Castagneto Carducci stands out as a wonderful base for exploring Tuscany’s renowned wine and countryside. What makes this small town so appealing is its mix of authentic local experiences and breathtaking scenery. Among the top activities here, we love the chance to visit family-run wineries, like The Selections: visit and tasting in the Bolgheri Doc region, for its blend of tradition and modernity. Plus, the option to go horseback riding through olive groves and along the coast offers a lively, outdoor way to enjoy the area’s natural beauty. For those seeking a more relaxed, immersive experience, wine tastings provide a taste of Tuscany’s best while allowing time to soak in the land’s scents and flavors.
Below, we’ve rounded up two of the best tours in Castagneto Carducci: one that dives into the wine world of Bolgheri’s DOC region, and another that brings you close to the countryside on horseback. Both offer a different perspective on what makes this part of Tuscany so special.
1. The Selections: visit and tasting in the Bolgheri Doc region
This tour gives you a taste of Tuscan wine and local produce in a setting that balances modern elegance with traditional charm. You start at Via Bolgherese, a road famous for its vineyards and scenic vistas, before heading to the family-owned Tenuta Di Vaira. The guided tour lasts about 40 minutes, where you’ll learn about the estate’s history, winemaking techniques, and the stories behind its labels.
Following the tour, the highlight is a 1.5-hour tasting session featuring their top wines, paired with slices of Tuscan bread drizzled with their extra virgin olive oil and some local cheeses. The experience emphasizes authenticity and connection to the land, with hosts who prioritize kindness and hospitality. Guests often comment on the superlative quality of the wines and the engaging guides.
What makes this experience stand out is how seamlessly it combines education, sensory pleasure, and a genuine sense of place. It’s perfect for wine lovers or anyone curious to understand what makes Bolgheri wines so famous globally. The tour is relatively short, making it easy to fit into a busy itinerary, but the depth of the tasting and personal touch make it worth every euro.
Bottom line: This is a top choice for those wanting an insider look at a leading Tuscan wine estate, with a relaxed pace and rich flavors.
2. Castagneto Carducci: Horseback Riding Experience in Tuscany
For a completely different way to experience the landscape, this horseback riding tour offers two options: a 1-hour or 2-hour ride through pine forests, scenic trails, and along the sea. The longer route includes a stretch along the beach, providing a perfect photo op and a real sense of open space.
Begin with a short introductory briefing that covers the basics of riding, making it accessible even for beginners. From there, the guide leads you through quiet trails, past olive groves, and along quiet country roads. If you opt for the two-hour ride, views of the Tuscany coastline are stunning, especially at sunset. This tour offers the chance to disconnect from digital life and reconnect with nature through the gentle rhythm of horseback riding.
What makes this experience unique is how it combines physical activity, peaceful scenery, and a touch of adventure. Riders of all levels can enjoy the ride, making it suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers wanting a taste of rural life. The tour is priced reasonably at $59 per person, and reviews suggest it’s a fun, memorable way to see the countryside.
Bottom line: Ideal for those seeking an active outdoor experience and a different perspective on Tuscany’s landscape—horseback riding here turns the scenery into a personal journey.
How to Choose
When deciding between these two engaging options, consider your interests and travel style. If you love wine, history, and tasting local products, the visit and tasting in Bolgheri’s DOC region offers a rich, relaxed immersion. For outdoor activity lovers or families, the horseback riding experience provides a fun, active way to explore the scenic countryside.
Think about your schedule and physical comfort—wine tastings are usually quick but enriching, while horseback riding requires a bit more physical readiness but rewards with scenic views along the coast and forests. Booking early is advisable, especially for popular times like spring and summer.
Final Thoughts
Castagneto Carducci offers a nice variety of tours that cater to different tastes. For a relaxed, flavorful experience, the Bolgheri wine tasting tops the list. For those craving outdoor adventure, horseback riding through olive groves and along the beach makes for a memorable day.
If you’re a wine enthusiast or prefer a slow, sensory experience, go for the wine tour. If you want a lively, active day and don’t mind riding a horse, then the horseback adventure will hit the spot. Both tours highlight the authentic charm of Tuscany’s landscape and local products, so whichever you choose, you’re in for a satisfying experience. Be sure to book early, especially in peak season, to secure your spot and enjoy a hassle-free visit.
