CLASSICAL DRESSAGE IN TUSCANY

(ITALY)

Improve your dressage skills with this classical dressage riding holiday in Tuscany. With expert instructors and well-trained horses, riders of all levels can experience the thrill of dressage in a picturesque setting. The equestrian center offers tailored packages that focus on dressage training, allowing riders to advance their skills while enjoying the beauty of Tuscany. Comfortable accommodations and delicious local cuisine complete the perfect riding holiday for dressage enthusiasts.

Note: Riders of all levels welcome! Accompanying non-riders and families are also welcome to join- there is plenty of activities to do!

Horse riding dressage lesson at sunset in Italy.

QUICK GUIDE

  • Location: Tuscany, Italy

  • Fly to Florence Airport (FLR) - the closest option- or to Pisa Airport (PSA)

  • All Levels welcome- Beginner to Advanced.

  • Choose your dates & length of stay (4 nights min.)

  • The 2026 season runs from March 21 to November 1!

  • The 2027 runs from March 13 to November 6

Horse riding facilities near Florence in Italy

2 PROGRAMS AVAILABLE

  • Dressage rider during a lesson in an arena in Italy

    DRESSAGE PROGRAMME

    For Intermediate to Advanced Riders

    This program is specifically designed for riders seeking focused dressage instruction. Ideal for those with prior experience and comfortable in an arena at all paces (walk, trot, canter). It aims to refine skills in dressage and classical riding. Each lesson lasts 45 minutes and is conducted in small groups of maximum two riders.

    * * * *

    7 nights / 8 days - Full Week Program

    This full week program typically encompasses six lessons, with the option to extend to ten lessons depending on availability.

    PACKAGE PRICING:

    Rider Sharing (6 Lessons): €1600

    Rider Sharing (10 Lessons): €1920

    Non-Rider (Half Board): €1120

    * * * *

    4 nights / 4 days - Long Weekend Program

    This long weekend retreat itinerary typically encompasses five lessons.

    PRICING:

    Rider Sharing (5 Lessons): €1130

    Non-Rider in shared accommodation and half board: €680

    -

    All the rates are per person, sharing a double room, half-board basis.
    Single supplement applies for riders traveling alone.
    Half board includes breakfasts and dinners. Lunches are available a la carte each day and payable onsite.

  • Person riding a white horse during a riding lesson in an outdoor arena with a man standing nearby, wooden fence, green landscape, and blue sky.

    BEGINNER PROGRAMME

    For Beginner Riders

    This program is specially designed for beginners who are entirely new to horseback riding or have limited experience (i.e. walk and trot levels). If individuals demonstrate greater competence or experience, they may be required to pay a surcharge if moved to a more advanced group during their stay.

    * * * *

    7 nights / 8 days - Full Week Program

    This full week program typically encompasses six lessons, with the option to extend to ten lessons depending on availability.

    PACKAGE PRICING:

    Rider Sharing (6 Lessons): €1480

    Rider Sharing (10 Lessons): €1720

    Non-Rider (Half Board): €1120

    * * * *

    4 nights / 4 days - Long Weekend Program

    This long weekend retreat itinerary typically encompasses five lessons.

    PRICING:

    Rider Sharing (5 Lessons): €1030

    Non-Rider in shared accommodation with half board: €680

    -

    All the rates are per person, sharing a double room, half-board basis.
    Single supplement applies for riders traveling alone.
    Half board includes breakfasts and dinners. Lunches are available a la carte each day and payable onsite.

INQUIRE HERE
Equestrian holidays dressage class in Italy
Tuscan Bed & Breafast near Florence
Horse riding holidays in Italy
Chianti wine at the equestrian resort in Italy near Florence

More about the DESTINATION…

  • This renowned equestrian facility is celebrated for its exceptional instruction in classical horse riding. Situated in Tuscany and serving as an equestrian vacation center, it offers a range of approximately 30 horses, with diverse breeds including Lusitano, Anglo-Arab, Sella Italiano, Holsteiner, Arab, KWPN, Maremmano, Merens, and Ponies.

    Recommended by the English T.T.T. (Training the Teachers of Tomorrow) association and featured in widely-read horse riding publications such as Horse&Rider UK, Your Horse UK, Dressage Today USA, Horse&Hound UK, Pferd&Reiter, Cavallo Magazine, and Il Mio Cavallo, this center is nestled in the picturesque Chianti region. It offers a magnificent setting for dressage and horse riding lessons tailored to individuals of all ages and skill levels.

