French Broad River Outpost Ranch, Del Rio

It's taken me a few weeks to write a review because life has been so busy, but I know one thing—my mind keeps going back to the French Broad Outpost Dude Ranch, and my horse, Ti. There are so many things to love about this place. I spent a half week there with my two kids ages 19 and 21 and we all loved it. Here are some highlights: the food reminded me of what my grandmother and mother fixed when I was growing up—cornbread, fried okra, baked chicken, fresh berries and watermelon, silver dollar pancakes, etc. Everything is served family style, but there's no risk of there not being enough to go around. They put a bounty of food on the table at every meal. I loved it. Ice tea and lemonade are available all day in the dining room. We arrived on a Wednesday in time for dinner and then took part in the Pioneer Games. This is a brilliant move to quickly include newcomers into a group of people who many have been there since Sunday. We immediately felt at home. The accommodations were clean and comfortable. But the best part of all: the horses. They are well cared for and I absolutely adored bonding with my horse as I walked out to put a halter on him and lead him to the hitching post and saddle him myself. The wranglers and owner double check everything to ensure safety. I would have loved a mounting block as it was hard for me to get in the saddle by myself, but the wranglers helped me on and off. I'd love to be there right now, feeding a peppermint to my horse, taking in the scenery, and enjoying a break from social media. I also thought the Friday night Square dance was great fun. I think they have a really good schedule and it's fun to hear at meals what's coming up next. Best part.. my kids enjoyed it as much as I did. Great family bonding time and making memories. I highly recommend this place and miss it so much. Wish I was on a trail ride now.

Fun, friendly, family oriented! Great place to get away from it all! No phones, cable or WiFi!! Beautiful scenery, awesome horses, good food!