Daily Animals Lovers : Horseback ride with meals & wine included

Discovering the Horseback Experience in Abruzzo: A Practical Review

Embarking on a horseback ride that combines scenic nature, good food, and local wine sounds like something straight out of a dream, yet this tour from Tagliacozzo makes it a reality. While we haven’t personally saddled up, the reviews and itinerary paint a picture of a well-organized, authentic adventure that offers more than just a ride—you get a full immersion into local landscapes and hospitality.

What we love about this experience? First, the chance to explore Simbruini National Park on horseback is truly special—it’s not every day you get to ride through such stunning mountain scenery. Second, the personalized attention from knowledgeable guides like Alessia, who are praised for their friendliness and patience, makes the whole experience feel genuine and tailored. Third, the combination of a meaty, scenic ride with a local wine tasting in a charming village square offers a well-rounded taste of Abruzzo culture.

One potential consideration? This is a 5-hour experience requiring moderate physical fitness and some comfort with horses, so it might not be ideal for absolute beginners or those with mobility issues. Still, for those who enjoy outdoor adventures and want something authentic, this tour hits the right notes. It’s especially suited to animal lovers, nature enthusiasts, and travelers seeking a personalized, small-group experience away from tourist crowds.

Good To Know

• Authentic horseback riding through the protected landscapes of Simbruini National Park
• Expert guides, like Alessia, ensure safety and provide fascinating insights
• Includes meals, wine tasting, and horse grooming, adding value and a personal touch
• Ideal for beginners and experienced riders alike due to well-trained horses and clear instructions
• Private tour format guarantees a tailored, intimate experience
• Beautiful scenery and wildlife spotting enhance the journey

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

The tour begins at Piazza dell’Obelisco in Tagliacozzo, a charming town that acts as the perfect gateway into Abruzzo’s natural beauty. Here, the friendly staff from Cavalieri di Gaia will greet your group, and you’ll start by feeding and grooming horses—a step that many reviews highlight as a highlight, giving you a real connection to the animals before riding. Reviewers like Alessia are praised for their professionalism and patience, making even nervous riders feel at ease.

The first stop, Centro Ippico Valle Verde, involves about an hour of riding on naturalistic trails. These paths, carefully selected, wind through lush mountain landscapes and offer chances to spot local wildlife like deer, eagles, and even wolves—a major thrill for animal lovers. The well-trained horses and expert instructors ensure that even those new to riding can enjoy the experience, with some reviews mentioning how helpful and accommodating Alessia and her team are.

Scenic Trails and Wildlife Encounters

During the ride, you’ll traverse peaceful trails that showcase the rugged beauty of Abruzzo. The landscape varies from dense forests to open mountain vistas, all very photogenic. Several reviewers mention how the scenery alone makes this trip worth it, describing it as a “unique experience of nature and history.”

While riding, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, as some guests have reported sightings of deer, eagles, and, rarely, wolves. This adds an element of excitement since you’re not just riding; you’re truly in the animals’ habitat. The trails are described as relaxing and suitable for a wide range of riders, from complete beginners to those more experienced.

Picnic Lunch and Social Time

After about an hour of riding, the tour pauses at a designated spot for a packed lunch—a simple but hearty meal that provides a break and a chance to chat with your fellow riders. This is a nice touch, mentioned positively by reviewers who appreciated the opportunity to relax and connect. While the exact menu isn’t specified, the emphasis is on local flavors and fresh ingredients.

Ending with a Wine Tasting in Tagliacozzo

The tour wraps up back in Obelisk Square, a picturesque location in Tagliacozzo, with a local wine tasting. This final stop offers an authentic taste of Abruzzo’s renowned wines and allows guests to unwind and reflect on their day amidst historic surroundings. Reviewers consistently praise this part of the experience, describing the wines as well-selected and the setting as charming—a perfect conclusion to a day in nature.

Practicalities and Value

Duration, Group Size, and Physical Requirements

The entire experience lasts around five hours, a moderate commitment for a half-day adventure. It’s offered as a private tour, meaning only your group participates, which reviews suggest makes for a more relaxed and personalized experience. The activity begins at Piazza dell’Obelisco and ends there as well, offering convenience for transportation.

Participants should have moderate physical fitness, as the ride involves walking, mounting, and dismounting horses. Many reviews mention that even first-timers found the guide’s instructions clear and the horses well-behaved, easing any initial nervousness.

Cost and Value for Money

Priced at $172.09 per person, this tour represents a solid value considering what’s included: horse grooming, scenic ride, lunch, and wine tasting. For lovers of animals, nature, and authentic local food, this is a comprehensive package. The reviews reinforce that the experience’s quality, guided by Alessia and her team, surpasses many standard horseback riding tours.

Accessibility and Booking

The activity is bookable with mobile tickets and confirmed immediately upon booking. Most reviews mention good communication and ease of booking, with many guests booking around 192 days in advance—a sign of its popularity.

Authentic Experiences Highlighted by Reviewers

Multiple reviews share how personalized the experience feels thanks to guides like Alessia, who are praised for their friendliness, patience, and professionalism. Guests mention that they appreciated being involved in feeding and grooming horses beforehand, which deepens the connection to the animals and makes the ride more meaningful.

The wildlife sightings and stunning scenery are consistently highlighted as the main attractions, with many guests saying the landscape alone makes the trip worthwhile. The wine tasting in Tagliacozzo’s town square** is described as an ideal way to end the day, adding a relaxed, social element.

The Sum Up: Who Would Love This Tour?

This horseback riding experience is perfect for animal lovers, those wanting an authentic taste of Abruzzo, or travelers seeking a small-group, personalized adventure. It’s especially suitable for beginners, thanks to the well-trained horses and clear guidance, but also rewarding for more experienced riders who want to enjoy the landscape at a relaxed pace.

If you’re after a combination of outdoor activity, culture, and local flavors, this tour checks all the boxes. It offers not just a ride but a chance to connect with nature, learn about local wildlife, and enjoy some of Italy’s finest wines—all in a half-day that leaves you feeling refreshed and inspired.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, many reviews mention that even first-time riders felt comfortable thanks to the well-trained horses and friendly guides.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers horse grooming, the scenic horseback ride, a packed lunch, and a wine tasting in Tagliacozzo.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately five hours, from start to finish, including riding, lunch, and the wine tasting.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Piazza dell’Obelisco in Tagliacozzo and concludes there as well.

Is transportation provided?
The tour starts at a centrally located meeting point; transportation arrangements are not specified but most guests find it easy to reach via public transit or private transport.

Do I need prior riding experience?
No, this tour is suitable for all levels, including beginners, because of the well-trained horses and attentive guides.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activity and weather conditions. Closed-toe shoes are recommended.

Can children participate?
While specific age restrictions aren’t listed, many reviews talk about family experiences, so children comfortable with riding are likely welcome.

Is the tour private?
Yes, this is a private experience for your group, ensuring a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

In sum, this horseback riding tour offers a genuine, scenic, and culturally rich experience perfect for those who want to feel closer to nature, enjoy local food and wine, and try horseback riding in an authentic setting. With attentive guides, stunning landscapes, and a well-rounded itinerary, it’s a memorable addition to any Abruzzo or Italy adventure.