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Castello Country Escape
Lazio
Italy
If you are looking for a short break with your favourite sport in the Italian countryside then look no further than the Castello Country Escape!
Beautiful horses, lakes formed in volcanic craters, Etruscan tombs, and medieval edifices adorn the landscape of this enchanting Italian region. Located one and a half hours away from Rome the splendid 17th century castle borgo (complete with fairy tale turret) will be your home throughout your stay. Just below the castle stands a handsome 18th century farmhouse, the original center of the estate’s farming activities. The farmhouse has been skillfully converted with careful attention to conserving authenticity together with comfort and privacy, in a pleasant combination with communal living. The large farm now contains eight charming cottages and 14 bedrooms furnished with original pieces.
The estate has two swimming pools, a tennis court, and enchanting countryside all around. The ground floor of the farmhouse opens onto the main terrace, which overlooks the swimming pool. On the ground floor there is a large “taverna” with brick vaulted ceilings. The space is divided into three main areas: dining room, billiard room, ping-pong room, plus a large kitchen available for all the guests and equipped for cooking courses. Below the castle is a well run yard and two sand schools with professional instruction. In addition are the miles upon miles of breath-taking trails in which to ride with your horse. So whether you are a non-rider looking for some relaxation, a beginner looking to get their foot into the stirrup, or an intermediate rider- we have the trip for you!
Riding Clinic Short Getaway Family Vacation Riding and Cooking Classes Suitable for riders over 210 lbs Center-based ride
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Meeting:
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Grotte di Castro
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Airport:
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Rome-Fiumicino International Airport (FCO)
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Transfer:
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Orvieto train station, Fiumicino airport, or Ciampino airport
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Riders:
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Min
1 riders
Max
6 riders
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Trip Brochure (PDF)
Trip Rating
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Rates and Dates for 2023
Rates include*:
Accommodations, All meals, Welcome drink and guided tour of the castle & 3 riding days (1 full day + 2 half days)
Helmets and body protectors of different sizes as well as some boots of different sizes can be provided
A | 2023 | 5-day trip, AP (High) | 5d / 4n | €935 | $965 |
B | 2023 | 5-day trip, AP (Low) | 5d / 4n | €875 | $900 |
* prices are per person based on double/twin occupancy
Transfer and Other Charges:
2023
|
Transfer from/to Fiumicino airport (taxi), return, per car (max 2 pax)
- to be paid locally
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€
300
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$310
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2023
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Transfer from/to Orvieto train station (taxi), return, per car (max 2 pax)
- to be paid locally
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€
100
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$105
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2023
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Transfer surcharge before 8AM or after 8 PM
- to be paid locally
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€
20
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$20
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2023
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10% off for groups of 6 pax or more
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€
0
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$0
|
2023
|
E-bike rental (half-day), pp
- to be paid locally
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€
30
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$30
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2023
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Guided cycling excursion with bike, pp (min 2 pax)
- to be paid locally
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€
90
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$95
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2023
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Wine tasting, pp
- to be paid locally
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€
20
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$20
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2023
|
Bolsena Lake boat rental
- to be paid locally
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€
150
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$155
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Best to rent a car!
Transfers available from Fiumincino or Ciampino airports in Rome, or Orvieto train station between 10:00am to 6:00pm for an extra fee.
Check-in to your room after 2:00pm.
