Tuscany Short Break

5 Days | From £759pp

Italy ( Best airport: Rome Ciampino / Rome Fiumicino)

This short break in Tuscany is ideal if you want to get away for some relaxation and riding but are short on time. Explore the charm of this region, crossing vast, unspoiled territory, riding through beautiful nature, lakes, villages, castles, palaces and archeological sites. The castle offers a perfect location for an authentic country holiday in the south of Tuscany, where you can explore neighbouring historic towns of Orvieto, Sorano, Pitigliano and Bolsena.

The Riding

This trail consists of two 2 half day rides and one full day ride; however the riding can be tailored to suit individual requirements and abilities. For those who want to improve their riding there are instructors on site to offer tuition in one of their sand arenas. There are also special intensive training programs with lessons in flatwork and showjumping available on request. The equestrian centre is a perfect place for family holidays, with riding programs and summer camps available for children aged over 5 years old.

During July it is too hot to run the full day trail, so instead a half day trail will be offered with a massage at the wellness centre.

Level of Riding and Fitness

All riding abilities are catered for and your stay will be tailored to your specific requirements. Beginner and novice riders will be offered a mix of tuition and easy trail rides, more experienced riders can enjoy a full day trail ride as well as lessons and half day rides. The weight limit is 100kg.

Guides and Group Size

Group sizes are between 1-6 riders. Groups are separated based on ability.

Any questions?

The Horses

The horses are a mixture of thoroughbreds, warmblood crosses and ponies, ridden in English tack.

Accommodation and Dining

The breathtakingly splendid 17th century castle, Castello di Santa Cristina, has been the property of the noble Caterini family for generations. It is located in Southern Tuscany half way between Orvieto and Siena, closely bordering with the regions of Umbria and Tuscany and one and a half hours away from Rome.

The castle’s 18th Century ivy-covered farmhouse and out-buildings have been carefully restored over the past ten years to retain their authenticity. Now they offer fantastic accommodation, in 8 self-catering cottages and 14 private double bedrooms. All rooms are furnished with original pieces and offer you the chance to enjoy a unique holiday in Italy.

The ground floor of the farm house opens onto the main terrace which overlooks the swimming pool. On the ground floor there is a large “taverna” with brick vaulted ceilings. The space is divided into three main areas: dining room, billiard room, ping-pong room, plus a large kitchen available for all the guests and equipped for cooking courses.

There is also a wellness centre onsite providing a range of holistic and Ayurvedic treatments with a qualified physiotherapist.

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Gallery

Itinerary

Day 1 After a check-in and welcome drink, you'll meet the guides during dinner for an introduction and programme briefing before enjoying a guided tour of the Castle.

Day 2 Half day ride of 18km. After breakfast you will ride towards the hills framing 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 Full day ride of 32km. Today you will ride through farmland on the Brigands Path into the wooded hills which surround Onano. Take a glimpse of the pine trees atop an ancient Etruscan site as you arrive on the flat plane of the Mezzano crater. Stop for lunch at the Fra Viaco farm restaurant, where you can take a refreshing swim in the crystal clear waters of the lake. After a delicious meal, you will ascend through ancient chestnut woods to arrive back at the castle.

Day 4 Half day ride. Today you will be heading out along The Brigands Trail towards the 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.

Day 5 Having had many amazing experiences and exhilarating adventures, you will prepare for your onward journey taking with you many happy memories. Checkout is usually between 10am-12pm, although a late checkout can be arranged subject to availability.