Sherman's Travel

In summer, it’s hard to beat those days when you can just lie around and do nothing. And what could be better than doing nothing in the middle of pristine Montana wilderness? New this summer, the Ranch at Rock Creek has set up 12 hammocks on its 6,600 acres (six along Rock Creek, six in the property’s mountains) that offer just such a respite.

The scenic hammock spots, dubbed “Cowboy Kips,” can be reached by hiking, biking, or a short drive. The ranch’s chef will pack you a gourmet picnic with snacks like breakfast burritos and homemade trail mix bars (or pretty much anything else you fancy) along with water, soda, beer, or a bottle of wine. Should you feel alone in the wilderness, don’t fret: The hammocks also come outfitted with walkie-talkies, a first-aid kit, and instructions on what to do in an emergency.

Opened in May 2010, the Ranch at Rock Creek is located outside Philipsburg, Montana, about one hour 45 minutes southeast of Missoula International Airport. All-inclusive rates (starting at $900/person/night for a lodge room or $5,600/night for a 5-bedroom cabin) encompass everything you could ask for during your stay: lodging, meals and beverages (including alcohol), on-site activities like horseback riding and paintball, as well as day trips to Philipsburg and nearby ghost towns. www.theranchatrockcreek.com

For general trip-planning information, see our Montana Travel Guide.

In the Wild West, scalps weren’t massaged – they were removed. Yet cowboy retreats from California to Costa Rica are trading leather for lavender and treating guests to some ranch-inspired pampering.

Hacienda Santa Ines, Costa Rica

The Ranch This winter, the 11-room Hacienda Santa Inés ranch debuted in a prime locale in Costa Rica – 5,000 feet up in the Tres Rios Mountain range. The 980-acre private estate features a 16-stall stable and lush gardens. ATV rides and trout fishing can be arranged.
The Spa Guests can book customized treatments 24/7 at the stone-designed spa, which is conveniently built beside the pool.
Signature Rubdown A four-hand massage targets specific muscle groups – upper thighs, glutes, calves – that take a beating on horseback. Villas from $12,000, including meals, drinks, and treatments; haciendasantaines.com
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