2 hour horseback ride for experts in Valgraziosa (Pisa)

A 2-hour horseback ride for experienced riders near Pisa offers a chance to explore Tuscany’s scenic beauty from a unique perspective. This adventure, organized by ALPHA outdoor experiences, takes you along country roads and paths around the Valgraziosa, with highlights like the Certosa di Calci and panoramic views reaching all the way to the sea. What makes this experience stand out is its perfect blend of natural beauty and touches of historical significance, all set in a peaceful Tuscan countryside.

I particularly appreciate the fact that this ride is tailored for riders with English riding experience, which means you’re likely to be on well-behaved horses and can enjoy comfortable walking and trotting. The guide, Andre, receives praise for his safety consciousness and local knowledge, making the entire adventure feel both secure and enriching. Another aspect I love is the inclusion of a photoshoot, allowing you to capture the stunning scenery and your equestrian skills—definitely a bonus for memories.

A potential consideration—this experience is not suited for beginners or those without prior riding experience, as it’s designed for more skilled riders. Also, the tour’s location near Pisa means you’ll need to coordinate your transportation, as shuttle service isn’t included. While the price of around $69.41 per person covers a two-hour ride, the overall value depends on your love for riding and appreciation for authentic landscapes. Still, with only four riders per tour on average, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience that’s both intimate and well-paced.

Key points / Takeaways

• Tailored for riders with experience: This is not a beginner’s ride; you’ll need to be comfortable walking and trotting on horseback.
• Stunning scenery and historical sights: Expect to pass by the Upezzinghi tower, a picturesque stream, the Crespignano estate, and the Certosa di Calci.
• Expert guides like Andre ensure safety and local insight, making your ride more meaningful.
• Photos included: Capture the landscape and your ride without extra cost.
• Flexible timing and accessibility: Open from 8AM to 8PM daily, with pickup options available.
• Small groups for a personalized experience: Typically up to 4 riders, offering a relaxed, less crowded atmosphere.

When I think about traveling through Tuscany, images of rolling hills, vineyards, and ancient villages come to mind. But taking the saddle instead of the road offers a different, more intimate connection with the landscape. This 2-hour horseback ride near Pisa, primarily targeting experienced riders, promises a scenic journey through the Valgraziosa area, combining natural beauty with a touch of local history.

I’ll walk you through what you can expect, why it’s worth considering, and who will find this adventure most fulfilling. This isn’t your typical tourist excursion; it’s a chance to see Tuscany from an angle few get to experience—on horseback, along country paths and under open skies.

Starting Point: Setting Out from Calci

The journey begins at Centro Ippico La Cartuja in Calci, just a short drive from Pisa proper. The meeting point is convenient, located along Via Trieste, with opening hours spanning practically the whole day (8AM to 8PM). Since transportation isn’t included, I recommend arranging a shuttle or car ahead of time to maximize your flexibility. The ride is capped at four participants, making for a cozy, more personalized experience.

The check-in process is straightforward, and the staff is friendly. They provide all necessary gear, including a safety helmet, and the company’s local guide, Andre, is known for his calm, safety-first approach and deep knowledge of the area.

The Route: A Scenic Journey for Experienced Riders

The route itself lasts about an hour, but the experience feels more substantial because of the diverse scenery and the stops along the way. You’ll start along a wide beaten path, perfect for maintaining a good pace, then wind through the lush landscape of Valgraziosa, passing by a picturesque stream.

Most travelers love the way the route skirts the Upezzinghi tower—an impressive historic structure that adds a sense of history to the landscape. Moving on, you’ll cross the Crespignano estate, an untouched, peaceful stretch of land that seems like stepping back in time. The highlight for many is reaching halfway up the coast, where the views open up to offer a breathtaking panoramas all the way to the sea—a tip from reviews: “You’ll love the views,” and I agree.

The final leg of the ride takes you to the Certosa di Calci, a majestic monastery that exudes charm and history. The architecture is impressive, and it’s a perfect spot for photos or a quick look into the area’s spiritual past. The route then loops back to your starting point, completing a scenic circle.

