B.C. Horse Vacations - Where Adventure & Luxury Meet
Customer Comments
"...when I looked at life from the saddle and was as near to heaven as it was possible to be."
Lots of laughs, tons of horse talk and exchanges of experience. I really loved the wildflower rides. Great way to celebrate my 70th birthday and I’m so glad Wendy suggested it.
Jill
Saanichton, BC
What an amazing and perfect experience of horses and people, and places to see. You have spoiled me for riding anywhere else! Ainsley, thank you for taking such excellent care of us on the trails and Damon for doing likewise on the ground, including the “traveling mounting block” and pooper scooping. Thank you for all your expertise, company and generosity of spirit.
Wendy
Saltspring Island, BC
Wow. The beauty, the exhilaration, the relaxation & the company of both horses & humans leaves me with an incredible sense of peace & joy! Thank you, Ainsley & Damon, Thank you!
Michelle
Cairo Egypt, Washington, DC
I loved all the horses and the trails especially Slick & Tank!!! Thanks!
Cassandra
Vancouver, BC
This trip far exceeded our expectations in everyway – special horses that gave their heart & soul as they carried us up & down the steep mountain terrains. The conversations were stimulating and educational. Lunches were “delicious” and even though after 5 days our backsides were telling us to move on our hearts wee saying stay.
Anne
Kitchener, Ontario
Damon, Ainsley, Thanks for another three days of great riding. We enjoyed the horses and the trails, and of course, we very much enjoyed your company. I am sure that we will be back again to revel in the great experience which you provide.
George & Gwynneth
Belfast, N. Ireland
We cannot thank you both enough for the last few days – everything was absolutely impeccable, from the accommodations, organization, lunch on the last day… and of course, the horses! You made the weekend very special, and certainly won me a lot of brownie points with Georgie, and have completely sold the both of us on horse-riding in BC. I have no doubt that we will be back!
Edward & Georgie
London, England
Thank you for a trip of a lifetime. We fell in love with your horses and the beautiful countryside that we saw! It was wonderful to meet both of you and have the opportunity to get to know you so well. This was a life changing trip in so many ways. I so appreciate the sharing about spirituality with you and seeing the way that it influences your horses and the way you care for them. Your horses show us how much you love them. Big hugs to both of you and your lovely horses!
Jenni
Kitchener, Ontario
“The Queen of McFarlen” - Thank you very much for the weekend riding trails. Jonn & I enjoyed it and had a lot of fun. I had a good time with my two horses that I rode. Thanks again,
Jos & Jonn
Vancouver, BC
Thank you very much for the great day exploring a new and beautiful part of the province. Me and Lara had a lot of fun and will always remember the weekend. Great horses, especially Tank. We hope to see you again some day.
Scott and Lara
Vancouver, BC
Wow! I am so glad we decided to return to Princeton for another wonderful horse vacation. You have created such a perfect environment to totally enjoy the beauty of this area with our favorite 4-legged friends. Every little detail of your business reflects your tremendous love & respect for these amazing creatures! Thank you so much for creating the perfect getaway! Be safe & continue enjoying what you do! Happy Trails,
Jann
Cool, California
What a wonderful time I had riding your awesome horses. The trails were great, the food outstanding. Thank you so much for providing an exquisite experience in BC.
Debi
Cool, California
So nice to come back – better than the first visit. Fun to ride Rocky again. Thank you for showing us great trails and a wonderful time.
Kathy
Cool, California
I am so glad we decided to come back to BC Horse Vacations. Six years ago we thought it was wonderful and we were not disappointed. Thank you for providing such great, well behaved horses.
Sheila
Cool, California
Wow, wow & wow! Would you adopt me, please. What a wonderful experience, beautiful scenery, awesome food. We will be back. Even the rain was great. Peace!
Penny
Duncan, British Columbia
Thank you so much for the wonderful 3day ride – it was everything I imagined and more. I truly had my horse fix on wonderful, happy, well cared for horses. Such gentlemen! Especially Al & Bo! This was the best birthday present ever - I will be back. Special thanks to Ainsley for her kindness patience and wonderful riding company, and of course excellent horsemanship.
Laurie
Vancouver, British Columbia
What a lovely impromptu experience. Who knew that being open would lead us to such wonderful hosts and horses. Your holistic, kind, gentle, wise horsemanship was great to see and we appreciated your tips and hints. Lovely food and a day in the saddle re-ignites a passion – can’t wait to ride again. We’ll be back! J
Jeff & Catherine
Victoria, British Columbia
Thank you thank you thank you. Everything was perfect! You’re an amazing couple, thank you for making it so memorable. We well look forward to coming back! Expecially for fallen-down tree jumping!
