Lazio MEDIEVAL Castle Ride

(Italy)

Escape to a medieval castle in one of the most stunning natural landscapes in Italy, at the crossroads of Lazio, Umbria, and Tuscany. You'll stay in a beautifully restored ancient farmhouse, just steps from the splendid 17th-century Castello di Santa Cristina, which has been owned by the noble Caterini family for generations. Set just north of Lake Bolsena and only an hour and a half from Rome, the castle is surrounded by 100 hectares of untouched countryside.

The estate has its own riding center, offering trail rides through the Tuscan countryside for experienced riders. Beginners can enjoy lessons with skilled instructors, while non-riders have a wide range of activities to choose from, including cycling, tennis, boat tours, beach getaways, and access to the swimming pool. You can also join yoga sessions, cooking classes, and wine tastings.

It’s a fantastic place for families, groups of friends, or solo travelers. You'll be welcomed into a warm, inviting atmosphere, enjoy delicious local food and wine, and experience the real ‘Dolce Vita’ !

QUICK GUIDE

  • Airport: Rome (Fiumicino Airport or Ciampino Airport)

  • Duration: 3 nights min.

  • Price: From €800 per person

  • Riding level: Beginner to advanced, depending on the program
    (All levels welcome, there's a program for everyone!)

  • Who can join: Riders, non-riders, children…everyone is welcome!

  • Programs available: Short break and full week treks available for experienced riders. 6 day beginers program also available; Custom programs and lenght of stay also available on demand- please inquire!

  • Season: from April to November

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Ride across one of the less inhabited areas in Italy, with beautiful nature, a lot of history, castles and archaeological sites along the way.

  • Guided tour of the 17th century Castle.

  • Free access to the swimming pool (June-Sept.) and to the tennis court.

  • Families with kids and non riders can enjoy cycling, boat tours, beach getaways, as well as yoga sessions, cooking classes, and wine tastings.

3 PROGRAMS AVAILABLE

GENERAL INFORMATION

  • The farm is home to around 20 horses, including Italian Maremmano and Murgese breeds, as well as German, Dutch, French, Anglo-Arab, and crossbreeds. The horses range in size from 160 to 170 cm (15hh to 17hh), and there are also smaller horses and ponies available for children. All horses live year-round in herds on large open fields surrounding the castle and are personally bought and trained by the owner, ensuring they are well cared for and well suited to trail riding.

    Riding experiences are tailored to the level of each participant. Beginners can enjoy slower-paced rides through beautiful countryside, while more experienced riders will have the chance to explore faster canters and more dynamic terrain on forward-going, responsive horses. Chaps and helmets are available for beginners to borrow. There is a weight limit of 90 kg (200 lb) for all riders.

    Please note that during the hot months of July and August, the full-day ride is replaced with two shorter half-day rides to ensure the well-being of both horses and riders.

  • ACCOMMODATION:

    The accommodation is located within a historic estate full of character and significance. The castle, once the residence of a cardinal and temporary home to the Vatican’s treasure during the 1848 revolution, now serves as the private country residence of Count Antonio and his family. Much of the castle has been carefully preserved and is open to visitors as a museum.

    Just below the castle, the family has restored a 19th-century farmhouse, thoughtfully converted into a charming hotel with an adjoining restaurant and bar. It offers fourteen comfortable double and twin ensuite rooms, each combining rustic charm with modern comforts in keeping with the estate's style.

    A short distance from the castle is the ancient village, which once formed the heart of the estate's agricultural operations. The former farm buildings have been transformed into a welcoming complex of well-appointed apartments, furnished with antiques primarily sourced from the castle itself.

    The main swimming pool, located beneath a scenic terrace with a gazebo, measures 6.50 x 16 meters. Nearby is a 2 x 2 meter children's pool. A second pool, measuring 8.50 x 4 meters, is available exclusively to guests staying in the Marta and Capodimonte cottages. Wooden loungers are provided for relaxing in the sun.

    The pools are open from 1 June to 30 September.

    Single Supplement: If you are traveling alone and no roommate is available, a single supplement fee applies.