Riding Experience: What You Can Expect

Given the experience level required, this tour is ideal for those familiar with English riding—walking and trotting are expected, and the horses are described as well-behaved and safe, even for riders who ride often and are confident with faster gaits. Tour guides like Andre and his team are praised for their safety measures and attentive guidance, which keeps the ride enjoyable and secure.

One review mentions that the guide was “extremely safe,” and that the horses behaved impeccably—something I find crucial for a rewarding experience. Riders can expect gentle but confident horses, and the terrain is mainly country roads and well-maintained paths, making it a relaxed, yet engaging ride.

The included photoshoot is a nice touch—your guide will likely take pictures of you riding against the backdrop of Tuscany’s hills, a souvenir worth cherishing.

What to Wear and Bring

You’ll want to dress in long trousers and tennis shoes, as recommended. Avoid sandals or flip-flops—comfort and safety matter when riding. The guide provides helmets, so no need to bring your own, but do wear weather-appropriate clothing, especially if the day looks sunny or windy.

Since no food or drink is included, bring a water bottle if you want to stay hydrated, especially on warmer days. The moderate physical exertion involved—mainly walking and trotting—means you should be comfortable with light to moderate activity, particularly if riding regularly.

Pricing and Overall Value

At $69.41, this ride isn’t dirt cheap, but considering it’s a two-hour guided experience in a private setting with a small group, the value is good. The attention to safety, the knowledgeable guide, and the opportunity for authentic landscape views make it a worthwhile outing for anyone with riding experience.

Remember, since the experience is booked about 59 days in advance on average, it’s popular among those seeking a special Tuscan outdoor activity. The inclusion of a photoshoot adds extra value, giving you professional-looking images that capture your adventure.

Who Will Love This Ride

This tour is perfect for experienced riders who enjoy natural settings, scenic views, and a bit of history. If you love the idea of passing through peaceful estates, climbing gentle hills, and enjoying panoramic vistas, you’ll find this engaging. It’s not for beginners, so if you’re new to riding, you might want to seek something more suitable.

Group size is small, making it ideal for couples, friends, or solo travelers who appreciate personalized attention. The ride’s moderate difficulty level means you should be comfortable with walking and trotting—it’s a good choice for those looking to combine a love of horses with sightseeing outside the usual tourist spots.

Final Thoughts

This horseback ride near Pisa offers a rare opportunity to see Tuscany’s countryside from a very personal perspective. The route’s blend of natural beauty, historical sights like the Certosa di Calci, and panoramic views make for a memorable outing. The guides’ professionalism and safety focus are reassuring for experienced riders, and the included photos are a lovely bonus.

If you’re after an authentic, scenic adventure that goes beyond the typical Pisa attractions, this ride is a solid option. It’s ideal for those with riding experience who want to combine their love of horses with the chance to enjoy Tuscany’s peaceful landscapes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
No, this ride is designed for riders with English riding experience, specifically those comfortable with walking and trotting. Beginners should look for alternatives more tailored to their skill level.

What should I wear for the ride?
You should wear long trousers and tennis shoes. The tour provider supplies helmets, but comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing is recommended.

Does the tour include transportation?
No, shuttle service isn’t included. You’ll need to coordinate your own transportation to and from the starting point at Calci.

How long does the entire experience last?
The actual riding lasts about one hour, but with preparation and possible small breaks, plan for roughly two hours overall.

Can I take photos during the ride?
Yes, the tour includes a photoshoot, so you can have professional pictures taken of you riding through the scenic landscape.

What’s the group size?
The maximum group size is four riders, ensuring a relaxed, personalized experience.

In sum, this horseback ride offers a wonderful way for seasoned riders to enjoy Tuscany’s countryside beyond the usual tourist landmarks. It’s a peaceful, scenic adventure that rewards you with stunning views, a knowledgeable guide, and the chance to connect with the landscape on horseback.