Joanna & Neil
Kelowna, British Columbia
Thank you so much for a wonderful day of riding. Jessie was lovely to ride, the lunch was delicious, scenery was beautiful and you both are so welcoming. It really made for a great day.
Molly
British Columbia
Thank you for your expertise and mini lessons. To have made me fell so relax with the horse. It was an awesome day. See you again.
Michelline
Pass Creek, British Columbia
What a great vacation for a rider (me) and a back to beginner (25 years since he’s been in the saddle). You two have a great accommodation for every level! We can’t wait to come back, Wes is already planning when we can be back soon! He’s hooked! Many many thanks for such a wonderful weekend! Can’t wait to be back!
Wes & Kristan
White Rock, British Columbia
Thanks so much for the great 2 days with my Tank! Loved being out with you & Jess. Loved having Jain along as well. Even with the rain, it was a great trip!
Laurie
Kelowna, British Columbia
Jessie & Bo – Pure gentlemen. Our ‘lightening strike’ adventure. Ainsley & Damon, thank you for your gracious hospitality and wonderful adventure.
Lorelei
Honeymoon Bay, British Columbia
Thanks you for a lovely week. Great horses, beautiful trails, excellent food and perfect company.
Warmly,
Gary, Linda & Shaina
Ranoake, Virginia & Seattle, Washington
It’s so great when all your expectations are met and exceeded, you have your operation down to a science.
Thanks,
Jackie
Kelowna, British Columbia
You’re so lucky to have all these happy, lovely horses and these horses are lucky to be at excellent care. We really hope to be back some day!
Karin & Helena
Sweden
I have never experienced so much freedom in riding before. You are both so amazing, as are all the horses. I will definitely come back some day. Thank you.
Shauna
Peterborough, Ontario
Thank you so much for letting us partner with your lovely horses. We so enjoyed the family outing. I will have less trouble bringing everyone back for another round of blazing fun! We enjoyed your hospitality and feel privileged and honoured to ride your wonderful horses. You have a special place here and you have a special place in our hearts. See you again, happy trails to you both.
Amy, Win, Mac, Greer
Issaquah, Washington
Jessie is the coolest, sweetest, fastest horse ever! Thank you for everything.
Teddi
Issaquah, Washington
I’m so happy I found you! Your horses are very well cared for and loved. Very willing on the trails. And what wonderful trails! And what wonderful hosts. But please, fix the doorknob! J
Terri
Delaware, Ohio
Well now you can see why we (Steve and I) let Terri plan our holidays for us. She picks the momt wonderful adventures. Everything was perfect! As I said on the trail, you have the most well-mannered horses. Thanks for everything. I loved every day.
Jacki
Delaware, Ohio
Thank you so much for accommodating me towards the very end of your season, so that I was able to celebrate my 40th birthday in a very special way. You guys ROCK!
Mari-Ann
Pitt Meadows, British Columbia
What can we say? We spotted this holiday on the Internet nearly two years ago and have been looking forward to coming for 18months. We have not been disappointed. Those horses are loved and it shows. We have had the most exceptional time which has been enhanced by the hospitality of Ainsley & Damon. Thank you. Thank you to Jain for chasing away all those squirrels. Thank you to the horses who have all been perfect.
Chrissie & Corri, xx
Brighton, United Kingdom
Thank you so much for a fabulous 2 days of riding. Rocky Rocks! Best weekend I’ve spent in a long time thanks to our super hosts.
See you again, soon.
Sarah & Albert
North Vancouver, British Columbia
Wow, where do I begin: I was totally impressed with the organization and logistics of having horses and trailer waiting, no matter when or where we were starting or stopping. The riding experience over the 3 days was amazing. I was expecting (as a non-rider) to be in agony, but for the most part felt good. Logan, ‘the edge stalker’ was a great ride, but Bo was my favorite, while Jessie talked and grunted all the way, rapping to my daughter’s singing. Ainsley, you stole my daughter’s heart… you speak her language… horses, animals,,. horses…horses… I haven’t heard Rebecca talk so much! For that, thank you! All in all, I loved the entire week and would certainly do it again!
Thanks for everything,
Fiona & Rebecca
Edmonton, Alberta
Horses + Riding = Fun. Enough said? Thanks for a lovely (if slightly painful) time. I love your horses and the way you look out for them. The ones I rode (Rocky, Jack & Jessie) were fabulous and so sweet. I hope that if I’m ever in the area you wouldn’t mind me popping in, maybe going for a ride. Loved my time, loved the trails (esp. the Wildflower Route), loved the horses and love you guys and the B&B’s. It was wonderful.