Tour Dates for 2023
Check here for details and availability
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A |
2023
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04/05
- 04/09
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5d / 4n
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5-day trip, AP (High)
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1
/6
|
Reserve
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B |
2023
|
04/12
- 04/16
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5d / 4n
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5-day trip, AP (Low)
|
1
/6
|
Reserve
|
B |
2023
|
04/19
- 04/23
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5d / 4n
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5-day trip, AP (Low)
|
1
/6
|
Reserve
|
B |
2023
|
04/26
- 04/30
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5d / 4n
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5-day trip, AP (Low)
|
1
/6
|
Reserve
|
B |
2023
|
05/03
- 05/07
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5d / 4n
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5-day trip, AP (Low)
|
1
/6
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Reserve
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B |
2023
|
05/10
- 05/14
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5d / 4n
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5-day trip, AP (Low)
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1
/6
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Reserve
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B |
2023
|
05/17
- 05/21
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5d / 4n
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5-day trip, AP (Low)
|
1
/6
|
Reserve
|
B |
2023
|
05/24
- 05/28
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5d / 4n
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5-day trip, AP (Low)
|
1
/6
|
Reserve
|
B |
2023
|
05/31
- 06/04
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5d / 4n
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5-day trip, AP (Low)
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1
/6
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Reserve
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B |
2023
|
06/07
- 06/11
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5d / 4n
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5-day trip, AP (Low)
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1
/6
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Reserve
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A |
2023
|
06/14
- 06/18
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5d / 4n
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5-day trip, AP (High)
|
1
/6
|
Reserve
|
A |
2023
|
06/21
- 06/25
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5d / 4n
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5-day trip, AP (High)
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1
/6
|
Reserve
|
A |
2023
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06/28
- 07/02
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5d / 4n
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5-day trip, AP (High)
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1
/6
|
Reserve
|
A |
2023
|
07/05
- 07/09
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5d / 4n
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5-day trip, AP (High)
|
1
/6
|
Reserve
|
A |
2023
|
07/12
- 07/16
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5d / 4n
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5-day trip, AP (High)
|
1
/6
|
Reserve
|
A |
2023
|
07/19
- 07/23
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5d / 4n
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5-day trip, AP (High)
|
1
/6
|
Reserve
|
A |
2023
|
07/26
- 07/30
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5d / 4n
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5-day trip, AP (High)
|
1
/6
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Reserve
|
A |
2023
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08/02
- 08/06
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5d / 4n
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5-day trip, AP (High)
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1
/6
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Reserve
|
A |
2023
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08/09
- 08/13
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5d / 4n
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5-day trip, AP (High)
|
1
/6
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Reserve
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A |
2023
|
08/16
- 08/20
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5d / 4n
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5-day trip, AP (High)
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1
/6
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Reserve
|
A |
2023
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08/23
- 08/27
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5d / 4n
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5-day trip, AP (High)
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1
/6
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Reserve
|
A |
2023
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08/30
- 09/03
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5d / 4n
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5-day trip, AP (High)
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1
/6
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Reserve
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A |
2023
|
09/06
- 09/10
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5d / 4n
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5-day trip, AP (High)
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1
/6
|
Reserve
|
A |
2023
|
09/13
- 09/17
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5d / 4n
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5-day trip, AP (High)
|
1
/6
|
Reserve
|
B |
2023
|
09/20
- 09/24
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5d / 4n
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5-day trip, AP (Low)
|
1
/6
|
Reserve
|
B |
2023
|
09/27
- 10/01
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5d / 4n
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5-day trip, AP (Low)
|
1
/6
|
Reserve
|
B |
2023
|
10/04
- 10/08
|
5d / 4n
|
5-day trip, AP (Low)
|
1
/6
|
Reserve
|
B |
2023
|
10/11
- 10/15
|
5d / 4n
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5-day trip, AP (Low)
|
1
/6
|
Reserve
|
B |
2023
|
10/18
- 10/22
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5d / 4n
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5-day trip, AP (Low)
|
1
/6
|
Reserve
|
B |
2023
|
10/25
- 10/29
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5d / 4n
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5-day trip, AP (Low)
|
1
/6
|
Reserve
|
B |
2023
|
11/01
- 11/05
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5d / 4n
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5-day trip, AP (Low)
|
1
/6
|
Reserve
|
B |
2023
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11/08
- 11/12
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5d / 4n
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5-day trip, AP (Low)
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1
/6
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Reserve
|
|
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Rates do not include:
Insurance (mandatory), Gratuities & Transfers

Please note that riding programs could be subject to changes or cancellation according to weather conditions or horses health problems.
Sample Itinerary - subject to changes
It is possible to adapt this program for beginner or less experienced riders. This program includes 3 lessons or easy trail rides.
Day 1 (Wednesday): Arrival
Arrive today between 2:00pm and 6:00pm. You will be staying in converted buildings around the Castle, taking breakfast each morning in the Castle itself. After checking in you will be served with a welcome drink and then you will meet with your guide/instructor who will be looking after you throughout your stay. Today your riding program will begin. Choose from a lesson (compulsory for beginners) or for experienced riders you can start with a ride out in the countryside that surrounds the castle.
