Tuscany Castle, Italy
Overview
Reviews
“My Dad and I had a fantastic time! The horses and riding were brilliant and the food amazing (far too much). The riding was tailored perfectly for the different abilities! We met some great people and had a really enjoyable time! The owners made us feel very welcome and nothing was too much trouble, the countryside was stunning!!”
Horses
Type of horses:
Primarily a mix of Thoroughbred and Warmblood crosses with ponies for children. There are also several other breeds used in the stables.
Nature of horses:
The horses are individually selected for their excellent temperaments, patience and suitability.
Height of horses:
13.2 - 17hh
Weight limit:
100 kg
Tack type:
English
Travel Advice
Please ensure you read the Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) advice before you travel.
Ride Description
This strikingly beautiful 17th-century castle, located between the rolling hills of Tuscany, Latium and Umbria, allows its guests to come in to contact with the surrounding nature, splendid setting and the best views of central Italy. With its fairytale style turret, the castle is a romantic but comfortable setting for those wishing to explore the culture and history of the land in a relaxing way. Located just one and a half hours from Rome, the castle has been the property of the noble Caterini family for generations. The family have lovingly restored the cottages and farmhouse, once used by local farmers, to comfortably house their guests and they offer a warm, friendly welcome to all. Those keen on horse riding will be delighted with this certified equestrian centre and the quality of the horses, trails and equipment.
The castle is situated on the Tuscany border and guests can experience one of the largest lakes of volcanic origins in Europe, Lake Bolsena. This is a unique and strikingly beautiful area, rich in olive trees and vineyards, charming villages, ancient churches and artistic monuments. Just 3km away lies a fascinating village of Etruscan origin, set deep into the hillside, so there is plenty to be explored! The castle was once the residence of a Cardinal who housed the Vatican's treasure here to keep it safe during the revolution in 1848... needless to say it is crammed full of fascinating artefacts. He chose the castle to be his personal residence and now his descendants, Count Antonio and his family, use this enchanting place as their country home.
The castle's equestrian centre is home to a herd of quality horses who are cared for to a high standard. There are two spacious outdoor arenas and lessons are available in both flatwork and jumping with all levels welcome. There is also a small cross country course on the estate which experienced riders can enjoy when the going is good. In 2017 we are delighted that a new instructor has joined the team. Elizabeth Rusak is a professional dressage rider and has been a rider for an Olympic dressage rider in Germany. She has a lot of experience as an instructor in several countries and is fluent in several languages including English, Italian, Polish, Russian and Ukranian.
Miles and miles of trails surround this magnificent estate and are a sheer joy to explore on horseback with the company of the guides. The pace of the rides are matched to the ability and preferences of the riders but don't worry, experienced riders can enjoy fast canters and interesting terrain on a forward-going horse! In the summer you can reach out from horseback and pick fresh figs, peaches, apples, pears and blackberries or even ride to the waters of beautiful Lake Bolsena for a typical Italian lunch. In spring and autumn, you can make the most of the perfect riding temperatures, verdant scenery and good ground for riding.
Your holiday can be as active or sedate as you like as you can choose one of their flexible packages or we can even tailor make something to meet your needs. Non-riders can enjoy mountain biking which is another of Count Antonio's passions - there is a selection of bikes (including electric mountain bikes!) with well-marked trails and even the chance to meet up with riders at lunchtimes. The castle also has a heavenly pool and tennis courts, plus there is a spa nearby and opportunities for wine-tasting, golf and fishing. Lake Bolsena is fifteen minutes by car and is host to the carp fishing world championships. Needless to say, this is a superb base for all sorts of holidays!
The castle was visited by Holly from Far and Ride in September 2014 and she could not fault a thing. Please do not hesitate to give her a call if you'd like to know more about this super destination.
See Programmes.
Food & Accommodation
Just below the castle stands a handsome XVIII farmhouse, the original centre of the estate's farming activities. The farmhouse has been skillfully converted with careful attention being paid to conserving the authenticity of the building, together with providing comfort and privacy. The very large farmhouse now contains eight charming apartments and fourteen bedrooms, mostly furnished with original pieces. All of the bedrooms have en suite facilities and the apartments are fully equipped for self-catering.
