BEHIND THE SCENES EXPERIENCES!
Get up close and personal with the Tally-Ho draft horses!
Tally-Ho is celebrating our 120th anniversary of providing horse-drawn services in Victoria! What a better way to honor the stars of our show, the horses, by getting back to the basics of why we love these amazing, strong, goofy animals!
For over 6,000 years, horses have worked alongside man, building our communities and influencing history. They are known for their intelligence, patience, and calm demeanor and have a proven ability to help us heal and move forward during difficult times.
Traditionally, the powerful and strong draft horses were used for heavy work such as farming and carrying knights into battle. Today, our draft horses live more peaceful lives, using only a fraction of their actual power and receiving topnotch care.
“GRASS ROOTS” HORSE EXPERIENCE!
60 minutes | $255 CAN per group
Victoria, BC
Maximum group size of 6 people. Price includes 5% GST.
It is well known that horses have an amazing ability to connect with humans on a deep, emotional level. This is a rare gift and we are honored to be able to share this experience with our guests. From the moment you touch your horse’s soft muzzle, run your hands through his beautiful mane, and feel the silkiness of his coat, you will know you’ve met a friend for life.
This ‘behind the scenes’ experience provides a unique, hands-on opportunity to feel our horses’ energies and learn about their lives.
- Meet one of our beautiful horses and learn his or her story – where they came from, what their past experiences were, and how they have assimilated into the Tally-Ho herd.
- Learn about the horses’ lives on Hidden Acres Farm, including what they eat, their routines, and their quirky antics.
- Find out how our horses are trained for their work and how we know if they are enjoying their jobs.
- Learn about working horse harness, including how it functions and how it is fitted to each horse to ensure their comfort.
- This tour accommodates guests with mobility issues, or those with special needs.
Your personal guide will tailor this tour to your interests. Some of our guests are looking to spend the full hour being close to their horse; others may wish to add in a short carriage ride. It’s your choice! We encourage all guests of the Grass Roots Experience to come with questions and be prepared to get your hands a little dirty !
HIDDEN ACRES FARM TOUR!
3 hours | $135 CAN per person
Saanichton, BC
Maximum group size of 10 people. Price includes 5% GST.
“There is something about the outside of a horse that is good for the inside of a man” — Sir Winston Churchill
Immerse yourself in the laid-back vibe of farm life as you spend the afternoon with the beautiful Tally-Ho draft horses, and experience what Winston Churchill so elegantly describes – the calming energy, affection and goofy playfulness of our amazing horses. We guarantee you will fall in love with their warmth and charm!
Throughout the afternoon guests will have ample opportunity to meet the horses, experience their unique characters and hear their personal stories. The Tally-Ho farm team will walk you through a day in the life of the horses, provide hands-on time with them, and answer all your questions about how we ensure they are living their best lives!
- Tally-Ho was started in 1903 by the Victoria Tourist Association as a means to attract tourists and settlement to the city. Learn how the horses and the company have helped shape Victoria ever since.
- Learn about the different draft horse breeds that are part of the Tally-Ho herd, including three of which are on the Rare Breeds Survival Trust list as a breed that is “vulnerable to extinction”.
- Help prepare the horses’ afternoon feed and learn about their specialized diets, veterinary care and hoof care.
- Work directly with one of the horses to ensure he is well-groomed and turned out for the day.
- Learn about heavy-horse harness including the parts, purpose, and proper fit; and see if you can [gently] hoist harness onto the horse’s back!
- Enjoy a driving demonstration while seeing how we use natural horsemanship techniques to create a trust-based partnership between horse and handler.
Bring your questions and ideas on what you would like to see or learn about! At the end of your visit to the farm you will have time for any unanswered questions and an opportunity to say good-bye to the stars of our show – the horses!
Tally-Ho requires a minimum of 5 participants per tour; otherwise tours may be rescheduled.
