Valentine adventures with a Wild West twist

“We love because it’s the only true adventure,” wrote the poet Nikki Giovanni. And it’s true: the act of loving is often wild and exciting, and pursued headlong with immense passion. This Valentines, couples may embark on another adventure in the Wild West: as Ranch Rider features a host of romantic stays at cosy ranches in the US, allowing couples to share thrilling moments that will last a lifetime.

Ruggedly Romantic: Surrounded by almost 500,000 acres of national forest and wilderness, the Price Canyon Working Ranch presents the perfect backdrop for lovers who want to rekindle the flames of passion. With breathtaking views, deluxe accommodations and plenty of bonding activities for couples to participate in, this secluded get-away might as well be Cupid’s haven set in the Old West.

Lovers can participate in the authentic Western lifestyle, joining real cowboys as they complete ranch chores — from branding to weaning cattle or even moving the herd to new pasture. Perfect for those who want to get closer to each other, this is the ideal ranch stay to find out more about the one you love. A 7-night ranch stay with Ranch Rider costs from £924pp.

Holding Hands While the Sun Sets: Based in Yucca, Arizona, the Stagecoach Trails Guest Ranch is beset by beautiful desert scenery, surrounded by mountains and thousands of acres of trails. Couples can meander through the stunning scenery on horseback, indulge in a relaxing massage, lounge around the pool, and hold hands while watching the glorious sun sink into the horizon.

The ranch is situated just off the historic Route 66, which is close to the Grand Canyon, Hoover Dam and other spectacular attractions making this the perfect romantic proposition for a self-drive. With this in mind, there’s no reason for lovers not to extend their holiday and elope on a four-wheel sight seeing tour through Arizona with Ranch Rider. A 7-night ranch stay with Ranch Rider costs from £604pp. Self Drive excluded, prices on request.

Cowboy balladeers out on the trail: The Dixie Dude Guest Ranch is located in the Cowboy Capital World of the World, in Bandera, Texas. Here, couples can experience the true ranch lifestyle, where longhorn cattle, cashmere goats and pigs are raised, and the cowboys and wranglers work the horses and join up for the rodeo. Friends choosing to spend valentines together can opt for an overnight trailride package, one of the highlights of which is a troop of cowboy balladeers (occasionally with back-up coyotes) who will serenade lovers around the campfire under a romantic blanket of stars.

A chance to fall in love all over again: a 7-night ranch stay with Ranch Rider costs from £569pp. (The overnight trailride package must be booked separately and costs from £74pp with a minimum of four people booking).

For those wishing to experience the height of romance at wondrous Wild West sanctuaries, these ranches beckon. It’s a Valentine adventure with a twist that will ensure an unforgettable week (or two!) of unexplored passion and this being a leap year, a never ending set of breathtaking wilderness backdrops, perfect for women who are eager to pop the question.

For more information, visit Ranchrider.com.