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Horseback riding tours
Rides in
Italy
Intro to Italy
![]() Abruzzo/Molise![]() Sicily![]() Tuscany
Extensions:
Wine Route in Tyrol
France
Spain
Portugal
Europe Overview
Add Ons:
Hiking
Cycling
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Western Riding in Tuscany
Tuscany
Italy
A ride through the history and nature of Tuscany.
The mystical beauty of the hill country surrounding Florence has always been a special place. For those that wish to explore beautiful the beautiful region on horseback, but prefer a Western style of riding, we have put together these most relaxing and lovely treks that explore the Chianti, Monte Giovi mountain range and many of the vineyards in the vicinity of Florence. The villa offers horse lovers a typical farmhouse made of stone, surrounded by verdant green pastures and the beautiful Tuscan olive groves from which the farm makes their own olive oil. The house originated from a watch tower which once belonged to the Guidi Counts during the 11th Century and guests are welcomed into a friendly, calm and relaxed country atmosphere, far removed from the formality of hotels in the city. Combining a relaxing Western equestrian experience with the wonderful and rustic ambiance of the farm and the excellent Tuscan style Italian cuisine - you will be delighted in every sense during your stay!
Our partner has organized popular riding holidays for over 20 years now. Franco Melis – a skilled guide and horseman with many years of experience – runs this beautiful estate situated in the Italian province of Pontassieve, only 20 kilometres from Florence. The centre is well known in Italy and throughout Europe for its quality horses and guides. His rides take place in the midst of their typical Tuscan countryside - olives, vines and woods surrounding charming farms, villas, and ancient towers and castles. You can opt for daily "star rides", the stationary program, or a combination of 3 days at the farm followed by a 3 day trek creating a progressive itinerary.
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Progressive Ride (no camping)
Family Vacation
Ride with Western Tack
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Meeting:
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Pontassieve
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Airport:
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Florence
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Transfer:
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Pontassieve train station, Florence Airport or Pisa Airport
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Riders:
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Min
4 riders
Max
12 riders
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Trip Brochure (PDF) 
Trip Rating
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Rates and Dates for 2020
Rates include*:
Accommodations, All meals with table wine, 1 wine tasting (only on Colline di Fiesole Trail) & 6 horse riding days
| A | 2020 | 8 day trip, AP - Colline Di Fiesole | 8d / 7n | €1220 | $1380 |
| Single supplement | €200 | $230 |
| Discount for room division (3-4 people per room), pp | (€70) | ($70) |
| B | 2020 | 8 day trip, AP - Monte Giovi Trail | 8d / 7n | €1150 | $1300 |
| Single supplement | €225 | $255 |
| Discount for room division (3-4 people per room), pp | (€50) | ($50) |
* prices are per person based on double/twin occupancy
Rates Note:
Single rooms are on special request only and may not be available at all the accommodations, so please inquire first for availability and cost!
Transfer and Other Charges:
|
2020
|
Transfer from Pontassieve train station, return, pp
- to be paid locally
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€
45
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$55
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|
2020
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Private taxi transfer from Florence airport (please inquire for rates)
- to be paid locally
|
€
0
|
$0
|
|
2020
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Private taxi transfer from Pisa airport (please inquire for rates)
- to be paid locally
|
€
0
|
$0
|
|
2020
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Tourist tax, pp (free for children under 16)
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€
6
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$10
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2020
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Discount for children 10 - 16 years old -- please inquire
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€
0
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$0
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Pick-up/ drop-off for this trip is from Pontassieve station (Florence-Arezzo-Rome line), Florence Airport (FLR), or Pisa International Airport (PSA).
Rates do not include:
Gratuities & Transfers
Our one-week trekking programs include three days at the equestrian center followed by a 3-day trek. On each of the first three mornings, 2 hours of riding are split between lessons and hacking.
Trekking groups consist of between 6 and 9 people and are accompanied by a guide over the entire journey. There is also someone in charge of bringing the luggage and other necessary equipment every evening.
Each trekking day (Wednesday, Thursday and Friday) we cover between 25 and 30 kilometres, averaging 5-7 hours per day, including a stop for a lunch (carried in saddlebags).
Sample Itineraries: Monte Giovi Trail - subject to changes
The Monte Giovi is a mountain range in the vicinity of Florence, which reaches an altitude of 982 metres. Thanks to both its extraordinary natural beauty and the historical sources dating from Etruscan and Roman times up until the recent partisan war found here, Monte Giovi is one of the most valued beauty spots in Tuscany. The name comes from Latin, being the Sacred Mountain dedicated to Jupiter. The Monte Giovi is a national Park with a protected area of 19,000 hectares.
Day 1 (Saturday): Arrival
Arrival and settling in at the farm.
