SPLENDOR IS DEFINED as ‘having magnificent features or qualities’ and Splendor Farms delivers—not in the gold and fine jewels kind of way, but in the treasures-of-nature fashion. The 75-acre country retreat, located in Bush, LA, is home to an inviting bed and breakfast amidst a menagerie of animals. Cozy cabins and guest rooms boast amenities such as a salt water pool and hot tub and provide visitors an authentic working farm experience. Innkeeper Kelly McKinney enjoys sharing her home with guests. “It’s so rewarding to meet people from all over the country and overseas. I love hearing their stories and sharing my farm with them.”
This all-inclusive hidden gem offers hiking and fishing, and kids can join the action by interacting with livestock at the petting farm, visitng the dachshund kennels (Kelly has been showing, raising and rescuing only dachshunds for over 25 years) and even collecting eggs for their farm-style breakfast. One of Kelly’s favorite included activities is horseback riding. She welcomes beginners through experts to ride at their own comfort level by either staying near the stables, or trail riding through the woods or to the lake. “You see people’s stress melt away and the pure excitement on the face of a child who is riding for the first time is priceless.” Trail rides are also available for day guests by the hour or day.
The fresh air, beautiful grounds and Kelly’s attentiveness leave the guestbook bursting with rave reviews. “Your hospitality is top notch.” “The horseback rides were absolutely joyful.” “My son and I bonded over the weekend.” “We loved relaxing in the pool and feeding the sweet goats.” “It’s a slice of heaven—I know we’ll return.” “Riding Hondo was awesome. He was my first horse.” “It was a dream come true for my daughter’s birthday.” “The amazing breakfast, animals and country charm were just the getaway we needed.”
Kelly’s favorite aspect of a Splendor Farms stay is that guests create their perfect pace—from total relaxation to unique adventures on and nearby the property. “We have packages with full or continental breakfasts, birthday party packages and field trips for scouts where they can earn badges. We even rent out the whole place where the grandkids stay in the bunkhouse and the adults stay in the guest rooms and cabins. We’re set up for them to barbecue or boil crawfish, play games or enjoy other activites.” There’s even a horse and farm summer camp where girls learn farm duties and animal care which builds confidence and promotes teamwork.
Whether a guest’s ideal getaway is simply soaking in the serenity of charming surroundings admidst Kelly and her staff’s hospitality, introducing the kids to farm life and horses, or bringing the whole family to embrace adventurous outdoor activities, Splendor Farms offers just the treasure they seek.
