From Florence: Horse Ride and Wine Tour at Estate with Lunch

Exploring Tuscany often means enjoying rolling vineyards, charming villages, and delicious food. This Horse Ride and Wine Tour at a historic estate offers a perfect blend of scenery, relaxation, and a touch of adventure. Starting from Florence, this five-hour experience takes you out into the Tuscan countryside, where you can saddle up on a gentle horse and ride through vineyards and olive groves, then indulge in a guided wine tasting paired with a hearty lunch.

What makes this experience stand out for me is the focus on authenticity—you’re riding through areas many travelers never see, guided by knowledgeable locals who share insights about the land, wine, and regional life. I also appreciate how adaptable it is: whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, the guides tailor the trek to your comfort and skill level. A highlight worth noting is the high praise for guides like Simona and Lucas, who help make the day both informative and fun.

One potential consideration is that the tour is best suited for those with comfortable shoes and no mobility restrictions, as it’s not ideal for pregnant women or guests with mobility impairments. Also, the 30-minute transfer from Florence means a bit of an early start, but I find that the scenic drive and insights from your guide make this a worthwhile trade-off.

In all, this tour combines beautiful landscape riding, world-class wines, and delicious regional food to create a memorable taste of Tuscany. It’s a well-balanced experience that offers both activity and relaxation, with enough flexibility to suit different levels of riding experience and interests. If you’re looking for a genuine rural adventure that pairs nature, culture, and cuisine, this trip is hard to beat.

Key points / Takeaways

• Authentic Tuscan landscapes: Ride through vineyards and olive groves, capturing spectacular views many travelers miss.
• Flexible for all riding levels: Whether you’re a beginner or experienced rider, guides customize the trek.
• Informative guides: Guides like Simona and Lucas are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and attentiveness.
• High-quality wine and gourmet lunch: Tasting four award-winning Chianti and Super Tuscan wines paired with local delicacies offers great value.
• Cultural and scenic mix: Combines outdoor activity with a visit to a historic estate, including its ancient cellars and vinsantaia.
• Small group size: Limited to four participants, ensuring a personalized experience that feels intimate and relaxed.

A clear picture of the experience

This tour from Florence offers a detailed taste of Tuscany outside the bustling city. It begins with a scenic 30-minute drive south into the Chianti hills, a route filled with insights about the landscape and the region’s wine economy. The guides, especially Simone and Lucas, are celebrated for their friendly, knowledgeable approach, making even beginners feel comfortable and well-informed.

Horseback Riding in the Tuscan Hills: Once at the riding center, you’ll sign insurance forms and be fitted with helmets, chaps, and gloves—nothing fancy, but practical gear that ensures safety and comfort. The horses are described as quiet, well-trained, and reliable—ideal for those new to riding. The initial few minutes include a short lesson on stirrups and reins, which I find reassuring—it’s clear the guides prioritize safety and confidence. The ride itself is about 1.5 hours long, winding through the hills, vineyards, and olive groves. Expect breathtaking vistas and plenty of photo opportunities. Several reviews mention how the scenery is “incredible” and “serene,” making it a peaceful escape from city life.

Guided Wine Tour and Tasting: After the ride, you’re whisked away to a historic Chianti estate surrounded by its own vineyards for the wine tasting. This isn’t just a quick sip—it’s a guided tour of the estate, including visits to the ancient cellars and vinsantaia (a traditional aging room for sweet wines). You’ll sample four wines—Chianti and Super Tuscans—that have garnered awards, paired with local appetizers like cold cuts, pecorino cheese, and bruschettas. Reviewers frequently mention the quality of the wines and how the food complements them beautifully. Martina, the estate guide, is praised for her engaging storytelling, sharing insights into the wine-making process and regional history.

Lunch and Authentic Flavors: The included lunch in the estate’s garden is simple but delicious—local specialties that make you feel like a guest in someone’s home. The emphasis on gourmet food paired with wine is a highlight, with many reviewers raving about the freshness and authenticity of the dishes. It’s a great way to digest the scenic views and reflect on the morning’s activities.

Transfer and Logistics: The round-trip transfer from Florence is smooth and comfortable, with the driver or guide explaining regional highlights along the way. The entire experience lasts about 5 hours, making it a manageable day trip that feels well-paced. Group size is limited to four, which I see as a major plus for those who prefer a more personalized setting.

Overall Value: For the price, you get a combination of outdoor adventure, cultural insight, and gastronomic pleasure. Many reviews highlight that the quality of guides and the scenery more than justify the cost, with some calling it one of the best experiences of their trip.

Who is this experience best suited for?

This tour works best for travelers who want a relaxed yet engaging way to explore the Tuscan countryside. It’s ideal for beginners or those with limited riding experience, given the short lesson and calm horses. Food and wine lovers will appreciate the high-quality tastings paired with regional cuisine, while nature enthusiasts will savor the breathtaking landscape views. It’s also perfect for couples or small groups seeking an intimate, authentic experience—small group size ensures plenty of personal attention.

If you’re after a high-energy adventure or have mobility restrictions, this might not be your best fit. Also, plan for an early start to maximize your day—though most agree the scenic drive and the experience itself make it worthwhile.

Price and logistics

While the experience isn’t the cheapest activity in Tuscany, I believe it offers solid value considering the combination of horseback riding, wine tasting, and a gourmet lunch in a historic setting. Round-trip transfers from Florence are included, removing the hassle of arranging transportation yourself. The 24-hour cancellation policy provides a good safety net if your plans change unexpectedly.

Final thoughts

This Horse Ride and Wine Tour offers a well-rounded escape into the heart of Tuscany, blending scenic outdoor activity with culinary delights. The horseback riding through the hills gives you a rare perspective on the landscape, while the guided wine and food experience deepen your appreciation for regional craftsmanship. The guides’ warmth and local expertise shine through, making the day both enjoyable and educational.

If you’re looking for a genuine, immersive day outside Florence that combines nature, wine, and authentic southern Tuscan charm, this tour will delight you. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate small groups, quality guides, and delicious regional flavors—an experience that will leave you with memories of Tuscany’s rolling hills and warm hospitality.

FAQ

Is transportation from Florence included? Yes, round-trip transfers are included, making planning easier and more comfortable.
How long is the horseback ride? The ride lasts about 1.5 hours, giving you ample time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.
Can beginners participate? Absolutely. The guides tailor the ride to your skill level, and a quick lesson is provided before heading out.
What should I bring? Wear comfortable shoes and long pants for riding—we recommend avoiding sandals or shorts.
Is the experience suitable for children? The tour is designed for adults and young adults; specific age restrictions aren’t detailed, so check with the provider if you’re bringing children.
How many people are in each group? Small groups are limited to four participants, ensuring personalized attention.
What’s included in the wine tour? You’ll taste four award-winning wines, including Chianti and Super Tuscans, paired with regional appetizers.
Is lunch included? Yes, a light, authentic Tuscan lunch with local specialties and extra virgin olive oil is part of the experience.
Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is this experience suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility issues? No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or individuals with mobility impairments.

This tour offers a taste of Tuscany that’s equal parts relaxing and enriching—perfect for travelers who want to see, taste, and feel the countryside without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.