Esperanza Riding Company - Eastern Shore of Virginia
Horseback Riding on the Eastern Shore of Virginia
Home to the longest stretch of wild coastline remaining on the entire East Coast, the “Shore” is Virginia’s claim to the Delmarva (Delaware and Maryland being the “Del” and “mar”) Peninsula, which extends between the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. Locals and visitors enjoy the Eastern Shore known for its abundant wildlife, vast landscapes, and beautiful sunsets.
Welcome to Eyreville Plantation
We’re home! Come out to historic Eyreville Plantation and join us for a scenic trail ride on our Paso Fino horses, around working farm fields, through shady pine woods and along the shoreline of Cherrystone Creek. Nature abounds!
What to know before you book…
Scenic Trail rides meet daily at 9 AM and 4 PM, by reservation only
Group ride is a 1.5 hr loop - $80 per person
Private Ride is your choice of the 1.5 hr loop - $120 per person, or you may extend your ride to 2 hr - $25 extra per person or 2.5 hr - $40 extra per person
Maximum of 8 riders per tour
Weight limit is 210 lbs due to the small, more narrow build of our Paso Fino horses. We must also consider height/weight proportions when weight nears & exceeds 200 lbs. This is for rider safety and the physical health of our horses, we reserve the right to refuse service.
Children must be at least 8 years old, with some riding experience to join. They must have the confidence and ability to control their own horse, the endurance and attention span to do so for 1.5 hrs and the listening skills to take their guide’s instructions. Small children are NOT permitted to ride with an adult.
Helmets are provided and mandatory. No exceptions.
Dress Code: Long pants and shoes that stay on your feet. A light, long-sleeved shirt is also recommended for summertime riding due to bugs.
For more information:
Group Trail Rides
Our group rides will take you on winding wooded paths, along farm roads, over dams that create our fresh water ponds and best of all, miles of shoreline trails. Oftentimes we see whitetail deer, wild turkeys, bald eagles, and plenty of shorebirds (our favorite being the Blue Heron).
The pace of the ride can vary slightly, depending on the skill level of the riders. However, do keep in mind that our purpose is to take in the scenery, so we’ll maintain a brisk walk for the majority of our ride. When appropriate, and if all riders are willing and able, we take the opportunity to move it up a notch, to the energetic paso corto (the speed equivalent of a trot that is a very smooth gait, specific to the Paso Fino horse). Our well-trained Paso Fino geldings have a pep in their step that you’ll find refreshing yet reassuring making them great fun for novice and advanced riders alike.
Private Trail Rides
Are you a couple of experienced riders who want to go for a longer, more upbeat jaunt around the farm? Or a couple that just wants to enjoy each other's company? You can choose the 1.5 hour loop or extend it! We have miles and miles of wooded trails and field roads that create a nice mix of relaxing scenery and opportunities for experiencing the smooth gait of our Paso Fino horses. We'll do our best to create a personalized experience just for you!
Pony Rides
For younger & less experienced children, we offer a 15-minute hand-led “mini trail ride” throughout our waterfront pasture. This is offered at the conclusion of our morning ride at 10:45 AM. The cost is $20 per child. Please text 24 hours in advance to schedule.
Thank you to our wonderful customers and friends!
