Orlando Hotel with horses???

[jdm]

My DH said he watched a special on the Travel Channel that highlighted an Orlando hotel that had horses, riding etc. over the weekend. I was suspicious of this as I've been on these boards for years, researched Orlando hotels and the areas etc. and have never heard of such a thing. He couldn't remember any details, does anyone know anything about it?

Jenn

 

[spiceycat]

Hyatt Grand Cypress - old but still beautiful hotel

http://grandcypress.hyatt.com/property/index.jhtml

if this is too expensive.

at Fort Wilderness there is horsebacking riding you can rent by the hour (I think is is currently $35 for a 45 minute walk)

this is not for a good rider - and the child must be at least 9 years old to control the horse.

 

[agnes!]

While I was typing this up, spiceycat answered as well .
So, this resort actually does exist - it's called the "Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress". This hotel is (literally) next door to the Downtown Disney/Hotel Plaza hotels. The resort encompasses about 1500 acres and includes a lake, canoeing, paddleboats, sailboats, surrey bikes, single bikes, jogging trails, pool complex with grottoes & hot tubs, complete Health Club/Spa, pitch'n'putt golf, arcade, childrens' activities, golf courses, Equestrian Center(stables, lessons, riding trails, riding ring)...and more (plus the $13/day resort fee covers most of the activities). The only extra-cost activities I can think of are the main golf courses' greens fees, Spa massages, horse-riding
(pretty sure about that, but I could be wrong).
By the way, the atrium lobby is one of the most incredible I have ever seen with glass-front elevators, several macaws, waterfalls, tropical flowers...Hyatt(Frequent Stay) members also have a separate check-in with complimentary champagne. The staff is top-notch, friendly *and* professional.
I hope to stay there again...someday.

agnes!

 

[jdm]

Well, thanks so much for all the information!! I can't believe I missed this, in all my research and with DD being such a horse lover. Ah well, something to think about for a splurge in the future. We are actually going on a cruise and have a ride booked in St. Martin, but this would be fun for another of our annual trips. Thanks again!!

Jenn

 

[bwvBound]

I've never been ... only seen ads ...

Westgate River Ranch

From the resort description:

Enjoy an authentic "Dude Ranch" experience, while relaxing in luxurious, Western-style accommodations, at Westgate River Ranch. Surrounded by 100,000 acres of protected wildlife preserve, Westgate River Ranch is a 1,700-acre ponderosa of winding trails, pristine waters and more!

Indulge yourself in a wide range of activities that allow you to escape into nature's sanctuary. You can enjoy horseback riding, guided nature hikes, fishing, boating, trap and skeet, swimming pool, airboat rides, hayrides and a petting zoo. Or go line dancing at the River Ranch Saloon. There's even a sanctioned rodeo every Saturday night in our 1,200-seat rodeo stadium and a lighted, 5,000-foot private runway.

 

[berly1657]

I believe my In-laws are at the "ranch" right now. A couple from church have spent the winters here for the last couple of years. My IL's and friends are checking into buying lots here for their motor homes. I believe this place also has a huge camping area. (IF this is the same place...they always refer to it as the ranch) I know they just love it becuase there is so much to do here - but you are kind of in the middle of nowhere.....but I beleive they have their own store etc...but they think it is the best

 

[SusanDK]

The Reunion Resort being built south of WDW will have an equestrian center. The resort is partially open now, but I'm not sure when the equestrian center will be available.

Susan