Southern Tuscany, Riders & Non Riders Family Special:
If you are looking for a family holiday in the Italian countryside between Tuscany and Umbria and you like the idea of staying in a castle then we may have just what you are looking for. This is a special package for families where you can choose exactly how much riding you do (including none!)
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. For those wishing to ride, a well run stables with professional instruction and miles upon miles of breath-taking trail riding awaits you.
You can ride as much or as little as you want. There is a choice of lessons from beginners to advanced in both dressage and jumping. There is also the option to ride in the countryside. Pony mad children or horse mad adults can enjoy excursions whilst the other family members enjoy the swimming pool. There is also a tennis court, billiard table, mini football pitch and a large garden for children to play in.
If the riders would like to go for a full day excursion, the rest of the family can come by car and meet up for lunch at one of the local restaurants that we use.
Accommodation is in well furnished and comfortable cottages. Both self catering and half board plan are available.
Your riding days will be spent in the countryside surrounding the castle, a 16 century estate still owned by the Caterini family, whose new generation, with their passion for horses, has turned the castle into an enchanting resort. The package price includes 4 half days of riding, below is a sample of the rides that await you. These rides can be exchanged for lessons if you prefer. We can also offer full day rides, you tell us what you want and we will organise it for you.
THE THREE WATERS ALONG THE BRIGANDS PATH: (2 hours)
This morning you will be heading out along The Brigands Trail towards picturesque Lake Bolsena. This is a fantastic spot with breathtaking views of the area stretching from the beautiful crater of Lake Bolsena on one side, to the hills surrounding Lake Mezzano on the other side. On a clear day you can see the sea 40 km away, shimmering like a mirror. As you head back along this ancient ‘outlaws highway’ you will pass through mature oak woodlands dotted with original farm dwellings built in the traditional tufo rock.NOCCHIETO & S.MARTINO (2 hours)
Today we will be riding along the track that was used as an escape route by the famous outlaws of the last century as they fled from the pursuing guards. Passing the ancient farm of Nocchieto the soft ground makes an ideal surface for the horses as you canter up to the old fountain. Then we will be entering a narrow line of gorges still used by the shepherds before heading to the top of Mount Amirita with its stunning views.TO THE MEDIEVAL CHURCH OF S.MARIA DELLE COLONNE (2 hours)
From the castle we will climb upwards today along an ancient road carved into the rock. We will be riding through cultivated fields and chestnut woods where the horses, if wanted, can be pushed into canter giving the riders the thrill of a ride through these picturesque woods. At the bottom of the slope we find a small medieval church, another reminder of the rich cultural heritage of this region.TO THE PANORAMIC VIEW (2 hours)
This excursion rewards the riders with a magnificent breathtaking panoramic view filling your heart. We will be following a bridleway to the woods of Onano. From there we will be crossing the pastureland until we reach a small track going slightly uphill (ideal for a canter), once at the top of the hills the horses can rest whilst we enjoy the spectacular views of mountains, lakes, woods, and castles: It’s all there at your feet!The cost per person in a 4 person self catering cottage for one week with 4 half day rides as above (or lessons) is from £395.00 (prices for July and August may be slightly higher)
The accommodation in the self catering cottages offer either 2 or 3 double bedrooms (sleeps four to six people). In addition each cottage has a bathroom, living room, dining room and kitchen.
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
- Tennis court (15E per hour)
- Mountain bikes
- Mini football Pitch
- Volleyball
- Ping pong
- Billiards
Click here to download a booking form.