Ostriches, donkeys, and bears: a trip to unusual farms in Ukraine that work in winter

Cows, pigs, chickens and ducks are what come to mind when you think of traditional farms. But nowadays, Ukrainian entrepreneurs are taking a creative approach. Nowadays, on farms that welcome guests, you can meet various animals, from ostriches to crocodiles. You can also taste a variety of delicious foods. Eggs, cheeses, wines, oils, etc.

Unfortunately, some eco-estates are closed during the cold season. But we've compiled a list of places that are open in any weather.

Osloff Donkey Farm

An unusual location is located 20 kilometers from the capital, in the village of Velyki Dmytrovychi. It was founded by its owners, who initially planned to breed animals only for themselves. But then they became so passionate about this business that it became their life's work.

The history of the farm began with the owners' desire to consume something healthier than cow's milk. It turned out that donkey milk contains fewer allergens and is much better for the human body. It is even suitable for babies.

At first, there were only a few animals on the farm. Now there is one donkey and thirty donkeys. And the owners have no plans to stop, because their farm has become famous throughout Ukraine. Tourists come here all the time. Families with children are especially fond of the location.

To attract even more visitors, the owners cook delicious donkey cheese. They also treat guests with fresh milk. Here you can also go fishing in the lake, where silver carp, pike, crucian carp, catfish, and carp are found, rent a bathhouse, or order an unusual SPA treatment with ice and nabil.

The farm is open every day except Monday from 10:00 to 19:30.

Buffalo farm

Another unusual location is located in Zakarpattia, in the village of Oleshnyk. Here they take care of an endangered species of animals.

In fact, buffaloes are quite undemanding. Not so long ago, no sowing work was complete without them. And they are not afraid of frost. That's why the farm works smoothly in winter.

They started breeding the animals about 10 years ago. During this period, the herd has grown significantly. Today, the farm is home to more than 50 males and females. For a species that is on the verge of extinction, this is a good performance.

The farm offers daily guided tours, so you won't miss anything if you come here spontaneously. You will be welcomed with hospitality and treated to delicacies. Most often, they treat you with milk, Panir cheese, mozzarella, butter, and sour cream. Sometimes there is brynza.

Rehabilitation center for brown bears

There is an unusual farm in the Synevyr National Nature Park in the Zakarpattia region. Here, animals that have been severely abused are taken out of stress.

There are bears that were caught by smugglers and taken for sale, and there are those that "worked" in the circus and knew nothing but the whip. One way or another, all the residents of the center need qualified help. And it is provided here. Veterinarians constantly take care of the animals, give them vaccinations and prescribe their diet.

Everything here is done for the animals' comfort. They even have their own swimming pool, and, of course, dens. Needless to say, the territory itself is very spacious. And the climatic conditions of the Carpathians are most suitable for the bears' natural environment.

By the way, after successful therapy, the bears are released into the wild. So do not worry, they will not stay in the cages forever.

Valley of ostriches

Another exotic farm is located in the Kyiv region. It is home to all kinds of ostriches that exist in the world. The first inhabitants were brought to the farm from Belgium in 2001.

We are sure that children will love it here. And adults will also be impressed. Upon request, each visitor can listen to an informative lecture. The guide will tell about the habits of these funny creatures, their lifestyle and character.

After the tour, guests can have a chance to talk to the ostriches. By the way, they just love this activity, so they will not hide. They also like to be photographed. So it will not be difficult to take a lot of beautiful photos.

Visitors can also ride ostriches, taste author's dishes and taste our own wines.