Forte dei Marmi: Horseback Riding Tour in Tuscany
Location: Tuscany, Italy
Country: Italy
Price: $68 per person
Supplier: Holidoit SRL
Similar Experiences: Cinque Terre boat tour, Pietrasanta city & sea bike tour, among others.
Meta Description: Explore the Tuscan countryside on horseback from Forte dei Marmi. Ride through Montignoso and Lake Porta, enjoying peaceful landscapes and beginner-friendly trails.
A quick snapshot of this horseback riding experience
Imagine gently riding through the quaint village of Montignoso and around the calm waters of Lake Porta, all with the help of an experienced guide. For just $68, you get roughly a 2-hour guided tour that’s perfect for beginners or anyone seeking a relaxing escape from busy Italy. You’ll start with a short introductory briefing that helps you feel comfortable with your horse, even if you’ve never ridden before. We particularly liked how the guide emphasizes creating a calm, trusting bond with your horse—this makes the experience more enjoyable and less intimidating.
Two things stand out. First, the scenic trails wind through a lush, green landscape, giving you a genuine taste of Tuscan countryside—not just picturesque views but an active, engaging way to see the area. Second, riding around Lake Porta allows you to experience the natural beauty of Italy’s wetlands and birdlife, a peaceful moment amid the countryside.
One potential consideration: this tour is not suitable for children under 14, pregnant women, or those with back problems, so it’s more of a mature, leisurely activity rather than an adventure for the little ones or those with health issues.
This experience is best suited for beginners, solo travelers, couples, or small groups seeking a gentle, scenic ride in Tuscany with minimal prior experience required.
Key Points
- Scenic Trails: Ride through lush Tuscan countryside, including Montignoso village and Lake Porta.
- Beginner-Friendly: Short briefing and gentle pace make it accessible for those new to horseback riding.
- Authentic Landscapes: Experience the tranquility of Italy’s natural beauty, away from tourist hotspots.
- Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours before if plans change.
- Age and Health Restrictions: Suitable for travelers 14 and older, but not for pregnant women or those with back issues.
- Professional Guide: Feel safe knowing you are accompanied by an experienced guide who emphasizes calm, trust, and safety.
A detailed look at what to expect from this horseback riding tour
Starting with the Basics: The Introductory Briefing
Upon arrival, your guide will give a short, friendly briefing—a crucial element that helps set your expectations and ease any pre-ride nerves. We appreciated how the guide takes the time to introduce the horses and explain what you’ll be doing. This isn’t a ride in the wild with no instruction; it’s a relaxed, educational experience designed to make even total beginners comfortable. The emphasis on forming a calm bond with the horse means you’ll learn some basic riding techniques in an approachable way.
The Ride Through Montignoso
Once you’re ready, your adventure begins in the charming village of Montignoso. This part of the tour is especially appealing because it offers a glimpse of local life away from the tourist crowds. Expect to ride along quiet country roads and trails that wind through fields, olive groves, and vineyards. The pace is slow enough that you can appreciate the scenery, listen to birdsong, and take in the gentle rhythm of riding.
Lake Porta: A Highlight of Serenity
From Montignoso, the trail takes you towards Lake Porta—a peaceful body of water surrounded by greenery. Here, the landscape opens up to include wetlands, reeds, and the occasional bird gliding overhead. Riding around the lake, you’ll find a rare moment of quiet beauty that’s hard to match in more populated areas. Travelers have mentioned how “the lake was a peaceful spot with lush vegetation and the sounds of birds,” making it ideal for nature lovers.
More Great Tours NearbyWhat the Experience Feels Like
The entire ride lasts about two hours, which is considered a good length for beginners and casual riders. The terrain is gentle, and the guide keeps the pace relaxed, so you don’t need to worry about riding for hours or managing difficult trails. The scenery changes gradually, offering visual variety—fields, small woods, and open water all within a short distance.
Practical Considerations
- Clothing: Long pants and closed-toe shoes are recommended. High heels, sandals, shorts, or open-toed shoes are discouraged for safety reasons.
- Age & Health: Participants must be at least 14 years old. The activity isn’t suitable for pregnant women or those with back problems, which is important to note for planning.
- Group Size & Language: While not explicitly stated, small groups are typical for this kind of tour, which makes for a more personalized experience. The guide speaks Italian, so some basic understanding might help, but the visual and hands-on nature of the briefing makes language less of a barrier.
Overall Value & Experience
At $68 per person, this tour offers a unique way to see Tuscany beyond the usual sightseeing spots. For travelers who appreciate nature, gentle adventure, or just want to try horseback riding in a relaxed setting, it’s a good value. The experience’s focus on tranquility and natural beauty distinguishes it from more adrenaline-fueled or commercialized activities.
Why you’ll love this tour and who it’s for
This horseback riding experience is perfect for those seeking a peaceful, scenic activity that requires minimal riding experience. It’s a great way to connect with the landscape, enjoy some time outdoors, and learn about the countryside around Forte dei Marmi. The setting offers a genuine taste of Tuscany’s natural environment—ideal for nature lovers or anyone wanting a break from busy city life.
If you’re traveling as a couple, a small family, or a solo traveler looking for a unique, authentic experience, this tour can be both relaxing and memorable. It’s also suitable for those curious about horseback riding but unsure about committing to a full lesson or a longer ride.
However, it’s important to note that this isn’t a high-adventure trek—if you’re looking for rugged trails or challenging riding, you might want to explore other options. Likewise, if you have specific health restrictions, check carefully before booking since the tour has some age and health limitations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed for beginners, with a short briefing on how to ride and care for your horse, making it accessible even for those with no prior experience.
How long does the tour last?
The actual horseback ride lasts about two hours, giving you enough time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.
What should I wear?
Long pants and closed-toe shoes are recommended for safety and comfort. Avoid high heels, sandals, shorts, or open-toed shoes.
Can children participate?
Participants should be at least 14 years old. It’s not suitable for children under that age.
Is the activity safe for pregnant women?
No, the tour is not recommended for pregnant women.
What if I have back problems?
People with back issues are advised against participating, as riding can sometimes exacerbate discomfort.
Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, which offers some flexibility if your plans change.
What languages are the guides available in?
The guide speaks Italian, so some basic understanding of the language may help, but non-verbal cues and the nature of the activity make communication manageable.
What’s included in the price?
The horseback riding tour, guided by an experienced guide, and the introductory briefing are included. Equipment such as saddles and horses are provided.
Are there any additional costs?
No, unless you choose to rent special clothing or gear, but these are not specified. It’s best to come prepared with appropriate attire.
To sum it up, this horseback riding tour in Tuscany offers a peaceful, scenic way to experience Italy’s countryside. Suitable for beginners and those seeking a relaxed outdoor activity, it combines natural beauty with gentle adventure. The focus on safety, the charming landscape, and the opportunity to connect with nature make it a worthwhile choice for travelers looking to slow down and enjoy Tuscany’s rural side. Perfect for small groups, couples, or solo adventurers, this tour provides a memorable taste of Italy’s tranquil rural scenery with a personal touch.
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