    FOOD:

    Meals feature traditional Italian cuisine with local specialties and a few creative additions. Lunch is served from 1 pm to 2 pm, and dinner from 8 pm to 9 pm.

    Guests may choose between half board (breakfast and dinner) or full board (breakfast, lunch and dinner)

    Guests with self-catering accommodation may still dine at the restaurant by reserving a day in advance and paying on site.

    During the summer months, meals can be enjoyed al fresco on the terrace overlooking the pool.

    All meals include water and ¼ bottle of wine per person. Soft drinks, coffee, cappuccino and additional wine are available at an extra charge.

  • What’s Included in Your Package

    • Accommodation in a shared bedroom

    • Half Board or Full Board meals, depending on your booking (from dinner on arrival day to breakfast on departure day, drinks not included)

    • Guided horseback rides and equipment (you can borrow helmet, boots & chaps).

    • Access to the swimming pool (June 1 to September 30)

    • Access to the tennis court

    • Use of indoor and outdoor game areas

    • Guided visit of the castle

    What’s Not Included

    • Flights

    • Airport transfers

    • Drinks

    • Single room supplement (price depends on room type)

    • Travel and medical insurance

    Important:
    It is mandatory to present proof of insurance that covers horseback riding. If you do not have one, you will need to purchase local coverage on arrival:

    • €35 per person

    • Valid for 2 to 7 days

    • Personal expenses and optional visits

    • Tipping (not required but appreciated)

    Additional Services Available (at extra cost)

    • Massage

    • Bike rental

    • Cooking class

    Location Highlights

    • Closest village: 5 minutes by car (restaurants, pubs, sightseeing)

    • Nearest beach: 15 minutes by car

  • Non-riders are very welcome and can enjoy a peaceful, relaxing stay while others are out riding. The estate is especially well suited for families, with a swimming pool, tennis court and plenty of open space for children to explore and play. Bicycles are available to rent, with or without a guide, making it easy to discover the surrounding countryside at your own pace.

    Non-riders also have the option to join the riding group at lunchtime during excursions, offering a flexible and inclusive experience for couples, families and friends.

    Please refer to each program section for the non-rider rate based on program length.

    Note: We also offer cycling programs for non-riders. Please inquire for a custom quote.

  • Season & Availability

    • Operating Season: April to November

    Seasonal Periods

    • Low Season:
      March 12 to June 15
      September 17 to November 6

    • High Season:
      June 16 to September 16
      Includes all bank holidays

    Arrival & Departure

    Short Break (3 nights)

    • Arrival: Wednesday afternoon (check-in from 14:30, no later than 22:00)

    • Departure: Sunday after breakfast

    Full Week (7 nights)

    • Arrival: Saturday afternoon (check-in from 14:30, no later than 22:00)

    • Departure: Following Saturday after breakfast

    Meal package pricing for custom program lenght

    • Half Board (dinners only):
      €160 per adult
      €120 for children under 12

    • Full Board (lunches and dinners):
      €250 per adult
      €180 for children under 12

    Notes:
    All meals include water and ¼ bottle of wine per person.
    Soft drinks, coffee, cappuccino and additional wine are charged separately.

  • Family-Friendly Estate:

    This estate is an excellent choice for families with children, offering a welcoming and safe environment for all ages. The farm provides a perfect base for the whole family, with plenty of open space for kids to play and explore.

    Facilities and Activities:

    The property features two swimming pools: the main pool (6.50 x 16 meters) located beneath a beautiful terrace with a gazebo, and a nearby children’s pool (2 x 2 meters) designed for younger guests. An additional pool (8.50 x 4 meters) is reserved exclusively for guests staying in the Marta and Capodimonte cottages. Comfortable wooden loungers are available for sunbathing.

    A synthetic grass tennis court, located just a few meters from the pool area, is fully equipped with rackets and balls, which can be borrowed from reception. There is also a football pitch on the spacious lawn, ideal for family games or relaxing outdoors.

    The pool area is surrounded by lush gardens and a spacious lawn, perfect for enjoying the Tuscan sun. A panoramic terrace on the upper level overlooks the pool, offering a quiet spot to read, sip a drink, or watch the day unfold.

