Wine tasting and horseback riding in Montepulciano, in Tuscany from Rome

An Authentic Day Exploring Tuscany’s Vineyards and Horseback Riding

This private tour offers a full-day escape from Rome, combining horseback riding across rolling Tuscan hills with wine tasting at renowned local wineries. For $503.56 per person, the experience lasts approximately 10 hours, making it an ideal choice for those seeking an immersive day in Tuscany’s landscape. The tour includes pickup and drop-off at your hotel, with WiFi onboard and an English-Spanish speaking driver to ensure smooth logistics.

What makes this tour stand out is its focus on beginner-friendly horseback riding—with options for people who have never ridden before—plus the chance to sample famous wines like Nobile di Montepulciano. The entire day is designed to showcase vineyards, olive groves, and scenic views, complemented by tasting local specialties such as cold cuts, cheeses, oil, and Vin Santo. While the price might seem steep, the combination of personalized experiences and expert guides can deliver a memorable taste of Tuscany.

Key Points

• Private transportation with WiFi and multilingual driver
• Horseback riding suitable for beginners, with optional rides of one or two hours
• Visit vineyards and wineries with a guided tour led by Alfredo, the winemaker
• Wine tasting of Nobile di Montepulciano and other varieties, paired with local specialties
• Tour length is approximately 10 hours, with hotel pickup and return
• The experience is suitable for adults and children, with special ponies and carriage rides available

Pickup and Transportation in Rome

The tour begins with a convenient pickup from your hotel in Rome, arranged by a professional driver. This private service ensures a comfortable transfer directly to Tuscany, with the added perk of WiFi onboard for browsing or planning the day ahead. The driver speaks both English and Spanish, making communication easy and straightforward. This setup allows travelers to relax and enjoy the scenic drive through Italy’s countryside without worrying about logistics.

The round-trip transfer is a key feature for those unfamiliar with local transportation options, making this experience hassle-free from start to finish. It’s particularly useful for travelers who prefer a personalized, exclusive approach rather than large group tours.

Horseback Riding Through Tuscan Hills for All Skill Levels

One of the highlights of this tour is the horseback riding experience amid Tuscany’s iconic landscapes. Even first-time riders can participate, as instructors are experienced and certified. The horses are well-trained and used to working with beginners, ensuring a safe and enjoyable ride.

Participants can choose between one or two hours of riding, with shorter rides available for those who prefer a more relaxed experience. The horses are prepared and saddled upon arrival, and dressing comfortably in jeans and sports shoes is recommended. For children or those who prefer not to ride, options like carriage rides or pony rides are also available, making this activity accessible regardless of age or experience.

Scenic Routes and Views During Your Ride

Rides take place along vast Tuscan hills, surrounded by vineyards, olive groves, and wooded areas. These landscapes offer stunning vistas that make the ride a truly scenic experience. The gentle terrain is suitable for those with minimal riding experience, and the instructors guide you safely along the paths, ensuring a relaxed yet immersive connection to nature.

The scenery during the ride provides ample opportunities for photos and quiet moments to enjoy Tuscany’s peaceful countryside. The riders are greeted by well-cared-for horses, accustomed to engaging with newcomers, which enhances the comfort and confidence of first-timers.

Guided Tour of the Vineyard and Cellars with Alfredo

After riding, the tour continues with a guided visit to a beautiful winery. Alfredo, the expert winemaker, personally leads the group through the vineyards and wine cellars. This is a chance to learn about wine production, from grape growing to bottling, with insights into the Nobile di Montepulciano—a famous noble wine crafted from the Prugnolo Gentile Sangiovese clone.

The vinyard tour provides a close look at the cultivation and harvesting practices that produce some of Tuscany’s finest wines. Visitors can appreciate the scenic vineyard landscape, which sets the perfect backdrop for the tasting session.

