$75 per Hour | Enjoy a Ride or take Lessons!
Discover an authentic Texas horseback riding adventure in Bandera, the Cowboy Capital of the World. Explore scenic trails, learn local ranch traditions, and experience the Hill Country’s unique landscape on horseback.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels but a baseline of balance and core strength helps.
Wildlife
History
Bandera has hosted cowboy culture since the late 1800s, which continues to influence its outdoor and community events today.
Conservation
The ranch supports sustainable land management practices that protect native plant species and minimize soil erosion on riding trails.
Rancho Cortez
$75 per Hour | Enjoy a Ride or take Lessons!
Rancho Cortez is an upscale guest ranch located in Bandera, Texas, offering authentic Texas Hill Country experiences for families, couples, and groups. The ranch provides a range of lodging options including hotel-style rooms, family suites, bunk houses, lodges, and extended-stay accommodations to suit different trip lengths from half-day visits to month-long stays. Amenities include swimming pools, play areas, large porches, communal spaces, and on-site activities like horseback riding, hayrides, and campfires.
Rancho Cortez hosts seasonal and themed events such as the Spooktacular Halloween celebration with costume contests, spooky hayrides, pumpkin painting, a graveyard dinner, and a zombie barn dance. Activity programs include guided trail rides with a minimum trail-ride age requirement, fitness-oriented stays with hiking, horseback riding, and dietician-designed meals, and family-friendly programming for children and adults.
The ranch emphasizes comfortable, rustic accommodations combined with curated activities that showcase Texas Hill Country scenery. Check-in and check-out policies are provided for specific stays, with typical check-in after 1 PM and checkout by 11 AM for extended-week stays. Rancho Cortez is positioned near San Antonio, making it accessible for day trips or multi-night vacations.
Guests choose Rancho Cortez for a blend of relaxation and adventure in a rural setting, with options for customized lengths of stay including half-day outings, multi-night packages, week-long fitness retreats, and extended month-long visits. The ranch communicates clear offerings and amenities so visitors can select the experience that matches their needs. Staff provide on-site information, schedules, and safety guidance to support guest experiences. Booking details are available online.
Location
Bandera, Texas
Near San Antonio for easy access
Lodging Options
Rooms, suites, bunk houses
Options for short and extended stays
Activities
Horseback, hayrides, pools
Family-friendly outdoor activities
Events & Stays
Spooktacular Halloween + packages
Seasonal events and multi-length stays
Check availability for the preferred stay length and secure lodging, activities, and event spots.
Wear Long Pants
Protect your legs from brush and saddle friction by wearing durable, long pants.
Bring Water
Stay hydrated; carry a water bottle especially in warmer months.
Sun Protection
Use sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat to protect against Texas sun.
Ride at Your Own Pace
Inform guides about your experience level to ensure a comfortable ride.
Sturdy Closed-Toe Boots
Protect your feet and provide proper grip and safety in stirrups.
Long Pants
Prevent chafing and protect from brush on trails.
Sunscreen
Protect skin from strong sun exposure during rides.
summer
Light Jacket
Useful for cooler mornings and evenings on the trail.
fall