$185 per person | 1hr 15min | Only 15 minutes from Charlottesville!
Combine serene horseback riding with artisan cider tasting just outside Charlottesville at Albemarle Ciderworks. Explore scenic farms before savoring craft ciders in a relaxed setting.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour 15 minutes
Fitness Level
Suitable for riders in average physical condition with no prior horseback experience required
Wildlife
History
Scottsville's agricultural history dates back to the 18th century when farming established the region’s economy, influencing today’s cider apple traditions.
Conservation
Albemarle Ciderworks practices sustainable fruit farming to preserve soil health and local ecosystems.
Indian Summer Guide Service
$185 per person | 1hr 15min | Only 15 minutes from Charlottesville!
Indian Summer Guide Service leads guided horseback rides across Charlottesville-area farms, vineyards, and ciderworks. Operating family-friendly and private experiences, the guide service pairs calm, well-trained horses with knowledgeable guides who prioritize safety, clear instruction, and an enjoyable pace for riders of varying experience.
The seasonal Santa's Chuckwagon in Roseland creates holiday memories: riders meet Santa, warm by a fire with hot cocoa, receive decorate-your-own cookie kits, and take professional photos beside gentle horses. Other public and private rides explore Merrie Mill Farm & Vineyard, Keswick, Chiswell Farm, Pollak Vineyards, Veritas Vineyard & Winery, Cunningham Creek Winery, and Albemarle Ciderworks, each finishing with a tasting or light fare at a rustic tasting room or family-owned winery.
Programs accommodate families, children, adults, and private groups; some rides require riders aged 12 and up while select vineyard rides are 21+. Routes traverse pasture, creekside paths, strawberry fields, and vineyard rows, offering Blue Ridge views and a relaxed countryside pace suited to beginners through experienced riders.
Indian Summer Guide Service focuses on curated, small-group outings that combine outdoor adventure with local flavors — wine flights, cider tastings, and intimate tasting-room experiences. Reservations are recommended for private vineyard or winery pairings and the popular holiday Santa's Chuckwagon. Contact information and booking details are available online; advance reservations help secure preferred dates and private experiences. All skill levels welcome.
Locations
Charlottesville & Roseland
Scenic farms, vineyards, ciderworks
Guided Rides
Knowledgeable guides
Safety-focused instruction on every trip
Scenic Routes
Farms & vineyards
Blue Ridge and countryside views
Tours Offered
9 experiences
From family to private rides
Reserve seasonal slots, private vineyard pairings, or the popular Santa's Chuckwagon for a memorable Charlottesville horseback experience.
Book in advance
Spaces fill quickly for the guided horseback and cider tasting tours, so reserve your spot ahead of time.
Wear sturdy shoes
Closed-toe shoes with ankle support make horseback riding more comfortable and safe.
Check weather forecast
Weather can affect trail conditions and cider patio enjoyment—dress accordingly.
Arrive early
Arriving a few minutes before your scheduled time helps with checking in and preparing your horse.
Closed-toe riding boots
Protects your feet and offers better grip on horseback.
Light jacket or layers
Spring mornings can be cool; layering keeps you comfortable.
spring
Sunhat or cap
Helps shield your face during the ride and while tasting outside.
summer
Sunscreen
Protects exposed skin during outdoor portions of the tour.
summer