Horse ride in the Mugello (transfer from / to Florence) and Tuscan aperitif

If you’re dreaming of combining gentle adventure with true scenic beauty, this horseback riding experience near Florence may just be what you’re after. The tour promises a 1.5-hour ride through the Tuscan Apennines, followed by a tasty local aperitif with meats, cheeses, and a good glass of wine. It’s designed for those who want a relaxed, authentic taste of Tuscany without the need for riding experience or overly ambitious plans.

What I love about this experience is how it balances stunning landscape views with an effortless pace—perfect for unwinding and soaking in the countryside. Plus, the inclusive transfer from Florence makes the day easy to plan, removing the hassle of transportation. That said, it’s not suited for children under 12, and it’s limited to small groups, which keeps the experience intimate but might not be ideal for larger families or groups seeking a more bustling vibe.

If you’re someone looking for a peaceful escape outside the city, with a focus on nature and genuine Tuscan flavors, this tour could be just right. But if you’re after a more active or adventurous riding experience, the lack of trotting or galloping sections might feel a bit tame. Still, for a gentle, picturesque ride with a lovely tasting afterward, it hits the mark.

Key Points

• Beautiful landscape views of Tuscany’s rolling hills and sunflower fields.
• No riding experience required, making it accessible for most.
• Small group size (up to 4 travelers), ensuring personalized attention.
• Includes transportation from Florence, simplifying logistics.
• Tasting of local meats, cheeses, and wine offers a true taste of Tuscany.
• Not suitable for children under 12 or those seeking high-adrenaline riding.

What to Expect from This Horseback Experience in Tuscany

This tour offers a relaxed, scenic horseback ride just outside Florence, perfect for those who want an authentic feel of the Tuscan countryside without the complexity of advanced riding. From the moment you’re picked up in an air-conditioned vehicle, the journey itself sets the tone—comfortable, smooth, with a sense of anticipation for what lies ahead.

The Ride and Landscape

The horseback portion lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, during which you’ll enjoy a variety of landscapes—from woods and dirt roads to narrow paths along ridges. The guide, Sara, will start with a brief on the horses and some riding tips, making sure even total beginners feel comfortable. The terrain is gentle enough that no prior experience is needed, making this a stress-free introduction to riding or simply a peaceful way to experience nature.

Travelers rave about the enchanting scenery. One review mentions “stunning Tuscany views, ride to village bar,” highlighting how this tour allows you to actually ride through a village and visit a local bar. The landscape is characterized by rolling hills, sunflower fields, quaint stone farms, and even a lake, making it a picture-perfect backdrop for memorable photos.

The Aperitif and Tasting

After the ride, the fun continues with a delightful tasting. You’ll enjoy a small platter of cold cuts, cheeses, bread, sun-dried tomatoes, and a glass of Tuscan wine. This convivial moment is a genuine way to connect with local flavors and unwind after your ride. Reviewers note that the tasting is delicious and complements the overall experience beautifully, making the tour feel well-rounded.

Transportation and Group Size

One of the tour’s major perks is the included transfer from Florence, either by car or minivan with air conditioning. This takes away the stress of arranging your own transport and means you can focus fully on enjoying the experience. The group size is limited to a maximum of 4 travelers, which enhances the personalized nature—allowing for more attention from the guide and a quieter, more intimate ride.

Pricing and Value

At $309.20 per person, the experience might seem on the higher side, but considering the all-inclusive nature of the trip—private transport, horseback riding, guide, helmet, and tasting—it’s a fair price for a thoughtfully curated half-day adventure. You’re getting not just the ride, but a solid slice of authentic Tuscan life, combined with convenient logistics.

Who Will Love It?

This tour is ideal for couples, friends, or small groups looking to enjoy a peaceful, scenic escape from Florence. It’s particularly well-suited for those who appreciate good wine and local food and want a relaxed outdoor activity that doesn’t demand riding skills or physical exertion. Since children under 12 aren’t permitted, it’s best for travelers seeking a mature, tranquil experience.

