Of horses and sculptures
[Advertising due to linking] Riding on vacation is the dream of many people. We love animals, and we have especially taken horses into our hearts. On vacation, however, we often have the problem that animals are exploited and treated badly.
A paradise for horses
“Being with Horses” on the other hand is a pleasant exception and we have already visited Tobago several times. During many activities we were able to experience that the horses are treated with a lot of respect. In the last few years we have done small rides on the beach and in the sea and experienced wonderful moments. In this holiday we took the opportunity to combine a ride on horseback with a cultural experience.
Luise Kimme – a German artist with lasting traces on Tobago
In Bethel, above Mount Irvine, the artist Luise Kimme has worked. With “The Castle”, the native German, who taught as a professor at the art academy in Düsseldorf, has left a wonderful legacy. Even after her death in 2013, the building is still open to interested visitors.
A warm welcome for horse and man
One Saturday morning we meet Veronika La Fortune at the stable of “Being with Horses” to prepare for our ride together. Together with Sarah, a Brit who is also frequently seen at “Being with Horses”, we start the preparation of the horses. Apollo and Divo are to be led by us, Morning Calm and Aberdeen by Veronika and Sarah. With extensive strokes and treats to greet the animals, we show them that this is not only a beautiful day for humans. Now saddle up, stow water bottles and camera in a small bag – and you’re ready to go!
With the horse to the museum
After leaving Buccoo we cross-country over the golf course of Mount Irvine. Not only to preserve the green we pass the area at a leisurely pace. The impressive scenery of the hills and mountains to the centre of the island captivates the eye that you want to enjoy every moment especially long. Occasionally the barking of the dogs in the gardens of the small, multicolored houses penetrates the silence. The horses, on the other hand, meet the excited four-legged friends with stoic composure and carry us on to our destination in Bethel.
“The Castle is an impressive building with an extensive garden
On a slightly winding street we suddenly see an imposing building – “The Castle” bears this name quite rightly! The white limed house with towers and arches radiates that this place is something very special.
Before arriving at the entrance we descend from the horses and are welcomed by Dunieski Lora Pileta and his family. Dunieski has taken over Luise Kimme’s workshop and continues the tradition of artistic craftsmanship.
In order to relieve the horses we take off saddles and other equipment. In the spacious garden around the museum many mango trees lose their fruit – what a tasty buffet for our four-legged friends!
While the horses are taking care of themselves, we are allowed to look around freely in the studio and workshop. Architect Ekkehart Schwarz was responsible for the design of the studio at the time.
For the creation of the sculptures, Luise Kimme looked in vain for hard wood. Thus all exhibits are based on oak wood, which was brought from German forests to Tobago especially for this purpose.
In addition to the artistic pieces, the studio offers another highlight – a breathtaking view of the green and the Caribbean!
Without stress and hectic it goes back to Buccoo
After we have let the art work, it can begin with the preparation for the ride back to the stable in Buccoo. It’s not so easy to get horses from a lush meadow covered with mangoes! Who wants to be disturbed during the break while eating?
On the way back we move slowly along the small streets and paths between small houses, meadows and palm trees. Not sporting interest, but the unity between horse and rider set the pace. Thus the ride is also, or perhaps just, suitable for less experienced people.
In Buccoo we make a short stop at “Cafe Down Low” to pick up the boxes for our lunch. Cafe owner Karry uses this unusual visit to pose as a cowboy for the first time in his life. We think he’s doing really well – the look suits him!
Once across Buccoo it goes now to the stable. Lennon, husband of Veronika and the “strong man” behind Being with Horses, expected and already. Now descend, unsaddle, and eat something – what a beautiful trip!
The morning was a lot of fun for us. The close and unagitated contact to the animals, the wonderful museum with its very special ambience and the landscape of Tobago are simply a great total package. Riding on holiday can therefore be a wonderful experience for people and animals.
A final note: When booking with lunch please note that the extra charge of 300 TT$ is to be understood as a donation and for the final stay at “Being with Horses”. The food, as mentioned in the report, is quite a simple take away.
Ride to the Kimme Museum with “Being with Horses” (only for guests who have already participated in the “Swim and Trail”)
Address: # 14 Galla Trace, Buccoo, Tobago
GPS: 11.183453, -60.808304
Contact: Phone +1 868-639-0953
Cost of ride: 1200 TT$ / 200 US$ without, 1500 TT$ with lunch
Website: http://www.being-with-horses.com/
Kimme Museum
Address: Rear sight Dr, Bethel, Tobago
GPS: 11°11’05.9″W 60°47’25.6″N
Contact: +1 868 639-0257
Opening hours: Sunday from 10 -14 o’clock
Admission: 20 TT$ / 3,50 US$ per person (included in the price for “Being with Horses”)
Website: www.luisekimme.com
