Explore one of the less inhabited Italian regions: Alta Tuscia. Your riding days will be spent in the territory surrounding the castle, a centuries old estate still owned by the ancient and noble family, whose new generation, with a passion for horses, has turned this into an enchanting resort.

A region rich in history proved by the many monuments, palaces and castles scattered everywhere that you will see while horse riding along the “brigands path” an old track used by local outlaws trying to avoid the law some two hundred years ago. With your horse you will cross vineyards and olive trees with breathtaking views of lake Bolsena and through chestnut woods into open plains.

Hospitality is warm and simple but authentic of a country still relying on agriculture as its main income. When possible, every long excursion will be stop halfway at one of the local restaurants or “trattoria” where the delicious local recipes are served.

Please note that the new programmes now offer two packages, silver and gold packages. The silver package offers less riding at a lower rate, the gold package has more riding hours at a higher rate, please see pricing.

Itinerary: Gold package

Saturday: On arrival in the afternoon you will check in and enjoy a welcome drink at the castle & briefing with your guide/instructor about riding and accommodation details and choice of the horses for the next few days, Dinner will be delicious.

Sunday: This morning on your first ride you will easily reach the hills framing at west the plateau on which the castle is situated. A fantastic spot for a breathtaking view of the area, going from the beautiful crater of Lake Bolsena on one side to the hills surrounding the little lake Mezzano on the other side.

Provided a sufficiently clear day the sea can be seen at 40 km in the distance like a glowing mirror. Starting from the castle, after 1 Km. you will reach a large track winding through the beautiful hills and small woods on a steady and soft ground perfect to let the horses canter if wanted. At the end of the track you will enter a big wood named Selva di Onano. The ride is about 18 km.

Monday: From the Castle through you ride an old track before reaching the the hills that frame the plateau to the west. You continue through the chestnut woods to arrive at the top to experience fabulous views from the beautiful crater of lake Bolsena to the hills of the Mezzano lake. Then, if wanted, horses can be pushed into a canter following the old track crossing the plain before the lake along the fields and vineyards.

Bordering Selva del Lamone Naturale Reserve you will stop for lunch above the lake in a magical atmosphere. A small rural restaurant overlooking lake Mezzano will provide you with a beautiful view and a delicious lunch under the shade of the trees overlooking the lake.

From June to September those who want can have a refreshing swim in the lake when the season allows it. In the afternoon the group will take the horses back through the wooded hills. Trail today is about 30 km.

Tuesday: Once on the Brigands track you will go north through the hills, after crossing the provincial road. A beautiful scenery of mountains and hills in front opening onto a nice track which will take you around Onano. Onano is a fortified village with a medieval castle in its middle, providing an interesting site for the riders.

Centuries ago, it was an important stronghold of the Monaldeschi family who ruled this area for ages during the middle ages. Narrow crossings will alternate beautiful open fields with a view. Once at the little medieval church Madonna delle grazie you will follow the track north through enchanting countryside back to the castle.

The afternoon ride is approximately 12 km - from the castle you cross the hill overlooking the castle with a fantastic landscape framing the background. Mount Amiata, the Radicofani fortress, the castle of Torre Alfina are part of this wonderful picture. You soon join a track crossing hills and valleys.

The road turns to the left and after a while the horses can be pushed at a canter on the soft but steady ground between the chestnut woods. After a few kilometres the woods give ground to the pastures full of sheep, there you reach S.Luigi a dairy farm where fabulous "ricotta" cheese is produced. From there the old estate track will take you back to the castle along the hills. Today's ride is about 20 km.

Wednesday: From the castle you will follow an old trail down through the crater of lake Bolsena, the biggest volcanic lake in Europe. Breath taking views of the lake will accompany your excursion all the way. Here and there scattered around the countryside archaeological sites with Etruscan tombs to remind everyone how old the beautiful land is. Once at the bottom lunch will be served on the beach of the Lake in a nice typical restaurant.

A swim in the lake Bolsena(summer) can be part of the day before hopping back on your horse. On the way back the magnificent Farnese renaissance palace in Gradoli will catch your attention while crossing the village. Once at the top of the crater of the lake an old track through the woods will take us back to the castle. Trail today is about 30 km.

Thursday: Day off for local excursions. The surroundings of the castle are full of interesting archeological and historical sites. Just a few suggestions - the village fortresses of Pitigliano, Sorano, Sovano. It is definitely worth visiting the marvellous Italian gothic church of Orvieto - Civita di Bagnoregio, called the ‘Dying Town’

Friday: Following an old Etruscan trail, you will ride up through thick woods to the top of the crater surrounding lake Bolsena. Here, you will enjoy remarkable scenery including vineyards, Etruscan tombs, the prominent volcanic lake and the panorama dominated by the famous Farnese palace in Gradoli. A gift made by the Pope in 1500 for his nephew for his wedding - what a present!

You will return to the castle riding through the vineyards, vegetable gardens and enchanting woods. In particular, you will enjoy a canter across a tunnel made my oak trees above an old shepherds path.

