy lifestyle – so holidaymakers can choose whether to immerse themselves fully into the rustic Wild West or keep a few luxurious home comforts. If you’d prefer the latter, get ready to say ‘howdy, partner!’ to the cowboys at Wildcatter Ranch, a 1,500-acre expanse nestled deep in the heart of Texan Hill Country. Riding is the order of the day here, so saddle up and enjoy a guided tour with a local through more than 20 miles of stellar trails. The ranch also offers clay shooting, archery and axe throwing for the active types, alongside a jacuzzi and infinity pool for those who aren’t too keen on getting their hands dirty – there truly is something for everyone.
Image by Gerhard Lipolg / Pexels.com.
Latin America has a rich history of working ranches and is home to the cowboy's southern cousin, the gaucho. This might not be the cowboy holiday of your Spaghetti Western-inspired imagination, but hear us out: Argentina’s estancias (ranches) offer you the chance to stay on real-life working cattle farms. Many of these traditional estancias have been owned by Argentine families for generations, meaning they are positively steeped in history and tradition. While on the ranch, you’ll be able to watch the gauchos at work, get involved with their day-to-day activities and enjoy sprawling rural landscapes dotted with cattle and horses – everyone will be in the cowboy spirit in no time.
Image by Mathieu Richer Mamousse.
Half a world away, the Australian Outback, with its untamed nature, is as much cowboy country as the Americas. The region boasts millions of acres of wilderness and awe-inspiring landscapes, and many ranches are extremely remote, meaning each one is a natural haven for those in need of an escape. Due to their isolation and size, many ranches offer helicopter rides or other modes of transport to allow you to look over the entire estate and reach remote springs and fishing spots. At El Questro homestead, for example, you’ll be up bright and early to marvel at the fantastic views as you ride through winding rivers and sprawling valleys with a local guide before hopping into a helicopter to reach the breathtaking Zebedee thermal springs. Each ranch in Australia’s Outback has its own distinctive history, ways of life and atmosphere, so throw on your cowboy hat, soak in the nature and imagine how the first Australian cowboys tried to tame the Outback. Yeehaw!
Image by LuckyViks / Getty Images.
Written by Emma Begley | Header image by Michael Turek.
Practical advice and inspiration for your next trip
Meet Jean-Francois Rial, CEO of Voyageurs du Monde – the French tour operator that’s been Original Travel’s parent company since 2017. A passionate advocate for sustainable travel, he’s been proposing ways for the industry to play its part in protecting the planet. Off the clock, he also runs an organic vegetable farm in France’s Orne region, proving that even CEOs can get their hands dirty. Intrigued by the people shaping the future of travel?
27th April 2026 - Travel Inspiration
Just stepped off the Shinkansen, explored the vibrant streets of Tokyo and had your fill of ramen? Then you’ll know Japan is dazzling, and a little hectic at times. That’s where temples come in – and with over 150,000 sacred sites across the country, you’ll see signs for otera (temple) and jinja (shrine), everywhere. Follow them and find peaceful pavilions, meet resident deer bowing for a biscuit or two and even tiptoe through ninja hideouts filled with secret rooms.
27th April 2026 - Japan Travel Inspiration
Introducing travel heroes: individuals who inspire us with their innovation, dedication and creativity within the travel industry. These are people who embody the Original Travel mission and values in their work and who deserve a moment in the spotlight. Developed from our Original Traveller feature, read on as we celebrate our favourite global champions of sustainability, cultural heritage and conservation.
20th April 2026 - Travel Inspiration
Our team of destination experts will get to know you and your unique requirements for your holiday
We work with you to build an ultra-personalised holiday itinerary with your choice of accommodation, experiences and activities
All of our holidays include little extras designed to make a big difference to your trip, from fast-tracking you through airport check-in and security to our network of local Concierges
