There’s something undeniably magical about sharing an evening snack with gentle giants. This past weekend, a group of our Nicura Ranch guests discovered exactly that when they ventured down to our secluded back pasture for an unforgettable “Picnic with the Horses.”

Nestled beside the burbling creek and framed by towering oaks, you’ll find a picnic table—hand‑built by our talented Farmer Nick. It’s a labor of love: weathered wood planks, sturdy enough to host everything from a simple cheese board to a full charcuterie spread. Around it, the woods whisper with cicadas and crickets, turning every moment into a cozy, woodland retreat.

As the sun dipped toward the treetops, and everyone enjoyed their wine and snacks, a few surprise guests decided to join them. Lady, Bubba B, Beans, and Cabbie strolled over, curious but polite. Rather than crowd the snack spread, they grazed just yards away, their soft grazing and rhythmic breathing adding a meditative soundtrack to the evening.

One by one, guests reached out to scratch a forehead or stroke a glossy mane. It was farm life in its purest form: humans and horses, sharing space in peaceful harmony. The creek babbled in the background. The wind gently blew. No barriers separated the horses from humans. It was truly a spectacular evening.

Tips for your own picnic with the horses:

Pack Portable Snacks: Cheese, olives, fresh fruit, and a chilled bottle of wine work beautifully.

Mind the Timing: Know the horses schedule. (You want them to be outside so they can join you.) Evening into sunset is best in the summer. Afternoon/early evening is your best time in the fall or spring.

Stay Respectful: Let the horses approach you; don’t chase or call too loudly. They’ll come when they’re ready.

Don’t Share: Let the horses naturally graze on grass while you enjoy your snacks. Once you give the horses a bite of your food, they will want more and can easily overtake your picnic. Plus, many human foods can make a horse sick, so it’s best to let them enjoy the grass.

Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary, planning a surprise, or simply craving a moment of serenity, our back‑pasture picnic is the perfect farm‑fresh experience. Book your stay, and let the creek’s lullaby, and our beautiful herd create memories you’ll treasure long after the sun has set.