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Veneto's Castles and Mountains Ride
Northern Italy
Italy
In the sunny calm of the Isola Vicentina hills, a few miles from the center of Vicenza and a short train ride from Venice, this lovely estate provides an ideal combination of characteristic country accommodation with Italy's long tradition of hospitality. The Western-style ranch will appeal to those who enjoy an energetic, open air lifestyle and also those in search of a place of quiet relaxation that invites contemplation.
Miles of beautiful landscape is available for excursions through the beautiful woodland of the mountain foothills. There are even longer expeditions offered, suited for the most demanding and experienced of riders who can cope with long hours in the saddle through the ever-changing Italian landscape.
No ingredient is lacking, easily transforming a healthy ‘country’ rest into a most memorable equestrian getaway. The estate has an unusual appeal and flair that offers its guests a taste of more distant and exotic lands as well as the regular Italian charm. This is due to the taste and wishes of the owners, enthusiastic travelers, who have brought back from their visits to the corners of the world, many mementos, souvenirs and decor that are perfectly at home within the style of their hospitable residence. The lovely bright rooms are decorated with furnishings each which bear the spirit of those far off lands: Rajasthan, Mexico, the South Seas, Jordan, Arizona - each capable of evoking daydreams and arousing curiosity for what awaits us over this horizon! Everywhere the furniture, pictures, fabrics and precious ethnic accessories reflect the history and stories of the owners as it interweaves with the peaceful country life of the cultivated fields, orchards, farmyard animals and fireside chats.
Grazing horses await new friends who bring adventure along to the well kept tracks which lead to the mountains at Schio or Recoaro, the Thiene countryside, the castles of Montecchio or Lake Fimon, the banks of streams and the ridge of an endless range of hills! Secluded yet accessible routes that take us from the everyday streets to the pathways of dreams.
This is a perfect getaway to combine a visit to nearby Venice, which is just a short train ride away.
For those wishing to extend their stay, breathtaking Adriatic Sea beach rides are available from mid September on. River or mountain ride extensions are also available upon request.
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Short Getaway
Center-based ride
Ride with Western Tack
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Meeting:
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Isola Vicentina
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Airport:
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Verona or Venice
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Transfer:
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Verona or Venice airport
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Riders:
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Min
2 riders
Max
7 riders
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Trip Brochure (PDF) 
Trip Rating
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Rates and Dates for 2013
Rates include:
Accommodations and meals, 5.5 riding days
| A | 2013 | 7 day trip - 5.5 riding days (low) | 7d / 6n | €1015 | $1320 |
| B | 2013 | 5 day trip - 3.5 riding days (low) | 5d / 4n | €680 | $885 |
| C | 2013 | 7 day trip - 5.5 riding days (high) | 7d / 6n | €1120 | $1455 |
| D | 2013 | 5 day trip - 3.5 riding days (high) | 5d / 4n | €750 | $975 |
Transfer and Other Options:
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2013
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Transfer from Verona or Venice pp return
- to be paid locally
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€
65
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$85
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Tour Dates for 2013
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| A |
2013
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01/01
- 05/14
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7d / 6n
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7 day trip - 5.5 riding days...
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2
/7
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Reserve
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| B |
2013
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01/01
- 05/14
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5d / 4n
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5 day trip - 3.5 riding days...
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2
/7
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Reserve
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| C |
2013
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05/15
- 12/31
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7d / 6n
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7 day trip - 5.5 riding days...
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2
/7
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Reserve
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| D |
2013
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05/15
- 12/31
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5d / 4n
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5 day trip - 3.5 riding days...
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2
/7
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Reserve
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PLEASE NOTE:
Particular rides may not be available at certain times.
ROMEO & JULIET RIDE - Not available in June, July, August due to heat
BRENTA RIVER RIDE - Not available whenever river conditions are poor
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Untitled 1
This trip has a flexible itinerary and
can be arranged for any length of stay (min is 4 nights).
Day 1: Welcome
Depending on your arrival time, today consists of a welcome to the Country
House, followed by room check-in and familiarization with your horses. If time
permits we will embark on a 1 or 2 hour ride through the property’s surrounding
forests and hills. In the evening enjoy dinner at our country house
(Agriturismo) featuring traditional recipes cooked using only the freshest
seasonal local produce.
Day 2 to 6: see day trip options below (5 to 6 hrs
of riding each day)
We depart after breakfast. On some days
we will transport horse and riders to different trailheads. We spend all day
exploring the valleys, mountains and have a picnic lunch along the way. Most evenings we return to the lodgings for a delicious meal and comfortable night.
Day 7: Departure
We say good bye after breakfast
Day Trip options
- Romeo and Juliet Castles Ride
(full day)
We embark on a circuit ride, taking in the rolling hills and beautiful views
of the narrow glacial valleys. We cross through villages and two hill
ranges, before reaching the medieval castles located in Montecchio Maggiore.
