Big Sky Ranch is in the quiet community of Bridge Lake, tucked away in the wilderness of British Columbia’s Interior. It covers 100 acres of beautiful lakefront land, surrounded by Crown land, making it a peaceful and scenic getaway.
Big Sky Ranch has a unique history, having served various functions over the years. Originally known as “Halfmoon Ranch” due to the crescent shape of Crescent Lake, the ranch’s current name was adopted in 2003. After a portion of the forested land was cleared to create a fire barrier, the expansive views of the Cariboo sky inspired the new name: Big Sky Ranch.
In the 1990s and early 2000s, the ranch was owned by a renowned weatherman who built a weather observation tower on its highest peak. His forecasts became an important part of the region’s weather reporting.
Since 2012, Big Sky Ranch has been owned by Christina and Claudio Winiger, who immigrated from Switzerland to Canada. The ranch is now an equestrian breeding facility, specializing in Friesian and Warmblood horses with top European bloodlines. It also serves as Christina’s soap studio, where she raises a herd of goats for fresh milk, which she uses to create artisanal soaps. Many of her soaps feature ingredients sourced from nature or grown right on the ranch. Christina sells her creations at local markets and in her online shop.
Claudio also runs a firewood business on the ranch, using his own sawmill to process, cure, and sell firewood. In addition to the farm animals, including dogs, cats, cattle, and chickens, Big Sky Ranch is a thriving hub of activity and creativity.
Christina, born in Kirchberg, Switzerland, trained in fine arts and floral design before running her own specialty business in Zurich for 15 years. After relocating to Canada, she continues to work in the creative arts while drawing inspiration from the beauty of nature and farming life. Her love for animals, particularly dogs and horses, is central to her vision for Big Sky Ranch.
Big Sky Ranch is a vibrant place where history, creativity, and nature come together, offering visitors a glimpse into the Winiger family’s way of life and their dedication to farming, animals, and sustainable living.
If you are interested in starting your own ranch contact us to bring your dream to a reality!