Horseback riding and aperitif 2 hours for beginners

If you’re curious about horses but have no previous experience, the Horseback Riding and Aperitif for Beginners tour in Pisa offers a welcoming and accessible way to discover equestrian fun. For $85.98 per person, this two-hour experience combines ground training, a scenic horseback ride, and a relaxed aperitif in the Tuscan countryside. It’s designed specifically for beginners and those who don’t usually ride horses, making it an ideal choice for families or casual riders eager to try something new in Italy’s beautiful landscape.

The tour departs from Centro Ippico La Cartuja in Calci and includes pickup options for convenience. It’s a short, friendly adventure that focuses on safety, education, and enjoyment, with an easy difficulty level suitable for ages 9 and up. The experience is well suited for travelers who want a relaxed pace, friendly guides, and a chance to manage a horse independently by the end of the ride.

Key Points

• Two-hour horseback riding experience tailored for beginners
• Includes safety helmet and photoshoot at no extra cost
• Scenic route passing through woods, streams, and historic sites in Calci
• Aperitif with wine, bread, cheese, and salami at the end of the ride
• Suitable for ages 9 and up, with easy difficulty and no prior experience needed
• Pickup offered for locations beyond 12 km, with an additional fee

Starting Point at Centro Ippico La Cartuja in Calci

The tour begins at Via Trieste, 56011 Calci PI, a location easily accessible near public transportation. The meeting point is the riding school, where the staff welcomes guests and provides a brief safety and command briefing. This initial session lasts just a few minutes but is key to building confidence before heading out on the trail.

The pickup service adds flexibility, especially for groups staying outside the immediate area. For pickups more than 12 km away, an additional charge of 10 Euros per person applies, making this option practical for visitors staying in Pisa or nearby towns. The round-trip ride back to the meeting point completes the experience.

The Learning Ground: Basic Commands and Horse Management

The first part of this experience focuses on learning or reviewing fundamental commands for horse riding. Guests receive a short briefing from ground staff, who are experienced and friendly, to prepare for the walk. This field lesson helps participants feel comfortable and confident managing their horse during the ride.

Even those with no prior riding experience find this segment helpful, as the guides explain how to handle the horse safely and become familiar with basic commands. The emphasis on awareness and safety ensures that everyone, regardless of age, can enjoy the ride without feeling overwhelmed.

The Scenic Circular Route Through Tuscan Countryside

Once riders are comfortable, the guided horseback walk begins. The route passes through dappled woods and crosses streams, allowing riders to enjoy nature and tranquility in the Tuscan landscape. The trail takes visitors under the historic Upezzinghi Tower in Caprona, offering historic charm and picturesque views.

The ride continues along an ancient path leading to the abandoned Nicosia convent, where the quiet and historic setting add a unique touch. The final stretch takes guests to the Calci Certosa, a famous monastery complex, before returning to the starting point. The circular design of the route means guests see a variety of landscapes and landmarks during the ride.

Managing Horses Independently by the End of the Ride

A key highlight of this tour is learning to manage the horse independently. After the initial training, guests are encouraged to apply what they’ve learned, giving them a true sense of achievement. The friendly guides are present throughout to offer support and ensure proper handling.

This focus on self-sufficiency helps participants leave the experience more confident and knowledgeable about horse riding, even with no prior experience. The emphasis on education and safety makes this a particularly rewarding activity for beginners eager to learn.

The Aperitif in the Tuscan Countryside

At the end of the ride, guests are treated to a relaxed aperitif at the riding stables. The selection includes red wine, bread, cheese, and salami, offering a delicious and authentic conclusion to the experience. The setting provides a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for unwinding and chatting about the ride.

The aperitif is often praised as exceptional by previous participants, adding a culinary highlight to the outdoor adventure. It’s a chance to connect with fellow riders, share impressions, and enjoy the scenic surroundings.

Practical Details: What to Wear and Bring

Participants should wear long trousers and tennis shoes for comfort and safety during the ride. The tour does not provide footwear, so proper shoes are necessary to ensure a good grip and leg protection. The experience is suitable for ages 9 and older, with most travelers being able to participate.

The photoshoot included provides a lasting memory of the experience, capturing guests on horseback with the beautiful Tuscan scenery as a backdrop. This little addition is appreciated by many who want to take home a personal keepsake of their adventure.

The Friendly Guides and Well-Maintained Property

The staff are consistently praised for their friendliness and patience, especially when teaching beginners. The property itself is well-maintained, with happy, healthy horses, and careful management that reassures first-time riders.

Guides like Alex are noted for their knowledge and approachability, making the entire experience feel personalized and relaxed. The small group size, limited to six travelers, ensures individual attention and a comfortable pace.

The Experience’s Strengths for Beginners and Families

This tour is perfect for newcomers to horseback riding or families seeking a gentle outdoor activity. The easy difficulty level and short duration are tailored for those who want a casual introduction without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

The combination of riding, scenic views, and a convivial aperitif creates a balanced experience that blends adventure with relaxation. It’s a great way to enjoy Tuscany’s countryside while learning a new skill.

Limitations and Considerations

While highly praised, the tour does have some practical considerations. The pickup service is limited to locations within 12 km unless an additional fee is paid. Participants need to wear long trousers and tennis shoes, as sneakers and specific clothing are not provided.

The maximum group size is six travelers, which keeps the experience intimate but might not suit larger groups. The weather can affect outdoor riding, so checking the forecast is advisable.

Why This Horseback Riding Tour in Pisa Is Worth It

For those eager to try horseback riding in a beautiful, relaxed setting, this tour offers a well-rounded experience. The safe, beginner-friendly approach paired with scenic landscapes makes it ideal for families, solo travelers, or anyone curious about horses.

The professional guides, delicious aperitif, and included photos enhance the value, offering a memorable day in Tuscany. While not a high-adrenaline adventure, it provides a gentle, educational introduction to equestrian life that leaves guests feeling accomplished.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this experience suitable for children? Yes, the minimum age is 9 years old. It’s an easy, approachable ride designed for beginners, including younger participants comfortable with basic commands.

Do I need prior horse riding experience? No, this tour is specifically designed for beginners and those without experience. The initial ground briefing prepares everyone for the ride.

What should I wear? Participants should wear long trousers and tennis shoes. The tour does not provide footwear, so proper shoes are necessary for safety and comfort.

Is the pickup available from Pisa? Pickup is offered, but beyond 12 km, an additional charge of 10 Euros per person applies. Confirm pickup options when booking.

How long does the entire experience last? The total duration is approximately two hours, including safety briefing, riding, and aperitif.

Is the route challenging? No, the difficulty level is easy, suitable for beginners and young riders.

Are photos included? Yes, a photoshoot of the experience is included at no extra cost, providing lasting memories of the ride.

What can I expect at the end of the ride? The experience concludes with a relaxing aperitif featuring local wines, bread, cheese, and salami.

Can I manage the horse myself? Yes, the training and guidance enable most participants to manage the horse independently by the end of the ride.

How many people are in each group? The experience is limited to a maximum of six travelers, ensuring personalized attention.

What if the weather isn’t good? As an outdoor activity, the ride depends on favorable weather. Check the forecast before booking or on the day of the experience.

This horseback riding and aperitif tour in Pisa offers a friendly, scenic introduction to horseback riding, emphasizing safety, learning, and Tuscan charm. With positive reviews, professional guides, and a delicious ending, it’s an activity that suits beginners and families looking for a relaxed outdoor adventure in Italy’s countryside.