Private Horseback Riding Tour of the Vineyards in Verona with Wine Tasting

This in-depth review explores a unique way to experience Verona and its surrounding vineyards — on horseback. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the detailed itinerary, glowing reviews, and the rich list of stops make it clear this is a memorable adventure for those seeking a mix of history, nature, and wine.

What immediately catches our eye are the personalized private transportation and guided experience, the chance to ride among centuries-old vineyards, and the opportunity to taste acclaimed wines like Amarone. However, the full-day length (about 10 to 11 hours) might be a stretch for those with limited time or stamina.

This tour suits travelers who love history and culture, enjoy outdoor activities, and want to indulge in local wines without the hassle of planning each stop. If you’re after a blend of scenic riding, fascinating sights, and delicious tastings, this could be a perfect fit.

Good To Know

• Unique horseback riding experience through historic vineyards and Verona’s ancient sites
• Expert guides bring history and wine-making tales to life
• Visit renowned wineries like Masi Agricola and Serego Alighieri, with exclusive insights
• Stunning scenery along the hills of Valpolicella and Verona’s medieval landmarks
• Includes wine tastings that highlight legendary local wines like Amarone and Campofiorin
• Full-day itinerary with carefully curated stops, though some may find the schedule intense

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

The Unique Appeal of Combining Horseback Riding, Wine, and History

This tour offers an extraordinary way to explore Verona and Valpolicella — riding among the vineyards while discovering the stories behind the land and its wines. The experience is private, meaning your group gets undivided attention from guides, and the journey is tailored to give a more authentic feel of the region.

What makes this adventure stand out is the personal touch: riding through historic vineyards, visiting ancient sites, and tasting some of Italy’s most celebrated wines. The guide, whose expertise is praised in reviews, reportedly makes the day both informative and lively, sharing legends, historical tidbits, and insider stories that you won’t find in guidebooks.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Masi Agricola (2 hours)

Our journey begins at Masi Agricola, a leader in Amarone and Campofiorin wines. You’ll walk through their vineyards, witnessing the craft of drying grapes — an ancient technique that concentrates flavors. Here, the focus is on understanding how the land and climate influence the wine’s character.

Reviewers mention visiting this estate as a highlight, noting the “tradition meets innovation” vibe. The chance to see their vineyard slopes and learn about their unique drying process adds depth to wine tasting. Expect to get a behind-the-scenes look at the winery’s historic methods, which enhances appreciation for each sip.

Stop 2: Possessioni Serego Alighieri (2 hours)

Next, you’ll ride through the estate linked to Dante’s family, now run by his descendants for 21 generations. It’s a fascinating glimpse into history, especially knowing the estate was bought in 1353 by Dante’s son. The story of the “Ghost Cellar” — where prized bottles were hidden in WWII — adds a touch of mystery.

Guests describe the landscape as idyllic, with rows of vines stretching over historic hills. The guide’s storytelling brings the estate’s romantic and strategic past to life, making each wine tasting more meaningful. You might also hear about innovative touches like cherry barrels, which add a contemporary flair to traditional methods.

Stops 3-4: Medieval Verona (15-30 minutes each)

Riders will have opportunities to explore medieval landmarks, such as the Scaliger Bridge, built in 1355, and the Castelvecchio Museum. The bridge’s engineering marvel, with its 48.7-meter central arch, is a sight to behold — especially knowing it was reconstructed after WWII using original stones.

Walking through Castelvecchio reveals a fortress built for power and strategic defense by Cangrande II della Scala. The museum and fortress are rich with stories of medieval rulers, knights, and power struggles.

Stops 5-6: Roman Verona (20-30 minutes)

You’ll also visit the Arena di Verona, one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters, dating back to 30 AD. Its size and resilience—surviving earthquakes and centuries—are astonishing. The guide likely shares tales of gladiators and ancient spectacles, making history tangible.

