Medieval Monasteries & Castles
7 days - Pontassieve to Pontassieve
This exciting 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 Trebbio Castle and the stunning Monte Senario Monastery.
In addition to these historic sites you can experience the beauty of the Mugello region and visit both the giant Bilancino Lake and Monte Giove National Park.
- Day 1
- Pick up from Pontassieve station; transfer to farm. Welcome drink with your hosts before dinner. (D)
- Day 2
- 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. (B,L,D)
- Day 3
- 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 "Filippo" for a delicious Tuscan feast and glass or two of great local wine. (B,L,D) .
- Day 4
- 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 mountainside nunnery, built hundreds of years ago after sightings of the Virgin Mary were reported. Continue to the night's accommodation nestling high in the Florentine hills looking right out to the Duomo of the most famous renaissance city in the world. While the horses sleep over at a local stable, we stay at a lovely local lodge in Bivigliano. (B,L,D)
- Day 5
- An early start as you head into the Mugello region for a stunning days riding. First pass by Monte Senario, 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. Then carry on through picturesque farmland where stock graze under the watchful eyes of large white 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 and great Tuscan dinner in San Cresci. (B,L,D)
- Day 6
- After breakfast in the lovely farmhouse, saddle up and ride out through the spectacular Mugello region, where Giotto the master was brought up. Ride up towards Monte Giove, stopping off at a small lake for a tuscan style picnic lunch. After riding up the Croce of Monte Giove (a famous meeting point for Partisans and allies in WW2) return to the sunny vineyards of Colognole for a final nights accommodation and dinner. (B,L,D)
- Day 7
- Drop-off at the station after breakfast. (B)
- Departure Dates: 09 May, 30 May, 05 Sep, 03 Oct, 17 Oct, 6 Nov.
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Prices (2009 Land only):
£1105 per person. - Includes: Return transfers - Pontassieve train station, accommodation and meals as indicated, wine with evening meals and all riding.
- Single Supplement: None if prepared to share and there is another person available to share with, otherwise £165.
- Non-Riders: Not suitable.
- Children: Aged 14 and upward are accepted if they have the necessary riding skills and are accompanied by an adult rider.
- Riding Ability Required: Intermediate upward.
- Trip Code: EIMM