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. 

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:

Another beautiful day at the castle. This morning you will enjoy a 2-hour ride in the surrounding country, before lunch and a restful afternoon. There will be opportunities to have a massage or take an excursion to see Bolsena lake or some of the little villages of the area (these activities will be at an additional cost).

Monday: 

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. 

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. 

This week-long package is the perfect combination of riding and relaxation and is easily adapted to suit beginners or non-riders as well. The programme includes one full day ride and three half day rides, a wine-tasting at the famous Famous Fattoria Aldobandesca Antinori in Tuscany (with transport included) and two massages of around fifty minutes each. Beginner riders will be offered ten hours riding divided into lessons and easy hacks (instead of the longer rides). 

Other activities and excursions or extra riding can be added to the programme on request.

A children's pony club camp for 9 - 17 year olds. This residential camp combines a cultural and historical experience with a chance to improve equitation skills. Tuition is given in English. 

The camp is supervised by Antonio Mancini Caterini (ENGEA), along with staff he has selected to teach and guide their little guests - primarily Bozhidara (BHS III Instructor from Bulgaria) and Sarah, a qualified trainer from the UK. The mounts available are a mixture of ponies and horses who have been trained by the team and who are suitable for children's activities. All meals are included in the comfortable farmhouse with children sharing twin rooms. The restaurant provides delicious, genuine food every day.

Each day children will do a minimum of around three hours of riding and horse handling, including lessons and excursions. Of course they will also be involved in caring for the horses, taking them from and to the paddocks, grooming them and learning to keep their equipment in good condition. Theory and stable management are included, as well as the practical elements of horse care and riding. 

Example Itinerary:

8am: Breakfast

9am: Theory of riding and stable management lessons, followed by practical tuition.

1pm: Lunch

2pm: Free times for games, swimming etc. 

4pm: Riding activity (lesson or hack).

8pm: Dinner and evening activity. 

NB. Helmets and body protectors are compulsory.

Facilities on site include:

- 2 outdoor sand arenas

- show jumps and some cross country fences

- round pen

- miles and miles of traffic-free hacking routes

- tennis court

- swimming pool

- indoor games

- music area (piano and guitar)

- volleyball/badminton court

- trampoline

- football pitch

- local lakes for swimming

- cooking classes

- cycling

Welcome the New Year in style on this short break with half-day rides exploring the enchanting countryside of Tuscany, with a celebratory dinner on New Year's Eve. On horseback explore the Italian countryside with castles and archeological sites framing the view before returning to relax at the castle in the afternoons. The old trails used by the "Brigands" (outlaws) to escape from the law over 200 years ago provide excellent riding opportunities - you will explore this beautiful area on a horse just as they did all those years ago.

What's included:

- 5 nights of accommodation in double or twin rooms in the old granary building of the castle (en-suite bathroom)

- full board with table wine and coffee included (all meals have a fixed menu)

- 4 half day riding excursions and 2 lessons of 50 mins each (flatwork or jumping)

- therapeutic 50 minute massage from on site professional

- wine tasting

- cookery class preparing handmade pasta with ragu

- welcome drink and guided tour of the castle

Day One: 28 December

Arrival day - airport transfers are possible at extra cost. After checking-in you will be offered a welcome drink and shown to your room. After an aperitif there is a guided tour of the building and its treasures. Dinner will be served in the taverna. 

Day Two: 29 December

After breakfast at the castle you set off for a half day riding excursion towards the hills framing the west plateau on which the castle is situated. There are fantastic views stretching from the crater of Lake Bolsena to the hills surrounding Lake Mezzano. Return to the castle for lunch in the taverna. In the afternoon is a trip to the historical town of Orvieto, Umbria, for a visit. Dinner in the taverna in the evening.

Day Three: 30 December

Another half day ride through the wonderful countryside which surrounds the castle.  Head out along the Brigands Trail towards picturesque Lake Bolsena. After lunch in the taverna you will explore the historical town of Pitigliano in Tuscany and enjoy a wine tasting at the famous Fattoria Aldobrandesca Antinori. Dinner back at the castle.

Day Four: 31 December

After breakfast, set off on another half day ride on the Brigands paths, heading north towards Onano, a fortified village with a medieval castle which was the stronghold of the Monaldeschi family in the Middle Ages. Return to the castle for lunch. In the afternoon you can relax with a 50 minute massage from the estate's professional physiotherapist. Afterwards you can prepare for a special New Year's Eve dinner at the castle with traditional Italian food, music and fireworks at midnight. 

Day Five: 1st January

Brunch followed by a half day riding excursion - your first ride of 2020! Follow an old Estruscan trail through thick woods to the top of the crater surrounding Lake Bolsena. Return through vineyards, vegetable gardens and enchanting woods, in particular a canter through a tunnel of oak trees above an old shepherds path. On arrival back at the castle it's time to try your hand at Italian cooking by learning how to make handmade tagliatelle and gnocchi with ragu. In the afternoon there's a 50 minute lesson, either in flatwork or jumping - your choice - before dinner in the castle restaurant. 

Day Six: 2nd January

After breakfast, have one final 50 mins lesson in jumping or flatwork before checking out and heading back to the airport for your flight home. 

This package combines a three night stay at a beautiful apart in Rome (self-catering) with a four night stay on the castle estate, giving the ultimate week package for those interested in both Rome and Tuscany. During your stay in Tuscany you will enjoy a full day ride and three half day rides to make the most of the excellent riding terrain.

Beginner riders can also be accommodated and instead of the longer rides will receive ten hours of tuition and easy hacks.

The apartment in Rome is owned by your hosts at the castle - it is centrally located and well-appointed. The combination of city days and sightseeing with peace and riding from the estate makes for a great taste of Italy.