At Romeo's Castle ruins we will stop for a picnic outside an adorable small
church (a popular wedding venue). Alternatively, the nearby Juliet Castle is
another great meal option. The famous Juliet Castle restaurant is available
for medieval dinners and events (on request - not included).
Later in the afternoon we will ride back through the base of the valley, and
up to Torreselle Hill. We end our day with dinner at the inn.
- Brenta River
(full
day)
We transport our horses from to Carmignano di Brenta (approximately 40
minutes drive). We begin our ride at the famous Brenta River Alpini Bridge
in Bassano. Flowing south to Carmignano, the Brenta River runs through the
Riserva Nazionale del Brenta, and today you will have many opportunities for
long gallops and playful river crossings. Lunch today will be your choice of
a picnic, or a meal at an Agriturismo along the river (depending on the
weather and riders’ wishes). Today’s ride takes a full day, returning in the
evening.
During the hot summer months (July to August) sunset rides are offered.
These stunning sunset excursions include dinner, with departure in the
afternoon and return later that night. On these days the morning can be
spent planning a visit to downtown Vicenza or some Palladian villas in the
surrounding areas of Thiene, Lugo Vicentino and Montecchio Maggiore.
- Torreselle Hillranges and
Secluded Glacier Valleys (full day)
A full day ride in the Torreselle Hill Ranges. We stop for lunch in a local
"trattoria" (or, if you prefer we can arrange a picnic and drinks). At a
height of 350 meters, the Torreselle Hill Ranges offer stunning views of the
country plains to the southeast, as well as the surrounding valleys - once
home to glacial lakes. You will also have amazing views of the area’s
glacial-carved mountain ranges, which stretch like long fingers into the
mountain system. Old villages and stony ancient farmhouses are scattered
throughout this area, and offer many amazing photo opportunities.
- Le Torreselle Campofontana
(full day)
Today we embark on a full day ride across the surrounding hills and valleys.
We ride up to 1200 meters to Campofontana, where we will spend the night in
a small local hotel with restaurant.
- Campofontana Parco Nazionale
Della Lessinia
(full day)
We begin our ride in Campofontana, riding through the surrounding
countryside via Giazza, ascending to a height of 1500 meters along the
Lessinia mountain range. By afternoon we reach the mountain hut – our
accommodation for the night. Dinner will be served in this typical
herdsman's hut. Constructed of local stones, these quaint traditional huts
are still used by herdsmen from late June through mid September, while cows
are grazing.
- Parco Nazionale Della Lessinia
(full
day)
Today we embark on another full day ride to Podestaria, where we stop for
lunch. After lunch we head out again, to our final destination of
Castelberto. Here we have a beautiful view over the Adige River Valley. An
area rich in history, clear marks of World War One are still visible on this
fortified site. Horse pulled wagons are available upon request today, for
non-riding friends who wish to enjoy this unforgettable experience. During
the month of June (before cow herds are brought to Lessinia from the Padana
Valley), the pastures in this area are full of incredible flowers, blooming
in such a way that you will feel like you are riding on a beautiful
multicolored carpet. A camera is a must on this day of the ride!
Note: some
of these day trips may not be possible at all times
(weather permitting in the mountains and beach
rides are not available during peak tourist season)
Meeting:
Isola Vicentina
Airport:
Verona or Venice
Transfer:
Verona or Venice airport
Distance:
45 miles
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Tack:
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Western
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Horses:
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Quarter Horses
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Pace:
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Moderate with canter. Up to 6 hrs per day
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Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
Gallop |
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Level:
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(3
to
3
out of 5) Intermediate
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Age:
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Min
14
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Weight:
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Max
200 lbs
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Riders:
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Min
2 riders
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Max
7 riders
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The estate has a stable with 18 well-trained Quarter Horses.
Passport and Visa Requirements:
Passport valid for at least three months beyond length of stay required by all nationals referred to in the chart except:(a) 1. EU nationals holding a valid national ID card. Passport Note(a) Italy is. more
Vicenza - Veneto has a temperate climate, which means that the city experiences four distinct season changes. The weather information provided here is general to the city - the mountain weather can be much different. Although it can be visited throughout the year, certain months have more comfortable weather than others.
On average, the hottest months of the year are July and August, during which time the daily high temperatures will generally hover in the low to mid 80’s. The nighttime temperatures during these months will generally drop to the mid to lower 60’s. The summer months are often times very humid, which results in weather that feels much hotter than the thermometer reads. Rain showers also fill the afternoons and evenings during the summer months.