    The dressage lessons last 45 minutes and may be conducted with up to two riders of similar level. There is the option to ask for a private lesson (additional €40 per lesson)

    Note: During the summer, if it gets too hot, the lesson will take place only in the morning.

    Children are warmly welcome and must be accompanied by an adult. Lessons are available from 4 years old – please inquire about program pricing and stays.

    The stables include paddocks, two fields and two open arenas at their disposal.

  • Your Stay Includes

    • Cozy accommodation in charming rooms located in the farmhouse. Prices shown are per person based on shared accommodation

    • Delicious breakfasts and three-course dinners.

    • 5, 6, or 10 riding lessons, depending on the package you choose

    This is a family-friendly destination, and children are warmly welcome. Our programs are available for children from 4 years old. Please inquire about pricing for non-riders and family stays.

    Not Included

    • Flights and airport transfers

    • Lunches and drinks

    • Optional extra activities (wine tasting, cooking lessons, etc)

    • Tourism Tax (€2 per person per night, subject to increase in 2026)

    • Travel and cancellation insurance, and other personal expenses

    Transfers:

    • Florence Airport – Approx €130 each way

    • Pisa Airport – Approx €180 each way

    • Poggibonsi Train Station – Approx €35 each way

    Optional Supplements:

    • Single room supplement: €60 per night (if not sharing, subject to availability)

    • Superior room supplement: €25 per person, per night (Piccionaia and Volta rooms)

    • Lunch: Approx €25 per day, payable onsite (includes a light à la carte lunch)

    Extra Riding Lessons:

    • Dressage lesson: €90

    • Beginner lesson: €70

    • Children (4–7 years): €45

    • Children (8–12 years): €55

    • From 13 years old: same price as adults

    • Horsemanship, groundwork, or bodywork lesson: €55

    • Private dressage lesson supplement: €40

    • Private beginner lesson supplement: €25

    Guests are required to have insurance covering any accidents that may occur while participating in equestrian activities. Learn more about booking travel insurance for your riding holiday on our blog here.

    Our partners are very pet-friendly! Your furry friend is welcome to stay with you for a small extra fee:

    • Small dogs – €10 per day

    • Large dogs – €15 per day

    Payment

    • Extras can be conveniently paid on-site by card (VISA and MASTERCARD accepted).

  • Guest accommodation is in charming bedrooms with a typical Tuscan farmhouse style, with each bedroom having its own ensuite bathroom. There is also A/C available in each room.

    Traditional home cooked Italian meals are served everyday with high quality, locally sourced products- with wine available at extra cost for both lunch and dinner. Different needs and dietary restrictions can also be catered for. Our guests also have access to the pool with its scenic views of the rolling Chianti hills.

    Please be aware that the swimming pool is only open from May 1st to October 31st.

  • Check-in & Check-out

    Check-in is from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm on arrival day. Please let us know if you expect to arrive later than 8:00 pm. While rooms may not be ready before 4:00 pm, you are welcome to arrive earlier and enjoy the facilities. Dinner is included on your first evening. If you arrive early, you can also opt for lunch at €25.
    Check-out is at 10:00 am on departure day, but you are welcome to extend your stay, book an extra dressage lesson, or enjoy a final lunch at an additional cost.

    Amenities

    • Wifi is included in all rooms and common areas

    • All rooms have air conditioning

    Activities:

    Guests can request additional experiences such as cooking classes, wine tasting, yoga, or Italian lessons. The surrounding area offers plenty of activities including sightseeing, hiking, and biking.

    Perfectly situated in the heart of Tuscany, the farmhouse is an ideal base for exploring the region. Florence and Siena are just a 30-minute drive away, easily accessible by bus, or a private transfer can be arranged. Nearby towns like Colle di Val d’Elsa, San Gimignano, Certaldo, Monteriggioni, and Castellina in Chianti are all within approximately 20 minutes.

    Cooking Classes:
    Available on request and subject to availability (payable onsite).
    Approximate price per person €100-150

    Wine Tasting:
    Wine tasting evenings are offered for guests, usually on Fridays, at a local producer known for excellent quality. Availability depends on the producer and tastings are not included in the price (payable onsite).

