Brigands Seven Day Sunshine Trail

Abandoned Etruscan settlements, lakes formed in volcanic craters and medieval edifices adorn the enchanting Italian landscape. Located one and a half hours from Rome, the splendid 17th century castle (complete with fairytale turret!) will be 'home' throughout your stay. The castle has two swimming pools, a tennis court and ample gardens and, for those wishing to ride, a well-run stables with professional instruction and miles upon miles of breathtaking trail riding awaits you. This holiday runs from February to November, with a break in July and August when the heat reduces the hours available for a nice ride. 

There are 14 B&B double bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms within the restored farmhouse. Our apartments are furnished with the original, antique pieces and are infused with the traditional rural style of the Italian countryside. Beautifully embellished with wooden trusses, these bed and breakfast rooms complete with elegant bathrooms, capture the fairytale atmosphere of Santa Cristina. Each apartment is beautifully lit with spectacular views that our guests find incredibly relaxing.

Saturday:

Check in, plus a welcome drink at the castle and briefing with your guide about the riding and accommodation. You will also choose your horse for the next day, followed by dinner.

Sunday: The Three Waters Along The Brigands Path (18km)

With this mini trekking we will easily reach the hills, framing the plateau on which the castle is situated. A fantastic spot for a breathtaking view of the area, going from the beautiful crater of Lake Bolsena on one side to the hills surrounding lake Mezzano on the other side. On a sufficiently clear day, the sea can be seen at 40km in the distance like a glowing mirror. Starting from the castle, after 1km, we will reach a large track winding through the beautiful hills and small woods. This route has steady, soft ground which is good to let the horses canter, if they wish. At the end of the track we will enter a big wood named Selva di Onano.

Monday: Panoramic View (20km)

We will leave the castle following an old track through the chestnut woods. We then ride up through valleys and hills onto a plateau to take in the spectacular scenery, including the towering Mount Amiata, the Radicofani fortress and the distant castle of Torre Alfina. From the hill we follow a large track winding through the fields taking us back to the castle.

Tuesday: Around Onano (20km)

Once on the Brigands track we go north through the hills after crossing the provincial road. A beautiful scene of mountains and hills in front of us, a nice track will take us around the Onano. Onano is a fortified village with a medieval castle in its centre, providing an interesting site for riders. Centuries ago it was an important stronghold of the Monaldeschi family who ruled this area for a long time during the middle ages. This route alternates between narrow crossings and beautiful open fields with a view. Once at the little medieval church, Madonna delle Grazie, we will follow the track north through enchanting countryside back to the castle.

Wednesday: Lake Bolsena (30km)

From Castle S. Cristina, we will follow an old trail down through the crater of Lake Bolsena, the biggest volcanic lake in Europe. Breathtaking views of the lake will accompany our excursion all the way. Scattered about the countryside are archaeological sites with Etruscan tombs to remind our riders how old this beautiful land is. Once at the bottom, a picnic lunch will be served on the beach of the lake. A swim in the lake Bolsena (in the summer) can be part of the day before hopping back on your horse. On the way back, the magnificent Farnese renaissance palace in Gradoli will catch our attention while crossing the village. Once at the top of the crater of the lake, an old track through the woods will take us back to the castle.

Thursday: Day Off For Local Excursions

The surroundings of the castle are full of interesting archaeological sites. These are just a few suggestions:

• The village fortresses of Pitigliano, Sorano, Sovano
• The marvellous Italian gothic church of Orvieto
• The famous town of Civita di Bagnoregio, called the 'Dying Town'

Friday: Around Gradoli (20km)

Following an old Etruscan trail, we ride up through thick woods to the top of the crater surrounding lake Bolsena. Here we enjoy a remarkable scene including vineyards, Etruscan tombs, the prominent volcanic lake and the panorama dominated by the famous Farnese palce in Gradoli. This was a gift made by the Pope in 1500 to the nephew for his wedding- what a present! We return to the castle riding through the vineyards, vegetable gardens and enchanting woods. We also enjoy a canter across a tunnel made by oak trees above an old shepherds path.

Saturday:

Check out in the morning.

2012 prices:

7 nights, full board, £1055pp (Rider)

7 nights, half board, £890pp (Rider)

7 nights, full board, £545pp (Non-Rider) 

2012 dates: 3rd March - 24th November

Includes: Castle tour, welcome drink and wine with all meals

Not Included: Flights and Travel Insurance

Indicative flight price: London to Fiumicino £55 - £200pp return depending on time of year

Single supplement: £95

Transfers: Car hire recommended as transfers are not included.  Transfers can be arranged from Fiumicino Airport (Rome) to the castle or from Orvieto train staion as trains go frequently from Fiumicino Airport.  Please contact us for prices.

Suitable for non-riders: Yes

During July & August daily riding will be slightly reduced due to the hot weather

Room cleaning 10euros to be paid locally

Call us on +44 (0)1225 424413 or email contact@redlandsequestrian.com to check the ride availability and dates, once we have confirmed availability you can download and fill in a booking form:

• UK Rides Booking Form
• Worldwide Rides Booking Form

Each rider in the party must also complete a riding ability questionnaire before we can complete the final confirmation of your holiday booking.