Rebecca
Edmonton, Alberta
THANK YOU! It’s been an incredible time with you and our group. I have felt welcomed and well taken care of. The horses are fabulous and the scenery is awesome.
Angie
Tofield, Alberta
We returned, as we said we would, and again we had a great time. Loved the horses (Bo, Tank, Al & Rocky in particular)! Loved the riding! Loved the very friendly atmosphere! We will have to return again!!
Teresa & Nick
Oliver, British Columbia
Another wonderful experience with terrific company, horses, food, weather – thanks so much for everything! You are the perfect hosts!
Carlie
Richmond, British Columbia
Thanks BC Horse Vacations! I love what you offer to people, great horses, great company, great trails and yes GREAT food!
Deb
Black Creek, British Columbia
Thank you so much for another great holiday! What a wonderful experience. Horses were fantastic! Thanks again,
Sandy
Black Creek, British Columbia
Thank you Ainsley for the wonderful trails & Damon for the great food & rendez-vous’ing for the horses and all the extras. It was a fabulous 3 day ride & I am looking forward to the next time.
Love,
Claire
Vernon, British Columbia (Claire brought her own horse to ride on her vacation.)
Thank you so very much for a relaxing, enjoyable vacation. Especially memorable are the mountain trails and scenery and the smell of pine. I also enjoyed your sure-footed dependable mountain horses. It’s very true that “You take riders riding.” I hope to come back.
Gay
Enumclaw, Washington
We love the whole experience & thank you for an unforgettable experience.
Paul & Tracy
Chilliwack, British Columbia
Thank you so much for the wonderful time; we loved every minute of it (even the hail!) It was the perfect memory for our honeymoon. You obviously care very much for your horses, and you can see it in their willingness and sparkle. (Leah)
I was amazed at how comfortable I felt up there on your big boys (Winnie &Tank) Thank you for the incredible experiences.
All the very best,
Patrick & Leah
Edmonton, Alberta
Thank you for showing us some beautiful country on great horses. Good conversation, good company & great horses.
This was the most incredible riding I’ve EVER done! Can’t wait to come back!
Tony & Shirley
Ardrossan, Alberta
Who would have thought such a great combination of food, fun, learning, experiencing, working, playing meeting, viewing & wide-eyed wonder at the land, weather & riding could come together in this wonderful memorable experience. Damon & Ainsley, thanks for it all – you’ve been great!
A great experience of the outdoors that could only happen this way! We appreciate all the work Damon did to retrieve us. Ainsley as the “Princess” & “Her Guidance” gave us great rides through awesome trails.
Thanks,
Dave & Dorothy
Arlington Heights, Illinois
Thank you so much for an amazing vacation! Your Inn to Inn rides are such a great idea. Definitely not a “nose to tail” trail ride. I was very impressed with the horses – their attitudes were great and they were so well cared for. The food and the overall presentation was also excellent.
Kelly & Anita
Kelowna, British Columbia
We had a great time. The horses are wonderful – part of the family! The rides were also amazing, so well thought out, great variety of terrain & scenery. And the food… to meet Damon in the middle of nowhere with a fantastic menu… what an experience!
Sarah & David
Basel, Switzerland
Had the time of my life! Everything was great – Ainsley as the guide, the trails, Damon the “chef”, the horses. I can’t express enough how wonderful it was. Very relaxed, beautiful views.
Tanis
Burlington, Ontario
Fabulous time! Thank you so much for a wonderful time. Al, Scully and Slick were fantastic, the food awesome and Ainsley a terrific guide! Can’t say enough good about it!
Phillipa
Aukland, New Zealand
Thank you for an absolutely fabulous trip! Damon and Ainsley were fantastic hosts – this trip was exactly what we were looking for and more. Incredible hospitality, beautiful horse and amazing scenery! Thank you very much for such a great ride©
Katherine
Victoria Beitish Columbia
Thank you for everything. It was perfect in every way. Just what I needed at this time of my life.
Thank you for “reading” my needs & wants. It was perfect in every way.
Katherine
Victoria, British Columbia,
Mari-Vic & Victoria
Toronto, Ontario
Finally we made it! And so glad that we did. What a wonderful world you have created here and thank you so much for sharing it with us. And fixing the weather like that, you seem to have made some deals to hold off the rain until the end of the ride! I hope to learn lots more about horses and hope to come back again. You do what you do so well! Keep it up!
