February 2026 Issue 48 - Flipbook - Page 14
M E E T
T H E
M A J E S T I C
GYPSY VANNERS OF OCALA By E. Ferrari
The Gypsy Vanner horse walking tour at Gypsy Gold in Ocala is a
one‑of‑a‑kind experience that blends history, beauty, and heartfelt
storytelling into an unforgettable visit. As you stroll through the farm’s
shady oak‑lined paths, you’re introduced to the magnificent Gypsy Vanners
—North America’s very first of the breed, originally imported by Dennis and
Cindy Thompson, who also established the world’s first Gypsy Vanner
registry.
The walking tour offers an intimate,
up‑close look at these striking horses,
known for their flowing manes, feathered
legs, and gentle, people‑loving
personalities. Along the way, guides share
the captivating story of how the
Thompsons discovered the breed in 1996
and brought the first 16 horses to
American soil, forever changing the
landscape of rare horse preservation.
THE FAMILY ADVENTURE GUIDE- FLORIDA EDITION
14 | 2025 Issue 48
