Rome : Horseback Riding with meals and wine included

Experience the best of Rome outside the city’s busy streets with a horseback riding tour through the Riserva Naturale Statale del Litorale Romano. For around four hours, you’ll enjoy a gentle ride along beachside trails, admire ancient Roman ruins from a new perspective, and indulge in a delicious Roman-style meal with regional wines. The tour is priced at $167.68 per person and includes a private guide, making sure your experience is personalized and relaxed.

What makes this experience stand out? First, we love how accessible it is for all levels—whether you’re a seasoned rider or a complete beginner, the guides adapt to your comfort. Second, the combination of outdoor adventure, historical scenery, and authentic Italian food creates a rich, genuine atmosphere that’s hard to beat.

A potential consideration is that the tour involves some transport logistics; it’s only about 25 minutes from Rome’s city center and near Fiumicino Airport, but you’ll want to plan your timing accordingly. If you’re seeking a peaceful escape from Rome’s crowds with a touch of adventure and culinary delight, this tour is a great pick. It suits travelers who appreciate nature, history, and good food, especially those eager for a memorable, less touristy experience.

Key Points

• Accessible for all levels: Adaptable horseback riding suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike.
• Stunning scenery: You’ll ride through wetlands, forests, and along beaches, with views of ancient Roman ruins.
• Authentic Italian meal: Enjoy regional specialties and wine in a relaxed setting after your ride.
• Private tour advantage: Undivided attention from your guide enhances the experience.
• Close to Rome: Only about 25 minutes by car or public transport, making it easy to incorporate into your travel plans.
• Highly praised: Consistently excellent reviews highlight knowledgeable guides and beautiful scenery.

Exploring the Tour: What to Expect

Meeting and Transportation

The tour begins at Viale dei Romagnoli, 756, Rome, with easy access via public transportation or a short car ride. The site is about 25 minutes from the city center—a manageable trip that lets you leave the urban buzz behind. If you prefer private transport, the provider also offers car and driver arrangements from the Ancient Ostia Station for a small fee, ensuring a smooth start.

The Ranch and Horse Preparation

Once you arrive, the experience kicks off at a ranch where the horses are treated with care. We loved the way the staff took time with grooming and bonding with the horses—this sets a relaxed tone for the ride. Several reviewers noted that getting up close with the animals beforehand helped them feel more comfortable and connected, especially if it’s your first time riding.

The Ride Through the Nature Reserve

Your journey takes you into the Riserva Naturale Statale del Litorale Romano, a vast area just outside Rome. The landscape features wetlands, lush forests, and sandy beaches—an impressive contrast to the city streets. Expect to ride along scenic beachside trails, offering panoramic views of the coast and ancient Roman ruins visible from a new vantage point.

Multiple reviewers emphasized how the scenery is a highlight: “The scenery was beyond beautiful,” said Michelle, who felt it was the “best day in Rome.” The ride is designed to be enjoyable for all, with guides attentive to your experience level. For instance, Asa noted, “It was perfect for all experience levels,” and MohamedShaheen shared how the staff treated him and his son like family, making it a very kid-friendly outing.

The Picnic and Regional Delights

After your ride, it’s time for a well-earned meal. Expect a delicious Roman-style lunch featuring Italian delicacies and regional specialties. Many reviews mention the quality of the food, saying Alessia—the guide—cooked and served a meal that made the day even more special. Accompany your dishes with a glass of Italian wine, with some reviews highlighting the excellent selection, which adds a perfect touch to the relaxed atmosphere.

Post-Ride Stroll and Coffee

The experience doesn’t end at the table. You’ll take a leisurely stroll to a cozy bistrot in front of the Castle of Giulio II, where you can relax and enjoy coffee. The scenery here also garners praise, with visitors loving the authentic, laid-back vibe of this part of the day.

The Balance of Value and Authenticity

Why It’s Worth the Price

At $167.68, this tour offers a lot more than a simple horseback ride. The inclusion of guided attention, regional food, wine, and scenic transportation makes it a solid value—particularly when compared to the cost of city tours or private outings. Many travelers, like Natalie, shared how the people and the environment made it a memorable experience, feeling like they were hanging out with local friends rather than just travelers.

Authentic Experiences

This isn’t a staged tourist trap. You’re working with a small, private group in a genuine setting, surrounded by nature and animals. The guides are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and patience, especially Alessia, who received glowing reviews for her energy and hospitality. This personal touch transforms the tour from a mere activity into a memorable encounter.

