Horseback Ridings and Wine Tastings in a Winery of San Gimignano

Traveling from Florence doesn’t have to mean crowded streets and busy museums. Instead, this tour offers a delightful escape into the Tuscan countryside, combining horseback riding through vineyards and olive groves with wine tasting in a scenic winery near San Gimignano. It’s a balanced experience that appeals to those craving genuine Italian rural charm, good wine, and a touch of adventure—without the crowd.

What we love about this experience is the way it blends off-road horseback riding with the opportunity to savor local wines and Tuscan snacks. The small-group setting, limited to just 15 participants, ensures a more intimate, personal experience. The only potential drawback? The tour’s length is about 5 hours, which might feel a bit long for some, especially if you’re tight on time or prefer more sightseeing in Florence itself.

This tour suits travelers looking for a relaxed, authentic day outside Florence—those who enjoy nature, good food, and a bit of outdoor activity. If you’re after a luxurious wine experience or museum-hopping, this might not be your best bet. But for those craving genuine Tuscan scenery paired with a memorable riding adventure, this tour hits the mark.

Key Points

• Authentic Tuscan Experience: Combines horseback riding through vineyards with wine tastings.
• Small Group Intimacy: Limited to 15 people for personalized attention and a relaxed vibe.
• Scenic Beauty: Enjoy breathtaking views over San Gimignano’s rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves.
• Culinary Delights: Savor local cheeses, salami, bruschetta, and cantuccini biscuits paired with renowned wines.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable staff enhance the experience, making it both fun and informative.
• Value for Money: For the price, you get a full sensory day—riding, tasting, eating, and exploring.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

Departure happens promptly at 9:00 am from Piazza Adua in Florence, specifically at the Burger King. From there, transportation whisks you away to the heart of Tuscany, close to San Gimignano. The journey is included in the price, which means you avoid the hassle of self-driving or figuring out local transit, a big plus for many visitors.

The tour is designed for most travelers—most people can participate—but children under 7 are not permitted for safety reasons. You’ll want to wear comfortable walking shoes and dress appropriately for outdoor activity, as it involves some physical movement.

The Horseback Riding

Once on-site, the team introduces you to the horses with a quick lesson—no prior riding experience needed. The riding lasts about an hour, during which you’ll explore vineyards, woods, and rustic paths. The horses are described as “beautiful” and well-trained, making the ride accessible even for beginners.

The ride is an off-road adventure, avoiding busy roads in favor of rustic trails that wind through the countryside. The review from Steve W. notes that the “beautiful horses” and “beautiful surroundings” made it worth every penny, emphasizing how this part of the experience stands out.

Scenic Views and Outdoor Enjoyment

The ride offers sweeping vistas of Tuscan hills dotted with vineyards, olive groves, and historic buildings. If you love nature and wide-open spaces, you’ll find this part of the tour charming and invigorating. Many will appreciate the chance to breathe in the country air and feel the exhilaration of riding through vineyards bathed in sunlight.

Lunch and Wine Tasting

Post-ride, you’ll settle into a delicious Tuscan lunch, featuring local cheeses, salami, and bruschetta—simple yet flavorful. The highlight, of course, is the wine tasting at the winery, Tenuta Torciano. Here, an expert guide leads you through a selection of wines, including Brunello di Montalcino, Chianti, Morellino di Scansano, and several Super Tuscans.

The wines are paired with appetizing Tuscan snacks—a thoughtful touch that elevates the tasting. The review from Steve W. highlights that the “top notch lunch” and “delicious wine” made this experience memorable. The tasting isn’t rushed, and you’ll learn about the different wine varieties and food pairings, making it a full sensory journey.

The Authenticity Factor

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of active outdoor fun with genuine food and wine. You’re not just sitting at a table; you’re actively engaging with the land—riding through it and then tasting its produce. The small group size ensures personalized attention, and the guided element adds depth to your understanding of local wines.

Price and Value

At $583.70 per person, this experience is a bit of an investment. Considering the inclusive transportation, horseback riding, wine tasting, lunch, and snacks, the value is quite good for a full-day, curated Tuscan experience. Of course, it’s more expensive than a simple wine tasting or a short city tour, but for what it offers—a well-rounded, immersive countryside day—it feels justified.

Authenticity and Authentic Experiences

One review emphasizes that this is “on the top of excursions,” praising the beautiful surroundings and top-notch lunch. Such feedback confirms that the experience delivers on its promise of genuine Tuscan charm. The tour is especially appealing to those who want more than a superficial visit and prefer a taste of everyday Tuscan life—horses, vineyards, and all.

Who Will Love This Tour?

• Travelers craving outdoor activities combined with wine tasting
• Those who enjoy small-group, intimate experiences
• Visitors eager to see Tuscany’s scenic countryside away from city hustle
• Food and wine lovers looking for authentic regional flavors
• People wanting a relaxed, immersive day rather than a hurried tour

Who Might Want to Skip It?

• Guests with limited mobility or those uncomfortable around horses
• Visitors on a tight schedule who can’t spare five hours
• Those seeking a more museum or city-focused experience
• Families with very young children (under 7)

The Sum Up

This horseback riding and wine tasting tour offers a rare chance to connect with Tuscany’s countryside in a relaxed, authentic way. It balances outdoor adventure, gastronomic delights, and scenic beauty—creating a memorable day that goes beyond typical wine tastings. For travelers who want to combine a bit of activity with cultural authenticity, this experience provides excellent value.

The small size and personalized guides make it more than just a touristy activity; it feels genuine, fun, and thoughtfully curated. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, an outdoor lover, or simply seeking a different perspective on Tuscany, this tour is worth considering.

In essence, it’s a well-rounded taste of what Tuscany does best: stunning views, delicious food, and heartfelt hospitality—all shared over a glass of excellent local wine with new friends.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, transportation from Florence to the winery and back is included in the price, making it convenient and stress-free.

Can I participate if I’ve never ridden a horse? Absolutely. The tour includes a quick lesson, and the horses are well-trained, making it suitable for beginners.

How long is the horseback ride? The ride lasts about an hour, with scenic paths through vineyards and woods.

What should I wear? Dress in comfortable clothes suitable for walking and outdoor activity, including sturdy shoes and trousers.

Are children allowed? Children under 7 are not permitted for safety reasons.

What wines will I taste? Expect to sample a variety of Tuscan wines, including Brunello di Montalcino, Chianti, and Super Tuscans, among others.

Is the experience suitable for couples or groups? Yes, the small-group setup is perfect for couples, friends, or solo travelers seeking a cozy, personalized experience.

What is included in the lunch? The lunch features Tuscan cheeses, salami, bruschetta, and cantuccini biscuits with dessert wine—simple, authentic, and delicious.

What’s the maximum group size? The tour is limited to 15 travelers for a more personal vibe.

What if the weather is bad? The experience requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

This tour offers a genuinely enjoyable way to see and taste Tuscany’s countryside, perfect for those eager to combine activity, culture, and relaxation on a memorable day away from Florence’s crowds.