Italian stallions

Stylish, cultured, good humoured and yet volatile - Italy, with its golden light, stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage has inspired poets and painters for centuries. Equine Adventures’ offers two new tours, riding deep into Tuscany’s spectacular landscape, from the dramatic Muraglione pass to the ancient forests of Tuscan-Romagnolo Apennines.

Discover medieval villages, soak up Tuscan history, and indulge in local gastronomic delights accompanied by superb wines – the epitome of a perfect holiday! Choose from centre-based rides at the 18th century Villa de Colognole estate or more challenging trail rides deep into the dramatic Mugello region.

Mugello Trail - 8 days, next departing Florence 10th May 2008

A wilderness trail ride exploring Tuscany’s beautiful rolling hillsides, vineyards, and olive groves, before venturing deep into the Mugello region, to the spectacular Muraglione pass and the Aquacheta falls inspiration for part of Dante’s Inferno. Explore Casentino, Mount Falterona and Campigna Forest National Parks - 36,000 hectares of ancient forest in the Tuscan-Romagnolo Apennines, passing magnificent rock formations and deep ravines carved by the river through chestnut forests.

The tour costs £930 p/p including return transfers from Santa Maria Novella station in Florence, 4-nights hotel accommodation at the restored 18th century Ville de Colognole and 3-nights farmhouse accommodation during the trail, most meals, wine with evening meals and all riding.

Medieval Monasteries & Castles Trail - 8 days next departing Florence 17th and 24th May 2008

Beginning in the heart of the Chianti Rufina region, the wildest of all Chianti wine-making areas, see medieval Tuscany as experienced by monks and pilgrims for centuries - from the back of a horse! Visit some of the finest architectural sites in Tuscany, including Trebbio Castle and the spectacular ‘Madonna del Sasso’ retreat, then discover the beauty of the Mugellos region, visiting both Bilancino Lake and Monte Giove National Park.

The tour costs £930 p/p including return transfers from Santa Maria Novella station in Florence, 4-nights hotel accommodation at the restored 18th century Ville de Colognole and 3-nights farmhouse accommodation during the trail, most meals, wine with evening meals and all riding.

Flights are not included but are available from Equine Adventures. Transfers can be arranged from Florence Airport for a supplement of £38.

For more information, visit Equineadventures.co.uk.