Where Horses Heal

A Horse Whisperer’s Journey

In the surroundings of Bulgaria’s coastal town of Ahtopol, a hidden sanctuary for horses thrives. Nektariya Sofia Nikolova, known simply as Neky, has dedicated her life to rescuing and rehabilitating these magnificent creatures. But Neky’s mission extends beyond mere physical healing. She believes that horses possess a unique energy that can have a profound impact on human well-being, especially for those struggling with emotional or mental challenges.

With unwavering passion and a deep love for animals, Neky has transformed an abandoned meadow into a haven for horses in need. Each horse that arrives at Neky’s sanctuary carries the scars of abuse, neglect, or even the threat of slaughter. But under Neky’s gentle care, these traumatized animals begin to heal, both physically and emotionally.

Once the horses have recovered, Neky invites people of all ages to join her for unforgettable horseback riding adventures. Whether you’re seeking a unique outdoor experience, a chance to connect with nature, or simply a fun and relaxing activity, Neky’s horse rides offer something for everyone. As you explore the beautiful countryside and coastline, you’ll be amazed by the calming presence and therapeutic energy of these gentle creatures.

A moment of pure joy: the horse rolls in the meadow, basking in the warm sunlight and the freedom of its natural surroundings.

Neky stands proudly beside Veska, the matriarch of the herd. The other horses graze peacefully in the distance, creating a scene of harmony and tranquility.

Neky’s trusty knife, a symbol of her resourcefulness and ability to handle any situation that may arise in the care of her horses.

A shared experience: a mother and son bond over a horseback ride along the coast, creating lasting memories and enjoying the beauty of the natural world.

A rider’s perspective: the view from horseback, following Neky as she guides the horses, offers a unique insight into the bond between horse and human.

A gentle touch: Neky carefully places a halter on the horse’s head, demonstrating her respect and understanding of these majestic creatures, despite their imposing size.

A moment of tension: a disagreement erupts between Neky and a dog owner, highlighting the challenges of coexisting with nature and the importance of respecting different lifestyles.

A local landmark: the lighthouse of Ahtopol, a symbol of the region’s history and a reminder of the picturesque setting where Neky’s sanctuary is located.

Learning from the best: Neky’s friend Tanja gains hands-on experience, learning the art of handling horses and building a connection with these gentle animals.

A daily task: Neky ensures the safety and well-being of the herd by securing Veska to the meadow, knowing that the other horses will follow her lead.

A day’s work: Neky prepares for another day of adventures, carefully loading the saddles into her car and ensuring the horses are ready to explore.

A moment of reflection: Neky stands alone in the field, lost in thought, contemplating the beauty and challenges of her life with the horses.

A reminder of the past: the wild horse, a solitary figure in the forest, represents the harsh reality that many horses face before finding their way to Neky’s sanctuary.

To learn more about Niki’s work and the sanctuary, please visit her social media pages:

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