Saturday: Morning is time to check out and depart to the airport.

The excursions can be changed according to weather, horses and riders conditions by the riding management of the castle. Please note that routes will differ for Silver package as there is less riding involved.

If you are looking for a short break in the Italian countryside and you are intrigued by the idea of staying in an ancient castle then this is the trip for you!

Abandoned Etruscan settlements, lakes formed in volcanic craters and medieval buildings all adorn this stunning Italian landscape. Located one and a half hours from Rome, the splendid 17th century castle (complete with fairytale tower) will be ‘home’ throughout your stay. The castle has two swimming pools, a tennis court and ample gardens.

Please note that the new programmes now offer two packages, silver and gold packages. The silver package offers less riding at a lower rate, the gold package has more riding hours at a higher rate, please see pricing.

Itinerary: Gold package

Thursday: Arrival day, transfers from Rome airport are available at an additional cost. 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 you take part in a two hour ride through the wonderful countryside that surrounds the castle.

Friday: Today, you will head north through the hills, spectacular scenery of the castle estate and surrounding farmland will keep you company. After crossing the provincial road, the trail will lead you towards magical scenery made by the tuscan mountains towering in front of you.

The trail carries on around the vicinity of Onano - a fortified town of the Middle Ages. Your guide will show you medieval castle dominating the ancient town - an important stronghold of the Monaldeschi family which ruled the area in the Middle Ages.

You will keep on going through old farmers tracks, up into open fields, past the delightful church of St Maria delle Grazie and then back home to the castle.

Saturday: Today, once you have left the castle, you will make your way to a plateau from which breathtaking views can be seen. You will see lake Bolsena on the southern side and the hills surrounding little lake Mezzano on the northern side. On a clear breezy day, the sea can be seen 40 km away to the west like a glowing mirror reflecting the sun.

You will then ride up through the valleys and hills onto a plateau to take in more spectacular scenery, including the towering Mount Amiata, the Radicofani fortress and the distant castle of Torre Alfina. From the hill, you will follow a large track winding through the fields to take you back to the castle.

Sunday: Sadly today is time to bid farewell to your castle home. If time allows they can offer you another ride out this morning, or if you would prefer a lesson in the arena.

The excursions can be changed according to weather, horses and riders conditions by the riding management of the castle. Please note that routes will differ for Silver package as there is less riding involved.

The perfect midweek break riding on horses chosen for their excellent temperaments, their patience and their delight for traveling through this enchanting countryside!

Please note that the new programmes now offer two packages, silver and gold packages. The silver package offers less riding at a lower rate, the gold package has more riding hours at a higher rate, please see pricing.

Itinerary: Gold package

Sunday: Afternoon arrival (transfers from Rome airport available at an extra cost, but car hire is advisable in order to explore the area).

After checking in you will be served with a welcome drink and then receive a briefing from your guide\instructor who will be looking after you throughout your stay. Later today you will be introduced to you horse with either a short hack or a lesson in the arena.

Monday: Once you have left the castle following an old track, you will reach the hills framing a plateau to the west. Through the chestnut woods, you will arrive at the top where you will have a breathtaking view of the area from the beautiful crater of lake Bolsena on the southern side to the hills surrounding little lake Mezzano on the northern side. On a clear breezy day, the sea can be seen 40 km away to the west, like a glowing mirror reflecting the sun.

You will then ride up through valleys and hills onto a plateau to take in the spectacular scenery, including the towering Mount Amiata, the Radicofani fortress and the distant castle of Torre Alfina. From the hill again, you will follow a large track winding through the fields, taking you back to the castle.

Tuesday: This morning you will be heading off along The Brigands Trail as you ride north towards the fortified village of Onano. Centuries ago this fortified village was an important stronghold of the Monaldeschi family who ruled this area throughout the middle ages. You will return to the castle in time for a delicious Italian lunch.

This afternoon you can either relax at the castle or explore this historical area by yourself, where you will find sites dressed with beautiful views.

Wednesday: Today you will follow an old trail down towards the crater of Lake Bolsena, the biggest volcanic lake in Europe. Breath taking views of the lake will accompany your excursion all the way. Scattered throughout the countryside, you will find archaeological sites where Etruscan tombs will serve to remind you of how ancient this beautiful land really is.

Today lunch will be served on the beach in a typical local restaurant and again there will be the opportunity to swim in the lake.

Thursday: Sadly today it is time to bid farewell to your castle home. If time allows they can offer you another ride out this morning, or if you would prefer, a lesson in the arena.

Please note, the excursions can be changed according to weather, horses and riders conditions by the riding management of the castle. Please note that routes will differ for Silver package as there is less riding involved.