Meals included: Dinner
Overnight at the Farmhouse
Day 2 (Sunday): Introductory Ride
You start with a lesson in the schooling arena, followed by a hack out in the surrounding countryside.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at the Farmhouse
Day 3 (Monday): Trail Ride around the Farm
We take you out on a half-day ride in the hills, and come back to the farm.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at the Farmhouse
Day 4 (Tuesday): Trail Ride around the Farm
We take you out on a half-day ride in the hills, and come back to the farm.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at the Farmhouse
Day 5 (Wednesday): Ride to Monte Giovi
You will set off for the trek, on horseback all day and provided with a packed lunch. The night will be spent in an inn situated in the mountain forests.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at a Inn near Monte Giovi
Day 6 (Thursday): Ride around Monte Giovi
Passing through the Chianti vineyards, we follow the River Sieve past the village of Rufina - famous for its wines - and ford the river twice. We climb to the top of the mountain (982m) range along age-old wooded paths and on reaching the top will be astounded by breath-taking views of the whole of the Chianti valley, the valley of the Arno and of Mugello.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at a Inn near Monte Giovi
Day 7 (Friday): Ride back to the Farm
The ride back to the farm is a dive into the landscapes and nature of a Tuscany unknown to mass tourism but rich with pleasant surprises such as the villa and chapel of Petroio, a tiny 12th Century hamlet perfectly conserved. Today's picnic will be consumed on the banks of a fresh-water lake.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at the Farmhouse
Day 8 (Saturday): Departure
Departure after breakfast.
Meals included: Breakfast
----------------------------------------
Sample Itineraries: Colline di Fiesole Trail - subject to changes
A trek, which passes over the Tuscany hills, through ancient vineyards and olive groves, with visits to traditional wine cellars. This trek is based very much on the area surrounding Vallebona, in the centre of the Rufina and Pomino Chianti wine area. It is an ideal small trek, also for those who wish to combine riding with rest, sport with culture.
Day 1 (Saturday): Arrival
Arrival and settling in at the farm.
Meals included: Dinner
Overnight at the Farmhouse
Day 2 (Sunday): Introductory Ride
You start with a lesson in the schooling arena, followed by a hack out in the surrounding countryside.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at the Farmhouse
Day 3 (Monday): Trail Ride around the Farm
We take you out on a half-day ride in the hills, and come back to the farm.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at the Farmhouse
Day 4 (Tuesday): Trail Ride around the Farm
We take you out on a half-day ride in the hills, and come back to the farm.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at the Farmhouse
Day 5 (Wednesday): Ride to Torre di Buiano
You will set off for the trek, on horseback all day and stop for lunch at Castello del Trebbio, where we will also visit the cellars for a "wine tasting". You will stay overnight in a charming "Agriturismo" belonging to friends of ours, in a perfect farming style, situated 10km from Fiesole .
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Agriturismo near Fiesole
Day 6 (Thursday): Villa Demidoff Ride
You will visit the famous Villa Demidoff and its monumental Park.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Agriturismo near Fiesole
Day 7 (Friday): Ride back to the Farm
Time to ride back to the farm, through beautiful Tuscan landscapes.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at the Farmhouse
Day 8 (Saturday): Departure
Departure after breakfast.
Meals included: Breakfast
--The above sample itineraries are subject to changes at the tour operator's discretion--
Meeting:
Pontassieve
Airport:
Florence
Train station:
Pontassieve
Transfer:
Pontassieve train station, Florence Airport or Pisa Airport
Distance:
42km / 26 miles
Pick-up/ drop-off for this trip is from Pontassieve station (Florence-Arezzo-Rome line), Florence Airport (FLR), or Pisa International Airport (PSA).
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Tack:
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Western, (English sadle is available)
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Horses:
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Italian breeds (Maremma and Sardinian)
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Pace:
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Moderate with trots and canters.
First 3 mornings: 2 hours per day / Last 3 days: 5-7 hours riding.
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Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
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Level:
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(2.5
to
3.5
out of 5) Low Intermediate+
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Age:
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Min
10
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Weight:
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Max
200 lbs
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Riders:
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Min
4 riders
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Max
12 riders
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Riding Experience
Riders should be able to mount and dismount unassisted, stay in the saddle up to 4-5 hours per day for several consecutive days. They are also expected to be comfortable at all gaits and lead their horses when needed.
To take part in our treks, rather than a vast experience with horses, you need to be in good physical shape and have a desire to spend a holiday with people and horses, and rest assured that you will be guided and assisted by professionals.
Tack
Our horses are all trained western style by Franco, although English saddle is also available. During trails, horses are equipped with saddlebags to carry the daily picnic lunch.
Pace
The pace is adapted to the trails. It is moderate in general, with trot, canters and gallops when possible. Each day we cover between 25 and 30 kilometers, averaging 5-7 hours per day, including a stop for a lunch.
