Ranch Hotel, Turkey
Reviews
“The staff were very friendly and went out their way to make me feel welcome and to introduce me to other holiday makers. The riding trails are really beautiful, I've never experienced this kind of freedom in a Mediterranean environment, the mountains were wild and the beaches long for gallops. Our guide was highly entertaining and the conversation rich and fun, prepare for laughs! I felt safe at all times on my horse, she was very well trained and so responsive. The dining area is rustic and intimate with spectacular views and delicious authentic Turkish food, cooked and served with a smile. The rooms are simple but cosy. I really recommend the Ranch Hotel to all, whether travelling as a family or alone. I had a positively unique experience. ”
Horses
Type of horses:
Arabic, English thoroughbred, Hafflinger and European.
Nature of horses:
Well trained, safe and gentle.
Height of horses:
14hh - 16hh
Weight limit:
100 kg/220 lbs
Tack type:
English and Trekking saddles
Weather
Current Conditions:
Fair, 26 C
Forecast:
Fri - Sunny. High: 34 Low: 27
Sat - Sunny. High: 36 Low: 26
Full Forecast at Yahoo! Weather
(provided by The Weather Channel)
Pricing
Trail Programme
2010 Prices:
Season A: (March and November)
£657 Per person per double room:
Single: £757 per week
Season B: (April)
£690 Per person per double room:
Single: £807 per week
Season C: (May, June, July, August, September, October)
£811 Per person per double room:
Single: £937 per week
Price does not include flights or travel insurance.
Stationary Programme
2010 Prices:
Fifteen hour weekly programme:
Season A: (March, November, December):
£427 Per person per double room.
Single: £514 per week
Season B: (April):
£493 Per person per double room:
Single: £602 per week
Season C: (May, June, July, August, September, October):
£569 Per person per double room:
Single: £673 per week
Twenty-eight hour programme:
Season A: (March, November, December):
£502 Per person per double room.
Single: £590 per week
Season B: (April):
£636 Per person per double room:
Single: £732 per week
Season C: (May, June, July, August, September, October):
£711 Per person per double room:
Single: £828 per week
Non riders (All programmes):
Season A:
Double, half board: £234
Double, B&B: £167
Single, half board: £318
Single, B&B: £209
Season B:
Double, half board: £301
Double, B&B: £226
Single, half board: £427
Single, B&B: £335
Season C:
Double, half board: £326
Double, B&B: £251
Single, half board: £468
Single, B&B: £360
Suite room supplement: £50 per person, per night, up to four people per room.
Children:
0 - 6 years non-riders: Free stay in the accommodation if staying in the same room as parents (non riders only)
7 - 12 years non-riders: 50% discount in the accommodation if staying in the same room as parents (non riders only)
Price does not include flights or travel insurance.
Christmas & New Year Programmes
2010 Prices:
Christmas Programme
£779 Based on double room accommodation
£129 single supplement
New Year's Eve Programme
£763 based on double room accommodation
£129 single supplement
Seasonal Special Programme
£936 based on double room accommodation
All Christmas programmes include transfer to and from the airport in the hotel cars
£238 single supplement
Availability/Booking Form
Ride Description
This terrific value holiday destination, ideal for horse riders, honeymooners, families and lovers of nature, is located on one of the most beautiful coasts of Turkey. Offering excellent hotel facilities plus the whole range of riding experience, the Hotel Ranch is situated 50km from Antalya and 2.5km from the local beach. The ranch lies among pine forests facing the spectacular volcanic Twin Peaks and a huge range of activities is available for all.
Novice riders can take instruction from the hotel's professional instructors team in its own 2,500 square metre menage. There are 25-30 well trained and gentle horses available to ride. For more advanced riders there are guided forest tours from 1-5 hours and the team is also ready to guide riders through various forest trails to explore views of the Lycian Way, the mythological Olympos Mountain and the ruins of ancient Phaselis. Daily and weekly programmes are available. Children can have individual or group riding lessons and for those who want to expand their skills, the instructors are ready to give tips on jumping and dressage.
Those not wishing to ride can take advantage of the many other activities available, or simply relax in the wonderful Turkish countryside.
See Programmes.
Food & Accommodation
Hidden amongst pine trees, with orange and pomegranate gardens and facing the spectacular volcanic Twin peaks, the 72 bed hotel offers 26 standard rooms, 2 suites and a honeymoon suite. An extra bed can be added to the double rooms.
Accommodation is rustic and simply furnished. All standard ranch rooms are air conditioned with own bathroom (shower) , hair dryer, safe-box (you can rent), refrigerator, telephone, and TV (Satellite). In addition, some rooms have a balcony, whilst the suite rooms have carpets, mini bar and verandah. The honeymoon suite also has a mini bar, balcony and bathroom with a bathtub. The standard garden rooms have doors which open directly onto the gardens.
The hotel has a front desk from where excursions, activities and services can be arranged. A free wireless internet connection is available. Laundry, dry cleaning, car rental and taxi services are available. There is even a Mini-Boutique providing opportunities for shoppers.
