We GUARANTEE you won't find the same horse riding holiday at a lower price through any other source... and if you do, we promise to refund the difference!
from £1,070 or €1,245
This is suitable for riders, non-riders, families and children and depending on their riding ability, they can ride half days or full. There are various packages available, and we can also make up bespoke packages to requirements, just ask.
Please note, during July and August there are no full day riding options due to high temperatures.
Low Season: 10th April – 15th June (excluding 1-9 April) & 17th September to 12th November
High Season: 16th June – 16th September, plus Easter
Choose your currency
Brigands Path Ride
A full week of riding out in each day exploring the beautiful countryside surrounding the Castle.
Included – All riding 5 days, 1 full day riding and 4 half days riding, accommodation, half or full board with water, coffee & table wine, a guided tour of the Castle, 1 x massage, pool, tennis courts & WIFI.
Excluded – Flights, drinks (other than what is included at meal times) & tips.
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Riding & Cycling
Perfect for families, couples and friends where some of you ride and the others cycle.
Included – 5 riding or cycling days made up of 3 half days + 2 full days with bike rental or horses, accommodation, full or half board with water, coffee & table wine, a welcome drink and guided tour of the Castle, pool, tennis courts & WIFI
Excluded – Flights, drinks (other than what is included at meal times) & tips.
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4 Night Long Weekend
Included – All riding 1 full day riding & 2 x 2 hour riding excursion, accommodation, full or half board with coffee, water & table wine, guided tour of the Castle, pool, tennis courts, 1 massage & WIFI.
Excluded – Flights, drinks (other than what is included at meal times) & tips.
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Children & Teenager Pony Club Camp
If your kids are aged 9 up to 17 years old why not book them in for a week of Pony Cub!
Minimum 4 to run ideal for family groups, cousins, friends and Pony Clubs
Included – Days spent riding, morning lessons, afternoon hacks and the chance to learn about feeding, grooming and the overall care of a pony, full board accommodation, full or half board, a welcome drink and guided tour of the Castle, pool, tennis courts & WIFI.
Excluded – Flights, drinks & tips.
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Medieval Castle Ride
A week of riding that includes discovering medieval castles, beautiful countryside trails and wine tasting.
Included – Full board (7 dinners, 5 lunches) with water, table wine and coffee included, 3 full day riding excursions and 2 hacks, transfers, Tickets entrances for Civita di Bagnoregio and ST Patrick in Orvieto, Wine tasting in Tuscany, a welcome drink and guided tour of the Castle, pool, tennis courts & WIFI.
Excluded – Flights, drinks & tips.
Note: Rates are subject to daily exchange rate fluctuations, please refer to our ‘Terms & Conditions’ for full details.
Open from 10th April to the 12th November.
Medieval Castle Ride Dates:
1-8 April
15-23 April
6-14 May
10-18 June
16-23 September
7-15 October
Getting There
International flight to Rome.
Transfer
We recommend you hire a car and drive to the Castle it’s within an hour’s drive from Rome and also gives you the opportunity to explore this glorious region outside of the castle.
We can also arrange for a train station and airport transfers.
The following costs apply for a return trip in a car of up to 2 people, prices on request for 3 plus:
Orvieto station (90km round trip) – €190
Fiumicino airport (300km round trip) – €320
Ciampino airport (340km round trip) – €340
All our horse riding holidays hold a price guarantee. We believe in your piece of mind on price when you book one of our horse riding holidays and will refund the difference should you find the same horse riding holiday elsewhere at a lower price.
Castello di Santa Cristina is a strikingly beautiful 17th century castle, located just one and a half hours from Rome, between the rolling hills of Tuscany, Latium and Umbria. With its fairy tale style turret, it’s a romantic but comfortable setting for those wishing to explore the surrounding countryside and culture on horseback. There are miles and miles of trails surrounding this magnificent estate, which are a sheer joy to explore on one of their forward going TB or Warmblood Crosses in the company of a friendly and professional guide.
All the trails are matched to the ability and preferences of the riders, experienced riders can enjoy the comfort of knowing that they can look forward to fast canters and interesting terrain on forward-going horses and equally novice riders can enjoy slower paced meanders through beautiful countryside.
Your holiday can be as active or sedate as you like or you can choose one of their flexible packages or we can tailor make something to meet your needs. Non-riders can enjoy mountain biking which is another one of Count Antonio’s passions in addition to his horses – there is a selection of bikes (including electric mountain bikes!) with well-marked trails and even the chance to meet up with riders at lunchtimes. The castle also has a wonderful pool and tennis courts, plus there is a spa nearby and opportunities for wine-tasting, golf and fishing. Lake Bolsena is fifteen minutes by car and is host to the carp fishing world championships. This is a superb base for all sorts of holidays for singles and mixed groups.
