Horseback riding and wine tasting

Imagine combining two of Italy’s most beloved pursuits—horseback riding through lush vineyards and savoring exquisite wines—into one memorable half-day adventure. That’s exactly what this private tour offers, and it’s gaining high praise from past participants. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, an outdoor lover, or simply looking for a different way to explore the Verona countryside, this experience might just be a highlight of your trip.

What sets this tour apart? First, the intimate, private setting ensures personalized attention and a tailored experience. Second, the combination of a lively ride and a relaxed wine tasting makes it both fun and immersive. That said, it’s not a typical “sit back and relax” kind of tour—you’ll need to be comfortable with some basic horse handling and attentive to instructions. But for those willing, it’s a rewarding way to see the countryside and taste some of Italy’s finest wines in a very authentic setting.

One thing to consider: this is not a casual, no-effort horse ride. The horses are well-trained but lively, and you’ll be expected to assist with saddling and follow guidance during the ride. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a bit of activity, not just sightseeing. If you’re after a relaxing sit-and-sip experience, this could be a good fit, but just be prepared for some engagement.

This tour is perfect for: couples, friends, or solo travelers who want an active yet authentic taste of Italy away from the crowded tourist spots. It’s also great for those curious about winemaking or eager to explore Verona’s countryside from a different angle.

Key Points

• Exclusive private experience tailored for your group for a more personalized adventure.
• Combines horseback riding through scenic vineyards with a visit to a local family-run winery.
• Includes a tasting of three wines—white, rosé, and red—paired with homemade cheese and salami.
• Provides insight into winemaking techniques and the history of the vineyard.
• Horse riding is active; riders assist with saddling and respond to instructions.
• Stunning views of the countryside enhance the overall experience.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Meeting and Preparation

The adventure begins at Piazzetta Lino Tosoni in Villafranca di Verona at 9:15 am. You’ll meet your local guide and get acquainted with the horses—an important step since this tour involves more than just sitting on a horse. The staff emphasizes that these horses are happy, well-trained, and full of life, which creates a friendly atmosphere. You’ll assist with saddling and prep, making the experience more hands-on than just riding along.

This is a great chance for nervous riders or absolute beginners to ask questions and get comfortable. The guide provides a basic lesson in horse talk and controlling your horse, ensuring everyone is prepared for the ride ahead.

The Horseback Ride

The riding portion lasts about 60 minutes, taking you through beautiful vineyards and along peaceful country paths. The route ascends to the hill of Custoza, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Past participants mention that the horses are lively but manageable, and the ride is more engaging than some might expect—it’s definitely not just a scenic drive but a guided activity requiring some attentiveness.

Visiting the Winery

After the ride, you’ll walk into a family-run winery, where the atmosphere feels warm and authentic. One reviewer noted, “The winery was beautiful,” and it’s clear that this is a place where tradition and craftsmanship shine through. The guide shares insights about the winery’s history and winemaking techniques, surrounded by the aroma of aging barrels—a sensory highlight for many.

Wine and Food Tasting

The tasting includes three wines: a crisp white, a delicate rosé, and a full-bodied red. These are paired with homemade cheese and salami, providing a savory complement to each sip. One guest raved, “The three wines we sampled were the best we have ever had,” underscoring the quality of the selection. The views from the tasting area are exceptional, making it easy to linger over your glass and share impressions.

Post-Ride Activities

After tasting, you’ll have the opportunity to brush your horse and give it a snack—a charming way to connect with your equine companion. The experience ends back at the starting point, but many find the day leaves a lasting impression, blending outdoor activity, local culture, and culinary delight.

Practical Details: What You Should Know

Duration and Price

This roughly 4-hour tour costs around $185.03 per person, a price point that includes the horse riding, winery visit, tasting, and a personalized experience. Considering the personalized nature and the quality of the experience, many travelers feel this is good value, especially since it’s private and includes a guided, all-inclusive tasting.