INQUIRE HERE
Dressage lesson on horseback in Tuscany, Italy

ACCOMMODATION

Guest accommodations are in a typical farmhouse, with its cotto tiled flooring, wooden beams, arches, vaults, exposed stone walls and typical late 1700s Tuscan furnishings. There are 8 bedrooms, all have their own private bathroom. The house is air conditioned by a solar powered device, in line with the philosophy of maximum respect for the environment. There is free wifi in all areas of Il Paretaio.

Superior room - Piccionaia Room (the most romantic with panoramic views)

Superior room - Piccionaia Room (the most romantic with panoramic views)

Superior room- Piccionaia Room (the most romantic with panoramic views)

Superior room- Piccionaia Room (the most romantic with panoramic views)

Superior room - Piccionaia Room (the most romantic with panoramic views)

Superior room - Piccionaia Room (the most romantic with panoramic views)

Superior room - Piccionaia Room (the most romantic with panoramic views)

Superior room - Piccionaia Room (the most romantic with panoramic views)

Superior room - Piccionaia Room (the most romantic with panoramic views)

Superior room - Piccionaia Room (the most romantic with panoramic views)

Standard room -Pozzo Room (the most luminous with Mediterranean lights)

Standard room -Pozzo Room (the most luminous with Mediterranean lights)

Standard room - Pozzo Room (the most luminous with Mediterranean lights)

Standard room - Pozzo Room (the most luminous with Mediterranean lights)

Standard room - Pozzo Room (the most luminous with Mediterranean lights)

Standard room - Pozzo Room (the most luminous with Mediterranean lights)

Standard room - Pozzo Room (the most luminous with Mediterranean lights)

Standard room - Pozzo Room (the most luminous with Mediterranean lights)

Standard room - Cavallo Room (photographers' favorite)

Standard room - Cavallo Room (photographers' favorite)

Standard room - Cavallo Room (photographers' favorite)

Standard room - Cavallo Room (photographers' favorite)

Standard room - Cavallo Room (photographers' favorite)

Standard room - Cavallo Room (photographers' favorite)

Standard room - Linari Room (breath-taking view on the abandoned Linari Castle)

Standard room - Linari Room (breath-taking view on the abandoned Linari Castle)

Standard room - Linari Room (breath-taking view on the abandoned Linari Castle)

Standard room - Linari Room (breath-taking view on the abandoned Linari Castle)

Standard room - Linari Room (breath-taking view on the abandoned Linari Castle)

Standard room - Linari Room (breath-taking view on the abandoned Linari Castle)

Standard room - Linari Room (breath-taking view on the abandoned Linari Castle)

Standard room - Linari Room (breath-taking view on the abandoned Linari Castle)

Standard room - Cavallo Room (photographers' favorite)

Standard room - Cavallo Room (photographers' favorite)

Standard room - Cavallo Room (photographers' favorite)

Standard room - Cavallo Room (photographers' favorite)

Accommodation facilities on a horse riding holiday.

Accommodation facilities on a horse riding holiday.

Superior room - Teatro Room (can easily accommodate 4 people)

Superior room - Teatro Room (can easily accommodate 4 people)

Superior room - Teatro Room (can easily accommodate 4 people)

Superior room - Teatro Room (can easily accommodate 4 people)

Superior room - Teatro Room (can easily accommodate 4 people)

Superior room - Teatro Room (can easily accommodate 4 people)

Superior room - Teatro Room (can easily accommodate 4 people)

Superior room - Teatro Room (can easily accommodate 4 people)

Standard room - Robinia Room (with breath-taking backdrop views)

Standard room - Robinia Room (with breath-taking backdrop views)

Standard room - Robinia Room (with breath-taking backdrop views)

Standard room - Robinia Room (with breath-taking backdrop views)

Robinia Room (with breath-taking backdrop views)

Robinia Room (with breath-taking backdrop views)

Superior room - Volta Room (has its small private outside space, can accommodate 3 people)

Superior room - Volta Room (has its small private outside space, can accommodate 3 people)

Superior room - Volta Room (has its small private outside space, can accommodate 3 people)

Superior room - Volta Room (has its small private outside space, can accommodate 3 people)

Superior room - Volta Room (has its small private outside space, can accommodate 3 people)

Superior room - Volta Room (has its small private outside space, can accommodate 3 people)

Superior room - Volta Room (has its small private outside space, can accommodate 3 people)

Superior room - Volta Room (has its small private outside space, can accommodate 3 people)

Standard room - Mangiatoia Room (with fascinating vaulted ceilings)

Standard room - Mangiatoia Room (with fascinating vaulted ceilings)