Riding Helmet
We supply riding helmets. For your safety, we recommend to ride with a helmet. Riders under 18 will not be allowed to ride without wearing a helmet.
Horses
The well-being and sound preparation of our horses is of prime importance to us. Our horses are all carefully selected by us for their good nature and trekking ability and we have horses suitable for all riding abilities. They are well-balanced because of the natural way of their maintenance, living together outside in herds. The horses are secure on any kind of terrain and well trained for lessons in the arena.
Our stables has 35 horses of different breeds (Maremma, Quarter horse, Sardinian, Anglo-Arab), all of which have been trained or re-trained following the principles of “natural horsemanship” to guarantee maximum physical and psychological condition and reliability.
Our horses are not restricted to lonely stables but live altogether outside in the fields, which allows them to remain healthy, both physically and mentally. Their diet is constantly monitored and their work regime adapted individually according to age and condition.
The same attention is given to the relationship between horses and riders, so as to guarantee each guest the best suited workmate, offering also the possibility of using a variety of horses throughout the holiday. Our riding philosophy is based on mutual respect and confidence between the horses and the riders.
Guides
Trekking groups are accompanied by a guide over the whole journey, and another person that meets the group in the evening with the rucksacks and necessary equipment. A first-aid kit accompanies all trips, but you should not forget personal medicines, for example those for allergies.
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
Florence area
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Month
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Jan
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Feb
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Mar
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Apr
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May
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Jun
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Jul
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Aug
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Sep
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Oct
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Nov
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Dec
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Average High Temperature (°F)
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52
|
54
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60
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67
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75
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83
|
89
|
89
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81
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70
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59
|
52
|
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Average Low Temperature (°F)
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36
|
37
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42
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46
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54
|
60
|
65
|
65
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59
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52
|
43
|
37
|
|
Average High Temperature (°C)
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11
|
12
|
16
|
19
|
24
|
28
|
32
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32
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27
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21
|
15
|
11
|
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Average Low Temperature (°C)
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2
|
3
|
5
|
8
|
12
|
16
|
18
|
18
|
15
|
11
|
6
|
3
|
Source: NOAA
Seasons
To avoid the heat, it’s best to visit in spring and autumn. During the peak summer months of July and August, the weather can be very hot, but it still gets cooler in the evenings, as the riding center is located in the mountains. Autumn sees the countryside glow with abundance of wild mushrooms and just-pressed olive oil. The winters are not too chilly with the lowest expected temperatures in the peak of winter being around 0°C / 32°F.
What To Bring – recommended!
* Riding Hat: A hat is essential for protection from rain and sun. Hard hats are compulsory for under 18's. If possible, take your own or we can lend you one
* Riding Trousers: for the western saddle cow boy jeans are ideal – they are flatly seamed and are particularly long in the leg. Jodhpurs are fine if worn with half chaps.
* Long sleeve tops: Lightweight long sleeve tops protect from the sun and from scratches from branches and undergrowth.
* Footwear: The correct footwear is important for riding. We use light walking boots, high on the ankle, not too big. Ideally, short boots or gym shoes should be worn with half chaps. We do not recommend riding boots with a smooth sole.
* Waterproof jacket
* Ear plugs: can be useful in shared accommodation
* Warm sweater
* Hat: to protect from sun and rain
* Swim costume, suncream, sun glasses
* Insect repellent: recommended in July, August and September
* Ear plugs: can be useful when sharing the room with other people
* a first-aid kit accompanies all trips, but you should not forget personal medicines, for example those for allergies.
* Sensible underwear: be sensible with underwear - dress for comfort. Torch, penknife
* We provide 2 towels - you may need an extra one
* Electricity 220 V, you need an European adaptor
* And don't forget to bring your camera
* Insurance documents: It's important to make sure you are insured for all the activities of your riding holiday. Our insurance pays for damages depending on our acknowledged responsibility of the accident. Payment is authorised following a request for damages to be considered by the insurance company. A personal policy is different in that it always pays you out according to your agreed contract. This is what we advise you to do. Be aware that occasionally personal policies exclude dangerous sports such as riding, but by warning the company you can include it.
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
This is a progressive ride, so nights are spent in different locations.
Description
Riders sleep in typical, clean and well kept farmhouses, and in the evening enjoy a meal of traditional local dishes. In some of these houses, double rooms are available. Bathrooms are on a shared basis.
Monte Giovi Trail Accommodation Itinerary - subject to changes based on availability
Nights 1-4: Farmhouse
Nights 5-6: Inn near Monte Giovi
Night 7: Farmhouse
Colline di Fiesole Trail Accommodation Itinerary - subject to changes based on availability
Nights 1-4: Farmhouse
Nights 5-6: Agriturismo near Fiesole
Night 7: Farmhouse
Farmhouse
The country estate offers horse lovers a typical charming stone farmhouse surrounded by green pastures and beautiful olive groves from which the center makes its own olive oil. The house is a refurbished watch tower which once belonged to the Guidi Counts in the 11th century. Guests are welcomed into a friendly, calm and relaxed atmosphere.
