Frequently Asked Questions – Carolina Ranch
The general rules for all our experiences, in one place. If you can’t find the answer, message us on WhatsApp: write whenever suits you and we will reply as soon as we can. For changes, cancellations and refunds, please see our Booking Policy.
General information
Do the experiences need to be booked?
Yes. Before coming to the Ranch, we recommend getting in touch to check availability, times and any information you need. For our regular experiences we don’t use an automatic booking calendar: we prefer to know who is in your group first and work out together which option suits you best.
Is Carolina Ranch open all year round?
The Ranch and some activities may be available throughout the year, always by booking and depending on conditions. Other experiences are seasonal: quad tours, for example, generally run from Easter to Halloween, weather, trail conditions and availability permitting.
How can I check availability?
The easiest way is to message us on WhatsApp at +39 348 655 3944, telling us how many people are in your group, when you will be in Sant’Antioco and which experience you are interested in. Asking places you under no obligation. Write whenever suits you: we will reply as soon as we can.
Where is Carolina Ranch?
Carolina Ranch is in Sant’Antioco, at Cala Sapone, on the island’s coast. Before setting off, we recommend following the directions on our Contact page and confirming your meeting time with us.
Horseback rides
What is the minimum age for a horseback ride?
The minimum age for our regular horseback rides is 14. If you are travelling with younger children or teenagers, get in touch: we can suggest the Ranch activities best suited to their age and to your family.
Is there a maximum weight limit?
Yes. For horseback rides the maximum rider weight is 95 kg. This limit is in place for the wellbeing of the horses and the safety of the experience.
Are photos included?
Yes. Photos taken by Carolina Ranch during the ride, whenever possible, are included and delivered in digital format.
I have never ridden a horse. Can I take part?
Yes. Our rides are also designed for beginners. We ride at a walk, using western riding, and you will be given all the instructions you need before setting off. Participation is still subject to an assessment of conditions and of each rider’s requirements.
How many people join each ride?
We work with small groups of up to 6 riders, so we can give more attention to each person and keep the quality and safety of the experience high.
Quad tours
How much does the quad tour cost?
The panoramic tour costs 140 euros per quad. Each quad carries two people: a driver and a passenger.
What is the minimum age for a passenger?
The minimum age for passengers is 6.
How long is the tour and how far do you go?
The experience takes about half a day and the route covers around 20–25 km. Itinerary, duration and stops may vary depending on ground conditions, the weather and safety.
When do the quad tours run?
Generally from Easter to Halloween, subject to availability, weather and trail conditions.
Do I need a driving licence to drive the quad?
Yes. The driver must hold a valid full car driving licence (category B).
I have never driven a quad. Can I take part?
Yes. Before setting off there is a briefing, full explanations and a practice run inside the Ranch. The tour is suitable for first-timers too, as long as you follow the guide’s instructions.
How many quads go out together?
To keep the experience manageable and high in quality, each tour has a maximum of 6 quads.
Are photos included?
Yes. Photos taken by the Carolina Ranch guide during the tour are included in the price and delivered in digital format. On request and by prior arrangement, we can also organise a professional photo shoot, which is a paid extra.
Children, Pony School and Pony Games
What activities are there for children?
The Carolina Ranch Pony School is for children aged roughly 4 to 11. In summer we may also offer individual Pony Games sessions, ideal for families on holiday in Sant’Antioco.
Are Pony School and Pony Games the same thing?
No. Pony School is an ongoing course with sessions throughout the year; the Summer Pony Games can be booked as a one-off experience, which is ideal if you are on holiday on the island.
How much do the Summer Pony Games cost?
Prices, availability and arrangements are provided directly by the Ranch. Message us on WhatsApp with your child’s age and the dates of your stay.
Ranch Experiences
What is the difference between Ranch Life and Ranch Visit?
Ranch Life is a hands-on experience of about 1 hour 30 minutes, generally for ages 12+, in which you step into daily life at the Ranch and help care for the animals. The Ranch Visit is a shorter experience of about 30 minutes, suitable for families and all ages.
How much do they cost?
Ranch Life: 65 euros per person. Ranch Visit: 30 euros in total for up to 5 people. Availability must always be checked with the Ranch.
Stargazing Nights
What is From Sunset to the Stars?
It is the main format of the Carolina Ranch stargazing nights: an experience that brings together landscape, nature, sunset, stories of the sky and astronomical observation. Programme and content may change depending on the evening and the astronomical events.
What is Secret Sky?
Secret Sky – A Blind Date with the Universe is a separate format, more intimate and adventurous, with a maximum of 30 participants. The location is revealed just a few hours beforehand and, depending on the event, you may need to walk in the dark on unpaved paths. Minimum age 10.
Are stargazing nights always the same price?
No. Each event may have a different programme, duration, services and price. That is why the price is shown on each event’s own page, and there is no single rate for all evenings.
What language are the astronomy talks in?
The astronomy talks during our events are given in Italian.
Gift Cards, payments and gifts
Can I give a Carolina Ranch experience as a gift?
Yes. You can buy a specific Carolina Ranch experience as a gift with a Gift Card. You don’t need to know the date straight away: the recipient can contact us later to arrange availability and details.
Can I buy a Gift Card for a set amount?
Not at the moment. Each Gift Card is linked to a specific experience chosen at the time of purchase.
How long is the Gift Card valid?
The Gift Card is valid for 12 months from the date of purchase.
Does the recipient have to meet the experience requirements?
Yes. The specific requirements of the chosen activity still apply, such as minimum age, a driving licence for the quad, maximum weight for horseback riding, seasonal availability and any other conditions.
Any other questions?
Message us on WhatsApp at +39 348 655 3944 or email info@carolinaranch.it. Asking places you under no obligation.