Horses – There are 20 horses currently, a mix of mostly TB Crosses and Warmblood Crosses, ranging from 15hh to 17hh plus some smaller horses and ponies from 13.2hh. They all live out in herds in the large fields surrounding the castle with as much of a natural environment as possible.
All the horses are bought and trained by Antonio Mancini himself along with his chief Riding Instructor, Kylie Legg.
Level of Riding & Pace – Depending on the group and the program, from beginner to advanced. Beginners would start with a specialised program of lessons, working up to a possible ride out.
Tack – English.
Weight Restriction – 15 & ½ stones / 100kg / 220lbs
Group Size – Minimum 1 – Maximum 5
The castle has been the property of the noble Caterini family for generations. It was once the residence of a Cardinal who housed the Vatican’s treasure here to keep it safe during the revolution in 1848… needless to say it is crammed full of fascinating artefacts. He chose the castle to be his personal residence and now his descendants, Count Antonio and his family, use this enchanting place as their country home.
The family have lovingly restored the cottages and main farmhouse, once used by local farmers. It has become 8 self-catering apartments and 14 twin or double rooms, all ensuite. They are all elegantly designed and in keeping with the old worldly feel of the castle.
The self catering apartments are all different and include a kitchen in addition the Marta & Capodimonte cottages share a small swimming pool.
The ground floor of the farmhouse opens onto the main terrace, which overlooks the main 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.
The food is freshly prepared and authentic, expect lots of pasta dishes and other Tuscan style dishes – think Ragu Tuscan Chicken & Lasagne!
Please Ask About
Guests are also welcomed to join in on the following additional excursions, which are charged locally (prices shown are a guide).
• Sight Seeing – The castle is situated on the Tuscany border and guests can visit one of the largest lakes of volcanic origins in Europe, Lake Bolsena. This is a unique and strikingly beautiful area, rich in olive trees and vineyards, charming villages, ancient churches and artistic monuments. Just 3km away lies a fascinating village of Etruscan origin, set deep into the hillside, so there is plenty to be explored!
• Thermal Baths & Spa – Just 18 km from the Castle, near the village of Sorano, there is a SPA. You can swim in the warm waters under two waterfalls, where you will enjoy a natural Jacuzzi. You can also book a massage or other treatments in the spa next to the pool. The waters flow from a natural spring at 37 ° C. Daily rates are 14 Euros or 8 Euros for a half day, spa treatments additional charges.
• Wine Tasting is available at 15Euros per person, a visit to the local cooperative vineyard cellars of Pitigliano.
• Cooking Lessons
• Mountain bikes available to hire at 30Euros per half day.
• Rent a Boat – Lake Bolsena, the largest volcanic lake in Europe has a perimeter of 60 km and a depth of 170 meters with two beautiful islands. A fantastic place for water sports or to rent a boat. On the beach of Capodimonte, an enchanting and ancient village set on a cape dominated by a fortress, you can rent a boat and visit the islands, immediately in front of the beach, or wander through the crystal-clear waters of the Bay of Capodimonte pushing a pedal boat. Price on request.
• Golf – Just 10 km from the Castle GOLF CLUB ACQUAPENDENTE a par 3 golf course currently 9 holes from next year 18 holes. Here you can receive lessons with an instructor on the driving range, putting green and pitching green. Or play directly on course designed specifically to test even the most experienced players. Price on request.
• Football – In a country like Italy, where football has become over the years an important part of the culture, the Castle of Santa Cristina has a large green lawn, next to the main pool, where there is a mini football pitch, ideal for the enjoyment of children and adults. Memorable matches get under way at any time guests are ready, turning the place into a small stage for your personal Champions League.
• Tennis – The tennis court with synthetic grass, is located just off the pool with the castle as the beautiful setting of your entertainment. If required, tennis balls and rackets are available 10 Euros per hour.
All the other Programmes are available on request.
BRIGANDS PATH RIDE
Saturday
Upon arrival in the afternoon, you will check in and enjoy a welcome drink at the castle & briefing with your guide/instructor about riding and accommodation details and choice of the horses for the next few days. Dinner will be delicious!
Sunday
This morning on your first ride you will easily reach the hills framing at west the plateau on which the castle is situated. A fantastic spot for a breath-taking view of the area, going from the beautiful crater of Lake Bolsena on one side to the hills surrounding the little lake Mezzano on the other side.
Provided a sufficiently clear day the sea can be seen at 40 km in the distance like a glowing mirror. Starting from the castle, after 1 km. you will reach a large track winding through the beautiful hills and small woods on a steady and soft ground perfect to let the horses canter if wanted. At the end of the track, you will enter a big wood named Selva di Onano. The ride is about 18 km.