During this beautiful Italian trail ride you stay in two different medieval castles and a fortress: Castle Santa Cristina, the Fortress of Sorano and Castle Proceno. The first castle is a country castle, placed outside of the village and surrounded by agricultural terrain. The main house is still inhabited by the owner who also keeps horses. Your room here is in the restored farmhouse by the castle and your room will be romantic, with the outer walls covered with green ivy, and you will have a view of the swimming pool and its surrounding vegetation. The Fortress of Sorano is located above this unique Etruscan town and the fortress walls which surround your rooms are more than one metre thick. The rooms have a panoramic view of the town and the canyon which originally provided protection from attacks. You can take just a few steps downhill to talk through the town centre with its narrow streets, passage gates, arches and small steps. The second castle is located in the little town of Proceno - parts of it form the town's defensive walls and the castle has its rooms on different levels along the only passage through the village. The swimming pool is situated just outside the castle wall on spacious grounds with wide panoramic terraces. This dreamy Italian holiday allows you to experience medieval surroundings but with the touch of modern comforts. You will eat the freshest, traditional, homemade cuisine and drink fine local wines. The Tuscan cuisine and hospitality bear witness to the long history of agriculture in the region. ItinerarySaturday: Arrival in Rome Fiumicino or Rome Ciampino airports or Orvieto train station and transfer to Santa Cristina Castle, where you will be accommodated for the next three nights. You will meet your guide, view the horses and enjoy a great dinner before your overnight stay.

Sunday - Lake Bolsena (30km): Full day ride. From the castle you ride through the neighboring farmland, through chestnut woods and onto an ancient track which will carry you right above the crater of Lake Bolsena, the largest volcanic lake in Europe. Whilst riding, you will witness some breath–taking views of the lake with its two islands, Bisentina and Martana. As you descend into the crater you will notice many Estruscan tombs scattered throughout the countryside, some reused by farmers as wine cellars but still serving as a reminder of the ancient history which thrives in this area. Once at the lake, lunch will be served in a typical trattoria on the lake front. If you wish to cool off in the water, you can take a swim in the lake before starting the ride back home, passing the archaeological area of Pianezze which is full of Etruscan tombs dating back 2600 years. Once at the top of the crater, you ride through vineyards onto the shepherds' trail to the Santa Cristina Castle estate. 

Monday - Lake Mezzano (30km): Full day ride to Lake Mezzano. The Lake Mezzano area is of great interest both historically and naturally. The lake was once a volcanic crater and historical site with human settlements going back to the pre-etruscan era (aprox 2700 years ago) and is now submerged by water due to earthquakes. Today's excursion takes riders through the farmland, up into the wooded hills which surround Orano. Here the horses have the opportunity to canter along a wonderful natural passage surrounded by trees. At the top of this plateau, you have a chance to take in the dazzling scenery before you carry on down past local farms, through very old chestnut woods and onto a flat, open plain. Here, if desired, the horses can canter up the old tracks before you reach the marshlands and vineyards which surround the Lake Mezzano itself.The lake area is part of the Selva del Lamone natural reserve where you stop for lunch at a small restaurant, with a fantastic view overlooking the water. During the warmer months you can also swim in the lake with the crystal clear waters. In the afternoon, you ride back following the old Brigands' trail, taking in a few historical sights on the way.

Tuesday - Sorano (30km): Full day ride from Santa Cristina to Sorano. Romantic forest, steep ditches, narrow canyons and old Estruscan roads are on your way today. You will feel the culture and history more and more as you get closer to Sorano. You will have a picnic lunch at Vitozza, an archaeological and historical site in San Quirico. You will be accommodated in the medieval fortress high above the old Estruscan town of Sorano, with dinner in a nearby restaurant. 

Wednesday - Around Sorano (30km): Full day ride in the unique area of Sorano with its age-old, narrow roads cut into the tough rock and brought to perfection by the Etruscans. The group will ride by the innumerable grave sites all over the hills. Lunch today will be near Sovana which is one of the most famous Etruscan settlements with its monumental tombs nearby. Back in Sorano, dinner is served in a local village restaurant. 

Thursday - Proceno (30km): Proceno is a village dominated by its fortress, dating back to the medieval times around the year 1000. From Sorano you depart in the morning to the Castle of Proceno. You ride through clay hills into the valley of the river Paglia with marvelous views of the mountains of Amiata and Cetona. Picnic lunch is served in Castel Ottieri, a small and beautiful medieval village half way to Proceno. In the afternoon you still have a couple of hours to arrive at the Proceno Castle, where you will have your dinner, often served by the hands of the owner, Countess Cecilia Cecchini, a passionate cook and Cordon Bleu. 

Friday - Castell'Azzara (30km): Time for the horses to head home! From Proceno you will ride to the Cornacchino Agritourism in Castell'Azzara. A brisk trot along the vineyards takes you to an 18th century ex-convent. From here you head through thick vegetation, taking advantage of an old trail once used by the local farmers. Finally you descend the side of the plateau and reach the Stridolone River, which you must cross again and again through the knee-deep waters. In the distance you can see the Castle of Proceno. From there you start to "climb" the surrounding mountains to reach the agritourism where you will have a nice lunch in their restaurant. In the afternoon a car will collect you and take you back to Santa Cristina Castle for your farewell dinner and last night of sleep. 

Saturday: Breakfast in the castle before checking out.