| The Santa Ynez Valley has long been considered the horse breeder’s Kentucky of the west. Some of the finest thoroughbred horses come from this area, as do miniatures too! We will explore this unspoiled valley of rolling hills and majestic oaks as we visit two horse farms that couldn’t be more different for each other. Our day starts with lunch on your own in Solvang, the quaint old-world Danish village. We’ll then visit a miniature horse ranch. Miniatures are remarkably gentle, patient, mild mannered, easy to handle, and are now smaller than some large dogs. You’ll have the opportunity to get up-close with these adorable animals. Then it’s onto Flag is Up Farms, the internationally renowned starting point for some of the world’s most successful performance horses and highest earning racehorses! It is also home to Monty Roberts, internationally known as “the man who listens to horses,” and best known for his non-violent training methods. |