Article Written By Seth Cambron
In the middle of the bluegrass, surrounded by bourbon and fast horses lies my
hometown, Versailles. This small and simple town with a population of just over
9,000 is one of the true treasures that Kentucky and the Bluegrass Region has to
offer. Being just 15 minutes outside of Lexington, it is the perfect getaway from the
bright lights for a quick trip. Here are five reasons, I love Versailles!
With Versailles being a huge player in the bourbon industry, it is home to one
of the most iconic bourbon distilleries in the world. With production starting
in 1812, Woodford Reserve resides on 10 acres right outside the city of
Versailles. The distillery is apart of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail that allows
people to tour the distillery as well as taste the different delicious bourbons
that they have to offer. For someone visiting Versailles for the first time,
Woodford Reserve is a must see experience. From distilling all the way to
bottling, the process is truly unbelievable.
Photos courtesy of https://www.facebook.com/woodfordreserve
One of the most unique sites that you’ll see is a medieval like castle that sits
just off of Versailles Road. Driving by the castle numerous times throughout
my lifetime I have always seen people pulling their car off the road to take a
picture of the unique specimen. Sitting on 55 acres the castle has many
different events to offer. Wedding receptions, concerts, and wine tastings are
just a few of the many luxuries that the castle provides. However, the most
interesting activity that they have to offer is Goat Yoga. Yes, you read it right,
Goat Yoga.
Photos courtesy of https://www.facebook.com/thekentuckycastle
3.) Eckert’s Orchard
Residing just outside the city limits resides Eckert’s Orchard, formally known
as Boyd’s Orchard. This hidden gem is home to the best strawberries and
apples I have ever indulged in. Eckert’s has a variety of different activities to
satisfy people of all ages. Hayrides, corn mazes, fruit picking, and pig races
are perfect activities with fall on the horizon. Along with these different
activities, Eckert’s has a restaurant and store as well. The Apple Cider and
homemade donut’s are mouth watering and you would be hard-pressed to
find anything better in Central Kentucky. Eckert’s was recently ranked as a
top 15 orchard in the state of Kentucky according to Only In Your State.
Photos courtesy of https://www.facebook.com/EckertsOrchard
4.) Ricardo’s
Residing in an old train depot that was constructed in 1855, Ricardo’s is a
must stop destination to grab a bite to eat. The classic Kentucky Hot Brown is
outstanding as they use quality Ham, Turkey, and Bacon on White Bread to
go along with fresh Tomatoes and a Mornay sauce to top it off. While offering
terrific food, Ricardo’s also offers live entertainment on certain nights.
“Trippin Roots” which is a terrific Versailles based band can be seen playing
your favorite tunes every Tuesday night. Known as the local watering hole to
many Versailles natives, look no further as Ricardo’s is your spot.
Photos courtesy of https://www.facebook.com/RicardosPub
5.) Winstar Farm
WinStar Farm is just one of the many notable farms throughout Versailles
and Woodford County. With that being said, WinStar Farm is the “Gold
Standard” in the horse racing industry. WinStar is home to an impressive list
of champion sires such as TizNow and Speightstown as well as an impressive
reputation on the racetrack. Justify winning the Triple Crown in 2018 for
WinStar is what put the Versailles based farm on the map. The farm offers a
terrific stallion tour that gives visitors an insight on what it’s like to produce
the beautiful thoroughbreds you see in the Bluegrass.
Photos courtesy of https://www.facebook.com/WinStarFarm