Quad excursion in the Maremma with barbecue in the woods

This experience made our article of What Are The Best Tours In Tuscany? Our Top 15 Picks.

Quad Excursion in the Maremma with Barbecue in the Woods: An Authentic Tuscany Adventure

If you’re craving a taste of real Tuscany, the quad excursion in the Maremma offers an engaging way to explore the region’s natural beauty. For around $95 per person, this roughly two-and-a-half-hour tour takes you on a guided ride through the “Bandite di Scarlino” woods, culminating in a delicious barbecue in a woodland setting. Led by friendly guides and filled with scenic views, local scents, and the simple pleasure of riding a quad, it’s a trip that promises both adventure and authentic local flavor.

What we love about this experience is the chance to really get off the beaten path—riding along dirt roads and narrow forest trails to witness the unspoiled landscapes of the Maremma. Plus, the barbecue finale, with its hearty sausage, cheese, bread, and local wine, offers a perfect ending to an active day. However, one thing to keep in mind is that a “B” license is required to ride the quad, so make sure you’re eligible or have the proper credentials.

This excursion is well-suited for those who enjoy outdoor activities and want to combine adventure with tasting the local culture. It’s also ideal for families or groups looking for a fun, relaxed, and memorable experience. If you’re seeking a unique way to see Tuscany’s countryside while enjoying some casual, hearty food, you’ll find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Authentic Maremma Landscape: Ride through the “Bandite di Scarlino” woods, discovering the local flora and scenic vistas.
• Inclusive Experience: All transportation and equipment are provided, including helmets, balaclavas, water, and wine.
• Delicious Food & Drink: End the tour with a simple, hearty barbecue featuring sausage, cheese, bread, and local wine.
• Group Size & Accessibility: Limited to 10 travelers, making it a more personalized experience that encourages interaction.
• Practical Requirements: A “B” license is needed, and participants should wear suitable shoes.
• Authentic & Fun: Reviewers consistently praise the mix of engaging riding and genuine local flavors.

A Deep Dive into the Quad Experience

Starting Point & Logistics

The tour begins at Podere Casolino 47 in Scarlino, a tranquil spot that sets the tone for a relaxed yet adventurous outing. The check-in features a brief introduction, which helps set expectations and ease nervous riders. The mobile ticket system ensures a smooth, contactless entry, and the group size is capped at 10 people—meaning you’ll likely get personalized attention from your guides.

The duration of about 2 hours and 30 minutes balances enough riding time with enough downtime to enjoy the scenery and the food. The activity is suitable for most travelers, provided you have adequate practicality with driving and meet the licensing requirement.

What the Ride Entails

The main attraction is the drive along dirt roads and forest trails that wind through the Mediterranean scrub typical of the Maremma. As one reviewer noted, “First along the road and then into the forest,” giving you a chance to see both open landscapes and shaded woodland. The scenic views are a real highlight, with some travelers mentioning the “breathtaking vistas” and the evocative scents of herbs and pine.

Riders will enjoy the mix of gentle and more thrilling stretches, making it a suitable adventure for beginners and experienced riders alike, provided they are comfortable with practical driving. The guides are attentive and focus on safety, making the experience accessible for everyone with a “B” license.

Authentic Tuscan Flavors in the Woods

After the ride, your journey concludes at a former chestnut drying house, where the barbecue awaits. Here, you’ll indulge in local sausages, cheeses, and bread, paired with regional wines. This rustic meal is simple but genuine, echoing the tradition of outdoor gatherings in Tuscany. One reviewer described it as “a beautiful feast in the woods,” emphasizing the relaxed and convivial atmosphere.

What Makes the Food & Scenery Special

The combination of scenic riding and hearty food is what we love about this tour. You’re not just zipping through the woods—you’re experiencing the landscape in a way that’s both visually stunning and sensually satisfying. The local scents and flavors evoke the essence of Maremma, making the experience more than just a ride.

Authenticity and Atmosphere

Participants consistently speak of the authenticity of the experience—it’s rustic, genuine, and rooted in local tradition. As one review noted, “an experience all about nature and a good meal,” which captures the essence well.

Practical Aspects & Value

Cost & Inclusions

The price, at $95.05 per person, covers fuel, helmets, balaclavas, bottled water, wine, and the barbecue meal. Considering the inclusiveness of these essentials, the cost is quite reasonable, especially given the personalized attention and small group size.

What’s Not Included

Participants must wear appropriate shoes, which isn’t included but is vital for safety and comfort. The tour provides all necessary riding gear, so no worries there.

Weather & Cancellation

Since the activity is outdoors, good weather is crucial. If weather conditions turn poor, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund—making it risk-free to book with confidence.

Authentic Experiences & Authentic Reviews

Reviewers praise the stunning views and the fun ride—“un’ esperienza bellissima all’insegna della natura,” as noted by one. Even with some initial small hiccups, they highlight the overall enjoyment and authentic atmosphere.

The comments about the food are equally positive, with many mentioning how the simple barbecue felt like a genuine taste of Tuscany. The local sausage, cheese, and bread are described as delicious and satisfying, perfect after a day of riding.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers who enjoy being outdoors and are eager to try quad riding in a scenic, rural setting. It’s ideal for families, friends, or couples, especially those who want a relaxed yet active day immersed in nature. It also suits food lovers interested in tasting authentic Tuscan flavors in a rustic environment.

If you’re looking for a unique way to explore Tuscany outside of museums and towns, this tour offers a lively, hands-on experience that combines adventure, scenery, and good food.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For anyone eager to combine adventure, scenic beauty, and regional flavors, this quad excursion hits the mark. The value is clear—the price covers equipment, guide, fuel, and a hearty outdoor meal, all set in a stunning natural environment. The limited group size and attentive guides ensure a personalized, safe experience that’s accessible to most travelers with a “B” license.

It’s particularly well-suited for those who love nature, want a fun activity that’s different from the usual sightseeing, and appreciate authentic local cuisine. If you want to see the real Tuscany while having a good time, this tour delivers.

FAQ

Do I need a special license to ride the quad?
Yes, a “B” license is required, which means you should have the appropriate driving credentials.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including riding and the barbecue.

What should I wear?
Participants should wear appropriate shoes—closed-toe shoes are recommended for safety.

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, as long as you meet the licensing requirement and are comfortable with practical riding, beginners can enjoy it too.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers fuel, helmets, balaclavas, bottled water, wine, and a barbecue meal with sausage, cheese, and bread.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour is weather-dependent, and if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a reschedule or full refund.

Can I book for multiple quads or groups?
Yes, but note that up to five quads with two seats each can be booked. To combine different options, follow the booking instructions carefully.

In sum, if you’re after a genuine, scenic, and fun way to experience Tuscany’s countryside, this quad adventure provides a fantastic mix of thrill, natural beauty, and hearty local flavors—definitely worth considering for your next trip.