The coldest months of the year on average are December and January, during which time the daily high temperatures will reach the low to mid 40’s. The nighttime temperatures during these months will generally drop below freezing to the mid 20’s.
| This list is only a guideline for you |
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| Travel documents and Voucher |
| Flight tickets |
| Personal Travel Insurance |
| Passport |
| Visa (check with your consulate) |
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| RIDING GEAR |
| Jodhpurs or comfortable jeans (used if possible!) |
| Short riding boots: leather or rubber or boots and mini chaps. |
| Riding helmet |
| Riding gloves |
| Hat (with chin strap) for sun protection |
| Lightweight jacket |
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| PERSONAL CLOTHING |
| Jacket or sweater for cool evenings |
| Comfortable T-Shirts/Shirts |
| Jeans |
| Shorts |
| Underwear and socks |
| Pyjamas |
| Bag for dirty clothes |
| Bandana |
| Warm jacket |
| Trekking boots/ comfortable shoes |
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| ADDITIONAL THINGS TO BRING |
| Personal Toiletries |
| Insect protection |
| Personal medications |
| Sore cream (for an emergency) |
| Sewing kit |
| Handkerchiefs |
| Adapter for electric appliances |
| Camera and extra batteries |
| Sun glasses with strap |
| Sun tan lotion and lip balm |
Sorry, no video is currently available for this tour.
*Important Notice: The following ratings have been submitted by guests and do not necessarily represent the views of Hidden Trails, its partners or employees.
Every care is taken to ensure accuracy but Hidden Trails is not liable for any errors or omissions.
..view other reports for different trips
Accommodation:
In the sunny calm of the Isola Vicentina hills a few kilometres from the centre of Vicenza, the charming estate provides an ideal combination of the characteristic country accommodation dear to our traditions of hospitality, and an authentic Western-style ranch that will appeal to those who enjoy an energetic, open air lifestyle, and also those in search of a place of quiet relaxation that invites contemplation.
You will be staying in the lovely country inn; Everywhere furniture, pictures,
fabrics and precious ethnic accessories, images like segments of art
and nature, make up the history and stories that interweave with the
peaceful country life of cultivated fields, orchards, farmyard animals
and fireside chats.
The inn comprises of 6 guest rooms all with private bathrooms, restaurant seating 40, splendid view over the valley.
Meals:
Breakfast and dinner will be served at the inn. Lunches will be either picnic style or at a local "Trattoria" along the trail. The typical dishes of the Vicentine cuisine are simple, but never unimaginative - the sparkling air, good wine, the emotion derived from a panoramic view of the surrounding area make for a healthy appetite.
Note:
Wifi access. TV in common room only.
This trip includes
some wine with dinner
and can accommodate special dietary requests.
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Tack:
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Western
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Horses:
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Quarter Horses
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Pace:
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Moderate with canter. Up to 6 hrs per day
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Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
Gallop |
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Level:
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(3
to
3
out of 5) Intermediate
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Age:
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Min
14
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Weight:
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Max
200 lbs
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Riders:
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Min
2 riders
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Max
7 riders
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The estate has a stable with 18 well-trained Quarter Horses.
Passports
Passport valid for at least three months beyond length of stay required by all nationals referred to in the chart except:
(a) 1. EU nationals holding a valid national ID card.
Passport Note
(a) Italy is a signatory to the 1995 Schengen Agreement. (b) The regulations stated below also apply to San Marino and the Vatican City.
Visas
Not required by all nationals referred to in the chart above for the following durations:
(a) nationals of EU countries for an unlimited period;
(b) nationals of Australia, Canada and the USA for stays of up to 90 days.
Note: Nationals not referred to in the chart above are advised to contact the embassy to check visa requirements
| Passport Required? |
| British |
Yes |
| Australian |
Yes |
| Canadian |
Yes |
| USA |
Yes |
| Other EU |
1 |
| Visa Required? |
| British |
No |
| Australian |
No |
| Canadian |
No |
| USA |
No |
| Other EU |
No |
| Return Ticket Required? |
| British |
No |
| Australian |
No |
| Canadian |
No |
| USA |
No |
| Other EU |
No |
This information is not being updated on a regular basis. Hidden Trails does not
take any responsibility for the accuracy of the above information. Please, consult
the embassy or consulate for updated info.
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Veneto's Castles and Mountains Ride
Tour Code:
IT-ITSR09
7 days /
6 nights
~$1,320.00
Dates :
Feb to Nov
Trip Rating :
Difficulty :
Riding Level Explained | A | Beginner
 | Beginner A rider who has limited experience, is unable to post the trot and does not canter. | | B | Novice
 | Novice A rider who is capable of mounting and dismounting unassisted, capable of
applying basic aids, comfortable and in control at the walk, moderate length posting
trots, and short canters. | | C | Intermediate
 | Intermediate A rider who has a firm seat, is confident and in control at all paces
(including posting trots, two point canters and gallops), but does not ride regularly. |
| D | Strong Intermediate
 | Strong Intermediate An intermediate rider who is currently riding regularly and is comfortable in the saddle for at least 6 hours per day. | | E | Advanced
 | All of the above, plus an independent seat, soft hands, and capable of handlinga spirited horse in open country. |
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