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Italy - Tuscany Castle Ride

Welcome to our beautiful eighteenth century castle which is situated between the hills of Tuscany, Lazio and Umbria (barely 200 km / 125 miles) from Rome.

The castle was once the residence of a Cardinal who kept the Vatican's treasures safe here during the 1848 revolution. He chose the palace as his home and now his descendants, Count Antonio and his family, have opened up his home for riders from all countries. Horses have once again been given a central role on the estate.

With its fairytale turrets, the castle is a romantic and comfortable environment for exploring the surrounding culture and history by horseback.

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Program - Tuscany Castle Ride

Mile after mile of perfect riding trails surround this magnificent property and you only need to cross a road now and then. On one day, you will head off on an all-day ride to see some more of the local area. 
NOTE! During July and August, you only ride half-day rides due to the heat. The full-day ride is then changed to a half-day ride + 1 massage (50 minutes).

Tuscany Castle ride, week: 7 nights, 5 days riding: 1 full day (4-5 hours), 4/2 day (2 hours / day). NOTE! During July and August, you only ride half-day rides due to the heat. The full-day ride is then changed to a half-day ride + 1 massage (50 minutes).

Tuscany Castle ride, weekend: 4 nights, 3 days riding: 1 full day ride (4-5 hours), 2 half-day rides (2 hours / day). NOTE! During July and August, you only ride half-day rides due to the heat. The full-day ride is then changed to a half-day ride + 1 massage (50 minutes).

Below is a sample itinerary for the riding days during a week or weekend. Paths can change according to the weather and the organization.

Half Day Ride 18km. We ride towards the hills framing the west plateau on which the castle is situated. A fantas:c spot for a breathtaking view of the area; from the beautiful crater of Lake Bolsena to the hills surrounding lake Mezzano.

Full Day, Lake Mezzano  32 km
We ride through farmland on the Brigands Path into the wooded hills which surround Onano, we glimpse stone pine trees atop an ancient Etruscan site and arrive on the flat plain of the Mezzano crater. We stop at the Fra Viaco farm restaurant and meet for lunch. You can take a refreshing swim in the crystal clear waters of the lake. After a delicious meal, we ascend through ancient chestnut woods to arrive back at the castle.

Half day
We will be heading out along The Brigands Trail towards the picturesque Lake Bolsena. This is a fantastic spot with breathtaking views of the area stretching from the beautiful crater of Lake Bolsena on one side, to the hills surrounding Lake Mezzano on the other side. On a clear day you can see the sea 40 km away, shimmering like a mirror. As you head back along this ancient ‘outlaws highway’ you will pass through mature oak woodlands dotted with original farm dwellings built in the traditional tufo rock.

Half Day Ride 20 km.
Once again this morning we take the Brigands path, we head north through the hills towards Onano, a fortified village with a medieval castle which was the stronghold of the Monaldeschi family who ruled this area during the Middle Ages. At the Madonna delle grazie church we will follow the track north through enchanting countryside back to the castle.

Half day ride 16km
Following an old Etruscan trail, we will ride up through thick woods to the top of the crater surrounding lake Bolsena. Here, we will enjoy remarkable scenery including vineyards, Etruscan tombs, the prominent volcanic lake and the panorama dominated by the famous Farnese palace in Gradoli; a gift made by the Pope in 1500 for his nephew for his wedding - what a present! We will return to the castle riding through the vineyards, vegetable gardens and enchanting woods. In particular, we will enjoy a canter across a tunnel made by oak trees above an old shepherds path.

Program - Tuscany Ride & cycling

On the program Ride & cycling you can ride and your partner cycles with a professional guide and then you meet for lunch. You both get an active day with fun experiences.

For riders: 7 nights, 5 days riding: 2 full days (4-5 hours/day), 3 half days (2-3 hours/day).
For cyclists: 7 nights, 5 days cykling

NOTE! During July and August, you only ride half-day rides due to the heat. The two full-day rides is then changed to half-day ride + massage (50 minutes).

Preliminary day-by- day- program. NOTE. the program can be done in another order or changed depending on the weather.

Day 1. After a check-in and welcome drink, you'll meet our guides for an introduction and programme briefing, take a guided tour of the Castle then sit down for a welcome dinner in the Taverna.

Day 2.
For cyclists: Torre Alfina 50 km. Road bike

Zig-zagging through the countryside we will reach the town of Bolsena where we’ll have a coffee in the main square. Following an undulating route, we reach Torre Alfina Castle where we will stop for a gelato before returning back to the castle.