Accessibility and Comfort

While the tour is suitable for all riders, a moderate physical fitness level is recommended—think comfortable walking shoes and a willingness to get a little dirty at the ranch. The ride itself is gentle, with the guides tailoring it to your comfort, and kids are welcomed, making it a family-friendly outing.

The Logistics and Practicalities

Getting to the ranch is straightforward with public transport, taking about 25 minutes from Rome’s center, or a short drive if you prefer. The tour operates near Fiumicino Airport and offers a private experience, meaning you won’t be stuck in a large group. Flexibility is also possible with options for private walking tours of archaeological sites or combining it with other activities like wine tasting or organic dinners.

The Itinerary in Detail

The Ranching Experience

You’ll start with a warm welcome and a quick lesson on horseback handling—perfect for complete beginners, as one reviewer fondly remarked, “They gave us a quick lesson and treated us like family.” This initial bonding time helps most riders feel comfortable before heading out.

Riding Through Historic and Natural Sites

As you leave the ranch, you’ll ride into the largest park of Rome, which is steeped in history. You’ll see ruins of an ancient port, adding an archaeological flavor to the ride. The trails wind through lush wetlands and forests, with frequent stops to admire the landscape or take photos. The scenery is frequently described as beyond beautiful, with some reviewers noting how the experience offers a peaceful respite from Rome’s bustling streets.

Lunch and Wine

Post-ride, expect a Roman-style meal featuring local delicacies, possibly organic, and a glass of regional wine. The focus on quality and authenticity shines through in many reviews—commenting on the delicious food and warm hospitality. Alessia’s attention to detail makes the meal feel personal and generous.

Final Stroll and Coffee

After your meal, a gentle walk in front of the Castle of Giulio II offers a relaxing conclusion. Coffee or a quick browse through local bistros helps soak in the atmosphere and reflect on the day’s adventure.

Authenticity and What You’ll Take Home

This isn’t just a typical tourist ride—it’s an immersion into Italian countryside, history, and hospitality. Many reviews highlight how welcoming the hosts are, making you feel part of a local experience rather than just a visitor. The horses are well cared for, the scenery is breathtaking, and the food is authentic—these elements combine to give you a genuine taste of Roman countryside life.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you love outdoor activities that combine nature, history, and food, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers who want a relaxed, authentic experience away from Rome’s crowded attractions. Riders of all levels will appreciate the adaptability of the tour, and food lovers will enjoy the regional meal. It’s especially suited for those who seek a slower pace, a chance to connect with animals, or simply want to see more than just the city.

The Sum Up

This horseback riding tour offers a delightful combination of scenic landscapes, culture, and culinary indulgence. The private guide and small group setting ensure a personalized touch, making it ideal for travelers craving a genuine experience. The scenic routes, along with the authentic Roman meal and regional wines, make it a well-rounded, value-rich outing that you’ll remember long after you leave.

The tour’s accessibility makes it suitable for all experience levels, and the feedback consistently highlights the knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and the warm, welcoming atmosphere. It’s a chance to see a quieter side of Italy, reconnect with nature, and enjoy a leisurely day in a setting that feels both special and authentic.

FAQ

How long does the horseback riding experience last?
The entire tour lasts approximately four hours, including riding, lunch, and the final stroll.

Is this suitable for beginners?
Yes. The tour is adapted for all levels, and guides provide a quick lesson beforehand. Many reviews mention perfect experiences for first-timers.

How do I get to the meeting point?
The tour starts at Viale dei Romagnoli, about 25 minutes from Rome city center via public transport. Private transport can also be arranged from Ancient Ostia Station.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers horseback riding, a Roman-style dinner with regional delicacies, wine, and the services of a private guide.

Can children participate?
Yes, it’s kids-friendly, and many reviews mention family experiences, even with young children.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for riding and outdoor walking. Expect some dirt at the ranch, so avoid overly fancy shoes or clothing.

Is the tour canceled if the weather is bad?
While not explicitly stated, outdoor activities like this are usually weather-dependent. Check with the provider if forecasted weather might impact your plans.

This horseback riding adventure outside Rome invites you to step away from the crowded streets and into the peaceful, scenic landscapes of Italy’s coast. With excellent guides, delicious food, and stunning views, it offers a memorable way to connect with nature, history, and authentic Italian culture. Whether you’re a first-time rider or a seasoned equestrian, it’s a peaceful escape that promises both relaxation and adventure in equal measure.