If you’re dreaming of a taste of rural Italy combined with gentle adventure, this horseback riding experience in Foligno might just fit the bill. It’s a chance to see the rolling hills, olive groves, and forested landscapes of Umbria from the saddle, paired with a laid-back picnic-style aperitif under a shady oak tree. While it’s designed to be accessible even for complete beginners, it’s best suited to those who enjoy quiet outdoor beauty and a touch of rustic charm.
What makes this experience stand out are its friendly, well-trained horses and a setting that feels authentic and unpretentious. We also love the way it combines gentle outdoor activity with a relaxed social moment, sitting on hay bales and sipping local wine. The only potential consideration? The ride itself lasts around 1 hour and 20 minutes, which might be short for those craving a prolonged equestrian adventure. Still, it’s perfect for travelers looking for a light, scenic, and memorable introduction to the Umbrian countryside.
This activity is ideal for beginners or casual riders, especially those who want a manageable yet picturesque outing. It’s also an excellent choice for anyone seeking a relaxed experience that balances nature, culture, and local flavors—without the need for previous riding experience or physical agility. Overall, it’s a charming way to connect with the land and local traditions in a friendly, small-group setting.
Key Points
- Accessible for beginners — no prior riding experience needed
- Beautiful panoramic views of Foligno, Montefalco, and Assisi
- Authentic outdoor setting with olive trees, forests, and open countryside
- Relaxed, small-group format limits to 4 participants for a more personal experience
- Rustic aperitif served under a large oak tree, with wine or soft drinks included
- Docile, well-trained horses suitable even for first-timers
A Thorough Look at the Experience
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Foligno.
The Meeting and Introduction
Your adventure begins about 15 minutes before the scheduled start at a meeting point in Uppello, a village in Foligno. The location is straightforward—look for the white house, then follow signs or call the guide if needed. This simplicity is a plus, making it easy to find your starting point without fuss. Once there, you’ll be greeted by the riding instructor—an Italian speaker who also speaks English—ready to introduce you to the horses and safety basics.
The initial 20-minute session is all about familiarization. You’ll learn how to saddle up, understand riding basics, and gently get to know your horse. This is especially valuable for absolute beginners, as the instructor takes care to ensure everyone feels comfortable and confident before hitting the trails.
The Ride: Scenic Paths and Panoramic Vistas
Once mounted, you’ll set off into the Umbrian countryside. The routes vary but generally include a mix of open fields, olive groves, and wooded areas. Expect to see views sweeping across Foligno, Montefalco, and Assisi—famous towns that will be visible on the horizon. The pace is relaxed, perfect for soaking in the scenery rather than adrenaline-fueled gallops.
The horses themselves are described as docile and easy to handle, which is a significant plus for less experienced riders. The guide remains by your side, ensuring safety and offering insights into the local landscape and flora. The experience provides a genuine sense of connection with the land, as you ride along paths that might be used by local farmers or shepherds.
The Return and Aperitif
After about an hour and a half of riding, you’ll return to the meeting point. Here, a rustic aperitif awaits—served on hay bales under a large oak tree. The setting is wonderfully relaxed, with a simple olive board and a glass of local wine. It’s a chance to unwind, chat with fellow participants, and savor the flavors of Umbria in a casual, scenic environment.
Reviews highlight how charming this part of the experience is: “sitting under the shade of a large oak tree with a glass of wine, overlooking the countryside, is simply perfect.” This moment offers a genuine taste of rural Italy, complemented by the peaceful surroundings.
More Great Tours NearbyWhat’s Included and What to Keep in Mind
Included in the price are the certified riding instructor, the horse, a cap for sun protection, the initial briefing, a food tasting, and a drink (wine or soft drink). The small group size—limited to four participants—means you’ll receive more personalized guidance and a less hurried experience.
Not included are additional drinks, so if you’re keen on more wine or snacks, you might want to bring some extra cash or your own supplies. The activity is about two hours long, but check availability for your preferred start time, as it varies seasonally.
Practical Considerations
The tour recommends bringing comfortable shoes and long pants—things like sturdy sneakers or hiking shoes are perfect. Open-toed shoes, flip-flops, or shorts are discouraged for safety reasons. The activity is not suitable for children under 14, pregnant women, or anyone with back, mobility, or hearing impairments, and it has weight restrictions (up to 95 kg).
Given the nature of the activity, footwear with a bit of ankle support is best. The experience is conducted in both Italian and English, which helps make the information accessible for international visitors.
The Value and Overall Impression
While this experience doesn’t offer a lengthy or intense riding session, it hits the mark for those seeking an authentic, scenic, and laid-back glimpse into Umbrian rural life. The small-group format ensures that everyone gets attention, making it feel more like a friendly outing than a commercial tour. The combination of gentle riding, stunning views, and a rustic aperitif creates a well-rounded experience that’s both relaxing and memorable.
Pricing reflects this intimate and personalized approach, and many reviews suggest it’s a very good value for the charming setting and unique opportunity to ride in Italy’s countryside without needing prior experience. If you’re after a casual, authentic horseback ride with a taste of local flavors, this tour offers a delightful blend.
Who is This Tour Best For?
This experience is perfect for beginners or anyone wanting a gentle introduction to horseback riding amid beautiful scenery. It suits travelers looking for a relaxed, scenic activity that combines outdoor fun with delicious, local flavors. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate intimate, small-group settings and authentic rustic charm. However, it’s not suitable for children under 14, pregnant women, or those with certain health or mobility issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible for beginners, with a brief safety and riding basics session before heading out.
How long does the horseback riding last?
The riding portion lasts about 1 hour and 20 minutes, with the entire experience approximately 2 hours including the briefing and aperitif.
What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and long pants are recommended for safety. Avoid sandals, flip-flops, shorts, or skirts.
Can children participate?
This experience is not suitable for children under 14 years old.
Is the tour conducted in English?
Yes, the instructor speaks both Italian and English.
Are extra drinks or food included?
The price includes a food tasting and a glass of wine or soft drink, but additional drinks are not included.
What about weight or health restrictions?
Participants should not weigh more than 95 kg and should not have back issues, mobility problems, or other specific health conditions. The tour also excludes pregnant women and those with certain impairments.
Final Thoughts
This horseback riding experience in Foligno offers a genuine taste of Umbrian life in a relaxed, scenic setting. It’s a wonderful way for those new to riding or simply seeking a gentle outdoor activity to connect with nature and local culture. The panoramic views, the friendly horses, and the rustic aperitif make it a memorable, authentic outing that combines gentle adventure with authentic Italy charm. Perfect for travelers who value personal touches and scenic simplicity, this tour provides a lovely escape into the peaceful countryside with a tasty local touch at the end.
Whether you’re celebrating a special day, looking for a relaxed activity after sightseeing, or just want to try riding in Italy, this experience blends genuine hospitality with natural beauty in a way that’s hard to beat.
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