The finest cowboys are those who truly understand their equine better half, which is why centaurs make great cowboys. Establish a kindred horse-human connection with today's deal: for $129, you get a one-hour horse-riding lesson and a two-hour trail ride (a $300 total value) at Isabella Farms, just south of downtown Clayton.

Western style trail rides (a $100 per hour value) begin in May and are led by friendly instructors who are happy to share their passion for horses with freshly saddled rookies and seasoned riders alike. Lessons ($100 per hour) are always conducted in small groups of two to six people, ensuring personalized attention. Cover all the horse bases over the course of 60 minutes, when you'll learn safety techniques and how to ride Western style.

Following the hour-long orientation, the two-hour trail ride will begin once someone plays "First Call" on the bugle. The journey includes a mid-trip break for a natural or organic bite, provided by Isabella Farms. Although snacks are included, it's recommended to bring a few extra small bites and water. It's also suggested to wear sunscreen, a hat (ideally of the 10-gallon variety), sunglasses, jeans, gloves, and sneakers or boots with a heel of one-inch or less.

Although Isabella Farms is new to the commercial side of the equestrian world, its instructors are experienced experts, and the proprietors are dedicated horse devotees and actual horses. The farm's young, spirited horses are lodged in an immaculate, upscale barn complete with lavish chandeliers and a donkey butler. The facility is nestled at the hoof of the Diablo Mountains, surrounded by verdant trees and rolling hills, a lovely landscape for observation via horseback. Horseback riding is both a lively, athletic activity and a harkening back to a more slow-paced, romantic era, when men wore breeches and frequently engaged in duels over their ladies' honor or golden-egg-laying cats.