AITO: The Association of Independent Tour Operators
Ride, Spa and Wine in Tuscany

Ride, Spa and Wine in Tuscany

Ride, Spa and Wine in Tuscany Overview

If you would like to combine a relaxing holiday with horse riding then look no further! This holiday in Tuscany combines beautiful castle accommodation, a visit to a local winery and a natural hot spring spa, with exceptional horse riding. Families and non riders are welcome. This is also a very popular cycling venue.

Sample Itinerary and prices: Day One Start with an afternoon arrival at the picturesque castle in Tuscany. You will be staying in the converted buildings in the castle grounds, taking breakfast each morning in the castle itself. After checking in you will be served with a welcome drink and then receive a briefing from your guide/instructor who will be looking after you throughout the week. Day Two This morning you will be walking down to the stables which are located in the grounds of the castle. Here, the instructor will allocate you a horse and you will begin your riding. Novice riders may choose to take a lesson whilst more experienced riders will be enjoying an introductory hack around the castle grounds, an ideal opportunity to start to get to know the local area. Beginner riders who are not able to manage the trail rides will have a programme of lessons arranged for the stay. Day Three Today you will be exploring this stunning area on horseback, visiting picturesque hamlets, passing through vineyards, olive groves, beautiful woods and forests. Keep an eye out for wildlife – you may be lucky enough to see deer, wild boar with their piglets, foxes and if you are lucky, porcupines! The horses and ponies are suitable for both experienced and less experienced riders with experienced riders able to enjoy long canters alongside the fields of sunflowers, wheat or maize. The castle is located on the famous Brigands Trail; this route was formally used by outlaws fleeing from the authorities and now offers a myriad of hacking opportunities along forest pathways and sandy tracks. Day Four Today you will be riding towards the picturesque Lake Bolsena. This is a fabulous spot with breathtaking views of the area stretching from the impressive 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 to the castle along this ancient ‘outlaws highway’ you will pass through mature oak woodlands dotted with original farm dwellings built in the traditional tufo rock. Day Five Today is a rest day from riding and we have arranged for you to have two massages during your visit, this maybe the perfect day to just chill and relax and have some pampering. The owners offer a number of local excursions including a trip to an ancient Etruscan settlement in his four by four or an olive oil tasting visit. Alternatively, mountain biking is offered for the more energetic amongst us! Day Six Today ride out along the famous Brigands Trail once more; this route was formally used by outlaws fleeing from the authorities and now offers a myriad of hacking opportunities along forest pathways and sandy tracks. Breath taking views of the local area will accompany our excursion all the way. Scattered throughout the countryside, archaeological sites with Etruscan tombs will serve to remind us of how ancient this beautiful land really is. Day Seven Today we have arranged a wine tour you will be taking a trip to the local vineyards and wine cellars where you can taste the local wines (not to be missed!). If you want to ride this afternoon this can be arranged but will cost extra. Day Eight Sadly today it is time to bid farewell to your castle home and this spectacular region, but if you can’t bear to go home just yet we can organise an additional night or two for you in Rome. Prices £1,450 pp low season £1595 pp high season There is a single room supplement charge of £195
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