As time marched forward, it took its tole on the “ole” west and with it, the need for many of the sprawling ranches of the West. But time alone could not rob the ingenuity and hard work of the western rancher. Many working ranches would now provide a most unique and exhilarating adventure vacation destination. These western style vacation establishments first attracted the wealthy adventurist from the east who had a hankering to play cowboy, but without the callouses and saddle sores. Thus was born the “dude ranch”.

These ranches vary from the very rustic and homey to a toned down luxurious establishment that has traded in its gingham napkins for brushed linen. The choice is yours. So if you need to escape the persistent, clanging noise and demands of city life, you can find solace, relaxation, and spiritual renewal in the company of gentle people and in the most scenic beauty that nature has to offer. On horse back, you will feel the exhilaration of a gentle cantor across acres and acres of stunning beauty under the warmth of a noon day sun. A gentle contentment will envelope you like a warm blanket, as you watch the sun set in the west.

You may have some difficulty selecting a destination from the many existing dude ranches, but you can’t go wrong picking from a selection of establishments available in western U.S., Canada, or one of the world renown Argentinian dude ranches in South America. One in particular is the 100,000 acre working ranch called Estancia Ranquilco. Estancia Ranquilco is world renown for the personal warmth and friendliness of its people, and the remote, rugged beauty of its location in the region of Patagonia.