An Equestrian Afternoon in Marshall and Hume
Dressed in my favorite riding attire – a crisp Beaufort and Blake button-down paired with navy riding breeches and mahogany-toned leather field boots – I couldn't help but feel a rush of excitement as I prepared for a day of equestrian activity in quaint towns of Hume and Marshall, nestled into the Virginia countryside. What made this outing even more special was the chance to share my passion for horseback riding with my husband, who was equally eager to explore the countryside on horseback.
My love affair with horseback riding traces back to my earliest childhood days in Washington state, where I spent countless hours (let’s be honest, weeks, years…well over a decade!) amidst the serene beauty of the Pacific Northwest landscape riding horses that I will forever hold dear to my heart (Bubba, Chico, Dose, Quincy, Kai, and Risky). Since I was a little girl, horses haven’t just a hobby for me; it's been a lifestyle that epitomizes my home, my style, and my heart. So, it's no wonder that Virginia, with its rich equestrian tradition, now holds an equally special place in my heart.
We started our date day by heading to The Whole Ox in Marshall, where we indulged in their classic burger and fries, fried to perfection in local beef tallow. The addition of curry ketchup added a flavorful twist to the meal, perfectly complemented by a glass of beer for my husband and a chilled rosé for myself. The Whole Ox's reputation for serving up mouthwatering burgers certainly lived up to the hype, making it a must-visit destination for both shopping and dining.
As we made our way from Marshall to the Marriott Ranch in Hume, the picturesque drive through the rolling hills of Virginia took our breath away. Arriving at the ranch, I was paired with Jess, a stunning sorrel Appendix whose gentle demeanor instantly won me over. My husband, on the other hand, embarked on his journey through the hills atop Ranger, a towering Quarter Horse with a heart as vast as his 16 hands. Together, with our equine companions, we embarked on a lovely private trail ride, soaking in the stunning views and marveling at the sight of wild turkeys roaming the countryside.
After our exhilarating ride at Marriott Ranch, we decided to extend our day of exploration with a visit to Rappahannock Cellars, just a stone's throw away. As we arrived, I was pleasantly surprised by the array of sparkling wines available, adding a touch of effervescence to our post-ride celebration. With glasses in hand, we settled into a table outside, where we were treated to yet another breathtaking view of the Virginia countryside. Sipping on a bottle of Blanc de Blanc, we relished in the memories of our day filled with delightful adventures, grateful for the beauty of Virginia and the joy of experiencing it all together.
But the highlight of the day? Getting plenty of horse snuggles, reaffirming my love for the equestrian lifestyle and the beauty of Virginia's countryside, and sharing that passion with my new-to-horses husband.