Meals included: Dinner
Overnight at the Castle
Day 2 to Day 4 (Thursday to Saturday): Activities
Your program includes 3 riding days (1 full day trail and 2 half day trails). Half-Day trails can be replaced by a 1-hour lesson.
Please, note that there will be no full day rides in July due to high temperatures. During this month, the program will include replace the full day ride by a half-day ride.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at the Castle
Day 5 (Sunday): Departure
Today it is time to bid farewell to your castle home as you come to the end of your riding holiday. If time allows we can offer you another ride out this morning, or if you would prefer a lesson in the arena (not included in price).
Meals included: Breakfast

Example of day rides (4-5 hours)
Bolsena Lake
From the castle, we ride through the neighboring farmland, through chestnut woods on an ancient track which will carry us right above the crater of Lake Bolsena, the largest volcanic lake in Europe. While riding, we will witness some breath–taking views of the lake and surrounding area and of the two islands, Isola Bisentina and Martana. As we head down to the lake, you will note many Etruscan tombs scattered throughout the countryside some re-used by farmers as cellars for their wine but still serving as a reminder of the ancient history which abounds in this area. Once at the lake, lunch is served in a typical trattoria, right on the beach. In the right season if you wish to cool off in the water, a swim in the lake can be done before starting the ride back up. We pass the archeological area of Pianezze, literally full of Etruscan tombs dating back 2600 years. Once at the top of the crater, we turn through some vineyards until we reach the shepherds' trail in the woods, leading us back to the estate.
Castle to Castle
This is an incredible ride through Lazio and Tuscany that is not to be missed. Travel on horseback from the Santa Cristina Castle estate to the fortress of Proceno, very much the same way as the dukes traveled hundreds of years ago. From Santa Cristina, we ride towards the medieval town of Onano. The 16th century church of ‘Madonna delle Grazie’ is half way along the trail and from there we have a charming view of the village walls. We then carry on north towards the magical landscape between Lazio and Tuscany. As we cross the Montorio Game Reserve, we may be lucky enough to see the wild pheasants, fallow deer and wild pigs. Before crossing into Tuscan territory, we wade through a ford in the Stridolone River, before carrying up onto a hilltop which looks over the fortress of Proceno itself. Proceno is a village dominated by the fortress, dating back to medieval times - approximately year 1000.
After lunching on delicious Italian cuisine, we cross the river again and climb up onto a plateau, through thick vegetation, using an old farmers’ trail. As we head home, we ride past vineyards, fields and finally a former nuns’ convent from the 18th century, with a sad past to learn about. Finally, we return to the castle from the Northeast after 40 km of beautiful riding.
Mezzano Lake
This is one of our most renowned excursions. Lake Mezzano is an area worthy of note, owing to its great historical value and natural beauty. The lake itself was once a volcanic crater, formed 400,000 years ago, and the site of human settlements dating right back to the pre–Etruscan era (around 2,700 years ago).
Because of later earthquakes, these settlements are now submerged under water, but the importance of these archeological treasures was confirmed in the mid-eighties by an archaeological campaign when swords, pots, and other tools were found on the bottom of the lake.
Our excursion takes our riders through the farmland, 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 the local farms into a very old woods made of huge chestnut trees that leads us into a flat and open plain which offers a great deal of scenery.
Here, if desired, horses can canter up the old tracks, before we reach the marshlands and vineyards which surround the Lake Mezzano itself. The Lake area is part of the Selva del Lamone natural reserve and here is a small restaurant where we stop for lunch with a fantastic view overlooking the water. During the warmer months, anyone who wishes can also swim in the lake's crystal clear waters. In the afternoon, we ride back following the old Brigands Trail, taking in a few historical sights on the way.

Example of half day rides (2-3 hours)
Panoramic Views
After leaving the castle, we will follow an old shepherds' path reaching the hills framing our plateau to the west. Riding through chestnut woods, we arrive at the top of the crater where there is a breathtaking view of the surrounding area. To the south is the crater of the beautiful Lake Bolsena and to the west if lake Mezzano. Behind us, the imposing shape of Mount Amiata is towering from the north. On a clear breezy day the sea can be seen some 40 km away to the west like a glowing mirror reflecting the sun.
