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Italy
Europe: Italy Riding Tours at Chianti Rufina
What: Our ride center offers based mini-breaks and weeklong holidays and two inn-to-inn trails rides from spring to fall.

This was by far our most popular and well received riding centre gaining very favorable responses for outstanding horse care and people service.

Dates and  Rates:

Dates & Rates-
MedievalMonasteriesTrail: 7days/6nights/5Ridingdays
Inn to inn style rides.
Pomino Casentino Trail: 8days/7nights/5Ridingdays
Inn to inn style rides.
Chianti Rufina Week: Based
 8days/7nights/5Ridingdays
On-site  holiday.
Mini Breaks: 4 days/3  nights 2 riding days. One day shopping, wine-tasting.
T
2009
Chianti Rufina Ride: $1625 US/ 1200 Euro
Medieval Monastery Ride and Pomino Rides
I  $1625 US/1250 Euro
Mini Breaks: $650 US/500 Euro.$80 US/60 E Single supplement.$390 US/300 Euros non riders.

Dates:
Mini Break: Offered year round
Medieval Monastery: May 9-15, 30-June 5, Sept 5-11,
Oct 3-9 and Oct  17-23.
Pomino Casentino Trail: April 25-May 1, June 13-19, 27-July3,
Aug 22-28, Sept 12-18
Chianti Rufina Ride: Feb 21-28, March 7-14, 21-28, Apr 4-11,
Apr 11-18, 18-25, May 2-9, 16-23, 23-30, June 20-27,
July 4-11, 11-18, 18-25, Aug 1-8, 8-15, 29-Sept 5, 19-25,
Oct 10-17, 22-29.

General Description: Ride location to location through vineyards, olive groves and mountains north of Florence. Western and Australian stock saddles are offered for these well serviced horseback riding tours. Chianti Rufina Trails are centered in and around the spectacular countryside of the Chianti Rufina wine region in Tuscany, near the famous city of Florence. Adventures range from comfortable centre based local rides through cool forests, sun drenched vineyards and past emerald coloured lakes to wild trips high in the mountainous alps of the Mugello surrounded by wildlife and natural beauty. It is our destinations belief that adventure horse trekking should offer people unique, but enjoyable experiences on safe but willing horses. We also believe that a great holiday is inspired by participating in an activity that is of interest to you, while getting to know the locals and participating their culture and lifestyle.

 WHAT TO EXPECT:

Horsesense: Our horses are "happy horses".  They all live out in an established herd during the summer and the winter.  We believe that it is important for the horse’s mental and physical well-being that they get time to 'be a horse'.  They need time to play, groom, roll and interact with other horses at some point during every day - this is the horses way of relaxing.  We do not keep our horses stabled for convenience, they live as close to nature as practical and this is what makes them happy, relaxed and a pleasure to handle and ride.  They will all take care of the most nervous of riders whilst always being ready for a gallop when asked. We keep our herd small, but well chosen. They are a good-looking bunch, but also well trained and level headed. You will find amongst our horses halflingers, Arabians, Anglo Arabians, Italian saddle breeds and an Argentine Criollo.

Guides are professionally  trained for the industry.  You will always feel comfortable and confident whilst in our care as we know the horses and the rides very well.  We put a special emphasis on being helpful, friendly, professional, and always ready for a good laugh!! They are an FITETREC ANTE qualified centre. Hats and chaps are available.

We use Western and Australian stock saddles as we believe for trail riding these saddles are the most comfortable.

Weight restrictions:90 kg/200 lbs/
Age restrictions: 14 years
Group size: 2 – 8.

Horses include: Evita an Argentinean Criollo mare. She is a comfortable, light mouthed mount especially suitable for nervous riders. Biscotto is a famous Italian breed "the Maremanno" from Southern Tuscany. He is well schooled, and has a relaxed, easy going character. Taribo is a brave and sure footed trekker who adores cuddles. His breeding is Arab/Spanish. Jasmine is an eight year old Arabian mare. She is a light and sensitive to ride, and provides a fantastic mount for an experienced rider. Navarro is a six year old Sardinian Anglo Arab. He has a cheeky and individual personality. The Hafflingers the   troublesome foursome as they are affectionately known are currently in training, and will be available for treks by the end of 2007. They are four sisters all bred
by the Italian state, and are typical of the halflinger breed.

