“Berzzemnieki”

Bērzzemnieki is a farm in the park of the Zasa Estate, and it was once owned by the famous Latvian horse breeder Vilis Stukuls.  A few years ago, the Kalnājs family bought the farm.  The family restored and improved the historical house, which was built in the style of Eclecticism.  They also reintroduced horses to the large stone stables.  There are six horses, a sheep called Bučiņa, a ram called Alfrēds, a dog called Baron Louis, and two cats.  The animals behave well, and visitors can look at them, pat them, cuddle them and feed them with treats which will be provided by the owners.  Accommodations are available for travellers. 

The Kalnājs family gathered in Latvia from all corners of Europe to satisfy the dream of living at a farm.  Anna is responsible for the animals and horse tourism.  She has an appropriate education from Latvia and the UK.  She gets along wonderfully with children and teenagers, teaching them to ride horses.  She is very familiar with the nature and the needs of horses.  Sister Laura takes care of the house and makes sure that guests find the little estate clean and polished.  Laura is a master at brewing tea or coffee.  She bakes cakes and prepares tasty bean soup with smoked ribs for her guests.  Grandmother Īrisa, meanwhile, is active in the flowerbeds and garden. 

The Kalnājs family offers you a chance to learn about horses, do some work at the stable, learn about everyday handling of horses, and take a horseback ride in the Zasa park.

THE PROGRAMME:

• Arrival at the farm to meet its owners;
• Encountering horses and other animals to learn about their characteristics and behaviour;
• Assisting with everyday or seasonal stable work -- cleaning boxes, adding water, preparing hay, weeding carrots and repairing or installing parts of the paddock;
• The horses will be brought in and cleaned, and visitors will be able to comb their manes, clean their hair and hooves, and prepare for a walk, ride or travel;
• A horseback ride to study the Zasa park and its surroundings;
• Returning to the stable to take pictures with the horses (the photos will be available to take home), with a chance to purchase souvenirs that are related to horses;
• Feeding the animals with treats and snacking with cakes and tea.