Carrying on up and down through the valleys and hills, across a plateau, we can enjoy the peace and the scenery. In particular, the mesmerizing Mount Amiata, Radicofani fortress and the distant castle of Torre Alfina.
From the hills on the way back, we will follow a comfortable trail winding through the fields and taking us back to the castle.
Medieval Tour
After leaving the arena below the castle, we follow an ancient track carved into the rock, until we reach the famous “Brigands’ Path” which passes by, at the top of the hill. Passing the old farmhouse of St Prospero, at a trot we turn left on a path crossing cultivated fields and later chestnut woods. We can now push horses into canter through a fantastic natural passageway in the woods, leading riders to the top of a hill with a beautiful view. Soon we will find another old road carved into the rock, leading us to a wider trail following the valley between the hills. From here, we return to the castle exploring beautiful Italian countryside and chestnut woods.
Nocchieto
Using the old outlaw track called the Brigands' Path, we ride away on a panoramic trail among pastures of grazing sheep. This old trail soon turns down into a narrow valley of volcanic rock. At the bottom of the hills, we will find an old abandoned farmers' settlement: Nocchieto. Still fascinating in its architecture, it is a house made of local tufa rock leaning against the side of the hill. As the road changes from volcanic rock into soft ground, we can gently push our horses forwards into canter and up into the hills. After following a narrow valley to the top, we meet the Brigands' Path again, where we can carry on across varied landscapes past scattered Etruscan tombs and caves.
Finally, we make our way back to the castle to another stunning plateau, where we encounter a lovely vista before returning home through the woods.
San Luigi
After leaving the riding center, we pass an old farm named San Prospero and we ride up through the valleys and hills. our route goes through romantic chestnut woods and up onto the plateau to take in the spectacular scenery, including Mount Amiata, the Radicofani Fortress and the distant castle of Torre Alfina. We then arrive at the S. Luigi farm, where local shepherds still produce delicious ‘ricotta’ cheese. Around us sheep graze happily in the fields as we follow the way home back along the hills to the castle.
Onano
This time we head north through the hills, a spectacular scenery of the castle estate and surrounding farmland will keep us company. After crossing the provincial road, the trail will lead us towards a magical scenery made by the Tuscan mountains towering in front of us. The trail carries on around the vicinity of Onano – a fortified town of the Middle Ages. Your guide will show you the medieval castle dominating the ancient town – an important stronghold of the Monaldeschi family which ruled the area in the Middle Ages. We keep on going along the old farmers’ tracks, up into the open fields, past the delightful medieval church of St Maria delle Grazie and then back home to the castle.
Gradoli
Following an old Etruscan trail, we ride up through thick woods to the top of the crater surrounding Lake Bolsena. Here, we enjoy a remarkable scenery including vineyards, Etruscan tombs, the prominent volcanic lake and the panorama dominated by the famous Farnese Palace in Gradoli. A gift of the Pope in 1500 to his nephew for his wedding - what a present! We return to the castle riding through the vineyards, vegetable gardens and enchanting woods. In particular, we enjoy a canter through a unique tunnel made by the oak trees above an old shepherds path.
Extra Activities Nearby (added fee)
Boat Rental at Lake Bolsena (max 5 people per boat)
Lake Bolsena is a volcanic caldera lake supplied entirely from the aquifer, rainfall and runoff. A Caldera is a cauldron-like hollow formed following the evacuation of a magma chamber as opposed to a Crater which forms following an eruption around a volcanic vent. Roman records indicate activity of the Vulsini volcano occurred as recently as 104 BC but it has been dormant since then. The two islands in the southern part of the lake were formed by underwater eruptions following the collapse that created the caldera.
Wine Tour (20€ pp + transfer service)
The vineyards are located precisely on the slopes of the spur of tufaceous rock on which Sovana is perched, immersed in a breath-taking natural and archaeological panorama. The property was acquired by the Antinori family in 1995 and extends over 193 hectares (some 480 acres) on a gently sloping terrain of volcanic origin with a tufaceous sub-soil. It is situated at approximately 200 meters (660 feet) above sea level. The Fattoria Aldobrandesca wine premiered in summer 1998: Aleatico 1997. In 2004 premiered Vie Cave: the fruit of lands of widely varying features and careful zonal and oenological research.