Group Size and Booking

With an average booking window of 29 days in advance, it’s advisable to reserve early. The tour is exclusive to your group, making it perfect for a more intimate outing. The tour operates with a mobile ticket, simplifying the process and allowing flexibility.

Accessibility and Conditions

While most travelers can participate, note that the tour is not suitable for children (no bambini). You should be comfortable with some activity and attentive instructions. The ride requires a basic level of alertness and willingness to engage physically, so it’s not ideal if you prefer to sit passively.

Weather and Cancellation

Since this activity depends on good weather, poor conditions may lead to rescheduling or a full refund. The tour is non-refundable if canceled by you, so plan accordingly.

Authentic Experience and Reviewer Insights

Multiple reviews echo the high quality of this experience. Penny called it “one of the best parts of our trip,” highlighting the “amazing riding experience and wine tasting,” while Hope’s review suggests it’s her trip highlight, praising “the horses, the winery, and the wines.” Nicole’s mention of walking four miles to the ranch highlights a potential logistical consideration—if you’re relying on taxis, plan a bit ahead.

Reviewers also appreciated the stunning views and delicious wines, especially the chance to sample a variety of styles paired with local cheeses. The warm, family-run winery adds to the authenticity, making it more than just a tourist trap.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

This experience offers a beautiful blend of activity and relaxation. The scenic horseback ride through vineyards provides unique perspectives on the countryside, while the wine tasting grounds you in local tradition. The inclusion of cheese and salami enhances the tasting, making it feel like a proper Italian antipasto platter.

For those who enjoy outdoor pursuits and want to deepen their appreciation of Verona’s rural charms, this tour is a winner. It’s especially perfect for travelers who enjoy a hands-on experience and are open to a bit of physical activity. The private format ensures you won’t feel rushed or crowded, allowing for a more genuine connection with your guide, horses, and surroundings.

This tour might not suit those looking for a passive experience or with mobility challenges but is ideal for adventurous wine lovers eager to explore beyond the typical tourist spots.

The Sum Up: Why You Should Consider This Experience

Combining horseback riding and wine tasting in Verona offers a one-of-a-kind way to appreciate the region’s landscape, culture, and flavors. It’s a tour that balances activity with comfort, providing not only stunning views but also an engaging experience that feels authentic and personal. The quality of the wines, the charm of the family-run winery, and the lively horses all contribute to its reputation as a memorable outing.

If you’re a traveler looking for an active adventure that immerses you in the Italian countryside, this tour delivers. It’s also perfect for those wanting to add a touch of local flavor to their Verona visit without the crowds.

While it demands a bit of effort and engagement, the reward is a vivid, hands-on experience that you’re unlikely to forget. Just remember to book early, be prepared for some physical activity, and enjoy every sip and canter along the way.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or kids?
No, this tour is designed for adults and does not accommodate children. It requires participants to be able to manage some activity and attentiveness during the ride.

How long does the entire experience last?
The tour takes approximately 4 hours, including the horseback ride, winery visit, tasting, and post-ride activities.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers the guided horseback riding, a visit to a family-run winery, tasting of three wines paired with homemade cheese and salami, and the use of the horses and equipment.

What should I wear or bring?
Dress comfortably for riding—closed-toe shoes and layered clothing suitable for the weather are recommended. The guide will provide instructions, but casual outdoor attire is best.

Is transportation arranged for this tour?
The meeting point is at Piazzetta Lino Tosoni in Villafranca di Verona. No mention of transportation arrangements is made, so plan to arrive on your own or arrange local transport.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed. If canceled due to weather, a different date or full refund will be offered.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Since the activity requires good weather, poor conditions may lead to rescheduling or a full refund, ensuring you won’t be disappointed if the skies turn grey.

This blend of activity, scenery, and authentic wine tasting makes for a distinctive Verona experience—one that combines the best of countryside charm with real Italian hospitality.