Take a scenic horseback ride through Pollak Vineyards near Charlottesville, Virginia, concluding with a wine tasting at a charming family winery. Perfect for riders 12 and up seeking a unique outdoor adventure.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–1.25 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for riders in moderate physical shape who can spend about an hour walking on horseback.
Wildlife
History
Charlottesville’s vineyards are part of Virginia’s historic wine country, which dates back to the 18th century, reflecting a long-standing agricultural tradition.
Conservation
Pollak Vineyards practices sustainable farming techniques to preserve soil health and local ecosystems, contributing to environmental stewardship in the region.
Indian Summer Guide Service
Take a scenic horseback ride through Pollak Vineyards near Charlottesville, Virginia, concluding with a wine tasting at a charming family winery. Perfect for riders 12 and up seeking a unique outdoor adventure.
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.
Wear closed-toe shoes and pants
Protect your legs and feet during the ride; it’s required for rider and horse safety.
Bring water and stay hydrated
Even on moderate rides, staying hydrated ensures comfort and prevents fatigue.
No outside horses allowed
For safety reasons, guests must ride provided horses only—no personal horses permitted.
Minimum group size required
This ride requires at least 4 people to run. Operators will contact you if the trip is rescheduled.
Closed-toed shoes
Necessary for foot protection and stability while riding.
Long pants
Protects legs from brush and saddle friction.
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
Essential to guard against sun exposure during open-air riding.
spring|summer|fall
Light rain jacket
Useful for unexpected showers and wind protection.
spring|fall|winter