For riders:  Half day ride 18km.
We ride towards the hills framing the west plateau on which the castle is situated. A fantastic spot for a breathtaking view of the area; from the beautiful crater of Lake Bolsena to the hills surrounding lake Mezzano.

Day 3.
For cyclists: Lake Mezzano 30/50 km. Mountain Bike (2 routes to choose from))

After climbing the wooded hills of the Selva di Onano we head towards Tuscany following a scenic gravel road to approach the lake from the North West side. All around us is fantastic unspoiled countryside. We stop at the Fra Viaco farm restaurant and meet the riders for lunch. You can take a refreshing swim in the crystal clear waters of the lake. After a delicious meal, we are prepared for the steep uphill climb before a welldeserved final descent to the castle.

For riders: Lake Mezzano: 32 km
We ride through farmland on the Brigands Path into the wooded hills which surround Onano, we glimpse stone pine trees atop an ancient Etruscan site and arrive on the flat plain of the Mezzano crater. We stop at the Fra Viaco farm restaurant and meet cyclists for lunch. You can take a refreshing swim in the crystal clear waters of the lake. After a delicious meal, we ascend through ancient chestnut woods to arrive back at the castle.

Day 4. A day off for sightseeing.
The local area is full of interesting archaeological and historical sites. A few suggestions include the village fortresses of Pitigliano, Sorano and Sovano. It is definitely worth visiting the marvellous Italian gothic church of Orvieto - Civita di Bagnoregio, known as the ‘Dying Town’. Wine tasting at famous Fattoria Aldobrandesca Antinori OR 2 or 4 hours boat rental on Bolsena lake (summer) are other options that can be booked. Alternatively you can choose to relax at the castle and take advantage of the swimming pool, tennis court, indoor and outdoor games . Book a massage or take a cooking class.

Day 5. 
For cyclists: Lake  Bolsena  - the largest volcanic lake in Europe. 50 km Mountain Bike.

Descending into the crater, we will admire the hilltop town of Grotte di Castro. Once beside the lake, we follow its northern shore heading towards Capodimonte. We meet the riders at a lakeside restaurant for lunch and a swim. On the return journey we climb out of the crater, crossing the village of Gradoli.

For riders: Lake Bolsena: 36 km
Following an old trail down through the crater, breath-taking views will accompany us. Here and there, scattered around the countryside, archaeological sites with Etruscan tombs will remind us how old the beautiful land is. We meet the cyclists at a lakeside restaurant for lunch and a swim.

Day 6.
For cyclists: Pitigliano & Sorano 60 km Road Bike.

After crossing Onano, the road will gently undulate before descending deeply into the gorge of the river Lente. The dramatic view of the fortress in Sorano is worth a photo stop. Onwards towards Pitigliano which was once an Etruscan village and then a medieval fortress owned by the noble Orsini family. We will stop to visit the historical center and the Jewish ghetto. The return route will steadily but gently climb until the final descent to the castle.

For riders: Half day ride 20 km.
Taking the Brigands path, we head north through the hills towards Onano, a fortified village with a medieval castle which was the stronghold of the Monaldeschi family who ruled this area during the Middle Ages. At the Madonna
delle grazie church we will follow the track north through enchanting countryside back to the castle.

Day 7.
For cyclists: Monte Amiata: 107km (a less challenging ride is available) Road Bike.

Mount Amiata is the big irresistible challenge for the local cyclists. The first part is an easy mostly downhill route, following the old Roman road along the river Paglia. However, we soon start climbing for 27 km up along the mountain
touching Piancastagnaio and Abbadia S.Salvatore. The road winds up through the old mines, then through the chestnut woods for a time that seems never ending. Finally we reach the top at 1734 m. A well-deserved stop to refuel and
take some photos and then down the steep roads of the southern side of the mountain. The air is cool and thin and you can feel the difference. Watch out on the last 20 km where there are ups and downs on the hills not to be underrated.

For riders:  Half day ride 16 km
Following an old Etruscan trail, we will ride up through thick woods to the top of the crater surrounding lake Bolsena. Here, we will enjoy remarkable scenery including vineyards, Etruscan tombs, the prominent volcanic lake and the panorama
dominated by the famous Farnese palace in Gradoli; a gift made by the Pope in 1500 for his nephew for his wedding - what a present! We will return to the castle riding through the vineyards, vegetable gardens and enchanting woods. In  particular, we will enjoy a canter across a tunnel made by oak trees above an old shepherds path.

Day 8. Having had many amazing experiences and exhilara:ng adventures, you will prepare for your onward journey taking with you many happy memories. Checkout is usually between 10am-12pm, although a late checkout can be
arranged subject to availability.

