Rides in Italy
Italy has much to offer. Its dreamy light and sumptuous landscapes seem made for romance, and its three millennia of history, culture and cuisine seduces just about everyone particularly horse riders. There is a great deal of variety in the landscape in Italy, although it is characterised predominantly by two mountain chains: the Alps and the Apennines. More than three-quarters of the Italian countryside is hilly or mountainous which is interesting for horse riders. 10% of Italy is protected by law and there are 20 National and 130 Regional Parks where you are able to enjoy the benefits of a protected environment so there are large areas of totally unspoilt country in which you can ride.Unparalleled in its diversity, Italy offers delights ranging from fine wines and exceptional cuisine to high art and great historical sites. Every region has something different to offer the horse rider. The peaceful Puglia region in southern Italy is renowned for its stunning whitewashed coastal homesteads, serene hills cloaked in olive groves and vineyards, and medieval villages connected by narrow, winding streets. In Tuscany they are renowned for their Maremma and Sicilian horses. In Siena there is an enormous medieval pageant and festival - part of the clelebrations include a well known horse race around the square called the Palio. Wherever you ride in Italy, there are ruined castles and fortresses and deserted hamlets to ride through. Riding through this wonderful diverse countryside is a great experience as each region is so different.
When you have had a day in the saddle you can be assured of some Italian hospitality. Italians are warm, welcoming people who enjoy sharing the pleasures of life with others: a comforting meal, an inspiring sunset or a glass of wine. While the food industry has changed in many parts of the world, Italian cooking is still very traditional prepared in the same way using the freshest ingredients so you will be assured of some fine cuisine at the end of the day.
Rides
A Taste of Tuscany, Italy
Tuscany offers history, culture and fantastic horseriding in an enchanting setting and at this exclusive family run destination, you are ensured of a top class horse riding experience.
Adventures here range from a based stay to exciting trails riding through mountains, vineyards and olive groves. Always in small groups where personal attention to guests is of vital importance and always on well chosen safe but willing horses.
Adventures here range from a based stay to exciting trails riding through mountains, vineyards and olive groves. Always in small groups where personal attention to guests is of vital importance and always on well chosen safe but willing horses.
Chianti, Italy
Discover Tuscany on horseback and ride through olive groves, vineyards and cypress trees on horses personally trained by your host. You have the opportunity to stay in the farmhouse and ride from there, take lessons, or to enjoy the Riding & Relaxing Week or the Riding & Tasting Week. We also have a Riding & Italian programme so that you can enjoy other activities as well as riding and immerse yourself in the Tuscan lifestyle.
This riding centre has been recommended by Ian Stark in Horse & Hound for the attention paid to pupils here and for the care of the horses.
This riding centre has been recommended by Ian Stark in Horse & Hound for the attention paid to pupils here and for the care of the horses.
Farmhouse Tuscany, Italy
On this ride you will share the home of Franco in a typical Tuscan farmhouse. Willing to share with you his wealth of knowledge and experience, this is the perfect opportunity to improve your riding skills through the expert tuition he offers.
Of course, the advantage of tuition here is the sun drenched backdrop of beautiful Tuscany. Franco and his horses will lead you through the breathtaking countryside - its varied terrain being perfectly suited to both the western horse and his rider.
Of course, the advantage of tuition here is the sun drenched backdrop of beautiful Tuscany. Franco and his horses will lead you through the breathtaking countryside - its varied terrain being perfectly suited to both the western horse and his rider.
Molise, Italy
There are five trails and a stationary ride to enjoy. The Valley of the Bear Trail takes you through a rural and unspoilt part of Italy. The Abruzzo Trail is suitable for more experienced fit riders and you will ride down centuries old cattle tracks, over mountains and valleys. There is now a new programme specifically designed for beginners and those wishing to gain more confidence in the saddle. Astrid will make sure that you are comfortable in the saddle by the end of the week.
The Valley of the Bear Trail offers a wonderful opportunity for those fit riders who are happy with long hours in the saddle exploring this beautiful unspoilt location. Carmine and Astrid are amazing hosts with responsive horses and their knowledge of this area is second to none.
The Valley of the Bear Trail offers a wonderful opportunity for those fit riders who are happy with long hours in the saddle exploring this beautiful unspoilt location. Carmine and Astrid are amazing hosts with responsive horses and their knowledge of this area is second to none.
Tuscany Castle, Italy
Located one and a half hours from Rome, the splendid 17th century castle is still the property of the same noble family. This family has breathed new life into it by restoring the cottages and farmhouse once used by the farmers. Those keen on horse riding will be delighted with the certified equestrian centre. The quality of the horse and rides and the English speaking staff will ensure your stay here is memorable.
A Taste of Sicily, Sicily
This is a small family run business catering mostly for small groups and who after several years spent touring with local friends have extensive knowledge if Sicily, especially the lesser known areas.
This one week package caters for novice riders who will enjoy exploring the many beautiful Sicilian hill trails on horseback combined with a package of sight seeing and wining and dining in traditional Sicilian restaurants. Riders are expected to be of novice level, managing to walk, trot and the odd canter.
This one week package caters for novice riders who will enjoy exploring the many beautiful Sicilian hill trails on horseback combined with a package of sight seeing and wining and dining in traditional Sicilian restaurants. Riders are expected to be of novice level, managing to walk, trot and the odd canter.
Mount Etna, Sicily
A fantastic opportunity to join an exclusive trail up Mount Etna which is one of the world's most natural attractions. This breathtaking horse riding trek will take you through the most spectacular countryside where you will be truly at one with nature.
This exclusive trek climbs all the way round the nature paths crossing contrasting landscapes of breathtaking beauty and affording the most stunning views of Sicily.
This exclusive trek climbs all the way round the nature paths crossing contrasting landscapes of breathtaking beauty and affording the most stunning views of Sicily.
Montiferru Mountains, Sardinia
This is a top class establishment situated in the tranquil countryside and Montiferru mountains with wonderful facilities. Your horses are well schooled Anglo Arab and Sardinian and you will ride in unspoilt countryside. The horses are not suitable for nervous riders and we only recommend this destination for experienced riders.
This is a special place to discover Sardinia's natural beauty and to unwind and relax in the peace and calm of this traditional farm setting.
This is a special place to discover Sardinia's natural beauty and to unwind and relax in the peace and calm of this traditional farm setting.
Sea & Pine Forest, Sardinia
This is a wonderful destination for all the family and includes a Western village. Horse riding can be tailored for your needs. There are lessons for beginners and more advanced tuition if required. You can enjoy gallops along the beach and explore the pine forests on horseback.