Spa Visit (inquire for rate)
The medieval village of Sorano is famous for its ancient springs. Recent hydro-geological research has confirmed the existence of an important flow of thermal water, enhancing the value of the ancient springs located above the church of Santa Maria dell ‘Aquila. This natural treasure is now used to feed a large thermal pool, with a special area reserved for children and including two waterfalls. This allows guests to benefit from a natural hydro-massage all year round. The water, rich in calcium, magnesium and bicarbonate, emerges from the springs at a temperature of 37.5°C. Today, guests can enjoy the benefits of this thermal water in the unique surroundings of the Sorano Thermal Springs Residence.
Onsite Non-Riding Activities (included)
- Swimming pool open from 9 am to 8 pm from June 1st to September 30th
- Game room with pool table, table tennis and table football
Onsite Non-Riding Activities (for added fee)
- Tennis court (10€ pp per hour)
- E-bikes rental
- Massages are available upon request and according to our availability (extra cost - please inquire), any day from 9 am to 7 pm
- Yoga (20€ pp for 1.5 hours) - min 5 pax required
- Cooking lesson (25€ pp for 50 minutes + lunch fee)
Meeting:
Grotte di Castro
Airport:
Rome-Fiumicino International Airport (FCO)
Train station:
Orvieto train station
Transfer:
Orvieto train station, Fiumicino airport, or Ciampino airport
Distance:
150km
Best to rent a car!
Transfers available from Fiumincino or Ciampino airports in Rome, or Orvieto train station between 10:00am to 6:00pm for an extra fee.
Check-in to your room after 2:00pm.
Tack:
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English
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Horses:
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Mixture of local Thoroughbred and Warmblood crosses, with ponies available for children or small adults.
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Pace:
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Can cater from beginners (lessons in the arena) to intermediate. Moderate with trot and canter
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Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
Jumps |
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Level:
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|
(1
to
3
out of 5) Beginner to Intermediate
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Age:
|
|
Min
14
|
|
Weight:
|
|
Max
220 lbs
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Riders:
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Min
1 riders
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Max
6 riders
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Riding helmets are mandatory for this ride.
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Riding Experience
This ride is suitable for beginners to intermediate-leveled riders. For those that have never been in the saddle before, we offer lessons in the sand ring to teach the fundamentals and grow rider confidence. Depending on how quickly you learn, there will be opportunities for some short trails. For intermediate riders, we will set you up with a suitable horse and take you on splendid trails. Excursions in the countryside on medium / long distances require rider’s ability to control the horse at the three gaits, including canter. Please note that helmets are mandatory. We have several helmets to borrow but recommend you bring your own for optimal fit.
There are two outdoor arenas and lessons are available for all ages and levels in both dressage and jumping.
1 hour lesson = 1 half-day excursion
You can also add a 50-min private lesson to your package for 40€ pp.
Horses
Our horses have been selected for their attitude and breed. We have 20 horses at the moment that come from a wide range of breeds including: Italian Maremmano and Murgese, German, Dutch, French, Anglo Arab and cross breeds. They are our most important partners that we take a lot of pride in.
Most of the year, they live outside in the large paddocks with shelters. We also have a stables area with boxes and comfortable shelter when the weather is bad or the horses are ill and need to recover.
Around the castle, there are 100 hectares of green, sheltered fields where the horses are left free to graze. They definitely lead a good life.
We do our best to choose the best horse for our guest according to their level.
Riding Equipment
Helmets and body protectors of different sizes are available for our guests so that they can ride safely.
Some boots of different sizes are provided but if you have your own boots and helmets it is advisable to bring your own.
All guests MUST wear a helmet!
Facilities
Two large sand arenas are available for our guests to test their skills. The ground is made of volcanic sand, typical of the area. One arena is used mainly for the flat work and the other larger arena is used for show jumping. The flatwork arena is also lit with floodlights. At the opposite side of the castle we have created a 2.000 m cross-country course with beautiful wooden jumps and soft reliable ground.
Staff
Antonio is an ENGEA equestrian guide as well as the owner of the estate. He has several years of experience, riding, training and keeping horses in the countryside. He believes that the new methods of training such as Monty Roberts' and Pat Parelli have improved enormously the relation between humans and horses and our horses are benefiting from that. His knowledge of the trails of the area as well as his passion for horses and for this place will make your trip really special.