The excursions can be changed according to weather, horses, riders experience level or circumstances beyond our control by the management of the castle. Safety is our primary concern.

We can also provide Electric Bikes 150 EUR for the week.

Program - Tuscany Trail Ride among Medieval Castles

Preliminary day-by-day program

Day 1 – Arrive in Rome
Pick up at Fiumicino or Ciampino Airport. As you arrive at the castle you will meet your guides and the staff of the castle .Upon arrival you will meet also the count owner of the castle, make a first approach with
the horses. In the afternoon, you will have a fabulous 17th Century Castle Tour! Enjoy a great dinner before it is time to go to sleep!

Day 2 - Morning around Onano (3 hours) Afternoon in Sorano - Fortress and Wine tasting
Enjoy a delicious breakfast at the 17th century old Stables room of Castle. We are ready to start our first hack of approximately 3 hours duration around Onano, breathing the countryside with our new friends!
This morning we take the Brigands path, we head north through the hills towards Onano, a fortified village with a medieval castle which was the stronghold of the Monaldeschi family who ruled this area during the Middle Ages. After lunch at the Castle you will be picked up and transferred to visit the magical Sorano Fortress. After a short sightseeing of this gem in Tuscany, you will be transferred to Fattoria Aldobrandesca Antinori vineyard to taste the most famous wines in the area.

Day 3 - Lake Bolsena
We leave in the morning and ride through the neighboring farmland, through chestnut woods and using an ancient track which will carry us right above the crater of Lake Bolsena, the largest volcanic lake in Europe. The descent of the crater will start from the village of Gradoli dominated by an impressive renaissance palace,that it was meant to be the wedding gift of Pope Paulus III Farnese to his nephew around the middle of 1500. While riding, we will witness some breath–taking views of the lake and surrounding area and of the two islands Isola Bisentina and Martana. The shore of the lake will be reached after crossing the fields just before the water, we will then border the lake ending on the beach where horses will be set into a canter before crossing a ford where a small river joins the lake. After that we finally reach our mid day stop. Lunch is served on the terrace of a typical trattoria right on the beach, where Antonietta the cook will serve delicious local food. In the right season if you wish to cool off in the water, a swim in the lake can be done before starting riding back up. As we head up back to the castle, you will note many Etruscan tombs scattered throughout the countryside some reused by farmers as cellars for their wine but still serving as a reminder of the ancient history which abounds in this area You will be passing through the archeological area of Pianezze literally full of Etruscan tombs dating back 2600 years. Once at the top of the crater, we turn right through some vineyards where again a breathtaking view of lake Bolsena will provide a wonderfull opportunity to rest the horses and take some photographs. After crossing the vineyards we reach the shepherds' trail in the woods that will lead you back to the Castle estate.

Day 4 - Lake Mezzano
The lake was once a volcanic crater and historical site with human settlements going back to the pre-etruscan era (aprox 2700 years ago) later it was submerged by water due to earthquakes. It is now part of the Selva del Lamone regional park due to it’s beauty and to the fact that many birds find a shelter there. Our excursion takes horses and riders through the beautiful countryside, up into the
wooded hills which surround Onano. Here, the horses have the opportunity to canter along a wonderful natural passage surrounded by trees. At the top of this plateau, we have a chance to take in the dazzling scenery, before we carry on down past local farms into a very old wood made by huge chestnut trees that leads us into a flat open plain which offers a great scenery. Here, if desired, horses can canter up the old tracks, before we reach the marshlands and vineyards which surround the lake Mezzano itself. In a fantastic position on top of a hill overlooking the lake is the small farm where the restaurant is based. Here we stop for a nice lunch with a fantastic view while our horses rest in a paddock. During the warmer months you can also swim in the lake with its crystal clear waters. In the afternoon, we ride back following the old Brigands trail, taking in a few historical sights on the way.

Day 5 - Sheep farm riding trail and Proceno Castle
Enjoy this 2 hours trek around the Castle, We ride towards the hills framing the west plateau on which the castle is situated. After lunch at the Castle you will be picked up to visit beautiful Proceno Castle.

Day 6 - Take a break and visit Orvieto and Civita di Bagnoregio
After breakfast you will visit majestic Orvieto. Sites to visit are the Duomo, St.Patrick's Qell, Underground Orvieto tours takes you into the caves and can be taken from the Tourist office. You will have lunch at a beautiful restaurant in the center and after lunch you will discover Civita di Bagnoregio, the dying city. The morphology of this village was caused by erosion and landslides. The territory is made up of two different formations of rocks, different in chronology and in constitution. The most ancient formation is that of clay; it comes from the sea and it forms the base layer which is particularly subject to erosion. It is situated in a solitary area and it is reachable only by a reinforced concrete pedestrian bridge. 

