Who were the Etruscans? The Estruscans were the early inhabitants of Italy, long before the Roman Empire existed. However, the Estruscan civilization is often overlooked despite its enormous influence on the region. Estruscan settlements were frequently built on the hillside - the steeper the hill, the better - and surrounded by thick fortress walls, well protected from intruders. Many of the Estruscan’s early water systems later contributed to the iconic Roman aqueduct. While nobody really knows where the Etruscans originated - though many believe they came from Asia Minor - they were prominent in Italy by 800 BC. When exploring this region of Italy we discover remnants of their hilltop fortresses, old settlements and the imprint of their trading routes stretching from Naples to Venice. However, nowhere in Italy carries the Estruscan influence quite like Tuscany; in fact, Tuscany's name originates from the Italian Etrusci or Tusci, words used by the ancient Romans to describe the Etruscans.

Let us explore and relive the history of this mysterious people! We provide three different itineraries for riders to choose from, as the history and landscapes available here is truly impossible to fit into one week alone! Some of the wonderful places these trips take us include the Necropolis of Sovana (Poggio Pisca), the Ildebranda Tomb, the hermitage of Rioatonna Cicognina, the ancient hamlet of Fonte Vetriana, the Nature Reserve of the Pietraporciana, ancient pilgrim routes, the nature reserve of Pigelleto, the nature park of Maremma, where we get to ride with the local Butteri cowboys, and much much more!