Tim (Carrotman) & Beth
Black Creek, British Columbia
Great trails, great guides, wonderful company! Thanks for your hospitality, patience & riding “tips”. We’ll be back!
Linn
Columbus, Georgia
Thanks so much for showing me the way of the Western style! Tons of fun, great food & amazing sights. You both were fabulous! Pics will be on their way very soon!
Liz
Atlanta, Georgia
This week was everything I expected and more! Being drawn to Tank from the website, I was ecstatic to have ridden him 4 out of 5 days. What a great compassionate guy! Great trails, horses and tack – and the food! J
Barbara
Columbus, Georgia
This has been one of the best trips ever. The horses were wonderful, we had a good mixture of trails, the weather was great & of course, the lunches were delicious. Bo, Scully & Diggy were super. Thank you, Ainsley, for the loping riding tips. Thanks to both of you for a great time. “It’s all good, eh?”
Laura
Opelika, Alabama
I greatly appreciate the time and attention you gave me. You guys are great hosts and guides. I had a great time riding and I love Al he is a great ride.
Fay
Columbus, Georgia
Owie! Even with a bad back, the efforts made to include me on the rides will always be greatly appreciated. Thanks so much for a wonderful time. Hope to see you in 2010.
Jennifer
Cataula, Georgia
Very fine horses, good trails, beautiful landscape and congenial outfitters – a complete package that makes for fine riding. BCHV ranks high among the 30+ rides we have done around the world. It certainly brought us back to BCHV for a second ride. Thanks Ainsley & Damon for a fun time.
Judy & Ben
Saltspring Island, British Columbia
Your loving care of your horses is the most beautiful thing!
Caulene
Victoria, British Columbia
Your hearts are so full of love & kindness! Thank for your generousity!
Love, Marilyn
Vancouver, British Columbia
I just can’t find the words to express how I feel about the two of you & your wonderful home & horses. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. What an experience!
With love, Mandy
Vancouver, British Columbia
Sunshine fell softly upon my shoulders today. Oh, what a feeling! I see you – and all that you are!
Thank you, simply, thank you.
Love, Gay
Maple Ridge, British Columbia
I’m coming back to hug Tank & ride Slick! Blessing to you both, to your herd and to the work you are doing. Until we meet again,
Love, Terrie
USA
Thank you for your love and care. The energy here is beyond belief & truly a blessing. As I move into accepting my wisdom I will always think fondly of this experience.
Annette
USA
Ainsley and Damon,
Thanks for a wonderful week! I enjoyed every day we were there. The food was
great, the accommodations were outstanding and the time on the trail went by
all too quickly. Several friends have shown interest in your operation, I
hope they take advantage of the opportunity to experience the wonders of BC
on horseback with hot meals and warm beds. The following link will take you
to a few of the photos I got, they are easily downloaded and not copy
protected if you want to use any of them.
Steve
Ohio
Hello Ainsley, Damon Jain and the Herd - we are safely back in the UK and missing you How is your leg ?? Please let us know as we are both worried about you .
Hope you got the post card from Banff - we had a lovely few days up in the Rockies but unfortunately the weather was poor - we had snow - so the mountains didn't show themselves for us - I will just have to come back !!!
We saw a bear in the river at Lyton whilst we were white water rafting - which was HUGE fun ! We also saw a bear in the back garden of the neighbour's house whilst staying with Cori's friends in Sun Peaks - that was scary !! He was right next door on their patio sniffing around.
I have been out today hunting for half chaps . I really need you to measure your legs if you don't mind as they come in all sizes and I don't want to get the wrong size to send to Canada ! The shop assistant has told me the best way to do it as follows -
Could you sit down with no shoes/socks on so your foot is on the floor and your knee at a right angle . Measure the length of your leg at the back - from just behind the knee to the bottom of your heel. Next, ( still sitting ) measure the widest part of your calf. I can then go back to the shop armed with these and get you the best fit.
Cori is back at work today and I am back tomorrow - UGH .
The photos turned out well and when I get time I will put them on the computer and send you the best ones .
I think you know by now that we had just the best of times with you - our week riding was the highlight of our trip. Thank you so much it was great and I want to come and help clean your tack and poo pick the field for you !
take care - look foward to hearing from you
Chrissie xx
Hello
Just wanted to say thank you so much for our amazing 5 days with you.
I send you some of the photoes in this mail. You can use them if you want,
it's up to you. And I made them smaller so that you would be able to open
them faster. If you want any of them in a bigger format, just let me know
and I will send that one again.
Again, Thank you. For helping us in Kelown and for the wonderful days with
the horses.