 Getting There* :

All but the mini-break includes transfers from Pontassieve Train Station. which is 20 minute train ride past center of Florence and the main train station. Trains from Florence run with great frequency. .

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Room and Board* :

Our long weekends and on-site holidays are located in a very unique clearing high above Rufina between Dicomano and Monte Giove summit. We are situated right between the Chianti Rufina wine region (vineyards below the house) and the Mugello national parks (forest directly above the farmhouse). At night you will hear fallow deer barks, owls hooting and will occasionally see a pair of friendly porcupines who frequent the area. Cintoia farmhouse is located on the same property as the riding centre and has a stunning pool that looks over the region, and a biq area.
The farmhouse nestles into the picturesque Chianti hills steeped in tradition and rich in history and art with century long ties to its rural heritage. The atmosphere at the farm  is inspired by a genuine love of the local traditions of the places, people and culture that surrounds it. It has recently been completely restored and divided into 9 country style apartments preserving original, rustic farm-like characteristics. On the trail accommodations range from local farmhouses occasionally with shared bathrooms to bungalows. We believe that most people would rather add a day or two to their trip, and stay in nice accommodations when possible, rather than return home feeling as if they had been on a forced horseback march, and the accommodations we use reflect this. Whether you choose an adventure trek staying at different spots each night, or prefer to stay onsite with the comfort of our amenities, exploring the direct area, you are guaranteed comfort and a hot shower.

Meals are based on local ingredients and traditions. These are usually prepared for you by your guides or a local restaurant. In Italy there is a special emphasis on "la Cucina" and this is evident in our meals. For onsite riders, breakfast and dinner are served daily at the gorgeous little restaurant looking over the Rufina valleys. Food is typical Tuscan cuisine. Those with special dietry requirements can also be catered for if notice is given. Lunches are served on the trail on long rides or treks, otherwise riders can either dine in the restaurant (not included in price) or prepare themselves lunch (cooking facilities in villa).

 

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Weather:
Our location high on the Florentine hills is somewhat more moderate than the Chianti Classico region, making riding much more comfortable over the hot and dry summer months. Mild weather year round makes riding possible in all seasons, although in Aug /Sept  riders are recommended to bring   a rain jacket in the case of an  expected storm or two. Winter riders should be prepared for occasional showers. The best months for riding are May -July and september and October. Though its is often warm enough to ride in T-shirts in the traditionally cooler months such as Febuary
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ITINERARY

1. Pomino and Castino Trail

2. Medievale Monstery ride

3.Chianti Rufino Based Ride

4. Mini Break

I- TOUR FACTS:

Option 1:
Pomino and Castino Trails
7days/6night/5ridingdays.
Inn-to-inn style ride.
Ride deep into Tuscany's spectacular landscape through the heart of the Casentino-Pomino, Chianti Rufina and Mugello regions. Discover the dramatic Mugello wilderness, take in some of the world's top wine regions, soak up Tuscan history, and indulge in local gastronomic delights accompanied by superb wines.

Combine the charm of Tuscan villages with the beautiful countryside that the area has to offer. Ride along national park tracks and through local vineyards to the beautiful Pomino and Sieve Valley areas. You will pass prominent castles and stay at a famous Medician Villa before continuing through shady forests and up to the summit of Monte Giove.

Tuscany is famous for its cities of art, its history, its famous men and their works. This ride enables you to see a Tuscany experienced by just a privileged few. Combine this with an excellent climate, superb food, fabulous wine and well schooled horses and you have the makings of an ideal holiday!

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II- DAY BY DAY SAMPLE TOUR ITINERARY:
Day1:

Pick up from Pontassieve train station; transfer to farm. Welcome drink with your hosts before dinner.

Day2:

Accustom yourself to your horse and tack during today's half-day ride through national park tracks and local vineyards. Enjoy a Tuscan style lunch and an afternoon of relaxation by the pool before dinner.

Day3:

Today's full day ride takes you through the Pomino winemaking region. Passing lake Falgano and riding up above the wine making village of Rufina. Picnic on the trail before heading high into the Pomino hills over looking the Frescobaldi marquees family vineyards and the Pomino castle. Ride down small cobbled roads and through to the Torremozze farm, where you will dine on local organic produce for dinner, and sleep in a converted barn that overlooks out toward the consuma pass.

