Horse riding holidays in Tuscany | Horse riding in Tuscany

Up the hill and back down into the valley, along a babbling stream and again and again past olive groves and grape vines. What could be more beautiful than experiencing the picturesque Tuscan countryside on horseback? Whether big or small, experienced rider or beginner – the Toscana Forum has selected ones Holiday homes for riding holidays in the program, from where you can go on rides into the vast hilly landscape or book your first riding lessons. 

Riding lessons with heart and mind

We recommend it especially for kids who are looking for contact with the majestic animals for the first time Agriturismo Paganico, a spacious country estate in the heart of the wonderful natural landscape of the Maremma. The former estate now grows organic grain and organic livestock feed, as well as forestry and the breeding of organic cattle and pigs of old Maremma breeds. Little people and beginners are in good hands in the paddock of the 1.500 hectare organic agriturismo with Fiorenza, an experienced riding instructor.

For sports-loving families

The is located on a hill with a breathtaking view of the hilly landscape of S. Gimignano and Volterra Montaione country residence – the ideal holiday destination for riders, sports enthusiasts and families with children. The 200 hectare property with forest and meadows not only has a pool and whirlpool, tennis and soccer field, bocce ball court and various trekking and mountain bike trails, but also a thermal lake with natural sulphurous water, a fishing pond and a riding stable .

You can find further nature-related and child-friendly offers in the following section: agriturismo Tuscany

Strict criteria when selecting objects for riders

When selecting our holiday properties for riding holidays, we consulted with a professional Master horse economist Alexandra Mayr, get advice and the offers selected according to the following criteria:

• The horses should all be in good general condition, meaning they should be well fed, have no open wounds or chafe marks, for example from saddlery, and should not cough or show similar symptoms of illness.
• The stables should be clean and the feed should look neat.
• The tack should appear well-maintained and not tear at the first emergency.
• The horses must approach people in a friendly manner and allow themselves to be touched anywhere without showing aggression.
• The horses should not be rented out to anyone for rides without prior trial preparation.
• Helmets should be compulsory.
• The riding instructors must definitely treat the animals well and kindly.
• The size and weight ratio should be right, i.e. don't put a 100 kilo man on a small pony, because, like donkeys, horses are not weight carriers.
• The horses should be given enough exercise in the fresh air in their “free time” – ideally in small groups.