Day 7 - Vitozza, the rock settlement - Full day
Today we will discover by horse Vitozza, the most interesting and extended rocksettlements in central Italy, inhabited from the 12th to the 17th centuries. Touched by the clear waters of the Lente stream, and hidden by the luxuriant wood, two hundred caves, the “columbaria” and the remains of the medieval village still survive today. Pic nic lunch. At your arrival at the Castle our masseuse will be waiting for you: benefit of a relaxed massage after this intense horse riding week.

Day 8 - Depart
It is time to say good-bye to this beautiful destination, fabulous new friends and the wonderful horse that we have been so connected with all week.

Included
- 7 nights
- Full board (7 dinners, 5 lunches), water, table wine and coffee included
- 3 full day riding excursions and 2 hacks
- All transfer services:
Transfer services from and to the Airport in Rome
Transfer service to Sorano, Tuscany
Transfer services for Civita di Bagnoregio and Orvieto, Umbria
Transfer to Proceno, Lazio
- Tickets entrances
- Wine tasting in Tuscany
- Massage 50'

Accommodation and Food

Large parts of the castle are now a museum. Just below the castle is a large building from the nineteenth century that has been converted into a hotel and restaurant / bar. The farm has a total of fourteen double rooms ensuite. And eight charming apartments fully equipped for self-catering (contact us for price)

It is possible to book a single room (price for single supplement available under Dates & Prices). If there is no one to share a room with, a single supplement will be payable.

Safe deposit box: No
A/C: No
Hair Dryer: Yes, on request.
Towels and sheets: Yes
Fridge: In apartments.

On the ground floor there is a large "taverna" with brick vaulted ceiling. It features a restaurant and a billiards room and a kitchen that is also used for cooking classes.

The food here is traditional Italian food and includes local specialties along with a few new and delicious recipes. You can choose half or full board  (price for full board available under Dates & Prices). Dinner is served between 8.00/8.30pm. 
 At lunch you will be offered three courses and at dinner four incl. 1 glass of wine. During the summer, you can dine al fresco on the terrace overlooking the pool. The pool is open between 1 June and 30 September.

Horses

There are about twenty horses, Maremma-, Dutch- and Irish half-bloods and about 160-170 cm (63-67 in).
Weight limit: 90kg

Other activities

The farm is very well suited as a base for the whole family. There are two pools, a tennis court and plenty of space for active children.

It is possible to rent bicycles with or without a guide. Antonio is an avid cyclist who can advise you about good routes. You can also meet up with the horse riders at lunchtime.

Climate

Temperature: about 20 ° C (68 F) in spring and autumn, approximately + 15 ° C (59 F) during winter and about + 25-30 ° C (77-86 F) during the summer.

Travel Information

Ability description: Trail ride level 2-3 >>

Included in the price. Accomodation, riding, half- or full board (excl. beverages )

Not included: Flights, transfers, personal insurance, drinks and extras not mentioned.

Travel: Fly to Rome, Leonardo da Vinci (Fiumicino Airport) or Ciampino Airport.

Transfer: Book in advance with HorseXplore and pay in cash direct to the riding centre.

From the airport you can take train to Orvieto Train Station and have transfer from there (about 50km), different times during the day. Train time table at Tren Italia >>.
Price (roundtrip): 1-2 people 150 EUR. 

If you want transfer directly from the airport Fiumicino Airport - (150 km) or Ciampino Airport - (170 km).
From Fiumicino: Price (roundtrip): Up to 3 people 360 EUR.  4-8 people 560 EUR. Meeting point: in front of EXIT 3 of TERMINAL 3

From Ciampino: Price (roundtrip): Up to 2 people 340 EUR. It requires 2 cars  for 4 people.

This transfer service is available between the hours of 09:00 am and 8:00 pm. After 8:00 pm it will be 15 EUR extra.

Car: We recommend renting a car if you want to explore the area around the equestrian center, there is a lot to discover when you are not riding. 

Season: April - November. Low season 12/3 - 17/6, 17/9 - 6/11. High season, 18/6 - 16/9 and bank holidays.

Arrival day: Weekend: Wednesday afternoon (or at the latest 10.00pm), departure Sunday after breakfast.
Week: Saturday afternoon and departure following saturday after breakfast.

Single room: Can be booked with a supplement. For price click on ”Book on request” under Dates & prices. If there is no one to share a room with, a single supplement will be added.

Currency: Euro
Credit card: Accepted at riding center (the transfer cost is paid in cash)
Tipping: Not required but appreciated.

