A full-sensory experience: horses, ruins, lakes, castles, and authentic local flavor.
Escape the city bustle with a scenic horseback ride through Monterano Nature Reserve, explore ancient ghost town ruins, and unwind lakeside at Lake Bracciano. This full-day adventure from Rome perfectly blends history, nature, and relaxation.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
10 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have basic fitness and be comfortable sitting for hours on horseback; moderate stamina needed for walking around ruins and lakeside villages.
Wildlife
History
Monterano Antica was abandoned in the late 18th century after a malaria outbreak, leaving behind evocative ruins that inspired baroque artists including Bernini.
Conservation
The Monterano Nature Reserve promotes sustainable tourism, encouraging low-impact activities and local cultural preservation through tours like this horseback experience.
Once in Rome
A full-sensory experience: horses, ruins, lakes, castles, and authentic local flavor.
Once in Rome is a Rome-based tour operator offering private and small-group experiences from Roma, Lazio. Focused on immersive cultural discovery, the company curates day trips across Lazio, Umbria, and Tuscia, plus private city tours in Rome. Offerings include private Vatican and Colosseum tours, culinary classes such as pasta, pizza, tiramisu and limoncello tastings, hands-on workshops in Deruta ceramics, vineyard visits with tastings in Umbria, and full-day escapes to medieval towns like Orvieto, Viterbo, Spoleto, and Assisi.
Once in Rome also runs coastal excursions to Sabaudia, Sperlonga, and Gaeta, and nature or historical journeys such as Montefalco wine tours, WWII battlefield visits, and horse treks near Lake Bracciano. Featured on The Adventure Collective, Once in Rome highlights local guides, customizable private itineraries, and small groups for a personalized travel experience. The operator partners with family-run wineries, artisanal mills, and local craftsmen to create authentic, bookable experiences that respect local traditions.
Booking options range from single-day guided tours to multi-day private retreats, with choices for cooking classes, truffle hunts, wine tastings, and cultural workshops. Guides provide practical logistics, local recommendations, and support for dietary needs; many itineraries can be adapted for families, seniors, and mobility requirements. Bookings are available year-round subject to seasonal schedules and advance reservation requirements. Prices and exact itineraries vary by season.
Tours Offered
38 tours
Curated day trips and private tours.
Based In
Roma, Lazio
Local knowledge of Lazio and Umbria.
Specialties
Culinary & Private Tours
Cooking classes, wine & cultural trips.
Featured On
The Adventure Collective
Featured on a trusted travel platform.
Choose a custom tour, cooking class, or day trip from Roma, Lazio — availability varies, book in advance.
Bring Layers for Shifting Temperatures
The ride starts in forested areas and moves into open fields; layering helps adjust to changing weather.
Hydrate Often
Carry a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the horseback ride and afternoon explorations.
Wear Comfortable Riding Apparel
Long pants and closed-toe shoes will enhance comfort and safety during the horseback segments.
Plan for Sun Exposure
Use sun protection like hats and sunscreen, especially during picnic and lake visits when shade is limited.
Riding Gloves
Protect your hands and improve grip on the reins during horseback riding.
Sun Hat or Cap
Shield your face during open stretches under the sun near the lake and on horseback.
summer
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Ideal for exploring Monterano ruins and strolls in lakeside towns after riding.
Swimwear
Bring a swimsuit if you plan to swim in Lake Bracciano after lunch.
summer