Monday
From the Castle you will ride on an old track before reaching the the hills that frame the plateau to the west. You will continue through the chestnut woods to arrive at the top to experience fabulous views from the beautiful crater of lake Bolsena to the hills of the Mezzano lake. Then, if wanted, horses can be pushed into a canter following the old track crossing the plain before the lake along the fields and vineyards.
Bordering Selva del Lamone Naturale Reserve you will stop for lunch above the lake in a magical atmosphere. A small rural restaurant overlooking lake Mezzano will provide you with a beautiful view and a delicious lunch under the shade of the trees overlooking the lake.
From June to September those who want can have a refreshing swim in the lake when the season allows it. In the afternoon you will take the horses back through the wooded hills. The trail today is about 30 km.
Tuesday
Once on the Brigands track you will go north through the hills, after crossing the provincial road. The beautiful scenery of mountains and hills in front of you will open onto a nice track which will take you around Onano. Onano is a fortified village with a medieval castle in its centre, providing an interesting site for the riders.
Centuries ago, it was an important stronghold of the Monaldeschi family who ruled this area during the Middle Ages. Narrow crossings will alternate beautiful open fields with a view. Once at the little medieval church Madonna delle grazie you will follow the track north through enchanting countryside back to the castle.
The afternoon ride is approximately 12 km – from the castle you will cross the hill overlooking the castle with a fantastic landscape framing the background. Mount Amiata, the Radicofani fortress, the castle of Torre Alfina is part of this wonderful picture. You will soon join a track crossing hills and valleys.
The road turns to the left and after a while the horses can be pushed at a canter on the soft but steady ground between the chestnut woods. After a few kilometres the woods give ground to the pastures full of sheep, there you reach S.Luigi a dairy farm where fabulous “ricotta” cheese is produced. From there the old estate track will take you back to the castle along the hills. Today’s ride is about 20 km.
Wednesday
From the castle you will follow an old trail down through the crater of lake Bolsena, the biggest volcanic lake in Europe. Breath-taking views of the lake will accompany your excursion all the way. Here and there, scattered around the countryside, archaeological sites with Etruscan tombs will remind you how old the beautiful land is. Once at the bottom lunch will be served on the beach of the Lake in a nice typical restaurant.
A swim in the lake Bolsena (summer) can be part of the day before hopping back on your horse. On the way back the magnificent Farnese renaissance palace in Gradoli will catch your attention while crossing the village. Once at the top of the crater of the lake an old track through the woods will take you back to the castle. The trail today is about 30 km.
Thursday
Today is a day off for local excursions. The surroundings of the castle are full of interesting archaeological and historical sites. Just a few suggestions – the village fortresses of Pitigliano, Sorano, Sovano. It is definitely worth visiting the marvellous Italian gothic church of Orvieto – Civita di Bagnoregio, called the ‘Dying Town’
Friday
Following an old Etruscan trail, you will ride up through thick woods to the top of the crater surrounding lake Bolsena. Here, you will enjoy remarkable scenery including vineyards, Etruscan tombs, the prominent volcanic lake and the panorama dominated by the famous Farnese palace in Gradoli. A gift made by the Pope in 1500 for his nephew for his wedding – what a present!
You will return to the castle riding through the vineyards, vegetable gardens and enchanting woods. In particular, you will enjoy a canter across a tunnel made my oak trees above an old shepherd’s path.
Saturday
Breakfast and departure.
Medieval Castle Ride
Day 1 – Arrive in Rome
Welcome to Italy!
Pick up at Fiumicino or Ciampino Airport.
As you arrive at the castle you will meet your guides and the staff of the castle .Upon
arrival you will meet also the count owner of the castle, make a first approach with
the horses.
In the afternoon, you will have a fabulous tour of the 17th Century Castle. Enjoy a great dinner
before it is time to go to sleep!
Dinner and accommodation – Santa Cristina Castle
Day 2 – Morning around Onano (3 hours) Afternoon in Sorano –
Fortress and Wine tasting
Enjoy a delicious breakfast at the 17th century old Stables room of Castle!
We are ready to start our first hack of approximately 3 hours duration around Onano,
breathing the countryside with our new friends!
This morning we take the Brigands path, we head north through the hills towards
Onano, a fortified village with a medieval castle which was the stronghold of the
Monaldeschi family who ruled this area during the Middle Ages.
After lunch at the Castle you will be picked up and transferred to visit the magical
Sorano Fortress. After a short sightseeing of this gem in Tuscany, you will be
transferred to Fattoria Aldobrandesca Antinori vineyard to taste the most famous
wines in the area.