Kylie is our Kiwi guide and instructor. She has been riding all her life. After graduating university, she decided to combine her love of horses with her passion for travel and became a horse trekking guide in various countries including Australia, England, Greece, Chile, Egypt and Spain.
Insurance
Insurance covering horse riding accidents is mandatory. You have to tell the booking office in advance if you are uninsured. If you have no insurance, please consider that we need at least a 48 hours’ notice for activating one for you.
Non-Riding Activities
The estate has many other activities to offer to non-riding guests such as cooking classes, cycling, tennis, swimming and massages. There are also a number of attractions that are located in close proximity to the estate. Please, inquire for more information.
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
Grotte di Castro area
Month
|
Jan
|
Feb
|
Mar
|
Apr
|
May
|
Jun
|
Jul
|
Aug
|
Sep
|
Oct
|
Nov
|
Dec
|
Average High Temperature (°F)
|
47
|
48
|
55
|
62
|
68
|
76
|
83
|
82
|
72
|
64
|
55
|
49
|
Average Low Temperature (°F)
|
39
|
39
|
44
|
48
|
55
|
62
|
68
|
68
|
61
|
55
|
47
|
42
|
Average High Temperature (°C)
|
8
|
9
|
13
|
17
|
20
|
24
|
28
|
28
|
22
|
18
|
13
|
9
|
Average Low Temperature (°C)
|
4
|
4
|
7
|
9
|
13
|
17
|
20
|
20
|
16
|
13
|
8
|
5
|
Source: NOAA
Seasons
In general the climate in Tuscany is very mild. There are little differences between the regions, though. Rule of thumb: at the coast and in the valleys the summers are hotter than in the hilly areas, where the climate is very continental – rain falls are more often.
Usually the summers in Tuscany are without rain and very hot, especially in the valleys.
Spring (April and May) and autumn (October and November) might be rainy but there are still dry, sunny days and temperatures are pleasant.
In the winter there are sunny, mild days but at night it sometimes gets very cold.
All guests must wear a helmet. Helmets and body protectors of different sizes are available for our guests so that they can ride safely. Some boots of different sizes are provided but if you have your own boots and helmets it is advisable to bring your own.
Note: Travel insurance is mandatory for this trip. Please make sure you purchase one with adequate coverage. Contact Hidden Trails for some options.
This list is only a guideline for you
- Travel documents and Voucher
- Flight tickets
- Personal Travel Insurance
- Passport
Riding Gear
- Normal riding gear or comfortable, yet sturdy pants. No leggings please.
- Riding boots or shoes with flat soles that cover the ankles.
- We recommend mini chaps.
- Long sleeved cotton shirts (for sun protection)
- Riding helmet
- Riding gloves
- Hat (with chin strap) for sun protection
- A wind breaker, rain gear that can be pulled over the saddle
Personal Clothing
- Jacket or sweater for cool evenings
- Comfortable T-Shirts/Shirts
- Jeans
- Shorts
- Underwear and socks
- Pajamas
- Light summer jacket
- Comfortable shoes/sneakers
- Swimsuit
Additional Things to Bring
- Personal Toiletries
- Insect protection
- Personal medications
- Sore cream (for an emergency)
- Adapter for electric appliances
- Camera and enough extra films
- Belt pack
- Address book and pen (for postcards!)
- Sun glasses with strap
- Sun tan lotion and lip balm
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Accommodations
This is a stationary ride, so you will be staying in the same location during the trip.
Description
Just below the castle stands a handsome 18th Century farmhouse, the original center of the estate’s farming activities. The farmhouse has been skillfully converted with careful attention to conserving authenticity together with comfort and privacy, in a pleasant combination with communal living. The large farm now contains eight charming apartments and 14 double bedrooms (no twin rooms available) furnished with original pieces and all equipped with private bathroom and free Wi-Fi access.
The ground floor of the farm house opens onto the main terrace, which overlooks the swimming pool. On the ground floor there is a large “taverna” with brick vaulted ceilings. The space is divided into three main areas: dining room, billiard room, table tennis room, plus a large kitchen available for all the guests and equipped for cooking courses.
We also have a washer and dryer that guests can use for a small fee.

