Quad excursion in the Maremma with barbecue in the woods

If you’re looking for a unique way to see Tuscany beyond the usual vineyards and towns, this quad excursion in the Maremma offers a pretty memorable experience. It’s a chance to zip through the Bandite di Scarlino woods, enjoy stunning views, and then kick back with a rustic barbecue in the forest. We’ve come across plenty of traveler reviews praising it as a fun, authentic adventure, and for good reason.

What we love most about this tour is how approachable it is—whether you’re a first-timer or someone with some quad experience, the activity is designed to be accessible. The scenery is genuinely breathtaking, and the barbecue, with its local flavors, adds a cozy, welcoming touch. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is the requirement of a “B” license to ride—so this isn’t quite a “just hop on and go” type of outing unless you’re licensed.

This experience really shines for those who want a taste of Maremma’s natural beauty combined with a bit of outdoor fun. It’s suitable for a broad range of travelers, especially if you’re after an active, engaging way to connect with Tuscany’s landscape. If you’re craving a mix of adventure, delicious food, and scenic views, this could be a great pick.

Key Points

• Scenic Exploration: Zipping through the Bandite di Scarlino woods offers authentic views and scents that are hard to find elsewhere.
• Local Flavors: The barbecue features classic Tuscan snacks like grilled sausage, cheese, and bread, complemented by wine and water.
• Accessibility & Requirements: A “B” license is needed to ride the quad, and practical shoes are a must.
• Group Size & Cost: With a maximum of 10 travelers and at around $95 per person, it’s an intimate, reasonably priced experience.
• Duration & Flexibility: Lasts about 2.5 hours, perfect for a half-day adventure without a huge time commitment.
• Reviews & Satisfaction: Consistently high ratings (5.0/5 from 27 reviews) show this tour hits the mark for most participants.

A Deep Dive Into the Experience

From the moment you arrive at the meeting point—Podere Casolino in Scarlino, a quiet spot surrounded by nature—the atmosphere feels relaxed and welcoming. The short briefing is straightforward, giving you just enough info to get started confidently, which many reviewers, like N_H, appreciated: “There was a short introduction in the parking lot and then we started. First along the road and then into the forest.”

Once on the quads, you’ll follow dirt roads through the typical Mediterranean scrub of the Maremma. The landscape is a patchwork of colors—greens, browns, and the golden light that only Tuscany can deliver. You’ll get a mix of riding along open paths and weaving through wooded sections. The terrain is generally manageable, making it suitable for anyone with practical driving skills, thanks to the guide’s instructions.

One highlight is how the tour balances adventure and scenery. You don’t spend all your time riding; instead, the route is designed to reveal the local landscapes, scents, and colors. Several reviews, including Diego_a’s, rave about the experience: “Un’ esperienza bellissima all’ insegna della natura e di una bella mangiata nel bosco dopo aver percorso un sentiero con i quad,” meaning it’s a wonderful nature-filled adventure topped off with a forest meal.

And speaking of food, the barbecue at the end is a definite highlight. It’s served at a former chestnut drying house, adding rustic charm. The menu includes grilled sausages, cheese, bread, and wine, giving you a hearty taste of local flavors. The food is simple but satisfying—an authentic Tuscan snack that feels like a treat after a morning of riding. You’ll also have bottled water and the option to enjoy wine, which many reviewers appreciated. The quality of the food and drinks, combined with the scenic setting, makes it feel like a genuine local experience rather than a commercialized tour.

The included fuel, helmets, balaclava, and snacks are standard, and the group size—limited to 10—keeps things intimate. The tour is designed to be family-friendly in spirit, with the emphasis on fun and practicality. However, you’ll need proper shoes to ride comfortably and safely, which is a common requirement for outdoor activities like this.

What Makes This Tour Special?

What sets this excursion apart is the blend of adventure and authenticity. Unlike other tours that might just take you to a viewpoint or a vineyard, here you actively participate in the landscape. The scenic views and local scents create a sense of immersion that’s hard to match in more traditional sightseeing.

The fact that it’s a relatively short experience—about two and a half hours—means it fits well into a day of exploring Tuscany without feeling overwhelming. It’s also well-suited for those who want a fun, active outing that’s more engaging than a simple walk or drive.

A couple of reviews noted some minor initial issues, but these were sometimes related to logistical hiccups rather than the activity itself. The experience has a stellar reputation, evidenced by a 5-star average rating and 93% of participants recommending it.

Practical Details & Considerations

The cost of $95.05 per person offers solid value for a guided outdoor adventure with included food and drinks. Since the tour is limited to 10 travelers, you’re likely to enjoy a personalized experience, especially compared to larger group excursions.

Booking is straightforward with a mobile ticket, and the activity offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving you some peace of mind. The weather can influence the tour’s viability—bad weather could lead to cancellation, but you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

If you’re considering taking part, remember that a “B” license is required to ride the quad. So if you don’t have one, this might not be possible without some prior arrangements.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This excursion is ideal for adventure lovers wanting to explore Tuscany’s natural scenery from an unconventional perspective. It’s perfect for those who enjoy outdoor activities combined with good food in a relaxed, scenic environment. While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the focus on practicality and fun makes it suitable for a wide age range, provided participants meet the riding requirements.

It also suits solo travelers, couples, or small groups looking for an authentic experience that mixes a bit of adrenaline with genuine local flavors. If you’re after a short, engaging, and picturesque activity, this tour hits many marks.

FAQ

Do I need a license to participate?
Yes, a “B” license is required to ride the quad, so make sure you have the proper certification before booking.

Is prior experience necessary?
Not necessarily. The activity is designed to be accessible to most practical drivers, with a brief introduction provided before starting.

What should I wear?
Practical shoes are mandatory, and comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor riding is recommended. No specific gear is included outside helmets and balaclavas.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 2 hours 30 minutes, including riding and the barbecue stop.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly marked for children, the focus on practical driving and adult beverage options suggests it’s best suited for travelers over 18 or those with the appropriate license.

What is included in the price?
Fuel, helmets, balaclava, bottled water, wine, and the barbecue with grilled sausage, cheese, and bread.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start, with a full refund.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour depends on good weather. If canceled due to rain or poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

How many people will be on the tour?
A maximum of 10 travelers ensures a small-group experience, making it more personal and manageable.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a more active way to soak in Tuscany’s natural beauty, this quad adventure offers a satisfying mix of scenic riding, local flavors, and fun. It’s well-suited for those who want a hands-on experience that goes beyond sightseeing and get a real feel for the landscape.

The inclusion of a rustic barbecue with hearty Tuscan snacks makes it stand out, especially if you enjoy combining outdoor activities with good food and wine. While the activity isn’t overly challenging, it provides enough thrill and scenery to keep things interesting.

For travelers who value authenticity, scenic diversity, and a relaxed atmosphere, this tour tick all the boxes. Just remember to have your license handy and suitable shoes ready, and you’re set for a memorable slice of Maremma life.

This is a fun, well-reviewed experience that delivers stunning views, delicious food, and a genuine outdoor adventure—perfect for those wanting to explore Tuscany in a different way.