The Porta Borsari, a Roman gateway, is another highlight. Its construction in the first century AD and its role as a bustling entry point for merchants and travelers make it a symbolic portal into the past.

Stops 7-8: Juliet’s House and Piazza delle Erbe (20-25 minutes each)

For a romantic touch, the tour visits Juliet’s House, where you can stand under the famous balcony and imagine Shakespeare’s lovers. Guests often find the atmosphere enchanting, even if it’s largely a symbol of romance rather than an actual historical site.

Piazza delle Erbe, built on Verona’s Roman forum, offers a lively scene of medieval towers, statues, and market stalls. The Fountain of Madonna Verona and the Lion of St. Mark remind visitors of Venice’s influence.

Stops 9-13: Verona’s Civic and Religious Landmarks (15-20 minutes each)

The Piazza dei Signori, Arche Scaligere, Cathedral of Verona, and Santa Anastasia Basilica provide a full picture of Verona’s political, religious, and artistic history. The Monumental Scaliger Arks are particularly striking, showcasing elaborate tombs of the city’s ruling family.

Walking through these sites, you’ll hear stories of power, ambition, and faith, with detailed descriptions that help you visualize the city’s medieval grandeur.

The Experience and Overall Value

The tour, costing approximately $673.70 per person, includes private transportation and guiding services, which makes logistics seamless. While the price may seem high, it reflects the depth of experience — from exclusive vineyard visits and wine tastings to private rides and expert commentary.

Guests have noted the knowledgeable guides, like Alice, who made the day unforgettable with her storytelling and local insights. The emphasis on authentic experiences—rather than just sightseeing—means you get to truly connect with Verona’s land and its history.

What the Tour May Not Cover

While the itinerary is packed with highlights, some major attractions like inside visits to certain sites are not included, only viewed from the outside, which might disappoint visitors looking for in-depth museum tours. Also, the long duration could be tiring for some, especially during warmer months.

Practical Considerations

• Timing: Starting at 9:00 am, the full day requires good stamina but offers a rundown.
• Group Size: As a private tour, you benefit from personalized attention and flexible pacing.
• Weather Dependence: The experience requires good weather, especially for riding.
• Age and Fitness: Suitable for most travelers comfortable with riding and walking; no specific age restrictions are mentioned, but consider physical ability.

Final Thoughts

This horseback riding tour of Verona and Valpolicella is a compelling choice for travelers eager for a multi-sensory experience — combining scenic rides, historic exploration, and wine tasting. It’s particularly well-suited for those who want to go beyond the usual city tour and crave an immersive journey into Italy’s storied land and culture.

The carefully curated stops, knowledgeable guides, and the chance to sample legendary wines make it a memorable, well-rounded adventure. The downside is the long duration and the fact that some sites are only viewed externally, but if you’re looking for a luxurious, engaging way to experience Verona, this tour hits the mark.

For lovers of history, wine, and the outdoors, it offers a perfect blend of all three, creating a day packed with meaningful sights and flavors.

FAQ

Is this a private tour?
Yes, this experience is exclusive to your group, providing personalized attention and a flexible schedule.

What’s included in the price?
The tour covers private transportation, guiding services, and wine tastings at two renowned wineries. Entrance to sites like the Arena and Juliet’s House are only from the outside.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 10 to 11 hours, including multiple stops and activities, making it a full-day adventure.

Are the wine tastings extensive?
Yes, you will visit Masi Agricola and Serego Alighieri, where you’ll learn about traditional techniques and taste notable wines like Amarone, Campofiorin, and more.

Is horseback riding physically demanding?
Riders should be comfortable with horseback riding; the tour is designed for enjoyment rather than rigorous activity, but stamina for a full day is advised.

Can children participate?
While not explicitly stated, most travelers who are comfortable with riding and walking should be fine; check with the provider for specific age restrictions.

This horseback riding tour combines the best of Verona’s history, stunning landscapes, and exceptional wines — a true feast for the senses that’s worth every penny for those seeking an authentic and memorable Italian experience.