Best Regards
Karin
Dear Ainsley and Damon
I wanted to thank you both for such a wonderful time at your place and the opportunity to spend some time with your lovely horses. You are an amazing, real and generous couple and your horses are happy and healthy and so 'present'.
Ainsley, I really don't think anyone could come close to your love and expertise as a guide.
You know and love your 'backyard' of the Cascades and you deeply know your horses. I know that Damon does too, but, as it was you that we went with, this time; I just wanted to make sure that you knew how amazing you are. Your humour is wonderful too. I'm smiling as I write this as I think about your 'horse' stories; you know each of your horse's so intimately; just like they were a family member. Well, I guess they are. :))
I think of that lovely field where your horses can be horses and know how incredibly lucky they are to be with the two of you.
I look forward to another visit in the future and I will recommend you to anyone who will listen to me.
I've attached some photos that I took of the Joy ride.
Thank you so much for my time with Rocky. I have thought about him and thoroughly enjoyed his company and my chance to ride him. I know I missed an opportunity to work with him in the round pen; hopefully there will be another time.
And thank you for your understanding when we left early on Sunday.
With thanks and love to you both
Mandy
Vancouver, British Columbia
Just a quick note to thank you again for the unforgettable experience of our recent riding holiday. My daughter Amanda and I have done other “excursions” together and the enjoyment of each other’s company is a prime consideration when selecting a trip. Amanda was here this morning and while viewing the pictures, we agreed that we have never had an experience to equal our BC Horse Vacation with you. Also, that sharing this ride together enhanced our already close relationship.
We have both done a fair bit of riding and have horses in our family heritage but we have never truly experienced mountain riding until you took us out there, back there, up there, down there, in and outta there, under there and over there, thro’ there and across there on the Trans Canada Trail, rim trails, meadow trails, forest trails, creek trails, climbing trails, abandoned roads, trails that you and Damon had clearly punch yourselves plus trailering when needed.
Somewhere in your literature I read, “We Take Riders Riding”.
Do you ever!!!!!
The thought, experience, expertise, attention and caring that goes into your trail selection and mount assignments to match client’s skill, personalities and interests is impressive. The work and attention evident in your B&B and catering choices (Please thank that lady… Wow!!) is amazing. AND… you made it look so effortless which I know it is not.
The high quality of your herd is far from effortless. I know what it takes to develop individual animals and to build a stable such as yours. Each of your horses is unique in personality, beautifully trained, exceptionally well-groomed and delightfully mannered. Each is high in energy, endurance and willingness…what a combination!
Wylli
Peachland, British Columbia
Thank you for another great holiday – it’s been a wonderful three days. I only wish it could have been nine again this year. Once again we have enjoyed the trails, the horses, and the company enormously. We wish you every success in the continuing development of BCHV and hope to be back again in the next couple of years. Until next time,
Gwynneth & George
Glenavy, Co. Antrim, Northern Ireland
Fabulous people, fabulous horses, fabulous place, fabulous ride, in short a fabulous time. Thank you for making it a wonderful holiday. Can I hear a woo-hoo?
Vicki
Baltimore, Maryland
Wonderful rides, scenery and experience. The B&B’s make it oh so pleasant. Highly recommended to horsey people. Thank you for a very lovely time.
Sandra & Robert
Mt. Tamborine, Queensland, Australia
Wow! I’m impressed. Food was surprisingly delicious, hosts warm & welcoming & the horses incredibly cared for. Thank you so much for all your efforts, especially in matching horse to rider.
Amanda
Langley, British Columbia
How can I thank you enough for giving me such a wonderful experience? I feel I have finally hit the jackpot – riding with the nicest couple I could hope to meet, on the best horses I have yet encountered!
You really are “doing it all right” – you have such a knack for hospitality, and the personal touch is unbeatable. Your thoughtfulness and generosity is amazing, and I appreciated all the extra little touches and attention to detail.
Your horses are wonderful – so well-mannered, with the perfect balance of energy and control, and an enthusiasm for their jobs which is hard to find. I will really miss Jessie & Winston. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend you to anyone.
Thank you so much again for everything. May you enjoy the great success you so rightly deserve.
Carlie
Richmond, British Columbia
Thank you for a wonderful time. Your patience with someone “green” was exemplary – great scenery & wonderful hospitality.
Mary
Surrey, British Columbia
A wonderful time! Great riding, food, fun. Lots of hospitality. Thank you for the variety of horses! Nice, clean, healthy, very impressive!
Caroline
Bow, Washington
This will be the most memorable vacation of my life! Thank you so much for the wonderful adventure. We look forward to our next holiday with you.
