Enchantment Equitreks

My stay in New Mexico with the wonderful family at Enchantment was by far one of the best times of my life. If you don't read this entire review, I just wanted you to know that. I hope you'll plan to stay with them, it will be a life changing experience. Everyone at Enchantment took me in like family, from the moment Mel picked me up at the airport, to the family dinners, stories on the trail, and the moment we tearfully said goodbye. Right away I felt at home talking with Mel on the ride from Albuquerque out to the ranch, and got right into the saddle for a ride out in the pasture with Justyn after settling into the adorable guest house (which had an awesome salt water hot tub out back where I spent every evening!). Everyone was so encouraging and warm, I got my seat back in no time and we were galloping along the Rio Grande and through the desert in the Galisteo Basin that week. The horses were wonderful and intuitive, I miss them as much as all my new sisters. Their pack of adorable dogs at the ranch will cuddle and play with you if you like (I fell in love and had a couple sleeping in my room!), and join you on the trail. Meals were incredible, all homemade with fresh ingredients and traditional New Mexican elements. We rode through desert, mountains, brilliant cottonwood forest, pine forest, fields, and even took the horses for a swim in the Rio. No other way to describe it, it was magical. Each day we trailer out to a stunning location, ate amazing meals trailside, and the ladies were planning to go scout more new spots as soon as the season ended, so each trip can be new and exciting for you, them, and the horses. This is not your everyday trail riding. Mel and Justyn are the best of people and they attract the same in the people and horses they work with. Their 3rd outfitter, Gabby, and their intern Paige were an absolute dream to hang out with and ride alongside. When we finished our rides, we would often go into town to check out a cool shop, or head over to the large rescue ranch they partner with, Walking 'N Circles Ranch, for a visit. We ate family dinner together each night, and I had the opportunity to meet a couple different lovely travelers during my stay, with more great stories to share. They only take up to 3 or 4 intermediate to experienced riders at any time, so you get an intimate experience to bond with everyone, and really ride. To top off an already amazing trip, it is wonderful to know that the payment for your stay and rides helps magnificent rescue horses be rehabilitated and find their forever homes. I grew very attached to their spirited appaloosa, Xena, who I rode everyday. I am so thankful for everyone I met.I left feeling rested, inspired and free, but deeply sad to go because it truly felt like home. Thank you all infinitely for everything, I will definitely be booking a longer stay next time, if I haven't moved there already ;)Please go and experience this wonderful place yourself, you'll never forget it.

This was an awesome experience! The ranch is idyllic, I wanted to stay forever. The guest cabin was very comfortable, homey, and unique in design. The ladies, Justyn and Mel have created a peaceful and relaxing retreat while providing fun and excitement. The horses are beautiful. They have a wonderful place to live, play, and work. They are loved and very well cared for. They are very lucky to have been rescued by Justyn and Mel. The horses are at different levels in their rehab and training. I am a beginner so Rain was chosen for me to ride. She responded well to commands and showed nice manners, but she wasn't perfect so I was able to work with her on the trail rather than just plodding along. For more experienced riders, there are other mounts that would offer more challenge. The ladies were always alert to my needs and offered instruction and suggestions when required. I learned a lot.The trails and countryside were beautiful. The meals were fantastic! They rock in the kitchen.I plan to do this again and I wouldn't change a thing.

Just about the best experience you could ask for. The owner's Mel and Justyn are a delight and extremely knowledgeable. The horses are all very good rides too. Come have the time of your life. Actually experienced riders is the best fit though.

If the f word and foul mouth offends, not the place for you. Used in basic conversation.Owners have multiple jobs, interests, issues. Ranch not the main source of income. Overcommitment is apparent.All of their horses are rescue horses.Don't appear to spend time with horses consistently. Lead their horses with a hard hand. They will "train" horses during your rides. Can take away from ride time and experience. 95%ish time is single file trail riding.All woman staff and owners. Most always all woman guests. Strong estrogen.Additional amenities- pool, hot tub, hamock, etc,. Pool is above ground, can't swim. Items could be cleaned, prepared before guest arrival.Chicken, rooster and ranch dogs right outside guest house. Bring earplugs if you sleep lightly or with windows open.Food is good. The budget and portions are modest. Guest house industrial items in bathrooms and kitchen. Composting toilets. Everything is well used. Some rooms without doors and share bathroom. You're expected to tip.Wifi is good.Mission is commendable. Could be an amazing experience if the owner had more time or delegated, or partner who knows hospitality.

This is an over the top experience and does not disappoint on many levels. We went for my sisters 60th birthday celebration. Four siblings, more or less, reliving our childhood. The horses are...well...I think of Mia, "my" mare, every day. The first day she ran away when I went in the paddock. On the last day she trotted over. It literally made me cry. They are rescues, but definitely not run down. They are very well taken care of, with good confirmation, and all with personalities and stories. The barn is absolutely spotless too.Justyn put together interesting rides for us over 4 days, covering diverse terrain. Downtown Albuquerque (!), mountains - and I do mean real mountains, plains and galloping through canyons. We came away with a story or two. :-)The lodging is really nice! Well appointed, comfortable and spotless (and I get grossed out pretty easily). The deck has great views of the most southern rockies. Great sunsets! We also enjoyed the hot tub and pool. Very therapeutic on old bones after riding. The food! OMG. The food. Some fresh from the garden. All delicious. How Justyn and a small team does it has me scratching my head but it all seems to come together effortlessly. A huge thank you to Justyn and team for 5 days of great riding, eating, lodging and hospitality. Please give Mia a peppermint for me :-).