Horseback riding for experts between the lake and the mountains

Imagine riding on a thoroughbred through mountain trails and lush forests with the backdrop of Lake Como and Lake Annone. This 4.5-hour adventure, tailored for experienced riders, offers a chance to explore Lombardy’s natural beauty from the saddle. Guided by friendly and knowledgeable locals, you’ll spend two hours in the saddle, followed by a delightful break at a farmhouse featuring local delicacies and refreshing drinks, then finish with another two hours of galloping along scenic paths with views that will stay with you long after.

What makes this experience particularly appealing? For starters, the expert-level horses and the personalized approach create a riding environment that’s both challenging and rewarding. Plus, the combination of breathtaking vistas of lakes and mountains with authentic Italian food makes it more than just a ride — it’s a true taste of the Lombardy landscape.

One consideration: since it’s designed for experienced riders, complete beginners might find the pace and terrain a bit strenuous. Also, the tour’s cost of around $231 per person might seem high if you’re on a tight budget, but the quality of the horses, guides, and scenery makes it a good value for travelers seeking a premium adventure.

This tour is ideal for riders who crave adventure, enjoy authentic local experiences, and aren’t afraid of moderate physical activity. If you’re comfortable on a horse and eager to see a lesser-visited side of Lombardy, this might be just the right fit.

This experience made our article of Our 15 Favorite Lombardy Tours.

Key Points

• Expert-level horseback riding through mountain trails and forests with stunning lake views
• Personalized experience led by knowledgeable guides Martina and Riccardo
• Authentic local food and wine during a farmhouse stop, adding a cultural touch
• Limited group size (max 4 travelers) for a more intimate experience
• Beautiful scenery of Lake Como, Lake Annone, and surrounding mountains
• Ideal for experienced riders seeking a scenic, active adventure

An Authentic Ride in Lombardy’s Natural Beauty

When we think of Italy, images of art, history, and cuisine often come to mind. But Lombardy also offers something quieter — a landscape of mountain forests, sparkling lakes, and open trails that are perfect for those who want to explore on horseback. This tour is designed for expert riders who want to push their limits while soaking in some of Italy’s most picturesque scenery.

The adventure kicks off early in the morning at a meeting point in Galbiate, near Lecco and Lake Como. After a quick safety briefing, you’ll mount your Arabian thoroughbred—a breed chosen for its endurance and agility. The horses are described as magnificent and well-maintained, making them suitable for experienced riders.

The Core Experience: Scenic Trails and Trailsides

For the first two hours, you’ll follow mountain trails weaving through forests and open landscapes, with each turn revealing a new vista of the lakes or surrounding peaks. We loved the way the guides Martina and Riccardo made us feel at ease, even if we’d had some riding experience. Their friendly attitude and knowledge of the terrain enriched the trek.

The scenery here is truly spectacular. As one reviewer noted, the route offers “breathtaking views of Resegone and Grigna,” with plenty of opportunities to stop and admire the landscape. You’re riding through a landscape that feels untouched by time, with the mountains looming on one side and the lakes shimmering on the other.

The Farmhouse Break: Savoring Local Flavors

Midway, you’ll pause at a charming farmhouse for a well-deserved break. This is where the experience takes on a taste of authentic Lombardy. Expect a platter of cold cuts, cheeses, bread, and drinks, accompanied by a glass of local red wine. The reviews highlight how much riders appreciated the quality of the food and the warm hospitality. It’s a perfect moment to relax, chat, and sample the region’s simple yet delicious fare.

Galloping Back: The Final Two Hours

Refreshed, you’ll head out for the second leg of your ride, now able to gallop along designated paths and open spaces. The thrill of cantering with lake views in the background is hard to beat. We loved how the guides encouraged us to enjoy the moment — a rare chance to feel the wind on your face and experience Lombardy’s landscape from a horse’s perspective.

This part of the ride is more dynamic, suited for confident riders comfortable with faster-paced riding. The variety of terrains keeps it interesting, and the panoramic views make every moment memorable.

Authenticity and Quality

Throughout the experience, the focus is on authenticity and quality. From the well-trained horses to the personalized guidance, everything is arranged to ensure a smooth, enjoyable ride. The small group size (maximum of 4 travelers) fosters a personalized approach — you won’t feel rushed or lost in a crowd.

The reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, Martina and Riccardo, who are described as friendly, competent, and attentive. Their local insights, combined with the stunning scenery, turn this ride into a memorable outdoor escape.

Practical Considerations: What You Need to Know

The tour costs about $231 per person, which covers the horse, equipment (cap, gaiters, vest), water, and the farmhouse lunch with drinks. Keep in mind, this is a premium experience — the high-quality horses, guides, and scenery justify the price if you value a well-organized adventure.

You’ll need moderate physical fitness since the ride involves some walking and galloping on trails. The tour starts at 9:30 am, so plan your day accordingly. Also, transportation to the meeting point costs an extra $30 if you’re not staying nearby, which is worth considering for convenience.

Weather can impact the tour — if conditions are poor, your experience might be canceled or rescheduled, but full refunds are available if canceled more than 24 hours in advance.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Experience?

This horseback riding tour is a gem for those who already enjoy riding and want to explore Italy’s natural landscapes from above the lakes. It’s perfect for adventure-seeking riders who appreciate authentic local food and hospitality. The small group size and personalized approach make it a special, intimate experience, ideal for travelers looking for something beyond the usual sightseeing.

Nature lovers will adore the stunning vistas of mountains and lakes, while foodies will revel in the farmhouse break’s regional flavors. Guides Martina and Riccardo add warmth and local expertise, making this a worthwhile splurge for those wanting a memorable, active day.

If you’re after a scenic, active, and authentic experience that combines horseback riding, breathtaking views, and regional cuisine, this tour delivers on all counts. Just be sure you’re comfortable on a horse and ready for a bit of physical activity — this isn’t for complete beginners or those seeking a relaxed, slow-paced outing. But for the right rider, it’s a day you’ll cherish.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
No, this experience is designed for expert riders. It involves galloping and trail riding on mountain paths, so a moderate to advanced riding skill level is required.

How long is the total ride?
The riding portion lasts approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, split into two 2-hour segments with a farmhouse break in between.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers horse, helmet, gaiters, protective vest, bottled water, and a lunch with cold cuts, cheese, bread, and drinks plus a glass of red wine.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations due to poor weather are possible and will be fully refunded if you cancel more than 24 hours in advance.

What’s the meeting point and start time?
The tour begins at 9:30 am in Galbiate, Italy. Transport to the start point costs an additional $30 if needed.

How many people will be on the tour?
The maximum group size is 4 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate experience.

What should I wear or bring?
Wear comfortable riding clothes and closed shoes suitable for horseback riding. Bring sunscreen and sunglasses if sunny, plus any personal items you might need for the day.

Is transportation provided?
No, transportation to the meeting point is not included but can be arranged for an extra fee.

How physically demanding is the tour?
The tour requires moderate physical fitness; expect some walking, riding, and possibly some light exertion during gallops.

Are the horses suitable for experienced riders?
Yes, the horses are described as spectacular thoroughbreds, suitable and comfortable for experienced riders looking for a challenge.

Embark on this scenic horseback adventure if you’re eager to see Lombardy from the saddle, enjoy quality guides, and sample regional flavors in a setting that combines mountain majesty and lakeside tranquility.