Lyndal Mellefont
‘Picture this: it’s 7am and you’re woken to the sound of Miguel discretely lighting your wood-heater in your cosy glamping tent. The cold Patagonian night is dispelled, so you enjoy a good stretch in your comfortable bed then shower (if you want), jump into your riding clothes and make your way to breakfast at 8. It’s fabulous homemade granola, fresh fruits and juices, huevos and bacon. You don’t linger though… because its time to ride! You gather your gear and head to your horse who is already saddled by the gauchos and ready to go. You rode the whole day before… but you wouldn’t know it, as the gaucho saddles with their sheepskin pads are the most comfortable saddles ever. FACT. It really doesn’t matter where you are riding today – it’s guaranteed that the scenery is spectacular, your horse surefooted and willing and that you are surrounded by people who share your love of horses and viewing the world ‘between two ears’. At every viewpoint, you think ‘this is the money shot!’, only to find that the vistas get more and more spectacular. Your horse is amazing. You are enjoying a privilege few others receive. You are EXACTLY where you need to be. You return to camp at the end of the day and delight in watching the horses roll away the day’s efforts and start tearing into the lush green grass outside your cabin. You spend a few moments reflecting on their strength and agility… but the open bar is calling! You shower and change and enjoy Daisy’s G&T or Oscar’s Pisco Sour in front of the roaring fire, joining in on the excited chatter that recaps today’s marvellous ride. The conversation continues over a three-course epicurean delight prepared by Oscar and his team and washed down with some Argentinian Malbec (a must!). Retire early or retire late, your wood-heater is already stoked and the hot water bottle is ready to warm your toes. You pinch yourself – life doesn’t get any better than this. Horses are truly the best therapy… sign me up for this treatment every day!’