Horseback Riding in Costa Rica: A Trot Through Paradise
Imagine the splash of water as your steed fords a crystalline stream, the rustle of lush foliage as you meander through emerald forests, and the thrill of emerging atop a hill to a view that takes your breath away. This isn’t the start of a fantasy novel—it's the pure, unbridled joy of horseback riding in Costa Rica, an experience that beckons adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. Costa Rica's rugged landscapes, with its tapestry of rainforests, beaches, and volcanoes, beg to be explored on horseback. And whether you're a seasoned equestrian or a curious traveller looking to saddle up for the first time, there's an equine adventure waiting for you in the heart of Central America.
Allow me to share a vignette from my own trove of memories that captures the essence of horseback riding in this vibrant land. I first met Toucan—not the bird, but a horse with a character as colourful as his namesake. What made Toucan unforgettable wasn't just his glossy coat or his vast freedom; it was his singular curled ear that seemed to echo each whisper of the Costa Rican winds.
Riding Toucan was like joining an ancient dance—the kind where instinct leads, and you follow, mesmerised. There were moments, careening down a leafy byway or climbing a challengingly steep trail, when I held my breath, certain we'd succumb to gravity's call. But Toucan, with his incredibly sound footing, danced us through danger, steady as the ground beneath him. With every step, he seemed to say, "Trust me, I've got this," and so I did.
Each rider in Costa Rica will likely meet their 'Toucan,' a horse that becomes more than just a mount, but a partner in adventure, a shared heartbeat thundering against the backdrop of Costa Rica's sprawling beauty.
Exploring the Welcoming City of Charleston on a Bike Ride
As a frequent adventurer and a road tripper, I’m always on the lookout for new destinations and experiences. Recently, I had the opportunity to explore the charming city of Charleston, South Carolina on a bike ride. That’s right, a bike!! Coming from an eco-conscious background, I’m always enthusiastic about exploring new places using sustainable transportation methods. I travelled to Charleston in the first weekend of November and stayed at the French Quarter Inn, which was an incredibly magnificent experience. In this post, I am excited to share my experiences of exploring the holy city of Charleston and how it made me fall in love with this place.
Charleston, South Carolina is one of the most beautiful and welcoming cities in the Southern United States. The city is a perfect blend of the old and the new, with stunning architecture, historical landmarks, and a modern vibe. One of the best ways to explore Charleston is by bike, and that’s exactly what I did. I selected Backroads multi-adventure weekend because it gave a range of active ways to explore the city (from walking, biking, and kayaking).
On our first morning after our group was united, we went to Caw Caw Interpretive Center where we learned all about the cypress knees. We even got lucky and saw an alligator! I was excited though for what was next: kayaking! It was the reason I selected this trip with Backroads to begin with!
I was not disappointed! It was such a fun time being in the back of a tandem kayak! Also, a first for me. Seeing the pelicans, egrets, and cormorants was so cool. We did not get lucky enough to see any dolphins, though I did spot a turtle! Seeing Shem Creek from this perspective was very cool. I was ready for a well-needed rest and loved that the French Quarter Inn has a pillow menu to ensure you have what you need for a comfortable stay.
Starting the next day at the French Quarter Inn with a leisurely breakfast in my room, we all walked over to where our intro to the bike ride would be. After the very important safety briefing (it was my first time on an e-bike, and I was kinda terrified, especially with my coccyx issues), and a wonderful snack buffet to ensure our ride would be properly fuelled, we had an opportunity to ride up and down one stretch of road to get our bearings under us. Once we got going, the first stop was the Battery Park. This picturesque park is situated at the southern end of the peninsula and provides stunning views of the Charleston Harbor and Fort Sumter. The park is also home to several historical statues and monuments, making it a perfect spot to learn about Charleston’s rich history.
After Battery Park, the group headed towards Meeting Street, which is home to several historic landmarks and beautiful houses. The road got a little bumpy with its cobblestones, but it was going quite well, and my coccyx was cooperating.
In the distance, we could see the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, which provides amazing views of the Charleston skyline and the Cooper River. We had crossed it already the day before on the way to Shem Creek. But now I had to come to terms with actually biking up, and across it.
The bridge is one of the longest cable-stayed bridges in the world and a marvel of engineering. The views from the bridge were absolutely stunning, and I recommend that every visitor to Charleston adds this to their itinerary. Biking across the bridge was such an exhilarating experience, with the wind blowing in my face and a grin across my face after realizing that I not only *could* do it, but that I *did* do it!!
The group managed to mostly stay together. We had one couple get a flat tire, and one group got a little sidetracked and missed a cue, but with the Backroads support team right by our sides, everything was smooth as silk!
The bike ride continued onto Sullivan Island, where I got out and had to walk in the waves. Watching the sand pipers run about had me mesmerized. Once we arrived at the National Historic Monument of Fort Moultrie, we were greeted by a mouth-watering picnic lunch.
We also had the pleasure visiting the Nathaniel Russell House Museum. This beautiful museum is a typical example of Federal-style architecture and tells the story of Charleston’s rich history and culture. I was incredibly interested in the stories that were being uncovered by the rat’s nests in the old kitchen and enslaved quarters.
After an amazing group dinner, my next stop was the Charleston Night Market, which is the perfect place to explore the city’s handicrafts and local produce. The market is a bustling place where you can find everything from sweetgrass baskets to handmade jewelry and local snacks. I spent some time strolling around the market, soaking up the local culture.
On Sunday morning, we took a walking tour of the city, and after some free time, I also discovered Rainbow Row, a series of colourful houses along the street. These houses are some of the most photographed in Charleston and a must-visit spot for photographers (and Instagrammers).
Charleston, South Carolina, is a charming city that has something to offer for everyone. Whether you are a history buff, a foodie, or an adventure enthusiast, Charleston will capture your heart. Exploring the city on a bike ride was an amazing experience, and I highly recommend it to anyone visiting Charleston. From Battery Park to Rainbow Row and the Charleston Market, the city has a unique charm that will transport you back in time. So, plan your next trip to Charleston and discover the city’s warm welcome and historical landmarks on a bike ride with Backroads.
Thank you for contacting us.
Your request is important to us. We are currently addressing pandemic needs and will get back to you in 1 to 2 business days.