The Real Deal: What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently praise the stunning views and the relaxing pace. One describes it as the highlight of their Italy trip and appreciated the move to an earlier ride due to the extreme heat—a thoughtful touch that shows the tour’s flexibility. The small group setting gets a thumbs-up for personal attention and a more authentic atmosphere.

Some note that the experience doesn’t include trotting or galloping, so if you’re expecting an adrenaline rush, this might not satisfy that craving. But if you’re after a gentle ride with breathtaking scenery, you’ll find it more than enough.

Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Pickup and Transfer: The tour begins with your pickup in Florence, with transportation arranged in an air-conditioned vehicle, heading toward Mugello. This part of the experience is simple but crucial, especially in the Tuscan heat, making the whole day more comfortable.

Arrival and Briefing: Once at the riding location, Sara will give a quick briefing about the horses and how to ride. She’s described as knowledgeable, adding a layer of confidence to the experience.

Horseback Ride: The ride itself takes you through woods, dirt roads, and narrow paths on the ridges of the Tuscan Apennines. The landscape is diverse—think gentle hills, rustic farms, and tranquil lakes. The ride is paced to suit beginners, with no trotting or galloping, making it accessible for all.

Village Visit and Aperitif: After the ride, you’ll have the chance to ride into a small village and visit a local bar, a highlight for those who enjoy authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences. Then, the tasting awaits—local meats, cheeses, bread, sun-dried tomatoes, and a glass of Tuscan wine. This part of the tour is particularly praised for its quality and authenticity.

Return to Florence: The experience concludes with your transfer back to Florence, completing a roughly 4.5-hour round trip.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear long trousers and closed shoes, as required for safety and comfort.
• No prior riding experience needed, but a basic comfort with animals helps.
• Be prepared for weather conditions—the best time is likely cooler months or early in the day, especially since one reviewer appreciated moving the ride earlier due to heat.
• Since children under 12 are not allowed, consider this activity for teens or adults seeking a mellow outdoor experience.
• Confirm your booking at least 18 days in advance, especially if you want to secure a spot, as it’s a popular activity.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re looking for a relaxing, scenic day out, blending horseback riding with delicious local flavors, this tour hits the spot. It’s perfect for those who want to escape the city, enjoy natural beauty, and indulge in genuine Tuscan tastes without rushing or complex logistics. It’s also well-suited to travelers who prefer small groups and personalized attention.

However, if you’re after high-energy riding or family-friendly activities with young children, this experience might not be the best fit. The age restriction and the gentle nature of the ride mean it’s mainly for adults and teens seeking serenity rather than adventure.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes private transfer from and back to Florence in an air-conditioned vehicle, making the day seamless.

Do I need riding experience?
No, this tour does not require any previous horse riding experience. The guide provides tips to make you comfortable.

How long is the horseback ride?
The ride lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, with the overall experience lasting roughly 4.5 hours including transfer and tasting.

What should I wear?
Long trousers and closed shoes are mandatory for safety and comfort during the ride.

Is it suitable for children?
No, children under 12 are not permitted on this tour.

What’s included in the tasting?
A platter with local cold cuts, cheeses, bread, sun-dried tomatoes, and a glass of Tuscan wine.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

What’s the group size?
A maximum of 4 travelers, offering a more intimate experience.

Final Thoughts

This horseback riding tour offers a lovely mix of scenic beauty, authentic flavors, and relaxed pace. While it’s not for adrenaline junkies or families with young kids, it’s perfect for those who want a peaceful taste of Tuscany’s countryside with a touch of local life. The small group size, included transfer, and tasting make it a well-thought-out option for travelers seeking comfort and authenticity.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a gentle exploration of Tuscany’s rolling hills, this experience delivers beautiful views and memorable moments without any fuss. If that sounds like your kind of day, it’s well worth considering.

Hope this helps you decide if this adventure suits your Tuscany plans. Feel free to ask any questions or share your thoughts—happy travels!