    Cycling:

    Road, mountain, and e-MTB bikes are available to rent at the castle, along with assistance and guided tours. The region offers scenic roads, charming villages, and challenging climbs, ideal for road cycling enthusiasts. You can explore traffic-free routes through hills, mountains, lakes, ancient castles, and Renaissance palaces in an unspoiled countryside.

    For mountain biking, trails wind through volcanic craters, forests, and stunning lake views, making this area a top destination for MTB riders. Professional guides are available to ensure an unforgettable cycling experience in Tuscany.

    Location:

    The nearest village is just a five-minute drive away, offering restaurants, pubs, and sightseeing opportunities. The beach is reachable within 15 minutes by car.

  • Fly to Rome (Leonardo da Vinci -Fiumicino Airport or Ciampino Airport)

    From the airport you can take a train to Orvieto Train Station and have transfer from there (about 50km). Train time table at Tren Italia.

    Transfer: please enquire if you need transportation directly from the airport.

    We recommend renting a car if you want to explore the area, there is a lot to discover when you are not riding. 

Lazio Castle Ride - short break

This 3-day riding itinerary offers daily rides. It will take you along "The Brigands Trail", boasting stunning panoramic views that, on a clear day, extend to the distant, shimmering sea, all while passing through ancient oak woodlands and traditional farm dwellings, and providing expansive views of Lake Bolsena's crater. A full-day excursion to Lake Mezzano involves riding through farmlands and wooded hills, including a stop for lunch at a farm restaurant and a refreshing swim.

Group size: Min. 1 – Max. 6 riders

QUICK GUIDE:

  • 4 nights with half or full board options

  • Two hacks of 2 hours and + 1 full day hack

  • From €800 per person half board

  • Intermediate / Advanced riders

  • SAMPLE ITINERARY

    Day 1 – Arrival
    After check-in and a welcome drink, you will meet your guides for a program briefing and an introduction to your stay. You’ll also enjoy a guided tour of the castle and its beautiful grounds.

    Day 2 – Half-Day Ride
    You will set off toward the hills that frame the western plateau of the castle. From this scenic vantage point, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Lake Bolsena crater and the gently rolling Mezzano hills.

    Day 3 – Full-Day Ride to Lake Mezzano
    You will ride along the Brigands Path, crossing farmland and into the wooded hills near Onano. As you go, you’ll spot ancient stone pine trees on an old Etruscan site before reaching the wide, open plain of the Mezzano crater. You’ll stop for a delicious lunch at Fra Viaco farm restaurant and have the chance to cool off with a swim in the lake’s crystal-clear waters. After lunch, you’ll ride back to the castle through peaceful chestnut forests.

    Day 4 – Half-Day Ride
    You will follow the Brigands Trail in the direction of Lake Bolsena. Along the way, you’ll take in incredible views across the volcanic landscape, with Lake Bolsena on one side and the Mezzano hills on the other. On a clear day, you might even catch a glimpse of the distant sea, glistening on the horizon. As you make your way back, you’ll pass through ancient oak forests and ride past traditional farmhouses carved from tufo stone.

    Day 5 – Departure
    After a few unforgettable days in the saddle, you will prepare for your onward journey, leaving with plenty of memories and stories to share. Check-out is between 10 a.m. and 12 p.m., with late check-out available upon request and subject to availability.

    Please note: Itinerary details may be adjusted based on weather, rider ability, horse availability, or other factors. Your comfort and safety are always the top priority.

  • Low Season Rates:
    March 12 to June 15, September 17 to November 6

    • Shared room, Half Board: €800 per person

    • Shared room, Full Board: €890 per person

    • Individual room, Half Board: €1000 per person

    • Individual room, Full Board: €1090 per person

    High Season Rates: June 16 to September 16 [includes all bank holidays]

    • Shared room, Half Board: €860 per person

    • Shared room, Full Board: €950 per person

    • Individual room, Half Board: €1305 per person

    • Individual room, Full Board: €1395 per person

  • What’s Included

    • 4 nights in a double, twin, or single room with private bathroom

    • Daily room cleaning

    • Continental breakfast buffet served in the old stables of the castle

    • 2 guided horseback rides (2 hours each)