This new programme has been designed to suit couples or pair with one horse rider and one non-rider - the non-rider can cycle instead! This allows for both guests to have a holiday full of sport and adventure. All riding and cycling is guided and participants will meet up for lunchtime sometimes, such as at the beautiful lakes of Mezzano or Bolsena.

Electric bikes are available for a supplementary fee. Beginner horse riders will be offered ten hours of tuition and easy trails, instead of the longer rides.

Day to Day Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival, check-in and a welcome drink. You will meet your guides for an introduction and briefing of the programme, then will take a guided tour of the castle. Dinner will be served in the taverna. 

Day 2 for cyclists - Torre Alfina, 50km (road bike): Today you will zig-zag through the countryside to reach the town of Bolsena where you'll have coffee in the main square. Following an undulating route, you will reach Torre Alfina Castle where you will stop for a gelato before returning back to the castle.

Day 2 for riders - half day ride, 18km:Today you ride towards the hills which frame the west plateau on which the castle is situated. This is a fantastic spot for a breathtaking view of the area, from the beautiful crater of Lake Bolsena to the hills surrounding Lake Mezzano. 

Day 3 for cyclists - 30/50km (mountain bike, two routes to choose from):After climbing the wooded hills of the Selva di Onano you head towards Tuscany following a scenic gravel road to approach the lake from the north-west side. All around you is fantastic unspoilt countryside. You will stop at the Fra Viaco farm restaurant and meet the riders there for lunch. There is time for a refreshing swim in the crystal clear waters of the lake. 

After a delicious lunch you are prepared for the steep uphill climb before a well-deserved final descent back to the castle. 

Day 3 for riders - 32km: You will ride through farmland on the Brigands Path into the wooded hills which surround Onano. You will glimpse stone pine trees atop an ancient Etruscan site and will then arrive on the flat plain of the Mezzano Crater. You will stop at the Fra Viaco farm restaurant and meet the cyclists there for lunch. There is time for a refreshing swim in the crystal clear waters of the lake. 

After a delicious meal, you ascend through ancient chestnut woods to arrive back at the castle. 

Day 4 - a day off for sightseeing: The local area is full of interesting archaeological and historical sites. A few suggestions would be for you to visit the village fortresses of Pitigliano, Sorano and Sovano. It is definitely worth visiting the marvellous Italian gothic church of Orvieto - Civita di Bagnoregio, known as the 'Dying Town'. 

Wine-tasting at the famous Fattoria Aldobrandesca Antinori OR 2 or 4 hours boat rental on Lake Bolsena (summer) are included in your package. 

Alternatively you can choose to relax at the castle and take advantage of the swimming pool, tennis court, indoor and outdoor games or perhaps have a massage or take a cooking class. 

Day 5 for cyclists - Lake Bolsena, 50km (road bike): Descending into the crater, you will admire the hilltop down of Grotte di Castro. Once beside the lake you will follow its northern shore heading towards Capodimonte. You will meet the riders at the lakeside restaurant for lunch and a swim. 

On the return journey you will climb out of the crater, crossing the village of Gradoli. 

Day 5 for riders - Lake Bolsena, 36km: Following an old trail down through the crater, you will enjoy breathtaking views. Here and there, scattered around the countryside, are archaeological sites with Etruscan tombs which remind you how old the beautiful land is. You will meet the cyclists at the lakeside restaurant for lunch and a swim. 

On your way back you will see the magnificent Farnese renaissance palace in Gradoli. Once at the top of the crater of the lake an old track through the woods will lead you back to the castle. 

Day 6 for cyclists - Pitigliano and Sorano, 60km (road bike): After crossing Onano the road will gently undulate before descending deeply into the gorge of the river Lente. The dramatic view of the fortress in Sorano is worth a photo stop. Onwards towards Pitigliano which was once an Etruscan village and then a medieval fortress owned by the noble Orsini family. You will stop to visit the historical centre and the Jewish ghetto. The return route will steadily but gently climb until you make a final descent to the castle. 

Day 6 for riders - half day ride, 20km:Taking the Brigands Path you will head north through the hills towards Onano, a fortified village with a medieval castle which was the stronghold of the Monaldeschi family, rulers here in the Middle Ages. At the Madonna delle Grazie Church you will follow the track north through enchanting countryside back to the castle. 

Day 7 for cyclists - Monte Amiata, 107km (road bike) with less challenging alternative available: Monte Amiata is the big, irresistible challenge for local cyclists. The first part is an easy, mostly downhill route, following the old Roman road along the river Paglia. However, you soon start climbing for 27km up along the mountain touching Piancastagnaio and Abbadia S. Salvatore. The road winds up through the old mines, then through the chestnut woods for a time that seems never-ending. Finally you will reach the top at 1734m! Here you will take a well-deserved stop to refuel and take some photos, then you will ride down the steep roads of the southern side of the mountain. The air is cool and thin and you can dwell the difference. Watch out on the last 20km where there are ups and downs on the hills which are not to be underrated. 

Day 7 - half day ride, 16km: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 which is dominated by the famous Farnese palace in Gradoli. This was a gift made by the Pope in 1500 to his nephew on 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 through a tunnel of oak trees on an old shepherds path. 

Day 8 - departure: Having had many amazing experiences and exhilarating adventures, you will prepare for your onward journey. Check-out is usually between 10am - 2pm, although a late check-out can be arranged subject to availability. 

NB. Please note that excursions can be changed according to weather, horses, riders' experience level or other circumstances beyond your hosts' management. Safety is always their primary concern. Routes and distances can be changed by prior arrangement to suit ability.