On the weekly trail guest will have the opportunity to stay in local village accommodation where they can enjoy the wonderful Turkish hospitality.
Hotel guests, depending on occupancy, can enjoy either a set menu or open buffet. The set menu taken in the main restaurant is served between 08.00 and 21.00. The a la carte menu is served between 19.30 and 01.00. The chef has created a menu in the traditional Mediterranean spirit with Turkish specialities. This a la carte menu can be enjoyed either in the indoor restaurant (80 capacity) or on the outdoor terrace in the summer, both with spectacular views.
The "Horse Cafe - Bistro" provides snacks and drinks between 08.00 and 20.00. The hotel's bars and restaurant welcome guests in a cosy atmosphere for a unique Turkish experience. The reading lounge, next to the fireplace, is ideal for relaxing moments perhaps enjoying a sophisticated aperitif or a glass of classic Turkish tea. The "Horse Bar" is ideal for having a quick snack or sipping coffee whilst enjoying the views of the stunning Twin Peaks and Taurus Mountain, or cheering on novice riders taking their "first steps" on the menage where the hotel's professional horse riding team provide instruction.
Activities
Other activities available in the hotel itself include an outdoor swimming pool, tennis court, volleyball, basketball and mini football fields, an outdoor fitness centre and mountain bikes. A free daily shuttle service from the hotel to the local beach is available. Sunbeds, umbrellas and beach towels are provided for both the beach and the swimming pool.
Additional activities available at extra cost include jeep safari, rafting, scuba diving, boat trips, yacht tours, historical tours. Three different spa programmes are also available.
Further Details
Languages: English, Turkish
Health requirements: Fit and healthy.
Age limit: Minimum age 12 on trails.
Tuition: Yes
Included: Half board, activities available at the hotel, daily shuttle service to Kemer beach, wireless internet connection.
Not included: Transfers, laundry, lunches (can be purchased at the restaurant or sandwich boxes can be provided at an additional cost) telephone, all drinks, spa programmes and some services, activities and excursions arranged locally.
Travel Information
Low cost flights to Antalya from Stansted, Gatwick, Birmingham, Bristol, East Midlands, Glasgow, Manchester, Newcastle, are available.
Airport transfers can be arranged, but to be paid locally.
Antalya - Hotel - Antalya (max 4 pax): 90 €
Antalya - Hotel - Antalya (max 10 pax): 130 €
Airport: Antalya
Programmes
Trail Programme
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The trail programme takes place in the Taurus Mountains, at the base of Tahtali Mountain which is 2,360m high. You ride to an altitude of 1000 m so this programme can only take place in the summer, because temperatures can be 5-7 degrees lower than in Kemer. Saturday Arrival day, check in and enjoy a welcome cocktail. You will be shown around the ranch and given information about the riding programme activities and other excursions. Sunday An introduction to the horses and your instructors, warm up at the menage, group arrangement according to the rider's skill level then ride in the pine forest. A total of 5 hours in the saddle today followed by relaxation by the pool before an evening of fine dining. Monday You start your Trail programme with a 4 hour ride up to the village of Gedelme. The trail goes through the Kesme Bogazi ravine and clings to the precipitous mountain walls with the Agva River rushing below. Gedelme is situated on the mountain plateau and has many interesting tourist sights that can be visited this afternoon or tomorrow morning. There is a famous 2,500 year old Plane tree, illuminated grotto, old ruins of a castle and a Nomad tent encampment. Tuesday After saying goodbye to Gedelme you set off on a 6 hour ride to Yayla Kuzdere. Lunch will be in one of the many villages along the way. Yayla Kuzdere is the closest village to the top of Tahtali Mountain whose summit is covered in snow until about the second week of June. Along the way you can admire the coastal views and pine forest in this mountain fresh environment. Wednesday Your next stop will be the village Ovacik, after a 6 hour ride. Ovacik offers amazing views as it is located on a plateau surrounded by mountains as it’s Turkish name implies. After having a traditional Turkish breakfast the next day you will continue your ride. Thursday Return to the ranch through the Kesme Bogazi ravine 6 hours. Kesme Bogazi ravine is flanked by rugged mountain walls. During the ride you can refresh yourself in the ice-cold waters of the Agva River. The river rushes down the Kesme Bogazi gorge and the trail clings to the side of the mountain walls. Friday On the last day you ride towards an ancient Temple on Olympos Mountain. In this 4 hour trip you will ride uphill 600-700 m for 8 km in the forest to this magnificent place. Up on the hills the horses are tethered near a refreshing water spring and then have a 10 minute walk to the mysterious Temple which offers fabulous scenery of the Mediterranean Sea towards the Kumluca Village. After you return to the ranch a special night will be waiting for you. Saturday Departure day. After a last meal at the ranch, time for goodbyes and departure to the airport. Whilst you are on the trail, meals are available from the mountain restaurants. |
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| Accommodation: | Four nights at the hotel and three in village houses. |
| Minimum group size: | 2 |
| Maximum group size: | 8 |
| Ability description: | Intermediate to advanced. |
| Type of ride: | Trail |
| Total riding time: | 4 -6 hours per day ( approx 30 -35 Hours per week) |
