Release your inner cowboy

This week’s BBC2 programme, Horse People with Alexandra Tolstoy, which explored Montana’s thriving horse culture, was a brilliant reminder of the many reasons to visit this classic “Cowboys and Indians” country.

Cue Ranch America (ranchamerica.co.uk), the last word on bespoke ranching holidays in America and Canada, which offers an incredible selection of ranching opportunities, like those seen on our TV screens last night, from its portfolio of hand-picked ranches.

For a taste of Alexandra’s Montana experience, Ranch America has an exclusive half price offer on six nights at Lonesome Spur Ranch, a real working ranch set in sensational countryside between the Pryor and Beartooth Mountains. Do as much or as little as you wish from the comfort of your private log cabin, complete with private deck for whiling away the hours, à la cowboy.

Riders of all standards can follow in Alexandra’s footsteps, learning to ride American-style, experiencing the daily workings of the ranch including the round-ups, cattle driving, team penning and roping or simply partaking in some more casual riding outings.

The surrounding area provides endless scope for alternative activities from rafting, overnight buffalo camping trips, rodeos at the famous Crow Rodeo Grounds – as seen in last night’s programme - and exploring Yellowstone National Park. The area is steeped in American history with the old cowboy town of Cody on your doorstep as is the site of the Battle of the Little Big Horn. Brush up your ‘Horse Whispering’ skills in May and September on one of the ranch’s courses or embrace your inner Pocahontas with Lonesome Spur’s Indian Reservation Ride at Custers Battlefield.

For single travellers, Lonesome Spur Ranch is the ideal choice thanks to its “no single supplement” charge. Prices start from £1,399 per person for six nights staying in private accommodation on a full board basis, including soft drinks, riding, most activities, international flights from London and return ranch transfers.

What better incentive to nurture your inner cowboy and realise some lifelong dreams?

For more information, visit ranchamerica.co.uk.