Matt & Tammy
Vancouver, British Columbia
What an amazing weekend. Thank you so much for creating such an opportunity to experience the peace and beauty here on horseback. A truly enriching, uplifting and empowering experience. I am excited to continue riding and return someday in the near future.
Natasha
Vancouver, British Columbia
Wow! What a great vacation. I don’t know how you could do it any better. Surpassed my expectations! Your horses are wonderful. I can not thank the two of you enough for one of the best holidays I have ever had. What makes it so great is the attitude that you both have. You really know how to take care of your guests. You could teach hospitality to a lot of others I know. The horses where great –what a treat! They are very well looked after and it shows. Anyways, thanks so much for the great holiday. It was even more than I imagined it could be.
Sandy
Black Creek, British Columbia
Right here in BC, the best horse vacation I could have dreamed of. A huge big thank you!
Deb
Black Creek, British Columbia
Thank you for a wonderful honeymoon, one we will never forget. Hope you have many more wonderful years with your horses and riders. Your service is unmatched to anyone else. Lots of love,
Chad & Melissa
Red Deer, Alberta
What an absolutely wonderful holiday. Great horses with such fun personalities, fantastic food & interesting & endless conversations. We learned a lot & had a great time and look forward to returning in May. Your operation is so well run. We have been on lots of these kinds of rides and yours is without a doubt one of the best we have been on.
Teresa & Nick
Oliver, British Columbia
We couldn’t have asked for a better horseback vacation! We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. Al is my new sweetheart! Thank you so much for your thoughtfulness and generosity. Oh, yes, Jim thinks that you should be “BC Horse Adventure Vacations.”
(Later, from a note sent with some photos…)
Well, as you can see from the pictures, Shelley and I have been getting into horse trouble. We came back from our super vacation and started back riding again. Magic is his name; he is 11 years old and a Tennessee Walker. We are having a great time with him. You know it’s because we had such a great time at BC Horse Vacations that we have gotten into this thing…
Jim & Shelley
Waukegan, Illinois
Thank you so much for the five days of riding - they were so great. We sure had some great laughs. I would love to see you again in another year.
Karen
Surrey, British Columbia
Thank you so much for your kindness and patience and for your good advice. You made the ride so enjoyable for me and have restored so much of my confidence.
As a not very confident rider having such a gentleman as Travis to ride and an equal gentleman in Damon as an escort has done wonders! I can’t thank you enough – you guys are the best!
Elizabeth
Stouffville, Ontario
Thank you both so much for your kindness and expertise in making our vacation a memorable one. The horses were fun, the scenery spectacular and the lunches tasty. And thanks so much for accommodating our large group and our varied riding abilities. You have a wonderful place to ride, and a first rate outfit.
Susan
Markham, Ontario
I had a great time! I loved both Tank & Winston! Thanks so much,
Pam
Toronto, Ontario
A lovely week’s riding, thanks very much.
Diana
London, England
A great week, thank you!
Maureen
London, England
Great ride, great food, great company, thanks tons!
Deb
Stouffville, Ontario
Excellent in every way!
Heather
Edmonds, Washington
Just got back from a lively ride on our “old guys” and feel wonderful. Thank you again for your unique brand of service. I quite fell in love with your life! Of course, I fell for the amazing Rocky, too and he was a gentleman of class.
Good luck for another year. I’m sure we will be back one day.
Bev
Mission, BC
What can I say! I knew I would have a great time – but it was even better than I expected! Thank you so much for everything. We hope to return one day. Please pass along kisses to our dear equine friends. They were so great & of course, we fell in love with them, like little school girls with crushes!
Hugs to both of you. I’ll work on Jessie’s Rap Tune & email you. Yo Yo Get Down!! All the very best & hope to see you again.
Love,
Lynn
Maple Ridge, BC
Damon & Ainsley
It’s taken a while to send this with the usual excuse of being busy. Thank you so much for looking after us so well on our honeymoon. We thoroughly enjoyed it & Ben now proclaims to be an expert horseman. The horses, food, views, accommodations & hospitality were second to none. We will get some photos & video to you. Love to Bo,
Emma & Ben
London, England
I wanted to email and say thank you for sharing Slick with me. I really enjoyed his company. He is such a happy go lucky guy. We would enjoy riding with you again sometime -- maybe next year. It is great to find a good place so close to home.
Judy
Saltspring Island, BC
Hi Ainsley & Damon!
