Testimonial
We have just returned from the most amazing trip to Italy. From start to finish we received a top class service that could not be faulted. We were met by our own private driver at Fiumicino airport who drove us to our beautiful apartment base in the city. And what a location! We were located a stone’s throw from the Pantheon and just a couple of minutes from Piazza Navona. In just 2 full days we exhausted ourselves with all the sights including the Trevi Fountain, the Colosseum, Vatican City and so much more.
Then on to the castle for the riding.. we took the train to Orvieto from the main station in Rome which was so straightforward. We could have got a taxi but chose to walk from the apartment taking in more sights along the way. At Orvieto we were met by our driver who took us the rest of the way to the castle. Before booking with Equestrian Escapes we were quite apprehensive as to what to expect as we’d never been on a riding holiday before. How wrong we were to expect anything other than excellence! Our only regret is that we didn’t choose to stay for longer. Our bedroom at the castle was prefect, hosts and guides outstanding, horses impeccable, chef wonderful (I could go on). We look forward to returning next year.
Day One
Arrive into Fiumicino or Ciampino airport and make your way in to the centre of Rome. You can easily get the train from the airport and then a taxi to the apartment, or for 50€ we can arrange a private transfer. Once arrived you will be met by the apartment owner and shown round your base for the next few days. Located less than a minute from the Pantheon this beautiful apartment couldn't be in a better location. You are within easy walking distance of all the famous sights including the Piazza Navona, Trevi Fountain, Colosseum, The Vatican City, St. Peter's Basilica, Spanish Steps and much more.
The apartment is very cosy and full of light, it is located on the 2nd floor of an historic building in Piazza Rondanini. It is well equipped with a double bedroom, shower room, spacious living/dining room with sofa bed and a small kitchenette.
Day Two
Free to explore City of Rome.
Day Three
Free to explore Rome again.
Day Four
Today you will be catching the train from Roma Termini (the main train station) to Orvieto. Next stop is the castle to start the riding part of your holiday! We can arrange for you to be collected from Orvieto train station for 55€ each way.
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. Today riders will be heading off along The Brigands Trail riding north towards the fortified village of Orano. Those learning to ride may choose instruction until they become safe and secure in the saddle.
Day Five
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 riding up through the valleys and hills onto a plateau to take in the spectacular Tuscan scenery. Beginners may choose a lesson followed by a shorter hack through the beautiful countryside that surrounds the castle.
Day Six
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 (not included in price).
Included in the price:
- 5 nights accommodation (3 Rome, 2 Castle)
- Half board including table wine at castle
- Welcome drink and guided tour of the castle.
- 2 riding days as described above (1 x full day and 1 x 1/2 day)
- Multi-lingual guide
- Lessons available in the arena from beginners to intermediate
Single room supplement for holiday £175
If you want to extend your holiday the price for 3 nights self catering in Rome and 3 nights half board at the castle with 3 days (1 x full day and 2 x 1/2 days) of riding is £795pp.
Transfers
Airport transfers - Transfers from both Rome airports (Fiumicino & Ciampina) are available on request between 10am-7pm. You will be met by your driver in arrivals, they will have a sign with your name on. 1 person = €200. 2-3 people = €230. 4 people = €250. All transfers are payable directly to the castle on arrival.
Train station transfers - Transfers from Orvieto train station are available on request. There are good train connections from Rome to Orvieto which take approximately 1.5 hours. 1 person = €90. 2-3 people = €120. 4 people = €140. All transfers are payable directly to the castle on arrival.
Although the above transfers are offered by the castle we highly recommend hiring a car for this holiday.
Equestrian Escapes are happy to reserve your transfers for you however, as payment for this service is made directly to the transfer provider this service does not form part of our contract with you. As such, we are unable to accept responsibility for any delays, missed transfers etc.
Horses
The horses are a mixture of mix of thoroughbred and warm blood crosses, anglo-arabian and ponies. 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 are between 1 and 5. Riding helmets are mandatory - no helmets = no riding. The castle has a veriety of helmets but it is always advisable to bring your own.
These riding holidays run from February to November but avoid childrens' holidays in the summer when a family riding holiday is offered.
A selection of lunch options are available from the castle restaurant
Additional Info
Optional activities at the castle include:
• Swimming pool (01st June - 30th September)
• Tennis court (€15 per hour)
• Mountain bikes (€20 per person per day)
• Mini football Pitch
• Volleyball
• Ping pong
• Billiards
ATTENTION: The excursions can be changed on this holiday according to weather, horses and riders conditions by the riding management of the castle. For travel tips regarding riding holidays please click here. Safety is very important to us, your instructor will advise you of the most suitable riding programme for your ability.
To read Equestrian Escapes reviews click on the link
A horse riding holiday Italy is the perfect place for a horse riding weekend or a short break. You will never be bored on this riding holiday as the owners of the castle have lots of activities to keep all the family entertained.
We inspect all the horses in our horse riding holidays to ensure the best quality holiday for you.
For tips regarding your holiday such as what to wear and riding ability, please visit the Travel Tips page.
We work hard to ensure that each customer has a great time on their holiday. Please see some riding holiday reviews here.
We have a large range of holidays to suit a range of riding abilities. Please see here for more information.
If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us.