| We begin this unique animal and herb adventure with time at leisure exploring Summers Past Farms, a charming country destination on Old Highway 80 in the foothills of the Cuyamaca Mountains in east San Diego County. The beautiful gardens are in bloom year-round and feature both a fairy garden and a nursery stocked with sage and native plants, herbs, succulents, annuals and perennials for sale. The Barn Shoppe is a rustic post and timber barn filled with a collection of fairy items for your garden, as well as garden and home décor. The Soap Shoppe is filled with handmade herbal soaps, lavender sprays, herbal salves and a full line of essential and fragrance oils. We continue down the road to Alpine and breathe in the fresh mountain air while enjoying an amazing animal experience at Lions, Tigers & Bears, an animal sanctuary nestled in a scenic landscape of majestic oak trees, meadows, and rolling hills. These 93 acres on the edge of the Cleveland National Forest are home to rescued big cats, bears and other exotic animals that were neglected or abused while in captivity. This peaceful refuge provides an idyllic, natural habitat for more than 60 animals, allowing them to live with dignity in a safe, nurturing environment where they can run, play, swim and enjoy the fresh air. On an extensive guided tour, we’ll meet a variety of animals including bears, lions, tigers and other big cats like leopards, bobcats, mountain lions, and African servals, as well as domestic animals like horses and llamas that have been adopted to protect the other animals. We’ll learn their heartwarming rescue stories and how the animals are cared for and nurtured. Enjoy an included boxed lunch picnic during the day. This tour involves moderate walking over uneven terrain. Closed toe shoes suggested. |