Tasting Local Wines and Traditional Dishes

The wine tasting is a true highlight, featuring a selection of different varieties of fine wines, including the renowned Nobile di Montepulciano. Accompanying the wines are a variety of local specialties, such as cold cuts, hams, cheeses, oil, and bruschetta. The pairing of wines and regional delicacies elevates the tasting experience and offers a delicious insight into Tuscan cuisine.

A special mention goes to the “Vin Santo”, a sweet wine served with “cantucci”—the traditional almond cookies. This pairing is a classic way to conclude the wine tasting, leaving guests with a memorable taste of Tuscany’s culinary traditions.

Additional Options and Family-Friendly Features

The tour is designed to be inclusive, welcoming adults and children alike. For younger guests or those hesitant to ride horses, talented ponies are available, and carriage rides can be arranged to ensure everyone enjoys the scenic surroundings. This flexibility makes the experience suitable for family groups, creating a relaxed environment for all ages.

Dress code is casual and comfortable—jeans and sports shoes are sufficient for riding. There’s no need for formal attire, and the focus remains on enjoying the landscape, the wine, and the company.

Practical Details and Booking Considerations

The tour costs $503.56 per person and is typically booked about 31 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. The experience lasts around 10 hours, balancing the horseback ride, vineyard visit, and tasting.

Included in the price are private transportation, WiFi, hotel pickup and return, and the wine tasting with guided tour. The horseback riding itself costs an additional €40 if opting for the one-hour ride.

The tour is weather-dependent; in case of poor weather, it can be canceled with a full refund or rescheduled. Cancellation can be made free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Why This Tour Stands Out

This experience combines scenic horseback riding with wine tasting at a renowned Tuscan winery, making it ideal for travelers seeking a personalized, relaxed day in Italy’s countryside. The beginner-friendly rides and expert-guided winery tour ensure quality and safety. The small, private setting means a more intimate and tailored experience compared to larger group tours.

While the cost may seem high, the combination of transportation, activities, and tastings offers good value for those looking for an authentic taste of Tuscany with a dose of adventure.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This tour appeals to wine enthusiasts eager to learn about Nobile di Montepulciano and regional cuisine, as well as horse lovers of all levels. It’s perfect for those wanting a full-day escape from Rome, with an emphasis on scenic beauty, relaxed pace, and local culture. Families with children can also find enjoyment in the pony and carriage options, making it a flexible choice for groups.

Final Thoughts on the Tuscany Horseback and Wine Experience

This private tour offers a well-rounded day in Tuscany that balances horseback riding amid beautiful landscapes with guided wine tastings of top regional wines. It provides a personalized experience with expert guides and a comfortable transfer from Rome, making it accessible for most travelers.

While the price point is higher than some group tours, the intimate setting and quality of activities justify the cost for those seeking a more exclusive, authentic Tuscan adventure. It suits adults, families, and anyone eager to combine outdoor activity with culinary exploration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the horseback riding suitable for beginners?
Yes, the horseback rides are designed for beginners, with experienced instructors guiding you safely along the scenic routes.

What should I wear for the horseback ride?
Comfortable jeans and sports shoes are recommended, as they are suitable for the riding activity.

Can children participate in the tour?
Yes, children are welcome, and talented ponies or carriage rides are available for younger guests or those not riding.

What wines are sampled during the tasting?
The tasting features different varieties of fine wines, including the famous Nobile di Montepulciano, paired with regional specialties.

Is transportation included?
Yes, private transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off is included, along with WiFi onboard.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the start, with a full refund offered.

What is the duration of the entire experience?
The entire tour lasts approximately 10 hours, from pickup in Rome to return after the winery visit.

How much does the horseback ride cost?
The one-hour ride costs €40, with options for longer rides available.

What is the best time of year to take this tour?
While the data doesn’t specify seasons, the experience is weather-dependent, so good weather days are preferable for outdoor activities.

Is this tour private or part of a group?
This is a private experience, ensuring exclusive access for your group.