Southern Cross Ranch - Madison, Georgia

Barbara C.

We couldn't have picked a more relaxing, enjoyable spot to ride and vacation. We've been here twice and it's always been a great experience. The food is 5 star delicious, the horses are well fed and we'll kept, the rooms are attractive and comfortable, and the staff is friendly and helpful. You should definitely try this place!

Anna M. H.

If you love the outdoors and beautiful southern scenery and hospitality, then you should plan a visit to Southern Cross Guest Ranch. You can soak in the scenery around vast horse pastures, ride a mountain bike around the property, swim in their outdoor heated pool, or go on a trail ride. Guest have the option for bed & breakfast or an all-inclusive plan which provides 3 full meals per day (buffet style). The atmosphere is very friendly, and the staff eat in the dining room along with guests. There are two dining rooms to eat with lots of windows to see the gorgeous pastures and horses. The all-inclusive has an option to do twice daily trail rides or be a non-rider should you not want to be on horseback. ||This trip is a return for me and 2 friends. We came here last year in early May; decided to make an annual girl's getaway annually but chose late March this time around. The weather was perfect and all three of us did the riding all-inclusive. We have the option to bring our own beverages (wine, Prosecco, etc.) as they do not sell or provide liquor to guests. The food is absolutely amazing and plentiful. You do not walk away hungry no matter if you are a vegetarian or the best meat eater. And, if you have a sweet tooth, there is daily ice cream and at least 3 other dessert options to choose from at lunch and dinner. If it wasn't for the 4 hours a day in the saddle, we would easily put on a couple of pounds per day. ||Riding horses is true equine therapy for me and my friends. Each guest that came to ride was assigned a horse based on their ability. For first time arrivals, you go out on a guided trail ride that lasts 2 hours (1 in the morning and 1 in the afternoon). The horses are sure-footed and safe. Once you can provide your saddle soundness, you have the option to ride on the property unguided. Suggest that you only do this if you feel you can navigate the myriads of trails on the ranch. If the weather is unpleasant, they have strict "walk-only" instructions or will cancel a ride if conditions are bad (rain/storm). They have several pregnant mares and expect to be able to show off babies in the next few weeks. There are several yearlings there in a pasture together and you can take pictures and pet their cute faces as you please. ||This place is great for couples, friends, families or being just by yourself. Everyone is friendly and we chat at the meals and outside looking at the sunsets. Several nights, there were bonfires where everyone sat around just to get to know each other. ||There are so many people to shout out about as this is a top-notch crew where in the kitchen, cleaning and doing housekeeping, ranch guides. So, hats off to Will & kitchen crew, Karen in the office (keeping everything under control), Lance for his hospitality and great way with guests and horses, Wes for his horse-savvy nature and assignment of our mounts during our stay. Also, ranch hands that deserve applause are Nikki, Chris, Alicia, Bryce, Riley and Natasha! On any given day, one of these great ranch hands was there to ensure your safety, double-check your tack, help you mount from the block onto your horse and provide great trail rides. ||As a return client, planning to come again in the fall; this time, bringing my husband as he wants to fish in the pond. Really cannot say enough about Southern Cross; they do treat you like family.

Richard W.

We had a mini suite, to the side of the main house. It was a good size, quiet, and decorated with a distinct Wyoming/Grand Teton vibe. The main buildings had a few good, idiosyncratic places to sit and relax….downstairs TV room, cozy small sitting room with a fire and an enclosed verandah. It had a good breakfast, in a room that reminded me of summer camp. Even if you’re not into riding horses, the feel of being in the real countryside is worth the cost.|A memorable place to stay.

Megan F.

I’ve had the pleasure of spending a lot of time at the ranch. The family that owns the farm is wonderful and cares deeply for the horses. The riding is perfect for beginners and experienced equestrians alike with many amazing horses to choose from.

Katie M.

We had an amazing time at the Southern Cross! We planned our trip for over a year, and upon arrival were treated like family ❤️ our room was spacious and clean. Housekeeping even changed out towels daily without being asked. The number of seating areas allowed guests to mingle or spread out if they chose. All of the staff went above and beyond to make everyone felt welcome. We were fortunate to meet others during dinners, the family style eating was appreciated. ||Wes and the staff in the barns made sure all riders were comfortable with their horses. The horses are well cared for and their temperaments show how loved they are. The walks in the barn and time walking to the pastures allowed us to meet and great all ages of animals ( Cats and dogs included). The horses had a kind disposition, and knew the trails well which allowed us to ride alone. This was wonderful. Even riding in the pasture allowed us some quality horse time. The guides made sure all riders were at ease, and they took their time with all levels of riders. We loved being there during off season, smaller numbers of guests and more intimate groups. We met some great people from all over the world||One morning we woke up before the sunrise and walked out in the pasture with the horses with our new family members. What an amazing memory to see the sun coming up with horses in the background. ||A special shout-out to Will and the cooks. Food was tasty and delicious! Wear stretch pants!🥰 you will enjoy the varied menu for each meal and never go hungry. ||This was a trip of a lifetime for my mother in law and I. She hadn’t been on a horse in many years, and this fulfilled her horse craving❤️ thank you for all you do each and every day!

Jamie M.

My daughter and I visited Southern Cross Ranch for the weekend and loved it. The food was amazing and the staff was helpful and welcoming. We purchased the all-inclusive plan that included horseback riding twice a day. The horses were well-trained and pleasant, and our guide, Nicki, was friendly and knowledgeable. There was plenty to do besides horseback riding. We went for walks on the property and sat by the pool. The food was exceptional. Every meal was prepared to perfection and there were always plenty of choices.

Casey B.

I have been coming here for years with my mom and my daughter and recently brought my husband and (now) 8 year old son for some equestrian fun! It was a wonderful experience and it got my son hooked on horses! Nikki was especially wonderful during our stay. On our last ride of the trip, she went out of her way to make my little guy feel special and helped us all achieve our individual horse goals! She was personable and kind and very knowledgeable. She really made our trip great. Riley, Chris, and Tawny were also very fun and caring guides! |In addition to the horseback riding, another standout is the delicious food and amazing kitchen staff! Every meal was awesome with a lot of options. And Karen (office/front desk manager) is always so warm and welcoming. Love this place!

Amy M.

Lovely guest ranch staffed with friendly, helpful people. Very accommodating to dietary restrictions. Loved the trail rides!

We stayed in the Painted Desert room which was great (pictures attached) except that the bunk bed was squeaky and my kids (both restless sleepers) kept me up at night.