On the ground floor there is a large 'taverna' with brick vaulted ceilings. The space is divided into three main areas including a dining room, a billiard room with table tennis facilities and a large kitchen for guests to use which is also equipped for cooking courses. On site there is a spa where several treatments will be on offer. Stella is a fully qualified beauty therapist, aromatherapist, masseuse and pedicurist who has been practising in Italy for twelve years.
The food here is traditional Italian cuisine and includes local specialties accompanied by a few new and delicious recipes - in keeping with Tuscan style the food tends to be simple and hearty but tasty. The restaurant is located in the taverna on the ground floor of farmhouse and the chef prepares your delicious meals when you eating on site. During the summer you can often eat on the terrace overlooking the swimming pool.
If you wish to eat outside of the castle then your hosts can offer you a list (available at reception) of the restaurants in the area that they recommend. Here you can discover the warmth of the local people, their authentic and genuine hospital and of course, the fantastic local recipes.
Activities
The facilities here are fantastic for all the family. There are two private swimming pools, a tennis court, indoor games room and plenty of green grass and a mini soccer pitch for active children. Massages are available on site.
A vast network of country tracks, bridleways and public footpaths cover the area and are still used by farmers and shepherds. The mountain biker is allowed to cross this land freely in any direction.You can rent a bicycle from the castle and head off alone or ask for a guide and benefit from his expertise and knowledge of the area.
You can hop on one of the 4x4 guided tours following old tracks through lakes, over hills and through forests to uncover interesting and mysterious sites that even some of the locals don't know about.
You can visit the best Etruscan archeological sites as well as ruins of the ancient town of Castro and caves with carvings in the rock. In the summer it is possible to experience a unique snorkelling adventure. Beneath the water, on the beautiful southern shores of Lake Bolsena a fantastical archeological site is concealed. Plunge into the warm and crystal clear waters and with a mask and flippers you will see the remains of a human settlement from the pre-Etruscan period.
This relatively undiscovered region of Alta Tuscia has much to offer - mystical cities, volcanic crater lakes and medieval architecture.
Further Details
Languages: English, Italian, Polish, Russian, Ukranian, Norwegian, Dutch
Health requirements: Must be physically fit and in good health for the riding activities as described. All guests MUST wear riding helmets and must have insurance cover.
Age limit: 9+
Tuition: Yes
Included: Accommodation, meals and horse riding as described in the itineraries.
Not included: Flights, travel insurance and transfers.
Travel Information
There are many airlines flying into both Rome airports including Ryanair and EasyJet.
Orvieto is 45 km away and is the nearest train station. It is a 40-minute drive by car. Orvieto is 1 -2 hour by train from Rome depending on the train. However, we recommend you hire a car at the airport so you can explore this wonderful countryside.
Transfers are not included in the price but in order to facilitate transportation to the castle, the owners have arranged their own transfers at a lower price than normal taxis.
The service is available at the below prices from 08:00 - 20:00 from Orvieto train station or Rome airports (Fiumicino or Ciampino) and the prices below are per vehicle and include travel both directions. A small surcharge of €15 per person will be applied to transfers before 08:00 or after 20:00.
