Alpacas are a species of South American camelid, a family of mammals that includes dromedary and Bactrian camels, llamas, vicunas and guanacos. (Not sure what these are? Look them up!)

Alpacas are closely related to llamas but are smaller, gentler, and a lot cuter. They are native to the Andes mountains of Peru, Bolivia, and Ecuador. Their numbers declined drastically in the 1500s after Spanish Conquistadors brought new diseases to the continent.

To restore their numbers, they were cross-bred with llamas and today, after selective propagation, the purity of the breed has been returned close to how it once was.

Beirhope Farm, located in the scenic Scottish Borders, has a herd of 23 alpacas of various colours and ages lovingly looked after by owner Lynne and her team. Visitors are able to take these animals for walks lasting from one to two and a half hours.

You can also feed them – carrots are provided – or have a picnic with ice cream in the company of these magnificent beasts. Camping facilities are available for those who would like to experience the isolated farm’s unpolluted dark skies.

Alpaca coats are lovely and soft, but you can only touch these alpacas on the neck as they don’t like physical contact anywhere else.

Alpacas are shorn once a year to harvest their luxuriant fleeces, which are highly prized and used for making scarves, socks, hats and other woollen items. Some of these are sold in the farm’s shop.

At Beirhope Alpacas, you can go for a walk with these gorgeous creatures, the number of which is dependent on how many paying guests are in your party. Climb a nearby hill led by Lynne, who will share various alpaca facts and guide you on how to lead the animals correctly.

If you’re in the area, this experience is highly recommended!

Find out more about Beirhope Alpacas here and spend time with these adorable creatures.

This article first appeared on Northumberland Traveller.