    • 1 full-day guided ride (5–6 hours)*

    • Helmets

    • Wi-Fi and parking

    • Use of the swimming pool, tennis court, indoor playroom, and jumping field

    • Guided tour of the 17th-century castle with the owners

    *During July and August we don't organize full day riding because of the very high temperature recently experienced in that period. The program will be added of 2 hacks (4 in total)

  • Accompanying non-riders (based on 4 nights in shared accommodation):

    Low Season

    • Half board: €415

    • Full board: €505

    High Season

    • Half board: €475

    • Full board: €565

Lazio Castle Ride - Full Week

This 6-day itinerary offers an immersive Italian experience, blending horseback riding with cultural exploration. The itinerary features daily hacks, including a full-day ride to Lake Mezzano for swimming and lunch, and scenic rides to Lake Bolsena and through ancient Etruscan trails with breathtaking views. A dedicated day off allows for exploring local historical sites like Pitigliano and Orvieto or simply relaxing at the castle.

Group size: Min. 1 – Max. 6 riders

QUICK GUIDE:

  • 7 nights with half or full board option

  • Four hacks of 2 hours and one full day hack

  • From €1320 per person

  • Intermediate / Advanced riders

  • Non-riders welcome at reduced price

  • SAMPLE ITINERARY

    Day 1: Arrival
    After check-in and a welcome drink, you'll meet your guides for an introduction to the week ahead. Settle in and enjoy a guided tour of the beautiful Castello di Santa Cristina to get a feel for its history and charm.

    Day 2: Two-Hour Hack
    You’ll begin your riding journey with a relaxed two-hour ride through the hills west of the castle. From this scenic spot, take in sweeping views of Lake Bolsena’s volcanic crater and the surrounding Mezzano hills.

    Day 3 – Full-Day Ride to Lake Mezzano (approx. 6 hours, 32 km)
    Ride through open farmland and into the wooded hills near Onano along the Brigands Path. Pass an ancient Etruscan site crowned by stone pine trees before reaching the wide plain of the Mezzano crater. You’ll stop at a charming farm restaurant for lunch and have the chance to swim in the crystal-clear lake. Afterward, return to the castle through peaceful chestnut forests.

    Day 4: Rest Day / Sightseeing
    Take a break from the saddle to explore the rich culture and landscapes of the region. Visit the hill towns of Pitigliano, Sorano, and Sovana, or marvel at Orvieto’s gothic cathedral and the unique village of Civita di Bagnoregio. Or simply spend the day at the castle, enjoying the pool, tennis, massage, or a hands-on cooking class.

    Day 5: Two-Hour Hack
    Head out along the Brigands Trail toward Lake Bolsena. The panoramic views are spectacular—from the lake below to the distant sea shimmering on the horizon. Ride back through oak woodlands and past traditional farmhouses carved into tufo stone.

    Day 6: Two-Hour Hack
    Venture north to Onano, a fortified medieval village once ruled by the Monaldeschi family. Pass the Madonna Delle Grazie church and ride through the peaceful countryside back to the castle.

    Day 7: Two-Hour Hack
    Follow an ancient Etruscan trail through thick woodland to the rim of Lake Bolsena’s volcanic crater. Along the way, take in vineyards, Etruscan tombs, and views of the Farnese Palace in Gradoli. Finish with a canter beneath a tunnel of oak trees along an old shepherd’s path—a highlight of the week.

    Day 8: Departure
    Check-out is between 8:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. Late check-out may be available upon request. After a week of unforgettable experiences, you’ll leave with great memories and maybe a few new riding skills too.

    Please note: The itinerary may change based on weather, horse availability, rider experience, or other factors. Your safety is always top priority.