The 6 rustic bedrooms are very spacious – typical of old Tuscan rural homes. Accommodation is in 2- to 4-bedded rooms, according to your needs (single rooms available on request).
Bathrooms are separate and each one is shared between two bedrooms. There is a maximum of 18 beds available.
When you are not riding you can relax in the green surrounding at the center or walk up to Camorli (2.5 km) and relax at the pool!
Room Occupancy
Single supplement is mandatory if we are unable to find another rider to share.
Meals
All meals are included.
At the farm, a wide variety of authentic Tuscan country dishes is served, and the cook, a Tuscan chef, is always happy to satisfy the culinary wishes of the guests. The center is renowned for its great range of pasta dishes and the tables are never lacking in olive oil or flasks of Chianti! Every meal is planned and balanced with different typical recipes and the seasonal genuine ingredients. The menu is rich satisfactory, Italian and tasty!
We all dine together, either indoors or on the terrace, which offers a stunning view of the countryside.
Italian breakfast – tea, coffee, milk, fresh bread and butter with various marmalades and honey, yoghurt and muesli.
Lunches on the day rides are eaten either picnic style (cold pasta salad, salami, cheese, vegetables) or in a local restaurant.
For dinner, we offer a wide variety of authentic Tuscan country cuisine. We start with 2 different kind of "pasta" such as tagliatelle with porcini mushrooms and rigatoni with black cabbage and potatoes. Then comes meat, like the typical arista - a pork cut - or fried chicken: in the traditional Tuscan way! - accompanied by zucchinis and carrots or garlic peppers
Chianti wine, water and extra-virgin olive oil are included with all meals in full board.
Special Diets
Vegetarians catered for, but please let us know in advance.
This trip includes
some wine with dinner
and can accommodate special dietary requests.
|
Tack:
|
|
Western, (English sadle is available)
|
|
Horses:
|
|
Italian breeds (Maremma and Sardinian)
|
|
Pace:
|
|
Moderate with trots and canters.
First 3 mornings: 2 hours per day / Last 3 days: 5-7 hours riding.
|
Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
|
|
Level:
|
|
(2.5
to
3.5
out of 5) Low Intermediate+
|
|
Age:
|
|
Min
10
|
|
|
Weight:
|
|
Max
200 lbs
|
|
Riders:
|
|
Min
4 riders
|
Max
12 riders
|
|
Riding Experience
Riders should be able to mount and dismount unassisted, stay in the saddle up to 4-5 hours per day for several consecutive days. They are also expected to be comfortable at all gaits and lead their horses when needed.
To take part in our treks, rather than a vast experience with horses, you need to be in good physical shape and have a desire to spend a holiday with people and horses, and rest assured that you will be guided and assisted by professionals.
Tack
Our horses are all trained western style by Franco, although English saddle is also available. During trails, horses are equipped with saddlebags to carry the daily picnic lunch.
Pace
The pace is adapted to the trails. It is moderate in general, with trot, canters and gallops when possible. Each day we cover between 25 and 30 kilometers, averaging 5-7 hours per day, including a stop for a lunch.
Riding Helmet
We supply riding helmets. For your safety, we recommend to ride with a helmet. Riders under 18 will not be allowed to ride without wearing a helmet.
Horses
The well-being and sound preparation of our horses is of prime importance to us. Our horses are all carefully selected by us for their good nature and trekking ability and we have horses suitable for all riding abilities. They are well-balanced because of the natural way of their maintenance, living together outside in herds. The horses are secure on any kind of terrain and well trained for lessons in the arena.
Our stables has 35 horses of different breeds (Maremma, Quarter horse, Sardinian, Anglo-Arab), all of which have been trained or re-trained following the principles of “natural horsemanship” to guarantee maximum physical and psychological condition and reliability.
Our horses are not restricted to lonely stables but live altogether outside in the fields, which allows them to remain healthy, both physically and mentally. Their diet is constantly monitored and their work regime adapted individually according to age and condition.
The same attention is given to the relationship between horses and riders, so as to guarantee each guest the best suited workmate, offering also the possibility of using a variety of horses throughout the holiday. Our riding philosophy is based on mutual respect and confidence between the horses and the riders.
Guides
Trekking groups are accompanied by a guide over the whole journey, and another person that meets the group in the evening with the rucksacks and necessary equipment. A first-aid kit accompanies all trips, but you should not forget personal medicines, for example those for allergies.
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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Western Riding in Tuscany
Tour Code:
IT-ITVALCH
8 days /
7 nights
~$1,380.00
Dates :
May, Sept
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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