Wifi: Yes, it is best in the reception and restaurant.

Group size: Tuscanay Castle Ride: 1-6 riders. If more than 6 riders it will be 2 guides.  Medieval Castle Trail: Min. 4 and max 6.
Age limit: 14 years old, together with an adult.

Closest village: 5 minutes by car with restaurants, pubs, sight seeing.
Beach: 15 minutes by car.
Pool: Yes, open June-September.

Insurance: NOTE! Mandatory to be able to show an insurance covering riding. If this is not the case, you must purchase an insurance on the spot upon arrival. EUR 35 per person and valid for 2-7 days.

Misc.:
Riding equipment to borrow: Helmet, boots, chaps.
Saddle bag available: No
Special diet: Inform when booking.

Feedback from our travellers

Dates and prices

DateDaysName of tripPrice from
14/06/20235Italy, Tuscany Castle Ride, Long WeekendEUR 845Book on request
17/06/20238Italy, Tuscany Castle Ride, WeekEUR 1,345Book on request
21/06/20235Italy, Tuscany Castle Ride, Long WeekendEUR 845Book on request
24/06/20238Italy, Tuscany Castle Ride, WeekEUR 1,345Book on request
28/06/20235Italy, Tuscany Castle Ride, Long WeekendEUR 845Book on request
01/07/20238Italy, Tuscany Castle Ride, WeekEUR 1,345Book on request
05/07/20235Italy, Tuscany Castle Ride, Long WeekendEUR 845Book on request
08/07/20238Italy, Tuscany Castle Ride, WeekEUR 1,345Book on request
12/07/20235Italy, Tuscany Castle Ride, Long WeekendEUR 845Book on request
15/07/20238Italy, Tuscany Castle Ride, WeekEUR 1,345Book on request
19/07/20235Italy, Tuscany Castle Ride, Long WeekendEUR 845Book on request
22/07/20238Italy, Tuscany Castle Ride, WeekEUR 1,345Book on request
26/07/20235Italy, Tuscany Castle Ride, Long WeekendEUR 845Book on request
29/07/20238Italy, Tuscany Castle Ride, WeekEUR 1,345Book on request
05/08/20238Italy, Tuscany Castle Ride, WeekEUR 1,345Book on request
12/08/20238Italy, Tuscany Castle Ride, WeekEUR 1,345Book on request
19/08/20238Italy, Tuscany Castle Ride, WeekEUR 1,345Book on request
26/08/20238Italy, Tuscany Castle Ride, WeekEUR 1,345Book on request
02/09/20238Italy, Tuscany Castle Ride, WeekEUR 1,345Book on request
06/09/20235Italy, Tuscany Castle Ride, Long WeekendEUR 845Book on request
09/09/20238Italy, Tuscany Castle Ride, WeekEUR 1,345Book on request
13/09/20235Italy, Tuscany Castle Ride, Long WeekendEUR 845Book on request
16/09/20238Italy, Tuscany Castle Ride, WeekEUR 1,240Book on request
16/09/20238Italy, Tuscany - Trail Ride among Medieval CastlesEUR 2,360Book on request
20/09/20235Italy, Tuscany Castle Ride, Long WeekendEUR 785Book on request
23/09/20238Italy, Tuscany Castle Ride, WeekEUR 1,240Book on request
27/09/20235Italy, Tuscany Castle Ride, Long WeekendEUR 785Book on request
30/09/20238Italy, Tuscany Castle Ride, WeekEUR 1,240Book on request
04/10/20235Italy, Tuscany Castle Ride, Long WeekendEUR 785Book on request
07/10/20238Italy, Tuscany Castle Ride, WeekEUR 1,240Book on request
07/10/20238Italy, Tuscany - Trail Ride among Medieval CastlesEUR 2,360Book on request
11/10/20235Italy, Tuscany Castle Ride, Long WeekendEUR 785Book on request
14/10/20238Italy, Tuscany Castle Ride, WeekEUR 1,240Book on request
18/10/20235Italy, Tuscany Castle Ride, Long WeekendEUR 785Book on request
21/10/20238Italy, Tuscany Castle Ride, WeekEUR 1,240Book on request
25/10/20235Italy, Tuscany Castle Ride, Long WeekendEUR 785Book on request
28/10/20238Italy, Tuscany Castle Ride, WeekEUR 1,240Book on request
01/11/20235Italy, Tuscany Castle Ride, Long WeekendEUR 785Book on request
04/11/20238Italy, Tuscany Castle Ride, WeekEUR 1,240Book on request
08/11/20235Italy, Tuscany Castle Ride, Long WeekendEUR 785Book on request

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