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Medieval Monasteries & Castles Trail

8 days - Florence to Florence

This trail ride begins in the heart of the Chianti Rufina region, the wildest of all Chianti wine-making zones and takes in the best of Tuscan vineyards and rolling hills, as well as visiting some magnificent medieval heritage sites.

Experience medieval Tuscany as the monks and the pilgrims did for centuries - on the back of a horse! Visit some of the finest sites in Tuscany, including the Trebbio Castle, the stunning "Madonna del Sasso" retreat, and the Monte Senario Monastery.

In addition to these historic sites you can experience the beauty of the Mugellos region and visit both Bilancino Lake and Monte Giove National Park.

Day 1 (D)
Pick up from Florence station; transfer to farm. Welcome drink with your hosts before dinner.
Day 2 (B,L,D)
Accustom yourself to your horse and tack and the area with a half day ride and picnic lunch full of typical Tuscan delights - taste the fruits of the vine - the local Chianti Rufina wines, with fresh ciabatta bread, local pecorino cheese, prosciutto and parma ham whilst enjoying the Tuscan landscape.
Day 3 (B,L,D)
Ride through the rolling Tuscan hills, crossing sparkling streams, and canter through cultivated vineyards, olive groves and shaded woods. After a leisurely lunch head up to Il Bardellone to experience an astonishing view right out to Florence and Il Valdarno, before heading down to the lovely Tuscan farmhouse of the very interesting "Fillipo" for dinner and overnight.
Day 4 (B,L,D)
After breakfast ride towards the stunning Trebbio Castle. Riding through golden fields and along forested ridges the views are truly spectacular, looking out over medieval buildings and castles in the distance. After lunch ride to a mountain side nunnery, built hundreds of years ago after sightings of the Virgin Mary were reported. Continue on the nights accommodation nestling high in the Florentine hills.
Day 5 (B,L,D)
An early start as you head into the Mugello region, riding past picturesque farmland where stock graze under the watchful eyes of large Maremmano sheepdogs. Ride past another ancient castle as you wind your way down to the huge Bilancino lake. Here you can swim and take lunch by the lakeside, before riding on through the stunning Tuscan countryside to your overnight accommodation.
Day 6 (B,L,D)
After breakfast ride to Monte Senario to visit the world famous Monastery built in 1245 on top of the mountain by "the seven first fathers". The site offers panoramic views of both the Mugello and Chianti Rufina regions. After visiting the monestry head towards Monte Giove, stopping off in the shade of the forest for a picnic lunch. After riding up the Croce of Monte Giove (a famous meeting point for Partisans and allies in WW2) return to Colognole for a further 2 nights accommodation.
Day 7 (B,D)
Free day to relax. Keen shoppers have the option of taking a guided trip to the Outlet mall in Incisa where all the top Italian labels (from Valentino to Diesel) have their outlet shops. Lovers of Italian cuisine can choose a cooking class, or you can spend the day in Arezzo or Florence before Paolo cooks up his famous lamb spit roast over the open fire.
Day 8 (B)
Transfer back to the station after breakfast.
Italy
  • Cost per Person:
  • Ride Only: £930
  • Includes: Return transfers, accommodation and meals as indicated, wine with evening meals and all riding.
  • Single Supplement: None if prepared to share and there is another person with whom to share. If not prepared or able to share £145.
  • Departure Dates: 14 Jun, 05 Jul, 04 Oct.
  • The Accommodation: Accommodation for 4 nights will be in a villa at the Ville de Colognole, which is located in a very unique clearing high above Rufina between Dicomano and Monte Giove summit, right between the Chianti Rufina wine region and the Mugello National Parks. At night you will hear fallow deer barks, owls hooting and will occasionally see a pair of friendly porcupines who frequent the area. You will stay in beautifully restored rooms in an 18th century farm building. Each room has its own bathroom and a fabulous view. The swimming pool is just a stone's throw from the building and affords wonderful views of the surrounding countryside. It is equipped with a changing area (including showers) and is sheltered by a laurel hedge and a stone wall. A TV set and the washing machineare at the disposal of guests. On the trail accommodations range from local farmhouses occasionally with shared bathrooms to bungalows. However you are always guaranteed a comfortable bed and a hot shower.
  • Food & Drink: Meals are based on local ingredients and traditions. In Italy there is a special emphasis on "la Cucina" and this is evident in the meals. Whilst on-site, breakfast and dinner are served daily at the gorgeous little restaurant looking over the Rufina valleys. Generally on the last night Paolo will prepare his famous Sardinian spit roast over the open fire. Those with special dietary requirements can also be catered for if notice is given.
  • Laundry: There is a washing machine at Colognole.
  • Children: Not suitable for children under 14. Those undeer 18 must be accommpanied by an experienced adult rider.
  • Non-Riders: Not suitable.