Horseback Riding in Chianti with Under The Tuscan Sun Tours - Florence

Horseback Riding in Chianti with Under The Tuscan Sun Tours

Florencemoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

3–5 hours

Fitness Level

Participants should have moderate fitness, able to sit comfortably for several hours and manage horse riding for varied terrain.

Overview

Discover Chianti’s scenic landscapes and medieval villages on horseback with Under The Tuscan Sun Tours. Journey through Tuscany’s vibrant countryside and step back in time as you pass Siena, San Gimignano, and Monteriggioni on this unforgettable ride.

Details

Set in the heart of Tuscany, just a short drive from Florence, Under The Tuscan Sun Tours guides riders through the Chianti region’s rolling vineyards, olive groves, and medieval villages on horseback. This area offers a distinct blend of natural beauty and cultural depth, far from the bustling streets of the nearby cities. Riding here is a chance to absorb Tuscany’s famed rural landscape in a quiet, deliberate way, where every turn reveals terracotta rooftops, cypress-lined lanes, and softly undulating hills carved from limestone-rich soil.

The trip covers historic towns like Siena, San Gimignano, and Monteriggioni, each a living postcard of Tuscan architecture and heritage. San Gimignano’s towers looming in the distance, Monteriggioni’s perfectly preserved walls, and Siena’s ancient streets provide a fascinating narrative backdrop that enriches the ride. These towns hold centuries of history, from Etruscan origins to medieval defenses, which echo subtly in the peaceful countryside.

What sets Under The Tuscan Sun Tours apart is their knowledgeable guides, local to the area, who navigate these landscapes with skill and passion. Their focus on small groups ensures a personalized experience, whether you’re an experienced rider or new to horseback travel. The horses are calm and accustomed to the terrain, making this adventure accessible and safe.

Riding here means encountering unique Tuscan native flora such as umbrella pines and fragrant scrubland herbs, while the open landscapes invite wide views under expansive skies. It’s a practical way to connect with the environment on foot’s slower cousin, carving out space to appreciate the region’s distinct feel—bucolic yet historical, wild yet cultivated.

For travelers visiting Florence and seeking a distinct outdoor experience beyond the city’s art and architecture, this horseback journey offers an active, immersive route to Tuscany’s heart. It balances physical activity with cultural insight, connecting horse, rider, and landscape in a way that’s simultaneously timeless and thoroughly present.

Adventure Tips

Wear sturdy, closed-toe boots

Protect your feet with boots that provide a firm grip and suitable ankle support for horseback riding.

Bring sun protection

A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are crucial, as many trail sections are exposed with little shade.

Stay hydrated

Carry a water bottle to stay refreshed, especially during warmer months when the sun can be intense.

Dress in layers

Temperatures can vary greatly between morning and afternoon, so layering ensures comfort on the trail.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • The small vineyards around Castellina in Chianti
  • The lesser-visited trails near the medieval walls of Monteriggioni

Wildlife

  • European hedgehog
  • Red fox

History

The Chianti region has been a crucial wine-producing area since at least the 13th century, with Monteriggioni’s walls dating back to 1214.

Conservation

Local guides emphasize sustainable practices, including minimal trail impact and respect for farmland, to preserve Tuscany’s natural heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Early morning
Golden hour before sunset
Overcast midday for even light

Best Viewpoints

  • San Gimignano towers from a nearby vineyard
  • Along the Monteriggioni town walls
  • Wide-open Chianti hilltops

What to Photograph

Rustic farmhouses
Sunlit vineyards
Mounted riders in motion

Recommended Gear

Riding boots or sturdy closed-toe shoes

Essential

Provides essential grip and foot protection while riding.

Protective helmet

Essential

Safety first: helmets reduce injury risk when riding uneven terrain.

Light waterproof jacket

Essential

Keeps you dry and warm during unpredictable Tuscany weather.

spring|fall|winter specific

Sunscreen and sunglasses

Essential

Shield yourself from sun exposure on open trail sections.

spring|summer|fall specific

Book Now