I am an avid horseback rider and try to ride whenever I travel somewhere new. I must say my expectations of riding horses in Mexico were not high. But the Cuadra San Francisco Equestrian Center changed all that. The ranch was a quick golf cart ride from our hotel. I was very impressed by the quality of horses - all were well taken care of, with gleaming coats. We were told that some of the horses were used in the movie Troy.
Our guide was the owner's son and an accomplished equestrian. He was also very friendly and personable. Our mounts were very capable - not the lazy ponies I expected. We were also allowed to trot and canter and move at our own pace. The trails took us up into the hills, which were filled with large cacti and other desert vegetation. The views of the ocean were breathtaking! I highly recommend this ranch if you are looking for something other than your average "pony ride" on the beach.