Horseback riding and wine tour (private tour)

Valencia Horseback Riding and Wine Tour: A Practical, Enjoyable Day Out

If you’re considering a day trip outside Valencia that combines scenic riding with some excellent wines, this private horseback riding and wine tour might just fit the bill. Based on multiple glowing reviews and consistent ratings of 5.0 stars out of 9, it seems to deliver on its promise of a relaxed, enjoyable experience. The tour offers a calm, authentic way to explore the countryside of Utiel-Requena, one of Spain’s renowned wine regions, with the added bonus of some quality tastings.

What we really like about this experience is how it balances activity with leisure. First, you get to saddle up for an easy, one-hour horseback ride with a professional guide leading the way. It’s ideal if you’re after a peaceful way to see the landscape, and the reviews confirm that many found it to be a very calming, scenic experience—mentioning the beautiful vineyards and tranquil countryside. Afterwards, the visit continues into a local winery where you can taste three wines of your choosing, paired with an aperitif, making it a well-rounded, satisfying outing.

One thing to keep in mind is that the activity relies on good weather—if it rains or snows, the horseback ride will be canceled, and you’ll receive a full refund. This is worth considering if you’re planning your trip during uncertain weather months. Also, the tour is quite intimate, with a maximum of three travelers, which adds a sense of exclusivity but might not suit those looking for a larger group vibe.

This tour feels best suited for those who love combining outdoor activities with wine appreciation—perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone who appreciates a laid-back, personal experience. It’s not a full vineyard visit or extensive tour, but rather a gentle introduction to the region’s landscapes and wines, making it an ideal choice for travelers wanting something authentic without overcommitting their day.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Combines scenic horseback riding with wine tasting for a genuine taste of Utiel-Requena.
• Personalized & Private: With a maximum of three travelers, it offers a more tailored, relaxed atmosphere.
• Weather Dependent: Rain, snow, or poor weather cancels the riding, but full refunds are available.
• Value for Money: At $172.86 per person, the tour offers a balanced mix of activity, tasting, and scenery.
• Highly Rated: Consistently 5-star reviews praising the professionalism, beautiful views, and delicious wines.
• Ideal for: Couples, small groups, or anyone who enjoys gentle outdoor adventures with a wine focus.

Experience Breakdown: What to Expect on the Tour

Starting at the Empalme metro station in Valencia, the tour is straightforward to access via public transport—an aspect many travelers appreciate, especially if they’re staying centrally. The tour begins promptly at 9:30 am, giving you a good half-day of exploration in the countryside.

The Horseback Ride

The highlight for many is the one-hour guided horseback ride through the rural landscapes of Utiel-Requena. You’ll be accompanied by a professional guide, which means you’ll get good insights into the scenery and perhaps some tips on riding, even if you’re a beginner. The calm pace and peaceful surroundings are often mentioned as a highlight; reviewers describe it as “idyllic” and “very peaceful,” making it perfect for those looking to unwind.

The scenery itself is a key part of the charm—vineyards stretch on all sides, and the landscape offers a classic, picturesque view of Spanish countryside. The experience is relaxed, not hurried, which is perfect for travelers wanting a break from hustle and bustle.

The Wine Tasting

After the ride, you’ll head to a local winery, where you’ll get to sample three wines from a selection. You’ll choose the three wines that best suit your tastes, which makes this part of the tour more personalized. It’s paired with an aperitif, so you’ll have some snacks to complement the wines. The tasting is described as delicious and well-organized—a sentiment echoed in reviews praising the friendly staff and quality wines.

Reviewers mention that the vineyard is beautiful, even in winter, which suggests that the scenery remains charming year-round. The tour doesn’t include a visit to the winery itself, so if you’re interested in a full tour of the wine-making process, you might find this a bit limited. Still, for the casual wine lover, the tasting offers enough to satisfy without feeling rushed.

Practical Details: Timing and Transport

The tour lasts about 6 hours, giving plenty of time for the ride, tasting, and some relaxation. The meeting point at Empalme is easy to reach by metro or tram, making it accessible even if you’re not renting a car. The tour is designed for moderate physical fitness levels, so it’s suitable for most travelers who can handle a gentle ride and some standing.

The small group size (up to three people) fosters a personalized experience, allowing guides to cater to individual needs and questions. The price point, at around $172.86 per person, is reasonable considering the personalized nature and the included activities.

Flexibility and Cancellation

One of the notable practical aspects is the free cancellation policy—you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This gives some peace of mind, especially if weather turns unfavorable or your plans change unexpectedly.

Why This Tour Works

From the consistent praise, it’s clear that the knowledgeable guides and beautiful scenery are its main draws. Multiple reviewers highlight the professionalism and helpfulness of Elise, the tour organizer, and the fact that she made everything straightforward and enjoyable. The peaceful ride and the beautiful vineyard views are repeated favorites, making the tour feel like a slow, enjoyable escape.

The wine tasting, often described as delicious, adds a special touch—especially since you get to select your wines, making it more interactive. The pairing with an aperitif enhances the experience without making it feel overly formal or rushed.

Who Will Love This Experience?

If you enjoy outdoor activities combined with wine, this tour is a good find. It’s best suited for travelers who want a relaxed, intimate experience rather than a high-energy tour. Couples or small groups will appreciate the personalized nature, and those interested in Spanish rural landscapes will find plenty to enjoy.

It’s also a good choice if you’re looking for a break from city sightseeing but still want to stay close enough to Valencia. The scenery alone makes it worth considering, especially if you’re a fan of wine and quiet countryside.

However, if you’re after an in-depth wine tour or a visit to the winery itself, you might find this experience a bit limited. Also, keep in mind the weather dependency—if you’re visiting in winter or during unpredictable weather, be prepared for potential cancellations.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How long is the tour?
  Approximately 6 hours, including transportation, riding, and tasting.

• What is included in the tour?
  A one-hour horseback ride guided by a professional, and a wine tasting of three wines paired with an aperitif.

• Where does the tour start and end?
  It begins and ends at the car park in front of Empalme metro station in Valencia.

• Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
  Yes, if weather conditions prevent the horseback ride, the reservation will be canceled, and you’ll receive a full refund.

• Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
  The tour is private, with a maximum of three travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

• How do I get to the meeting point?
  By metro or tram; take metro line 1 or 2, or tram line 4, to Empalme.

• What if I want to book at a discounted rate?
  Booking directly on the agency’s website (www.combinaconvino.com) might offer better prices.

• What kind of terrain will I ride through?
  Countryside paths and vineyard landscapes, ideal for a peaceful, scenic ride.

• Is this suitable for children or beginners?
  It’s suitable for most people with moderate fitness, but check with the operator if you have concerns about riding experience.

• What’s the cost per person?
  The fee is around $172.86, which includes all activities and tastings.

To sum it up, this horseback riding and wine tour in Valencia’s Utiel-Requena region offers a relaxed, intimate way to enjoy rural scenery and quality wines without the fuss of large group tours. It’s perfect for those who value personalized service, scenic beauty, and a taste of authentic Spanish countryside life. If you’re looking for a peaceful activity that combines nature, wine, and local charm, this experience might just be the right choice for your trip.