Is previous horseback riding experience required?

No previous experience is necessary, though a basic comfort level with horses will enhance your ride.

Are children allowed on this ride?

Riders must be at least 12 years old to participate in the private vineyard ride.

What should I bring with me?

Wear long pants and closed-toe shoes, bring water, sunscreen, and a camera for the best experience.

Is the wine tasting included in the ride price?

Wine tasting and lunch are separate purchases, but riders get a 20% discount at the tasting room.

Are the trails suitable for beginners?

Yes, trails are gentle and suitable for riders of all levels, guided at a relaxed pace.

What seasons is the ride available?

The ride is offered year-round, but spring through fall offers the most comfortable weather and vibrant scenery.

Explore Charlottesville’s Vineyards on a Private Horseback Ride and Wine Tasting Adventure | Guided Tour | Attraction

Situated just outside the charming town of Scottsville, Virginia, the Veritas Vineyard & Winery Ride offers an unforgettable way to experience the rolling vineyards of Charlottesville’s famed wine country. This private 1.5-hour horseback ride lets visitors immerse themselves in the vibrant agricultural landscape and spectacular views of Virginia’s Piedmont region, all while enjoying a laid-back yet active outdoor adventure. Known for its picturesque vineyards and historic estates, this ride stands out by pairing equestrian exploration with the refined culture of winemaking. Guests meet at The Farmhouse at Veritas, where a personal wrangler saddles up a sturdy horse tailored for your skill level. The trail winds gently through neat rows of vines, mature oaks, and pastureland, offering scenic overlooks of the Blue Ridge Mountains beyond. The geology here is marked by rolling hills formed from ancient bedrock, supporting nutrient-rich soils ideal for producing award-winning wines. Throughout the ride, guides share insights about local grape varieties such as Viognier and Cabernet Franc, plus tips on sustainable vineyard practices, all while navigating calm trails suited for riders 12 and older. What truly distinguishes this experience is its private nature — only your party and the guide join the ride, allowing a relaxed pace and plenty of moments to take photos or simply breathe in the fresh countryside air. After the ride, guests enjoy a short drive or a leisurely walk to the Veritas tasting room. Here, the day unfolds with a curated tasting of select vintages, enhanced by a recommended lunch menu featuring local fare that complements the rich flavors of the wines. Riders receive an exclusive 20% discount on any wine purchases, making it easy to bring a bottle or two home. The Veritas Vineyard & Winery Ride is more than a casual outing; it’s a gateway to the heart of Virginia’s outdoor recreation and wine culture. Scottsville, a small historic town along the James River, offers rustic charm and easy access to broader Charlottesville attractions, making it an ideal base. This trip combines moderate horseback riding skill and leisurely walkability with a culinary twist that outdoor enthusiasts and wine lovers alike will appreciate. Whether you’re looking to deepen your knowledge of vineyard ecosystems from horseback or simply savor a calm afternoon in a unique setting, this adventure delivers. It highlights the vibrancy of Virginia’s agricultural heritage while offering a peaceful escape framed by nature’s beauty, far from the usual trail crowd.

Difficulty

moderate.

Duration

1.5 hours.

Fitness level

Moderate fitness required; basic horseback riding experience helpful but not mandatory.

Wildlife

White-tailed deer commonly spotted in vineyard edges
Various songbirds such as eastern bluebirds and cardinals

History

Veritas Winery sits in a region known for pioneering Virginia’s modern wine industry since the 1970s.

Conservation

The vineyard employs sustainable farming techniques to minimize chemical use and maintain soil health.

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.

Base locationScottsville, Virginia

Tours offered9+

Specialtyland-adventures

StewardshipLeave No Trace