Tuscan Chianti Hills Horseback Riding Tour

Taking a horseback riding tour through Tuscany’s rolling hills can sound like a dream, but how does it really stack up? We haven’t done this particular ride ourselves, but based on extensive reviews and details, we can give you a true picture of what to expect. Whether you’re a first-timer or a casual rider, this tour offers a chance to see the countryside in a different way, riding through vineyards, olive groves, and rustic villages.

Two things we genuinely like about this experience? First, the scenic scenery that provides a much-needed break from busy city life. Second, the friendly guides and well-trained horses, which make the ride more accessible and enjoyable for many. However, a possible hitch is the remote location—it can be a bit tricky to reach without your own transportation.

This tour is best suited for those with basic riding ability or a willingness to learn, and it’s especially friendly to beginners or intermediate riders. If you’re craving a peaceful, scenic, and not overly strenuous activity that allows you to connect with nature, this could be a good pick.

Key Points

• Ideal for beginners and intermediate riders who are comfortable mounting and dismounting unassisted.
• The setting offers beautiful views of vineyards, olive groves, and ancient villages.
• Horses are well-trained and suited to the rider’s ability, making the experience accessible.
• Duration is around 1.5 hours, with some reviews praising the length as perfect for a relaxing ride.
• The location is remote, so transport arrangements need planning ahead.
• Guides are friendly and knowledgeable, often highlighted as a major positive.

What to Expect from the Tour

This horseback riding experience kicks off with a convenient departure from Siena’s city center. You’ll hop into a comfortable minivan that takes you to the stables, which, as some reviews mention, is in a somewhat secluded area. The drive is short, but it’s worth noting that public transportation options are near the meeting point, yet getting there without your own transport might involve some planning—some guests mentioned needing to take a bus or even hitcheshike, which isn’t ideal for everyone.

Once at the stables, there’s a friendly safety briefing. This is especially helpful for those new to riding or who haven’t been on a horse for a while. Helmets are provided, and you’ll have a quick practice riding session in the arena. The guide’s attentiveness is frequently praised—many reviews mention how caring and friendly the guides are, making even nervous riders feel more at ease.

The Ride Itself

The trail starts at a leisurely pace, perfect for taking in the scenery. You’ll pass through quiet country roads, lush forests, and historic villages. Some routes follow trails used by pilgrims on the Via Francigena, adding a touch of history to your ride. The landscape is described as a patchwork of vineyards and villa-crowned hills—many reviewers agree that the views are beautiful enough to make the trip worthwhile.

For those with more experience, there are stretches where you can trot or canter, which adds a bit of excitement. But overall, the ride is tailored to novice and intermediate riders, which means the pace is relaxed enough for most to enjoy without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

The Horses and Guides

Guests consistently comment on the calmness and training of the horses, which in many reviews are described as gentle and obedient. This is especially reassuring for beginners or those who might lack confidence. The guide’s role is crucial here—many reviewers appreciated their friendliness, attentiveness, and local knowledge. One review even highlighted a guide from Gambia, emphasizing the diverse backgrounds of the staff and their caring attitude.

The End of the Ride

After roughly an hour and a half, you’ll return to the stables. The experience usually includes helping to groom and unsaddle your horse, which adds a nice touch of interaction and care. From there, it’s a short drive back to Siena, where you can reflect on your peaceful escape into the Tuscan countryside.

Is It Worth the Price?

At around $86.73 per person, this experience offers decent value—especially considering the scenic beauty and the chance to ride in Italy’s famous landscape. Many guests mention that the length of the ride feels just right, neither too short nor too long, making it accessible for a half-day activity.

Keep in mind, food and drinks aren’t included, so plan accordingly. Also, transportation to the meeting point is on you, which could add to the overall cost if you don’t have a car. Some guests found this a bit inconvenient, especially if they don’t speak Italian or are unfamiliar with local transit options.

Real Feedback from Participants

The majority of reviews (many 5-star) highlight how much they enjoyed the scenic views and the friendly atmosphere. “Everything was perfect,” said one guest, praising the ride and the view of fields and vineyards. Another described it as “a beautiful countryside ride,” with calm horses that suited their experience level.

However, there are some less glowing reviews. One guest noted that the horses were old, poorly groomed, and not suited for experienced riders—an important consideration if you expect a more professional or high-quality ride. Others pointed out difficulties reaching the location due to its remote setting, with one guest mentioning a costly taxi ride and disorganization upon arrival.

Some reviews also mention the importance of transportation: “Most travelers can participate,” but it’s clear that getting to the site is easier with your own vehicle.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re new to horseback riding or prefer a relaxed pace with beautiful scenery, this tour is likely a good fit. The horses are well-trained, and guides are attentive, making it a suitable introduction to riding in Tuscany. Nature lovers, casual riders, and those seeking a peaceful escape from Siena will find plenty to enjoy here.

However, if you’re an experienced rider looking for more challenging terrain or a longer ride, this might not meet those expectations. The remote location and the focus on beginner-friendly riding mean it’s designed more for a tranquil sightseeing experience rather than high-adventure horseriding.

FAQs

Do I need previous horseback riding experience?
Not necessarily. The tour is designed for novice and intermediate riders, and many reviews mention that even first-timers or nervous riders felt comfortable thanks to the calm horses and helpful guides.

What should I wear?
Long-sleeved tops, leggings or jodhpurs, and closed-toe shoes with non-slip soles are recommended. Some reviews advise wearing long pants because overhanging branches on trails could brush against you.

Is transportation included?
No, transportation to and from the meeting point is not included. Guests often mention that reaching the location may require a taxi, bus, or hitchhiking, so plan ahead.

How long does the ride last?
The riding itself is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, which many find to be a comfortable length for enjoying the scenery without feeling exhausted.

Is the location accessible?
The stables are in a somewhat remote area, which is intentional to provide a peaceful setting, but this means getting there might be challenging without your own transport.

Can I choose my horse?
The experience is tailored to match horse to rider experience, so the horses are generally well-suited to those riding at a beginner or intermediate level.

What is the group size?
The maximum number of travelers is 15, making it a small, intimate group—ideal for a relaxed experience and more personal attention.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Most tours are weather-dependent, but policies typically allow for rescheduling or refunds if the experience is canceled due to rain or other severe weather conditions.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a gentle, scenic ride through Tuscany’s beautiful hills, this horseback tour from Siena offers a delightful way to experience the region. It’s particularly suited for beginners or those looking for a peaceful, photo-worthy outing. The calm, well-trained horses and friendly guides ensure a relaxed experience, even for first-timers.

Keep in mind that the remote location may require some planning around transportation, and the experience doesn’t include food or drinks. If you’re comfortable with basic riding ability or eager to learn, you’ll probably find this tour a worthwhile part of your Siena visit. For adventure seekers or more seasoned riders, it might fall a bit short, but it still offers a charming glimpse of Tuscany’s rural beauty.

Overall, it’s a lovely way to enjoy the countryside, with plenty of opportunities for memorable photos and quiet reflection. Just be sure to think about how you’ll get there and whether the ride length suits your pace. For many, this tour strikes a happy balance of scenery, gentle riding, and a relaxed atmosphere—a true taste of Tuscan life on horseback.