I have been a horse owner for a year and my riding experience up until the BC Horse Vacations ride was limited to short, easy trail rides and western lessons in the arena. Mountain trail riding exposed me to tougher terrain than I have ever ridden and made me work more as "one" with the horse on the trails. I had to trust my horse more than I've had to before. I returned from my trip with a renewed confidence and was very eager to apply those skills to my own horse, however didn't really understand the magnitude of what I had learned until my trainer gave me feedback. She was impressed that I had "found" my stirrups which I had to lengthen a hole (newer riders tend to point their toes down) and I kept my heels down the entire lesson! More importantly, she said my seat was more solid, secure and my posture was more relaxed. My confidence has increased and I feel that I have more direction and focus for what kind of riding I want to do with my horse. I would highly recommend Damon, Ainsley, their horses and BC Horse Vacations.
Holly
Las Vegas, Nevada
Dear Damon and Ainsley,
I saw that Holly put a very nice comment about your ride on your WEB site. I too wanted to thank you for making it such a great ride. You really worked hard to make the ride fun and enjoyable for all. I know the hours were long and you were such a great, warm and accommodating hosts.
Ruth
Washington DC
"The wind of heaven is that which blows between a horse's ears". And that's what we felt. Your horses were so wonderful, so beautiful and, as Edie says, very "forward moving". Your horses are a reflection of your love and respect for them. My observation was that you treat them as equal partners in your business and their success is your success. We loved the fantastic and scenic trails on which you escorted us. We loved the warm hospitality of your community partners at the B&Bs. Lively conversation flowed both on and off the horses. There were also those absolute quiet and beautiful moments of being one with your horse. Thank you both so much for such an incredible riding experience and holiday. We hope to be seeing you again. Give Al and Bo big hugs from us.
Susan and Edie
Abbotsford, B.C.
A Riding Holiday
(Sent to Canadian Tourism Commission and Council of Tourism May 2006)
by Gerry from Sudbury, Ontario
To Whom it may concern,
Recently I purchased a riding holiday from B.C. Horse Vacations, (Princeton B.C.). It was one of the best holiday experiences in my life. I have taken similar holidays in 15 countries on 3 continents and I would consider this B.C. experience as "excellent". The owners and guides are Damon and Ainsley Beauchamp who are most accommodating and knowledgeable. Their horses are fit, well groomed and well trained and the riding is world class. The B.C. countryside is heaven inspired. The evening's destinations were welcoming, B&B's with wonderful food and accommodations. Our country and British Columbia are fortunate to have such entrepreneurs who translate the rhetoric of eco-tourism-economic opportunities into a reality for Princeton B.C. while providing vacationing moments that translate into lifelong memories for people like me. As the mentors for tourism I thought B.C. Horse Vacations would be an interesting success story for your organization.
“…Going along with the “pampering” theme, there was a masseuse listed on the brochure Damon sent us. Karen and I, thinking we might be sore after a hard days riding, (at least that is what I told Terry) arranged to have her there both the first and second night for us. I am here to tell you, that was truly “the best” to ride all day, have a glass of wine and then have a massage.”
Jeannie
Fairfax, Virginia
From an article in her local horse paper.
Hi Ainsley and Damon,
Just a quick note to say thanks again for a great holiday (the shirt did come clean)! Fiona is still so enthusiastic about her riding adventure and keeps getting the photos out and saying, "Do you remember when....?". She dines out a lot on our adventure stories.
Hope you've had a good season.
Best regards,
Marion
Lancashire, England
Practicing Equine Reiki
Late into September 2005 I had the opportunity to join a ride with Ainsley at her stable "BC Horse Vacations" in Princeton, BC.
It is clear that Ainsley has a very special working relationship with her horses...they are truly her business partners and she treats them with the respect that partners deserve.
Her horses are taken care of on more then just the needs of the physical level. Ainsley seeks to make sure that her horses are also tended to on the emotional and spiritual levels as well. It becomes quickly obvious that these horses enjoy Ainsley's company, their jobs as trail escorts and their environment.
The horses are eager, happy and adventurous. Their vitality, manners and etiquette makes them a pleasure to be around as well as a pleasure to ride. I had a really wonderful day on the trail with Ainsley and my mount "Al"
The trails that we covered that day were varied in scenery, slope and vegetation. There was so much opportunity to cover different grounds that the trail may not be repeated. The horses all proved that they were in perfect fitness to cope with any of the trail variations.
Ainsley easily carries a variety of topics in conversation and this makes her quite an easy person to relate to on many levels.
If you are seeking a rewarding horse adventure then this truly is the place to start...you may never go to another stable.
Maxine
Damon & Ainsley,
Just a note to say “Thank you” for such a unique adventure- you touched my heart!