Orvieto station (90km round trip)
1 person: €90
2-3 people: €120
4 people: €140
Fiumicino airport (300km round trip) or Ciampino airport (340km round trip)
1 person: €200
2-3 people: €230
4 people: €250
Airport: Rome
Alternative Airport: Florence
Programmes
Brigands Path
| 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 stop halfway at one of the local restaurants or “trattoria” where delicious local recipes are served. Sample Itinerary Saturday: Upon 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 you will ride on an old track before reaching the the hills that frame the plateau to the west. You will 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 you will take the horses back through the wooded hills. The trail today is about 30 km. Tuesday: Once on the Brigands track you will go north through the hills, after crossing the provincial road. The beautiful scenery of mountains and hills in front of you will open onto a nice track which will take you around Onano. Onano is a fortified village with a medieval castle in its centre, providing an interesting site for the riders. Centuries ago, it was an important stronghold of the Monaldeschi family who ruled this area 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 will 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 will 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. Breathtaking views of the lake will accompany your excursion all the way. Here and there, scattered around the countryside, archaeological sites with Etruscan tombs will remind you 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 you back to the castle. The trail today is about 30 km. Thursday: Today is a 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: You will check out in the morning and depart. The excursions can be changed according to weather, horses and riders conditions by the riding management of the castle. | |
| Accommodation: | Accommodation is based on shared occupancy (double or twin), all with en-suite facilities in the restored farmhouse. Single supplement available. |
| Minimum group size: | 1 |
| Maximum group size: | 5 |
| Ability description: | Intermediate to experienced. Moderate pace with trots and canters. A beginners programme is also available. |
| Type of ride: | Based trails |
| Total riding time: | 5 riding days: 1 full day (4/5 hrs) and 4 half days (2/3hrs) |
| Departure dates: | 2018: Saturday to Saturday from 1st March - 6th November. |
| Pricing: | 2018: Trips are available from 1st March to 6th November, with peak season pricing operating 18th June to 16th September. Full board: £1134 standard or peak season: £1217 Half board: £958 standard or peak season: £1072 Single supplement: £92 standard and peak Non-rider half board: £523 standard or peak season: £615 Non-rider full board: £646 standard or peak season: £738 Package includes 7 nights full or half board accommodation (double room), continental breakfast, welcome drink and guided tour of the castle, meals (picnic lunch where necessary), dinners at the nearby restaurant and taxes, 1 full day riding (4/5hrs) and 4 half days riding (2/3hrs). Flights, transfers, room cleaning and travel insurance are not included in the price. |
Italian Long Weekend
| 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 this is a flexible package of trail riding or lessons or both (when possible). Sample Itinerary 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 will 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 you may ride out this morning, or if you would prefer you may take a lesson in the arena. The excursions can be changed according to weather, horses and riders conditions by the riding management of the castle. | |
| Minimum group size: | 1 |
| Maximum group size: | 5 |
| Ability description: | Beginners to experienced |
| Type of ride: | Based tuition and trails |
| Total riding time: | 3 riding days: 1 full day ride (4/5hrs) and 2 half day rides (2/3hrs). |
| Departure dates: | 2018: Departure dates from Thursday to Sunday from 1st March - 6th November. |
| Pricing: | 2018: Trips are available from 1st March to 6th November, with peak season pricing operating 18th June to 16th September. Full board: £659 Standard or peak season: £747 Half board: £571 Standard or peak season: £659 Single supplement: £40 Standard and peak Non rider half board: £250 Standard or peak season: £290 Non rider full board: £303 Standard or peak season: £343 Price includes 3 nights accommodation in twin/double rooms with en-suite facilities, full or half board (picnic lunch on some rides), welcome drink and guided tour of the castle and 2 half days of riding (2 hrs per day) as well as 1 full day ride (4/5 hrs per day) with multi-lingual guide. Less experienced riders will be offered 3 lessons and 2 half day trails instead. Flights, transfers, room cleaning and travel insurance are NOT included in the price. |
Mid Week Italian Break
| The perfect midweek break riding on horses chosen for their excellent temperaments, their patience and their delight for traveling through this enchanting countryside! Sample Itinerary 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. During low season they often introduce you to your horse for a short assessment ride (20 - 30 minutes) today, but during peak season riders are assessed before the first main ride on Monday. 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. Breathtaking 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 you may ride out this morning, or if you would prefer you may take 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. | |
| Minimum group size: | 1 |
| Maximum group size: | 5 |
| Ability description: | Beginners to experienced |
| Type of ride: | Based tuition and trails |
| Total riding time: | 4 riding days: 1 full day (4/5hrs) and 3 half days (2 hrs). |
| Departure dates: | 2018: Departure dates Sunday to Thursday from 1st March - 6th November. |
| Pricing: | 2018: Trips are available from 1st March to 6th November, with peak season pricing operating 18th June to 16th September. Full board: £773 Standard or peak season: £835 Half board: £703 Standard or peak season: £747 Single supplement: £53 Standard and peak Non rider half board: £299 Standard or peak season: £352 Non rider full board: £369 Standard or peak season: £422 Price includes 4 nights accommodation in twin/double rooms with en-suite facilities, full or half board (picnic lunch on some rides), welcome drink and guided tour of the castle, 1 full day riding (4/5hrs) and 3 half days (2 hrs) with a multi-lingual guide. Less experienced riders are offered a mix of half-day trails and lessons rather than the full day trail. Flights, transfers, room cleaning and travel insurance are NOT included in the price. |