January 22, 2026 (Los Olivos, CA) — Apropos for the Year of the Horse in the Chinese zodiac, visitors to the Santa Ynez Valley may now explore one of the region’s most beautiful vineyard estates on horseback. Demetria Estate, a 213-acre family-owned and biodynamically farmed estate, has partnered with Vino Vaqueros, Santa Barbara Wine Country’s original private horseback riding experience since 2009, to offer private guided rides through its vineyards and open hillsides. Located just off Foxen Canyon Road in the idyllic town of Los Olivos, CA, Demetria Estate is often described as one of the area’s best-kept secrets, known for its old-world Mediterranean aesthetic, genuine hospitality and exceptional wines.
The 75-minute ride takes guests along shaded trails winding through the estate vineyard, offering sweeping 360° views of the Santa Ynez Valley and the Los Padres National Forest. After the ride, guests may continue their visit with a wine tasting on Demetria’s hilltop patio, booked separately, and enjoy a rotating selection of Rhône and Burgundy varietal wines while surrounded by vineyards stretching toward the horizon.
“We’re thrilled to have Vino Vaqueros make Demetria Estate their home and offer guests a fun and unique way to explore the property,” said Alexis Zahoudanis, Owner and General Manager of Demetria Estate. “Riding through the estate gives guests a closer look at the vineyards, the rolling hills and the care that goes into every part of the property. It’s a chance to experience the land the way we do, and then relax with a glass of wine made from the very vineyards they’ve just explored.”
Horseback rides are offered daily at 10 a.m., 12 p.m. and 2 p.m.; times are subject to change seasonally and can be confirmed on the Vino Vaqueros website. Rides are priced at $190 per person, with a minimum party size of two and maximum of eight. Family-friendly, Vino Vaqueros welcomes riders nine years and older with a minimum height of 4’5”. Reservations are required at least one week in advance and can be made online at vinovaqueros.com.
Tasting appointments are booked separately and are available daily from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., with last seating at 3:30 p.m., for $30 per person. Reservations are encouraged via Tock, though walk-ins are accommodated as space allows.
About Demetria Estate
Tucked along the scenic Foxen Canyon Wine Trail in Los Olivos, Demetria Estate is a 213-acre sanctuary where biodynamic farming and winemaking, and warm, unpretentious hospitality converge. Founded by the Zahoudanis family in 2006, Demetria Estate is a hidden gem rooted in both Greek heritage and Southern hospitality and shaped by a deep commitment to sustainability and craftsmanship. Estate tastings are hosted on a hilltop patio under ancient oak trees, with panoramic vineyard views, offering guests a serene, off-the-beaten-path escape. The rotating lineup of Rhône and Burgundian varietals, made with minimal intervention, are natural, excellent and authentic to the land. Tastings are available daily from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. by appointment.
For more information about Demetria Estate, please visit www.demetriaestate.com
Follow on social media:
Instagram: @demetriaestate, @demetriaweddings
Facebook: @DemetriaEstate
About Vino Vaqueros
Since 2009, Vino Vaqueros horseback riding has been the Premier horseback riding and wine tasting destination on the Central Coast. In the last 16 years, we have had the honor and the privilege to operate on the most beautiful ranches and vineyards the Santa Barbara wine country has to offer. Please join us for a private and guided 75-minute horseback riding tour on the iconic 213 acres of Demetria Estate winery, located on the renowned Foxen Canyon Wine Trail. Please note that rides as well as wine tastings are by reservation only (wine tasting is optional of course!). Rides are priced at $190 per person, with a minimum party size of two and maximum of eight. Vino Vaqueros is also family friendly, allowing riders nine years old with a minimum height of 4’5 to join. For more questions and to book, please visit our website at www.vinovaqueros.com or call or text 805-944-0493. We look forward to seeing you on the trail!
Follow on social media:
Instagram: @vinovaqueroshorsebackriding
Facebook: @VinoVaquerosHorsebackRiding
