ALPACA trekking might sound rather unconventional, but it’s becoming an increasingly popular activity in Somerset.

It’s a relaxing experience and is known to reduce stress. I headed to one of the county’s leading rare breed farms to try my hand and review walking these fluffy camelids. 

Somerset Alpaca Trekking and Rare Breed Animals is situated atop the Polden Hills at West House Farm in the quaint village of Chilton Polden. The business is run by dedicated animal enthusiast, Sue Hamilton.

Sue’s “crew” consists of eight Huacaya alpacas – including “Head of Security”, Guinness - four Balwen Welsh mountain sheep, a handful of goats, and even a recently introduced mob of wallabies.

Sue’s passion for alpacas first started eight years ago. She said: “I went to buy three chickens, and I came back with five alpacas. I love alpaca trekking so much, it never gets boring. In fact, I even pay to go and walk other people’s alpacas.”

As part of the experience, Sue provides an interesting overview of the alpaca, with plenty of detailed facts. “Alpacas are a species of South American camelid mammal and they have lanolin-free fleeces. The main difference between alpacas and llamas are the ears: alpacas have spear-shaped ears, while llamas have banana-shaped ears.”

Trekking with an alpaca is a surprisingly relaxing and family-friendly experience. Equipped with a specially-designed headcollar, and with lead in hand, we proceeded to trek a lap of the field adjacent to the alpacas’ paddock. Views of the distant Mendip Hills and Somerset Levels complemented the excellent experience.

On our trek, Sue and I were joined by Helen, a regular visitor to the farm who needle felts with alpacas' wool. Reflecting on her trekking, she said: “I feel peaceful and restful when I come here. There’s a real sense of calm, even the alpacas’ humming is soothing.”

(Image: Seth Dellow)

Somerset Alpaca Trekking also use the camelids for other occasions. This includes weddings, birthdays, and even visits to care homes. But Sue has a greater vision for her eight cherished alpacas.

She commented: “I really want to work with healthcare professionals, those people who have worked in mental health services that need some time out. Adults with post-traumatic stress, and veterans who have gone through things we can’t even imagine. And also, children with special educational needs, many of whom are unable to access mainstream education. I’m open to suggestions for my business.”

Being a small business owner, Sue has to juggle running Somerset Alpaca Trekking and Rare Breed Animals with part-time employment. It’s why the recent theft of eight of her chickens and some other items totalling over £3,000 was so devastating.

“The theft around eight weeks ago impacted me emotionally and financially; I’ve given all my hens to my friends. We reported it to the police and we read their response that there were bigger things going on that they didn’t feel this was a crime worth investigating. But it matters, it’s my business.”

Along with Sue’s business, West House Farm is also home to a number of small businesses, which includes a hair salon, dog groomer, plants emporium, and a gym. On November 30, a newly renovated café will be opening its doors.  

To book tickets and visit Somerset Alpaca Trekking and Rare Breed Animals, phone: 07887703395, or visit their Facebook page.