The Caribbean is known for providing unforgettable experiences.

Whether you are looking for some of the best dive sites in the world, historic areas, pulsating carnivals, captivating architecture, adrenalin-filled activities or a sumptuous meal by the sea, the Caribbean has it all and lots more.

Yello knows the Caribbean, but we’re always eager to explore, because there is always more to see and do and more memories to be made.

The ‘Yello Experiences’ series will share our insight as we take part in some of what each island has to offer.

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Horse riding in the Caribbean is one of the more unusual but exhilarating ways to discover an island. On Saturday 12 June, I was excited to join the ‘Saddle Up’ activity in Barbados, organised by fitness lifestyle company Bajan Fusion – despite a 7.30am start!

Driving to the Nature Fun Ranch in Bruce Vale, St Andrew from my home in St Philip was an adventure in itself, as I traversed the windy and often bumpy country roads through St John and St Joseph, on my way to the scenically stunning Scotland District.

When I got closer to the ranch, it became difficult to concentrate on the road, as the views of the countryside and the ocean were spectacular. I kept saying to myself that I never knew Barbados was so hilly and the scenery was breathtaking.

On arrival at the ranch, Celia Collymore, founder and senior project manager at Bajan Fusion, made sure every guest was happy and fully prepared for the ride ahead. She also supplied a handy backpack with bottled water and basic snacks.

After introductions and registration, our group of eight went over to meet the horses and their handlers.

The teenage ‘ranchers’ looking after the animals are all taking part in Nature Fun Ranch’s youth development programme, which helps at-risk children by providing them with a positive environment where they learn social responsibility, entrepreneurial skills, and how to work together.

The horses were lined up. We were told their names and asked to pick the one we felt would be right for us, mainly based on height and intuition. I immediately chose a horse named ‘Spirit’.

Following a short orientation on the horse including putting on a hair net and helmet, instructions on how to use the reigns, and a few slow, practice walks in a circle; we set off through the Barbados countryside for our leisurely stroll.

The horses know the route so the ride is smooth, peaceful, and relaxing. Spirit was particularly gentle and I felt safe riding him, despite his occasional unexpected stops to pull up some grass.

The ride itself lasted just less than an hour, so before I knew it, we were on our way back after trotting through horse-only tracks and trails, crossing roads and bridges, stopping for a group photograph, and admiring the wonderful views.

Back at the ranch, our excursion was finished off with a short tour of the two-acre site where the boys take care of several animals, including retired racehorses, rabbits, birds, fish, turtles, pigs and even snakes!

We were also given the chance to handle two small snakes called Ghost and Scarlett and they didn’t seem to mind being passed from person to person.

It was a memorable way to end our ‘Saddle Up’ adventure, which I thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend.

‘Yello experience’ details:

Company: Bajan Fusion

Activity: ‘Saddle Up’ horse riding

Cost: $135 (BBD) per person

Location: St Andrew, Barbados

Suitable for children: Yes

Star rating (out of five)? *****