Dinner and Accommodation – Santa Cristina Castle
Day 3 – Lake Bolsena
We leave in the morning S. Cristina castle and we ride through the neighboring
farmland, through chestnut woods and using an ancient track which will carry us
right above the crater of Lake Bolsena, the largest volcanic lake in Europe. The
descent of the crater will start from the village of Gradoli dominated by an impressive
renaissance palace that was meant to be the wedding gift of Pope Paulus III Farnese
to his nephew around the middle of 1500. While riding, we will witness some breath–
taking views of the lake and surrounding area and of the two islands Isola Bisentina
and Martana. The shore of the lake will be reached after crossing the fields just
before the water, we will then border the lake ending on the beach where horses will
be set into a canter before crossing a ford where a small river joins the lake. After that
we finally reach our mid day stop.
Lunch is served on the terrace of a typical trattoria right on the beach, where
Antonietta the cook will serve delicious local food. In the right season if you wish to
cool off in the water, a swim in the lake can be done before starting riding back up.
As we head up back to the castle, you will note many Etruscan tombs scattered
throughout the countryside some reused by farmers as cellars for their wine but still
serving as a reminder of the ancient history which abounds in this area You will be
Passing through the archaeological area of Pianezze literally full of Etruscan tombs
dating back 2600 years. Once at the top of the crater, we turn right through some
vineyards where again a breath taking view of lake Bolsena will provide a wonderful
opportunity to rest the horses and take some photographs. After crossing the
vineyards we reach the shepherds’ trail in the woods that will lead you back to the
Santa Cristina Castle estate.
Dinner and Accommodation – Santa Cristina Castle
Day 4 – Lake Mezzano
The lake was once a volcanic crater and historical site with human settlements going
back to the pre-etruscan era (aprox 2700 years ago) later it was submerged by water
due to earthquakes. It is now part of the Selva del Lamone regional park due to it’s
beauty and to the fact that many birds find a shelter there.
Our excursion takes horses and riders through the beautiful countryside, up into the
wooded hills which surround Onano. Here, the horses have the opportunity to canter
along a wonderful natural passage surrounded by trees. At the top of this plateau, we
have a chance to take in the dazzling scenery, before we carry on down past local
farms into a very old wood made by huge chestnut trees that leads us into a flat open
plain which offers a great scenery.
Here, if desired, horses can canter up the old tracks, before we reach the marshlands
and vineyards which surround the lake Mezzano itself. In a fantastic position on top
of a hill overlooking the lake is the small farm where the restaurant is based. Here we
stop for a nice lunch with a fantastic view while our horses rest in a paddock.
During the warmer months you can also swim in the lake with its crystal clear waters.
In the afternoon, we ride back following the old Brigands trail, taking in a few
historical sights on the way.
Dinner and Accommodation – Santa Cristina Castle
Day 5 – Ship farm riding trail and Proceno Castle
Enjoy this 2 hours trek around the Castle, We ride towards the hills framing the
west plateau on which the castle is situated. After lunch at the Castle you will be
picked up to visit beautiful Proceno Castle
Dinner and Accommodation – Santa Cristina Castle
Day 6 – Take a break and visit Orvieto and Civita di Bagnoregio
After breakfast you will visit majestic Orvieto. Sites to visit are the Duomo, St.
Patrick’s Qell, Underground Orvieto tours takes you into the caves and can be taken
from the Tourist office.
You will have lunch at a beautiful restaurant in the center and after lunch you will
discover Civita di Bagnoregio, the dying city. The morphology of this village was
caused by erosion and landslides. The territory is made up of two different formations
of rocks, different in chronology and in constitution. The most ancient formation is
that of clay; it comes from the sea and it forms the base layer which is particularly
subject to erosion. It is situated in a solitary area and it is reachable only by a
reinforced concrete pedestrian bridge
Dinner and accommodation at Santa Cristina.
Day 7 – Vitozza, the rock settlement – Full day
Today we will discover by horse Vitozza, the most interesting and extended rock
settlements in central Italy, inhabited from the 12th to the 17th centuries.
Touched by the clear waters of the Lente stream, and hidden by the luxuriant
wood, two hundred caves, the “columbaria” and the remains of the medieval village
still survive today.
Picnic lunch
On your arrival at the Castle our masseuse will be waiting for you: benefit of a
relaxing massage after this intense horse riding week!
Dinner and accommodation at Santa Cristina.
Day 7 – Depart
It is time to say good-bye to this beautiful destination, fabulous new friends
and the wonderful horse that you have been so connected with all week.
Zara’s Planet Horse Riding Holidays Guarantee:
All our horse riding holidays hold a price guarantee. We believe in your piece of mind on price when you book one of our horse riding holidays and will refund the difference should you find the same horse riding holiday elsewhere at a lower price.
If you are having trouble finding exactly the right horse riding holiday for you from our horse riding holidays collection, please contact us directly using the form below and tell us in your own words what you would like to do and we will use our extensive knowledge to make sure we find that perfect horse riding holiday.
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