Galway Downs Equestrian is part of a larger hospitality hoofprint.
Galway Downs is well established as an ever-improving stage for competitive equestrians. Lesser known is its place in Kentina Hospitality’s family of Temecula properties built around owners Ken and Tina Smith’s “Celebration of Life” signature.
It’s more than a marketing motto for the couple who purchased Galway Downs in 2010 and have made its remarkable evolution possible. Whether sipping wines at Masia de la Vinya and Danza del Sol wineries, hitting the links at Cross Creek Golf Club, staying at Kentina’s many lodging options, or having a special event on the non-horsey side of Galway Downs, celebrating all that’s good in life is the through line.
All together, the Kentina properties make Galway Downs a true destination venue with something to suit everyone in the family.
Stay Kentina at Galway Downs
Staying close to our horses while at Galway Downs appeals to most riders. It’s convenient and reassuring under any circumstances. Thanks to Stay Kentina, it can also be very comfortable, fun and cost effective.
Stay Kentina offers multiple lodging options on site at Galway Downs.
The Ranch Houses accommodate up to 10 guests. They are spacious 4-bedroom, 4-bath homes with sweeping views of the valley. One option even includes a hot tub, perfect for unwinding after a long show day. A brand-new pool with a sauna, Jacuzzi and cold plunge recently debuted. These add another resort-style amenity, with the recovery benefits for equestrian athletes planning the next day’s efforts.
Back in the day, equestrian competition began as a primarily social gathering. The Clubhouse at Galway keeps that tradition alive with elegant and relaxing places to get together. And the Clockers House, a 3-bedroom, 3-bath luxury home that’s also on-site, provides a more intimate setting for smaller parties. Its back patio overlooks the racetrack and parts of the cross-country course, with colorful hot air balloons often floating the distance.
Book directly at staykentina.com.
Under the Stars: Native Falls Campground
Native Falls Campground provides an outdoors experience without the “roughing it” – it’s called “glamping.”
The reimagined Native Falls, located at 38120 E. Benton Road in Temecula, sits just minutes from Galway Downs and the heart of wine country. Newly completed cabins now complement tent and RV camping options.
Native Falls is an ideal base for riders and families looking to stretch a show or schooling visit into a longer adventure. The peaceful, tucked-away setting is a nice break from intense competition and its excellent for family members who may not want to spend their whole day at the show.
Learn more and book at nativefalls.com.
Drink In The Valley Vibe
Temecula Valley has long been California’s best-kept wine country secret, and the Kentina portfolio includes two distinct wineries that offer Galway visitors a reason to linger in the valley. Both are located along the celebrated De Portola Wine Trail.
Masia de la Vinya — A Spanish Manor in Wine Country
The name translates loosely to “manor house of the vineyard,” and Masia de la Vinya lives up to every syllable. Set at the end of the De Portola Wine Trail, this boutique winery was designed from the ground up to feel like a relaxed escape — scenic vineyard views, handcrafted wines that are fruit-forward and food-friendly, and a tasting experience that never takes itself too seriously.
The winery offers public tastings, private tastings, group reservations, and a wine club with exclusive member benefits. Regular events — including the popular Wine Down Fridays series — make it easy to turn a post-show afternoon into an evening to remember.
Learn more at masiadelavinya.com.
Danza del Sol Winery — Deeply Rooted in Temecula Valley
If Masia de la Vinya is the Spanish manor, Danza del Sol is the rustic ranch. Nestled in a 40-acre vineyard on the De Portola Wine Trail, Danza del Sol has the oldest active vines in Temecula Wine Country. The 5th oldest winery in this region, Danza has a spirit described as “rustic, authentic, and bold.”
The tasting room patio is open daily and winery tours are available. A wine club, private event hosting, and a full calendar of public events — including Game Nights and live patio music — round out the experience.
The property has also partnered with Wedgewood Weddings for wedding and event hosting, making it an elegant backdrop for post-show celebrations of all kinds.
Learn more at danzadelsolwinery.com.
Tee It Up: Cross Creek Golf Club
Families or couples with equestrians often include golfers and the Cross Creek Golf Club is an enticing incentive to come along with their riders. It brings together the stunning beauty of the Temecula Valley and the legendary design work of architect Arthur Hills. The result is a pristine Southern California course where great golf is played in a secluded natural environment.
With no homes surrounding the course, the par-71 layout traverses rolling terrain with hillside views, creeks, and plenty of mature sycamore and oak trees. Six sets of tees ranging from 4,483 to 6,780 yards make it playable for every skill level. The course’s risk-reward design rewards bold play and punishes the careless — just like a well-designed show jumping or cross-country course.
The on-site De Luz Grill offers beautiful valley views alongside a full menu. For events, Cross Creek also provides a California-style venue space suitable for weddings, tournaments, and private parties, including a 240-seat pavilion.
Cross Creek Golf Club is located at 43860 Glen Meadows Road, Temecula.
A Perfect Galway Getaway
Whether you’re coming for a weekend hunter derby or a week-long equestrian event, Kentina Hospitality has something to enhance and/or extend your stay.
It’s the kind of hospitality that has made Ken and Tina Smith leaders in Temecula’s rise as a first-class vacation destination. Recognized several years running by the Visit Temecula Valley tourism association, Ken most recently earned the 2025 Xenia Ambassador Award.
The Award is named after the ancient Greek’s “Xenia” concept that represents a special relationship between host and guest, and the word “xenos,” which dictates that strangers be treated with extreme generosity and kindness.
It’s the kind of hospitality ecosystem that turns a show trip into a genuine holiday — and brings riders back to Galway Downs for equestrian action and much more. It also translates very well to Kentina Hospitality’s emphasis on Celebrations of Life in all they offer.