Standard room - Mangiatoia Room (with fascinating vaulted ceilings)

Standard room - Mangiatoia Room (with fascinating vaulted ceilings)

Standard room - Mangiatoia Room (with fascinating vaulted ceilings)

Standard room - Mangiatoia Room (with fascinating vaulted ceilings)

Standard room - Mangiatoia Room (with fascinating vaulted ceilings)

Standard room - Mangiatoia Room (with fascinating vaulted ceilings)

Standard room - Mangiatoia Room (with fascinating vaulted ceilings)

Standard room - Mangiatoia Room (with fascinating vaulted ceilings)

Standard room - Mangiatoia Room (with fascinating vaulted ceilings)

Standard room - Mangiatoia Room (with fascinating vaulted ceilings)

Standard room - Mangiatoia Room (with fascinating vaulted ceilings)

Standard room - Mangiatoia Room (with fascinating vaulted ceilings)

  • TESTIMONIALS

    "This place has such a unique vibe. Especially when stressed from work and everyday life, this place feels like a break from reality. Truly magical. I could feel the love and effort that the family puts into hosting guests and making their stay enjoyable. Pedro and his wife were in charge of the dressage lessons, I think I never had better lessons than these. The horses are incredibly well trained, and they taught me a lot! How to be softer myself and ride more effortless. I have to highlight how well the horses are treated. Overall I had a great time there and would recommend it to everybody. I felt at home there, it was such a peaceful time.” — Michelle G.

  • TESTIMONIALS

    “What made this dressage retreat so meaningful is how much it reflected back to me. Horses are such powerful mirrors, they show us what we often miss in ourselves. I run two businesses and have been feeling out of balance, constantly working. This dressage week taught me a beautiful lesson in balance and harmony between give and take. It also brought a deeper awareness and energy to my riding… you can feel it in your fingertips. This experience has been a real gift.” - Jessica Thompson
    (World on Horseback Hosted Retreat – April 2025)

  • TESTIMONiALS

    "I had such a wonderful week riding Coco, she’s so beautifully trained. My riding improved dramatically, thanks to her and, of course, our incredible trainer Pietro. I’m leaving this retreat a stronger, more confident rider." - Irena Pitt
    World on Horseback Retreat – April 2025

  • TESTIMONIALS

    "I absolutely loved my stay here. Years ago, I trained with Richard Davison, and Pietro’s teaching style reminded me so much of that: precise, empathetic, and very present. He and Nathalie are a wonderful team. Pietro has an incredible sensitivity to horses and is with you every step of the way in your lessons. Beyond the training, we enjoyed beautiful sightseeing and lovely accommodations. I highly recommend hiring a car: we explored Florence and Siena. The learning, the riding, the people, it was all wonderful. I definitely plan to come back. A solid 10/10! - Annette Witmond Irvine
    World on Horseback Retreat – April 2025

  • TESTIMONIALS

    "I would recommend this charming Tuscan farmhouse to anyone. Even if you're not a rider, the setting is breathtaking, the rolling Tuscan hills, charming Renaissance towns, and nature all around. Perfect for partners or friends who want to relax while you ride—and who knows, you might even convince them to join you! The dressage focus works for riders of all disciplines and levels. The horses and instructors were kind, intuitive, and incredibly skilled. The family running the retreat is warm and welcoming, always ready to help. And the food? Absolutely unforgettable." - Julia Cozzarelli
    World on Horseback Retreat – April 2025

  • TESTIMONIALS

    "Everything about this dressage retreat was wonderful, the friendly staff, the stunning setting, and a fantastic group of riders. I feel like we all made real progress over the week!" - Lillian Wang
    World on Horseback Retreat – April 2025

  • TESTIMONIALS

    “I spent a glorious 5 days at this dressage facility in Tuscany. Thank you for posting about them I would have otherwise never known. It was incredible and I cannot wait to go back!” - Berenice Giannini

  • TESTIMONIALS

    “We had a wonderful time!  The horses were amazing.  The accommodations, the food, the scenery, out hosts and the other guests were all amazing.  I would definitely return for another adventure there. Thank you for your help in making it a wonderful visit!” - Heather Miranda

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Dinning with views over the tuscan landscapes
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White spanish PRE horse in the landscapes of Tuscany in Italy
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Dressage class on a white spanish horse in Italy
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Chestnut horse with the tuscan landscape in the background in Italy
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