Day4: After breakfast out on the sun lit terrace, ride out over the large golden fields of the Casentino and take in the spectacular views over the Chianti Rufina vineyards and Molin di Piano regions. Wet your feet when you cross the stunning river Sieve , and canter up through the wine producing region of MonteBonello. Dinner and tonight's accommodation will be at the lovely Casa Cheli above Pontassive. Eat al fresco and drink locally produced wines whilst the horses graze nearby.  
Day5:

After breakfast outside overlooking Pontassieve with the family Donkey grazing on the lawn, we depart for the Mugello region passing two prominent castles, one of which was the location of a famous assassination plot in the time of Lorenzo di Medici. Accommodation will be at a villa famous for being the secret getaway for Dante and his “amante” once upon a time… now this villa has been converted into a gorgeous Agriturismo and B&B. Relax after a proper Tuscan feast with a glass of local Chianti or a refreshing Limoncello..

Day6:

Today, you will ride up to the summit of Monte Giove, through national park forests and along old partisan tracks. We stop at Bottega restaurant for a true Tuscan lunch of local specialties before riding through the vineyards back to the estate for pizza and welcome nights rest.

Day7:

Drop-off at station in the morning after breakfast

Option 2:
Medieval Monasteries Trail: 8days/7night/5ridingdays.

Inn to inn style ride. This wilderness ride begins In the heart of the Chianti Rufina region, the wildest of all Chianti wine-making zones.The ride takes in the best of Tuscan vineyards and rolling hills, before we continue higher into an area full of medieval heritage sites and panoramic views. This ride is no boring museum tour, but you will be treated to some of the finest medieval sites in Tuscany, including the Trebbio castle, the stunning “Madonna del Sasso” retreat, and the Monte Senario Monastery. Riders can experience these hidden locations the way monks and pilgrims have visited them for centuries – on the back of a steady equine friend. We also take time to enjoy the beauty of Mugellos world famous nature, and visit both the giant Bilancino lake, and Monte Giove national park.All in all, a great adventure ride through some of Tuscany’s most spectacular scenery. Groups are small, hospitality is great. What more can one ask for?? Accommodations: 4 nights at Cintoia Farmhouse 3 nights at farmhouses on the trail.

Day 1

Pick up from Ponatassieve Train Station; transfer to farm. Welcome drink with your hosts, before dinner.

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.

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..

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 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 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.

Day 5

An early start as you head into the Mugello region for a stunning days riding. First we 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 we 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 before riding on through the stunning Tuscan countryside to your overnight accommodation and great Tuscan dinner in San Cresci.

Day 6

After breakfast in the lovely farmhouse, we saddle up and ride out through the spectacular Mugello region, where Giotto the master was brought up. We 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..

Day 7

Drop-off at station in the morning after breakfast.

TOUR 3 Chianti Rufino Trail

Discover the beauty of the Chianti Rufina wine region, the wilderness of the Monte Giove National Park, and the harmonious landscape of the Mugello on horseback. This holiday is perfect for riders who wish to explore the area during the day and stay in Tuscan style in the Colognole wine estates recently restored farm buildings.

An excellent choice for those that love the idea of a few afternoons free to relax by the pool with a glass of Chianti wine and a good book, mixed in with some fantastic adventure riding on quality horses and trails.

Meals are served at the boutique wine bar and restaurant out on the terrace, and there is a free day mid week allocated to guests so that they can spend a day in the historic city of Florence.

Guests can also choose a self catering option in Tuscan apartments with kitchen facilities so that they can prepare there own dinners with Tuscan ingredients from the local supermarkets.
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Day 1

Pick up from Pontassieve station; transfer to farm. Welcome drink with your hosts Jess and Paolo before dinner.   

Day 2

Accustom yourself to your horse and tack before departing for Monte Giove. Negotiate tracks used in world war two by partisans hiding in the area, and on arrival at the cross, take in the breathtaking panoramic views that stretch over the Florentine Basin right over to Florence herself. On your return we stop for a typical Tuscan lunch out on the terrace of a local rustic restaurant.

Day 3

Today we have a half day ride to the Roman road, hidden deep in the valley like a Mayan ruin. After negotiating forest tracks, we ride through Massimos cattle farm under the watchful eye of his sleepy cows. After a canter we pass by Antonellas farmhouse, with her array of donkeys, ponies and abandoned baby deer. After passing through the valley we ride to the “Spugna” popular with rock climbers. From here we ride up through the vineyards and terraced olive groves to the farm. Afternoon at leisure.