| Departure dates: | 2010 Dates: 17 - 24 July; 21 - 28 August; 11 - 18 September; 9 - 16 October; 6 - 13 November. |
| Pricing: | See Pricing |
Stationary Programme
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On this based stay trail, guests have the option of setting the programme to include either 15 or 28 hours of riding. Example Itinerary Day 1: Arrive at the hotel for a welcome and information cocktail in the lounge. After checking into the hotel you will be introduced to the horses and equine team. Following this you will take part in an introductory ride to allow a suitable horse to be selected for you. The team will of course ensure that you are happy with the choice too! Day 2: You begin your day in the saddle with a half hour ride to see the magnificent Mediterranean Sea view, this is a great opportunity to take photos! After such a pleasant start to the day your ride will take you towards the Tahtali Mountain to the house of Yoruk Halil Karakoyunlu where you will experience Turkish country life. You may be lucky enough for the family at the Yoruk Halil house to share with you many interesting stories about the life of the mountain people. Day 3: Today you will ride to Kusdere, one of the regions most interesting and picturesque villages. Here you will experience a taste of authentic Turkish village culture. After enjoying a drink of classic Turkish tea in the village you will visit the Kuzdere, the local mosque and school. On the return path you will see the wonderful orange gardens surrounding the volcanic Twin Peaks. This excursion is a real pleasure in April when the orange trees are blooming and spreading their perfume smell all round. After returning to the ranch you enjoy the beauty of the day and the glorious weather while relaxing by the pool or taking a swim. Day 4: Today you head off on a 12 km ride through the pine forest to Alaca Su, one of the most beautiful bays in the region. Those who wish to take a break from riding can go for a walk, swim in the crystal clear waters or simply relax on the beach before taking the exciting ride back to the ranch. Day 5: Today you have the opportunity for exhilarating gallops along the beaches of the Mediterranean sea. You will spend four to five hours in the saddle beginning with a ride to Kesme Bogazi, a ravine flanked by rugged mountain walls. There will then be time to refresh yourself in the ice-cold waters of the Agva River. Day 6: Today you will embark on a four hour trip towards an ancient temple on the Olympos Mountain. You will approach this magnificent place on horseback riding through 8km of pine forest, up a hill of 600 -700m. The horses are tethered on the hill near to a fresh water spring whilst you continue the remaining ten minute journey on foot. The mysterious temple offers fabulous scenery of the Mediterranean Sea towards the Kumulca Village. After such an amazing end to the trail you return to the ranch where a very special night awaits you. Day 7: On this final day of riding you will again explore the beauty of the Taurus Mountains and their surroundings from horseback and admire the changing landscapes. After riding for an hour you will pass through a farm before ascending through the pine forest until reaching natural water pools where you will take a break from riding and stop for a swim. On the return path to the ranch you will enjoy the nature the region has to offer. Day 8: Breakfast and a farewell cocktail before transfer to the airport. |
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| Minimum group size: | 1 |
| Maximum group size: | 15 |
| Ability description: | Novice to Experienced. |
| Type of ride: | Based, with day trails |
| Total riding time: | 15 or 28 hours per week |
| Departure dates: | To suit all year around |
| Pricing: | See Pricing |
Christmas & New Year Programmes
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We are pleased to offer three different programmes which include some exciting activities over Christmas and the New Year. There is a Christmas Programme, a New Year Programme and a Seasonal Special which extends over both periods. All programmes include transfer to and from the airport in the hotel cars. Christmas Programme - December 19-26 2009 * This programme includes 7 days full board accommodation. * Gala Dinner on Christmas Eve * Two Hammam Tours (Half day) with massage * Demre Saint Nicholas Tour - Old Town (min 4) * Tour to Phaselis, Olympos and Fish Restaurant in Ulupinar (depends on weather - includes entrance fee) * Fourteen hours horse riding * Tahtali Mountain (2365m) by cable car New Year's Eve Programme - December 26 - January 2 2010 * This programme includes 7 days full board accommodation * Gala Dinner on New Year's Eve (Open Buffet) * Two Hamman Tours (Half day) with massage * Demre Saint Nicholas Tour - Old Town (min 4) * Tour to Phaselis, Olympos and Fish Restaurant in Ulupinar (depends on weather - includes entrance fee) * Fourteen hours horse riding * Tahtali Mountain (2365m) by cable car Seasonal Special - December 23 - January 5 2010 * This programme includes 13 days full board accommodation * Gala Dinner on Christmas Eve * Gala Dinner on New Years Eve (Open Buffet) * Two Hamman Tours (Half day) with massage * Demre Saint Nicholas Tour - Old Town (min 4) * Tour to Phaselis, Olympos and Fish Restaurant in Ulupinar (depends on weather - includes entrance fee) * Fourteen hours horse riding * Tahtali Mountain (2365m) by cable car |
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| Minimum group size: | 0 |
| Maximum group size: | 0 |
| Ability description: | All riding experiences welcome |
| Type of ride: | |
| Total riding time: | 14 hours minimum |
| Departure dates: | As above |
| Pricing: | See Pricing |