I can’t wait to come back again. It was more than a vacation, it was good for my soul!
Give Straycat a hug for me – the rest of the boys, too.
Sincerely,
Laura
Phoenix, Arizona
Hi Damon & Ainsley,
Thanks again for orchestrating such a wonderful riding vacation! Heather & I will remember it forever. In fact – we are off on a ride again today and I’m sure the topic of conversation will be our great time in Princeton.
May you be grateful everyday for God’s blessings of horses & each other in a setting of beauty & peace.
Yours truly,
Lynette
Sydney, British Columbia
Hello,
Just wanted to write and let you know how much I enjoyed my vacation. It was all I expected and then more. I enjoyed all the parts of it.
The first bed and breakfast was very warm and I feel I have made two wonderful friends there. They made us feel very much at home. The food was absolutely delicious.
The second bed and breakfast was relaxing in its own way. It took a little adjustment not to seeing so much stuff around after our first place, but once I adjusted to that I could appreciate the hospitality of our new host.
I was able to get an absolutely beautiful picture of Al. I really appreciate what a wonderful and calm horse he was for me on the trail.
I also very much enjoyed getting to know the two of you. I hope the rest of your summer will be as wonderful as my five day holiday was for me.
Wendy
Williams Lake, British Columbia
It's awfully hard getting back into the daily grind...
It was a magical and relaxing week. I have such lovely memories, thank you both again and again! Still dreaming about buying that farm!
Look forward to next time,
Love,
Catherine
Hollywood, California
Dear Damon & Ainsley,
Well, I can't believe it has been over 3 weeks since we had to come back to reality after our fabulous vacation in the Canadian wilderness! I was so swamped at work, I'm still digging out from under after being away from the office for 2 weeks –
We truly had one of the most memorable vacations ever, thanks to the two of you. The four days we spent with you could not have been more perfect -- the time went by way too quickly. How are Slick, Al, Drifter, Jessie, and Travis doing? How about Stevi? They all really showed us a great time!!
After we left your place, we continued on to Penticton, and went on to do quite a bit of wine tasting. Again, we had an absolutely fabulous time -- We were grateful for the gift basket that you gave to us, as we stopped at picnic spots along the way and enjoyed the fruit, trail mix and chocolates while sipping various BC wines. How decadent!! The weather was glorious, and we enjoyed the area so much that we did end up spending an extra day in Penticton, rather than going back to Vancouver –
Too bad you can't make it out here to Virginia some time -- If you ever do, please give is a call -- We'd love to have you stay at our house and ride with us if you are ever in the area!!
Take care --
Pat
Clifton, Virginia
Dear Ainsley & Damon;
Thank you so much for the greatest horse vacation experience ever. We never imagined the Kettle Valley Railway would be so breathtaking. We will never forget the mother deer with her fawn bedded down in the meadow while we passed through Siwash Valley bottom.
The ride was full of great conversation and laughter. Our stay at the Jellicoe Station Inn was very comfortable; Les and Darlene were so hospitable, feeling right at home was easy. All we talked about all the way home that Sunday was our plans for our next vacation with you.
Thanks again for your country charm,
Mauro, Geraldine, Brittany & Alicia
Vancouver, British Columbia
Dear Ainsley,
Just wanted to say Hi to both you and Damon and "thank you" for making our trip to Canada absolutely spectacular!! We loved everything your BC Horse Vacations had to offer. Damon, you were the perfect "host" making sure everything was just right when we arrived for lunch and the food surpassed all my expectations. Most of all I want to thank you for the privilege of riding your wonderful mustang "Slick" and to you Ainsley for showing us your beautiful trails. I wish you all the best and hope you have many successful years with BC Horse Vacations.
Enjoy the Ride,
Sheila
Cool, California
Ainsley
& Damon,
Tim & I had such a wonderful time with you & your herd of furry pals! I can’t wait to come back & see everyone. I am especially fond of Slick, he has stolen a bit of my heart in such a short time. I am sending you copies of these pictures that capture a fantastic day Tim & I had with you both. You are both truly doing what you are best at… horses & great memories.
Sincerely,
Candy & Tim
Chilliwack, British Columbia
Ps. Please give all the horses a hug from me & don’t forget that gorgeous Andulusian next door! J
Dear
Damon & Ainsley,
Thank you for showing my daughter & I the time of our lives with your horse expertise & outstanding hospitality. We’re looking forward to next years reunion.
Many happy trails,
Tom & Robin
Abbottsford, British Columbia
Questions?
Email info@bchorsevacations.ca or call (250) 295-7432, we'd love to hear from you!
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