2 minute read
Hidden Gems: Kecskemet Horse Farm, Hungary
By: Nick Sullivan
Situated just a couple miles outside of Kecskemet, Hungary, there is an ancient and quaint horse farm which truly captivated me.
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I’ve never really had an interest in equestrian activities, nor did I plan on coming to Hungary just to visit this farm. How I found out about it was totally serendipitous, but by being immersed in this historic environment I realized that art can take multiple forms.
Once my small group and I entered the farm, we were greeted by traditionally dressed Hungarian locals who gave us bread and a local aperitif. This was quite welcome. Surroundings were gorgeous, with pristine white buildings, crafted wood, and regal horses. Everything felt authentic not only in spirit but in the fact that so many people have the opportunity to visit authentic places such as this when touring countries. Once we were told the storied history of the farm by one of the older trainers, we were treated to a race of about 10 horses. Ten horsemen in dark blue outfits mounted their horses and then ran a race that was remarkable. Within the bright green trees on either side, the beige track and dark brown horses running made for a beautiful backdrop. Once the race was over, we toured the other part of the facility, where exotic birds and cattle were being kept.
What astounded me most about this horse farm was how the traditions and spectacle seemed to remain authentic to their original times, which is rare to find in our world today. The horsemen then put on a show where they rode their horses standing up and whilst playing games with each other. Finally, they found a way to push their horses down onto their sides after they were standing up.
After all that, we were treated to a lunch full of traditional Hungarian staples. It was nice to relax and enjoy another part of the culture of the national and sub national group that hosted us.
The whole experience felt exclusive, and most importantly authentic in the world I live in, one of dilution and blending. A hidden gem should not only be somewhere that is wonderful and unknown, but it should immerse you in the culture of the host in an extraordinary way. Kecskemet certainly did that.