The outdoor pool is open from June 1st to September 30th. There is a tennis court as well as Volleyball courts, mini football pitch, and Jacuzzi on site.
Room Occupancy
If we are unable to find another rider to share the room with you, a single supplement fee applied.
Single room accommodations are subject to availability.
Meals
All meals are included in this trip from dinner on Day 1 to breakfast on the last day.
We prepare local traditional food, like lasagna, handmade pasta with ragù, and roll meats. All meals have a fixed menu.
Lunches will be picnic or a 3-course meal reserved in the restaurant.
Dinners will be a 4-course meals and served either in local restaurants or at the castle estate.
Some wine is included with lunch and dinner.
Dietary Restrictions
We can cater to vegetarians with prior notice.
This trip
includes some wine with dinner
and
can accommodate special dietary requests.
Tack:
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English
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Horses:
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Mixture of local Thoroughbred and Warmblood crosses, with ponies available for children or small adults.
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Pace:
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Can cater from beginners (lessons in the arena) to intermediate. Moderate with trot and canter
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Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
Jumps |
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Level:
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(1
to
3
out of 5) Beginner to Intermediate
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Age:
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Min
14
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Weight:
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Max
220 lbs
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Riders:
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Min
1 riders
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Max
6 riders
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Riding Experience
This ride is suitable for beginners to intermediate-leveled riders. For those that have never been in the saddle before, we offer lessons in the sand ring to teach the fundamentals and grow rider confidence. Depending on how quickly you learn, there will be opportunities for some short trails. For intermediate riders, we will set you up with a suitable horse and take you on splendid trails. Excursions in the countryside on medium / long distances require rider’s ability to control the horse at the three gaits, including canter. Please note that helmets are mandatory. We have several helmets to borrow but recommend you bring your own for optimal fit.
There are two outdoor arenas and lessons are available for all ages and levels in both dressage and jumping.
1 hour lesson = 1 half-day excursion
You can also add a 50-min private lesson to your package for 40€ pp.
Horses
Our horses have been selected for their attitude and breed. We have 20 horses at the moment that come from a wide range of breeds including: Italian Maremmano and Murgese, German, Dutch, French, Anglo Arab and cross breeds. They are our most important partners that we take a lot of pride in.
Most of the year, they live outside in the large paddocks with shelters. We also have a stables area with boxes and comfortable shelter when the weather is bad or the horses are ill and need to recover.
Around the castle, there are 100 hectares of green, sheltered fields where the horses are left free to graze. They definitely lead a good life.
We do our best to choose the best horse for our guest according to their level.
Riding Equipment
Helmets and body protectors of different sizes are available for our guests so that they can ride safely.
Some boots of different sizes are provided but if you have your own boots and helmets it is advisable to bring your own.
All guests MUST wear a helmet!
Facilities
Two large sand arenas are available for our guests to test their skills. The ground is made of volcanic sand, typical of the area. One arena is used mainly for the flat work and the other larger arena is used for show jumping. The flatwork arena is also lit with floodlights. At the opposite side of the castle we have created a 2.000 m cross-country course with beautiful wooden jumps and soft reliable ground.
Staff
Antonio is an ENGEA equestrian guide as well as the owner of the estate. He has several years of experience, riding, training and keeping horses in the countryside. He believes that the new methods of training such as Monty Roberts' and Pat Parelli have improved enormously the relation between humans and horses and our horses are benefiting from that. His knowledge of the trails of the area as well as his passion for horses and for this place will make your trip really special.
Kylie is our Kiwi guide and instructor. She has been riding all her life. After graduating university, she decided to combine her love of horses with her passion for travel and became a horse trekking guide in various countries including Australia, England, Greece, Chile, Egypt and Spain.
Insurance
Insurance covering horse riding accidents is mandatory. You have to tell the booking office in advance if you are uninsured. If you have no insurance, please consider that we need at least a 48 hours’ notice for activating one for you.
Non-Riding Activities
The estate has many other activities to offer to non-riding guests such as cooking classes, cycling, tennis, swimming and massages. There are also a number of attractions that are located in close proximity to the estate. Please, inquire for more information.
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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Castello Country Escape
Tour Code:
IT-ITSR13
5 days /
4 nights
~$965.00
Dates :
April to November
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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