Day 4

 Today is a free day to spend in Florence (only 20 minutes by train from Rufina). Check out the Uffizi gallery, see “David” or just enjoy the stunning historic city centres many beautiful shops and cafès.We return transfer to and from Rufina where you can catch the train.

Day 5

Another full day ride. We start off riding through chestnut and beech forests, and then head through the lovely village of Dicomano, up through private vineyards and farmland and then through to the river Sieve. After an invigorating canter along the corn fields, we cool our horses legs (and your own if you wish) and settle down for a a picnic lunch on the banks, and a lazy siesta under the shade of the trees. We return to the farm via lush vineyards, forest tracks, and olive groves.

Day 6

Today you saddle up early for an adventurous ride into the national park forest land and the Pontassive heights. Ride through the wine making village of Rufina, and onward to the beautiful vineyards above Pontassieve. Take in the sights and smells of Tuscany, including fields of wild flowers, lakes, and the ever present rolling landscapes typical of the area. Ride into a village called Acone,  where there is a fantastic view over the surrounding landscape. From Acone  wind your way down to an ancient Roman bridge and then stop for lunch amongst the vineyards. After a good Tuscan meal ride down the valley surrounded by the vineyards and olive groves, crossing the river Sieve for a long canter along the flatlands, before crossing the river again to return to base.

Day 7

Morning at leisure, if you wish we can organize a wine tasting and cellar tour at the Villa, otherwise spend the morning relaxing at the pool with a nice book or a cappuccino. In the late afternoon we take you on a final ride through the spectacular tuscan landscapes..

Day 8

Drop-off at station  after breakfast.

 
Tour 4:Mini-Breaks Offered year round
4 day/3 night/2 riding days

Escape the fast paced city, and ride through the best of Tuscany on our three night, four day Chianti Rufina horseback escape package. Discover the beauty of the Chianti Rufina vineyards, Monte Giove national park, and Mugello on the back of one of our well trained horses. Non riders and novices are also welcome.

Accommodation on this trip is in the Colognole wine estate. The view from your refurbished 400 year old room, is of the stunning Sieve Valley, Chianti Rufina vineyards, and silver tinged olive groves. The swimming pool, and boutique wine bar and restaurant allow guests the chance relax in the Tuscan sunshine after riding with excellent local cuisine and wines.

Includes 3 nights Bed and Breakfast guesthouse accommodation, all meals, 2 days guided trail riding, horse, tack, tax and transfers to and from Pontassieve or Rufina station.

Day 1

Arrive at the estate. Before dinner, you will have a chance to meet other guests and have an introduction to the next few days at activities and events

Day 2

The day begins by meeting your horse and a trail ride in the vineyards. Lunch on the trail is a typical Tuscan picnic with Chianti wines and local produce. In the afternoon  we explore the rolling hills of the Florentine Mountain range. Enjoy national park forest, olive trees and the great fragrance filled countryside of Chianti/Mugello. Afterwards chill out back at the farm, take a wander through the olive groves, or relax by the pool. Dinner together at the Tuscan restaurant.

Day 3

The ride today is around and through the SieveRiver with a chance to go further and discover more of the Dicomano region with its great corn fields and fruit trees. Riders will have  a picnic, complete with Tuscan cheeses, salamis, desserts and coffee. The afternoon is dedicated to exploring the countryside , riding past abandoned farmhouses, rustic hamlets, and natural forest beauty. After riding relax by the poolside with a glass of Proseco. Dinner at the Colognolo restaurant.

Day 4

After a typical Tuscan breakfast, transportation to the train station or airport is organized.

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IMPORTANT NOTE: This is a sample itinerary, planned several months in advance. Accordingly, arrangements (routes or facilities) are subject to change depending on local conditions and hotel choice may vary due to availability.  Also, the tour may be arranged in different order than is described above.
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III –SERVICES INCLUDED:

Included in Tours 

http://ridingholidays.com/images/dot.jpgIncluded: Transfers from Pontassieve  Station,   swimming pool, gas, water, weekly change of linen, towels, final cleaning, VAT, horse hire/guide for the week, full board , ANTE insurance.    
 

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IV–NOT INCLUDED:
Gratuities and cost and cost of getting to destination. Extra excursions, sightseeing etc. personal medical / travel insurance

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