Hastings House Country House Hotel

First Impressions

You know what hits you first when you arrive at Hastings House Country House Hotel? It’s not just another pretty property on Salt Spring Island — this place feels like you’ve stumbled into a private English estate that somehow found its way to the Pacific Northwest. The Tudor-style manor sits on 22 acres overlooking Ganges Harbour, and honestly, the setting is so picture-perfect it almost seems unreal. I mean, when you’re planning a riding holiday, you want somewhere that feels special even when you’re not in the saddle.

The Equestrian Experience

The horse riding here connects you with Salt Spring’s quieter side in a way that really surprised me. You’ll find yourself on trails that wind through old-growth forest and open meadows, with glimpses of the harbour through the trees that’ll make you stop your horse just to take it in. The guides actually know the island’s history — they’ll point out where the early settlers farmed, or mention which trail the local deer prefer (and you’ll probably see them). It’s the kind of riding where you’re not just following a path, you’re exploring a landscape that feels genuinely untouched.

Accommodations That Matter

This four-star property doesn’t try to be flashy, which I appreciated. My room in the main manor had these thick stone walls that kept everything perfectly quiet, plus a fireplace that actually worked — not just for show. The furnishings feel authentic rather than decorated, if that makes sense. Some guests stay in the separate cottages scattered around the grounds, and honestly, those might be even better if you want total privacy after a long day of riding.

Dining and Local Flavors

The restaurant sources ingredients from farms right here on Salt Spring, which you’ll taste immediately. They’re not trying to reinvent fine dining — they just do it really well with what’s actually fresh and local. The chef told me they work with maybe six different island farms, and it shows in dishes that change based on what’s actually in season. After riding all afternoon, you’ll want something substantial, and they deliver without being heavy-handed about it.

Why Guests Love It

What makes Hastings House work for riders is how it balances refinement with the genuine outdoor experience you came for. You’re not staying at some generic resort that happens to offer trail rides — you’re at a place where the horses, the trails, and the property itself all feel like parts of the same authentic Salt Spring experience. The staff understands that riding guests want different things than other travelers, and they adapt without making a big show of it. Plus, Ganges village is close enough for exploring the local Saturday market or grabbing supplies, but far enough that you feel properly away from everything when you want to be.