Discovering Tuscany on horseback.

In cooperation with the equestrian center i Pianacci we offer a 4-night itinerary with a stay in Montecatini Terme.

It is a farm house that produces an excellent olive oil and wine, and offers horseback riding lessons, scenic rides, and adventutous trail riding routes, all accompanied by excellent food and wine.

DURATION OF THE STAY: 6 days/5 nights

Program

1st day – Montecatini and its SPA

Arrival in Montecatini Terme and room accomodation in the chosen hotel. Unguided tour of the thermal town that dates back to the second half of the 18th century, whose water springs are among the most appreciated in the whole Europe. The town is renown for its park and the unique Liberty style buildings: you will have the chance to visit the town hall, decorated by the painter and potter Galileo Chini, who is also well known to the public because he was the art director of the great musician Giacomo Puccini. Afterwards tour of the Tettuccio Spa, the flagship of Montecatini Terme, where it is possible to find the unique works of art by Basilio Cascella. Finally you will treat yourself to a cocktail in the historical cafè that will give you the chance to feel the atmosphere of other times.

2nd day – The Castle of Cozzile with breathtaking views

Quick transfer to the Equestrian Center, then departure on horseback heading north through the hills. You will be surrounded by the unique scenery of the Valleriana and Valdinievole areas, through olive trees, woods, farms and “metati” (small structures where chestnuts are left to dry) along the main path which will take you to the mountain area, right in front of you. The path continues towards the valley of Cessana, through the Istrice manor, until it goes uphill and reaches Cozzile, a medieval fortified village. The local guide will show you the medieval castle that dominates over the ancient hamlet, an important stronghold that is part of the complex defence system of the surrounding hills, with an astonishing view over Montecatini Alto, Buggiano Castello, Montecarlo and the whole Valdinievole area.

Guided 4-hour-horse riding excursion horseback excursion

3rd day – The Castle of Cozzile with breathtaking views

Quick transfer to the equestrian center, then departure on horseback heading a highland from where it is possible to admire some breathtaking views. You will see the Serra Mountain to the south and Lucca to the west. If the weather conditions are perfect, the seaside can also be seen at a distance of 70 km to the west, like a glowing mirror reflecting the sun rays. Afterwards the itinerary continues through valleys and hills along a path that will offer you unforgettable views. Back to the equestrian center, there you will have an outdoor pic nic with local recipes and genuine locally produced wine and olive oil. Return to Montecatini. In late afternoon, departure to Montecatini Alto by the so called funicular, an old little train established in 1898 to connect the hilltop to the thermal area. Visit of Montecatini Alto, the historical center of the town, a unique and enchanting medieval village with narrow alleys and picturesque corners. Free time to visit the hamlet and enjoy a breathtaking view over Montecatini Terme and the Valdinievole area. At dinnertime, you will enjoy a genuine meal in the small square. Return to Montecatini Terme by funicular.

3- hour- guided horseback excursion

4th day – TourTour of the medieval hamlets of Buggiano Castello and Colle di Buggiano

Breakfast at the hotel and quick transfer to the equestrian center, then departure on horseback. During this unique tour you will mostly deal with remarkable differences in altitude, so get ready for it! You will go east towards the aqueduct of Folavento, then continue along a forest trail that leads you to Campioni where you can visit the Romanesque parish church of Saint Stefano dating back to the 13th century. After visiting the church, by continuing along the same path you will reach the stream Cessana with its mills and bridge which makes the crossing of the river possible. You will then get back along the mule tracks until the water spring Giulia, and enter the hamlet of Colle di Buggiano by walking through the north gate. Stop for a tasty packed lunch, while watering the horses. Then visit of the old church (parish church of Saint Lawrence that dates back to the 13th century) and walk through olive trees and hills. Back to I Pianacci. Return to Montecatini. Time to relax.

4-hour-guided horseback excursion.

5th day – Old trails and tour of Uzzano

Quick transfer to the equestrian center then departure on horseback. You will visit the medieval hamlet of Uzzano going along the old path of Saint Luca which goes through a dense wood and leads you to the One Hundred Room Episcopalian Villa, with the remains of the villa itself and small church almost entirely surrounded by vegetation. After visiting the church of Madonna del Canale, you officially enter in the old hamlet with its church of Saints Jacopo and Martino, where the Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo stands. On the way back you will go along the steep path to the right of the church through woods and manors with colonic houses and olive trees. Lunch at the farm house I Pianacci or other typical restaurant in the area. Return to Montecatini.

3 hour guided horseback excursion

6th day

Return to the place of origin.