If you are looking for a short break to a rural hideaway set deep in the Italian countryside between Tuscany and Umbria and you like the idea of staying in a castle then please read on…….
Abandoned Etruscan settlements, lakes formed in volcanic craters and medieval edifices adorn the landscape of this enchanting Italian landscape. Located one and a half hours from Rome the splendid 17th century castle (complete with fairy tale turret) will be ‘home’ throughout your stay. The castle has two swimming pools, a tennis court and ample gardens and for those wishing to ride, a well run stables with professional instruction and miles upon miles of breath-taking trail riding awaits you.
Horses and Castles
Running from February to November but avoiding children’s’ holidays in the summer when a family holiday is offered.
Sunday
Afternoon arrival (transfers from Rome airport available as a supplement). After checking in you will be served with a welcome drink and then receive a briefing from your guideinstructor who will be looking after you throughout your stay. Later today you will be able to choose from a short hack or a lesson to introduce you to your horse.
Monday
Today you will be riding to Lake Mezzano, this is an area of great interest both historically and naturally. The lake was formed in a volcanic crater and is now a historical site with traces of human settlements dating back to the pre-etruscan era. We will be riding through the chestnut woods on the hillsides that surround the lake before descending onto the beaches that surround the lake. We will stop for lunch at a small rural restaurant overlooking the lake where the horses can enjoy a rest in their shady corral whilst we eat, relax and maybe enjoy a refreshing swim.
Tuesday
This morning we will be heading off along The Brigands Trail as we ride north towards the fortified village of Orano. Centuries ago this fortified village was an important stronghold of the Monaldeschi family who ruled this area throughout the middle ages.
We will return to the castle for lunch. This afternoon the choice is yours, either relax in the beautiful gardens of the castle, enjoy a lesson in the arena or saddle up again for a shorter hack to a local dairy farm renowned for its fabulous "ricotta" cheese.
Wednesday
Today we 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 our excursion all the way. Scattered throughout the countryside, archaeological sites with Etruscan tombs will serve to remind us 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 we can offer you another ride out this morning, or if you would prefer, a lesson in the arena.
Included in the Price:
- 4 nights accommodation in twin rooms with ensuite facilities
- Full board including table wine (picnic lunch on some rides)
- Welcome drink and guided tour of the castle.
- 5 riding days, 2 full riding days (4/5 hrs. per day), 2 half days (2 hrs. per day), introductory ride
- Multi-lingual guide
- Lessons available in the arena from beginners to intermediate
Cost per person in shared twin £565.00
The horses are a mixture of thoroughbred and warm blood crosses all chosen for their excellent temperaments, their patience and their delight for travelling through this enchanting countryside! The tack is English tack. There are two outdoor arenas and lessons are available for all ages and levels in both dressage and jumping. The maximum weight allowed is 100kg and the numbers of riders on each excursion is between 1 and 5.
Facilities at the castle include:
- Swimming pool (01st June - 30th September)
- Tennis court (15E per hour)
- Mountain bikes (20E per person per day)
- Mini football Pitch
- Volleyball
- Ping pong
- Billiards
ATTENTION: The excursions can be changed according to weather, horses and riders conditions by the riding management of the castle.
Click here to download a booking form.