  • Low Season Rates:
    March 12 to June 15, September 17 to November 6

    • Shared room, Half Board: €1320 per person

    • Shared room, Full Board: €1500 per person

    • Individual room, Half Board: €1670 per person

    • Individual room, Full Board: €1850 per person

    High Season Rates:
    June 16 to September 16 [includes all bank holidays]

    • Shared room, Half Board: €1425 per person

    • Shared room, Full Board: €1605 per person

    • Individual room, Half Board: €1810 per person

    • Individual room, Full Board: €1990 per person

  • What’s Included

    • 7 nights in a double, twin, or single room with private bathroom

    • Daily room cleaning

    • Continental breakfast buffet served in the old stables of the castle

    • 4 guided horseback rides (2 hours each)

    • 1 full-day guided ride (5–6 hours)*

    • Helmets

    • Wi-Fi and parking

    • Use of the swimming pool, tennis court, indoor playroom, and jumping field

    • Guided tour of the 17th-century castle with the owners

    *Note: During July and August we don't organize full day riding because of the climate change and very high temperatures recently experienced in that period. The program will be added of 2 hacks (6 in total)

  • Accompanying non-riders (based on 7 nights in shared accommodation):

    Low Season

    • Half board: €735

    • Full board: €915

    High Season

    • Half board: €840

    • Full board: €1020

BEGINNER PROGRAM

This programme covers a wide range of people looking to gain more confidence in the saddle. For five days, you'll enjoy one hour of riding per day, split between lessons to hone your skills and treks around the castle to explore the immediate surroundings.

A shorter version of this programme (fewer days and riding hours) can be arranged upon request.

QUICK GUIDE:

  • 6 nights with half or full board option

  • 5 riding lessons

  • From €1180 per person

  • Full beginners or beginners-advanced

  • SAMPLE ITINERARY

    Day 1 – Arrival and Guided Tour
    After check-in and a welcome drink, you will meet the Santa Cristina guides for a program introduction and briefing. You’ll then be taken on a guided tour of the castle to get familiar with your surroundings and its rich history.

    Day 2 to Day 6 – Riding Program
    Each day, you will enjoy one hour of riding, which includes a combination of lessons and relaxed treks around the castle grounds. Whether you’re building confidence in the arena or exploring the nearby countryside, you’ll have expert guidance every step of the way.

    Day 7 – Sightseeing or Relaxation
    You will have the day free to explore the surrounding area or simply unwind. If you’re in the mood for adventure, you can visit historic gems like the hilltop villages of Pitigliano, Sorano, and Sovana, or make your way to Orvieto to admire its stunning gothic cathedral. Civita di Bagnoregio, known as the “Dying Town,” is another unforgettable spot worth seeing.

    Prefer to take it easy? You can stay at the castle and enjoy the swimming pool, play a game of tennis, or try some indoor and outdoor activities. You’ll also have the option to book a massage or take part in a hands-on cooking class.

    Day 8 – Departure
    After a week of memorable experiences, you will prepare for your onward journey, leaving with lasting memories and perhaps some new riding skills. Check-out is between 10 a.m. and 12 p.m., with late check-out available upon request and subject to availability.

    Please note: Activities may be adjusted depending on weather, rider level, horse availability, or other factors. Your safety and comfort are always the top priorities.

  • Low Season Rates:
    March 12 to June 15, September 17 to November 6

    • Shared room, Half Board: €1180 per person

    • Shared room, Full Board: €1330 per person

    • Individual room, Half Board: €1470 per person

    • Individual room, Full Board: €1620 per person

    High Season Rates: June 16 to September 16 [includes all bank holidays]

    • Shared room, Half Board: €1260 per person

    • Shared room, Full Board: €1410 per person

    • Individual room, Half Board: €1590 per person

    • Individual room, Full Board: €1740 per person

  • What’s Included

    • 7 nights in a double, twin, or single room with private bathroom

    • Daily room cleaning

    • Continental breakfast buffet served in the old stables of the castle

    • 4 guided horseback rides (2 hours each)

    • 1 full-day guided ride (5–6 hours)*

    • Helmets

    • Wi-Fi and parking

    • Use of the swimming pool, tennis court, indoor playroom, and jumping field

    • Guided tour of the 17th-century castle with the owners

    *Note: During July and August we don't organize full day riding because of the climate change and very high temperatures recently experienced in that period. The program will be added of 2 hacks (6 in total)

  • Accompanying non-riders (based on 6 nights in shared accommodation):

    Low Season

    • Half board: €560

    • Full board: €710

    High Season

    • Half board: €640

    • Full board: €790