Cypress Trees and Castles Long Weekend

Located in Southern Tuscany, one and a half hours from Rome, half way between Orvieto and Siena, closely bordering with the regions of Umbria and Tuscany, the breathtakingly splendid 17th century castle, Castello di Santa Cristina, (complete with fairytale turret) has been the property of the noble Caterini family for generations. 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.

On our exciting trail excursions, we travel as far as Proceno, Lake Bolsena and to the beautiful nature reserve Selva Del Lamone.  This is a holiday for all abilities and families.

Thursday: Arrive today 

After checking in you will be served with a welcome drink and then you will meet with your guide who will be looking after you throughout your stay. Today we have two hours of riding scheduled- a two hour hack in the enchanting countryside that surrounds the castle- or if you prefer, a lesson in the arena.

Friday: Onano Tour

Today we head north through the hills, where a spectacular scene of the castle estate and surrounding farmland will keep us company. After crossing the provincial road, the trail will lead us towards a a magical scene made by the tuscan mountains towering in front of us. The trail carries on around the vicinity of Onano- a fortified town of the Middle Ages. Your guide will show you the medieval castle dominating the ancient town- an important stronghold of the Monaldeschi family which ruled the area in the Middle Ages. We keep going through old farmers' tracks, up into open fields, past the delightful medieval church of St Maria delle Grazie and then back home to the castle.

Saturday: Panoramic View

We will leave the castle following an old track to reach the hills framing our plateau to the west. Through the chestnut woods we arrive at the top where we have a breathtaking view of the area, from the beautiful crater of lake Bolsena on the southern side to the hills surrounding lake Mezzano on the northern side. On a clear breezy day the sea can be seen at 40km. 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.

Sunday: Farewell

Sadly, today it is time to bid farewell to your castle home. Before that, we can offer you another two hours ride out in the morning or, if you prefer, a lesson in the arena.

2012 prices:

3 nights, full board, £565pp (Rider)

3 nights, half board, £490pp (Rider)

3 nights, full board £320pp (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:

£54

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

Please note:

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

Room cleaning 10euros per day payable 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.