My husband and I have read about this place and had seen pictures of these incredible animals and had to visit while we were here in Ocala. So so glad we did. If you are looking for roller coasters and Mickey, this is not for you. This is a working horse farm that houses, breeds and sells some of the most beautiful, incredible animals on the planet. The owner gives you the story behind his history with these animals while sitting in a lovely, shaded setting surrounded with these horses, and fenced rolling hills. His love for what he does is quite clear when he’s telling you the story of how he came across these animals. He is also clearly a kind, compassionate, nonjudgmental man who tells the story of the gypsies in Europe who are treated like third class citizens who are not entitled to the same kindness, respect, and compassion that we should all be entitled to. You then get a tour of the property, and get introduced to the animals. He has many parrots, many rescues that now have a loving, beautiful place to live out their lives. And then, what you came to see, the horses. They literally took my breath away. It is hard to imagine that they are even real. Now I am a lover of all living creatures, and have always had an affinity for horses. But to see them close up is an experience that I will definitely be repeating. My God, it is hard to put into words what a special place this is, with wonderful people, and horses that are so incredibly beautiful and well mannered. They get so much love and admiration from the guests (and their owner and staff), they eat it up. I felt so good when I was finished with the tour, I didn’t want to leave. I applaud the owner and his staff for their perseverance and commitment in their endeavor to share this beautiful animal with the rest of the world. And allow people like me into their world and share their passion. I will be back and back again with my family and friends. A must for tourists and locals alike....
Read moreWow, this was an experience not to be missed. I highly recommend visiting this amazing horse farm. Dennis and Erin are very gracious hosts and will answer any question about their gorgeous animals. As mentioned the tour starts with an introduction talk from Dennis about his own background, mainly his love for animals at an early age that led him to ultimately get involved in the breeding of this gorgeous horse. My husband loves horses, even though we live in the city. So I knew that would interest him in going on the tour. Once Dennis started his presentation we were fully engulfed in his amazing experience and couldn't wait to get up close to these gorgeous animals. After the presentation by Dennis, he and Erin led us around the farm, going from one pen to the next to get up close to the horses, donkeys and parrots. Wow, these horses are magnificent. Sweet, beautiful and even have adorable mustaches to boot. They'll explain that unique feature in the presentation, but I couldn't get enough pictures of those great mustaches!! Wear comfortable shoes that you don't mind getting sandy. The walk itself was more of a comfortable stroll with stops along the way so Dennis could explain more of the present and future visions he has for their farm. And of course to pet and feed the horses and donkeys, mules, etc. I wished I had brought some carrots to feed them, so bring some along if you want. They love treats. I HIGHLY recommend this tour of an incredible farm owned and operated by a devoted, compassionate man who loves his animals and has a respect for a people who have been social outcasts for a long time. We wish Dennis, Erin and all the staff there at the farm continued success. I hope to return to take the tour again some day because these horses are just an incredible sight to behold in person. Thank you for allowing the public to be a part of it. Oh, and the $20 admission fee is...
Read moreAn excellent, lovely place to meet and enjoy the beautiful Gypsy Vanner Horse breed! The two hour tour at this horse vbreeding farm was informational, interesting, and engaging. The owner gave the history of bringing these beautiful animals to the US from Great Britain where the breed was developed by the Gypsies of Great Britain - a beautiful horse to pull their beautiful caravans. Every age level, families, and small children are fully welcome; there was room for anyone to move about during the outdoor presentation. As advertised, the first part was about 50 minutes of presentation of the breeds history, with horses to visit in their pastures nearby, if kids needed to walk around. After the presentation, we were able to meet and pet several of the horses, including a gorgeous mare and her sweet filly. I was surprised to notice how friendly the horses are, willing to come along to the fence line to meet and engage with anyone who approached. A clean bathroom was available. The tour confirmation email gave instructions for using google maps-- I had no trouble finding the farm. I look forward to seeing the owner develop his plans for a petting zoo, and other educational and culturally respectful events and experiences associated with the Gypsy Vanner breed and thier origins, as well as the history of the owner and his wife. The owner has an admirable respect for- and honoring of- the vision that the Gypsy people had for their beloved beautiful horses. The authentic reproduction of the breed and care for this original vision gave the visit a satisfying edge. Definitely...
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