WESTERN TUITION - ITALY
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This western centre offers a range of riding through the centre of Tuscany. For beginners onwards there are mini trails and lessons in western riding aiming at developing and deepening the knowledge of 'natural western', 'collaboration between horse and rider' and 'guidance'. Offering excellent value, super fresh Tuscan meals and years of experience in horse trekking, there is a large range of horses with western (or English if preferred) tack. This centre has a relaxed informal atmosphere and is especially recommended for those coming alone. A warm welcome and fun holiday is assured here and for a nature loving rider this horse riding holiday is a good way to get started in western riding too.
NOTES - WESTERN TUITION
Horses
There are about 40 horses, including Haflingers, Appaloosas, Paints, Maremmanas, South American Thoroughbreds and some horses of mixed breeds. The horses live in different herds in big pastures throughout the year. They are reliable and secure, which makes it easy for you to deal with even the most difficult situations like steep slopes or the fording of a river.
Riding
Courses for complete beginners, advanced beginners and riders who can walk, trot and canter on a good horse are available in different weeks. Western saddles are utilized for comfort and ease. Simple guidelines will be given if you have not ridden western before - it is very easy, relaxing and addictive. An American saddle on a well-trained and reliable horse offers to a rider, even with little experience, the chance to enjoy the riding in nature. Since the saddle is very secure you can be sure it will be easy to relax and have fun. The American style of horse-riding is especially appropriate for long excursions, you will find the gaits more comfortable, and at the end of the day you will not feel exhausted but only a little tired, though highly satisfied.
Accommodation
The accommodation consists of comfortable double rooms. Some rooms have a private bathroom but you may have to share a bathroom with one other room. There are communal areas consisting of reception, a bar, living room with fireplace, hall with sofas and tables for games and relaxation, conference room, training or project room, pergola and garden. There is also internet, television and VCR etc. available for use. Outside there is a beautiful natural environment that has remained unchanged for years and is ideal for peaceful meditation.
It is also possible to camp on the grounds in an area which is secluded and immersed in the green of the Acacias. It is equipped with excellent facilities with hot water, a small kitchen, a communal covered area and from June to September you can stay in an Indian tepee for 4 people.
Food
Meals are traditional Tuscan dishes, with influences from the cusines of Umbria and Lazio and are home made with many of the products locally grown.
Programmes
| Programme |
Experience required |
Dates |
Price |
| Learn to Ride |
Complete Beginner |
22 & 29 March, 3 & 17 May, 30 Aug, 18 & 25 Oct |
£499 |
| Taste of trekking |
Recent Beginner |
5, 19 & 26 April, 24 & 31 May, 19 July, 2 & 16 Aug, 13 & 20 Sept.
|
£569 |
| Western style riding course |
Abel to walk, trot and canter |
15 & 22 March, 19 & 26 April, 28 June, 26 July, 27 Sept, 4 Oct.
|
£659 |
Learn to Ride
Learn to ride western in a week. Suitable for complete beginners, this week's holiday has three days of rides or lessons in the morning and three full days of trail rides with picnic and afternoon return to the centre. The rides have various itineraries such as the National Park of Pigelleto and the heights of Mount Amiata, to the valley of the Fiora river and the Silvana Fortress.
Taste of Trekking
For the more adventurous people who want to test their “Trek-fitness”. During the first 3 days there are two hours of lessons or excursions on horseback, wtih teh afternoons at leisure. The following three days are spent trekking. At the end of each day, after having taken care of the horses, you are returned to the centre by car. So you have the experience of riding out on the trail while not having to pack your bags each day. The pace is steady on this ride.
Western Style Riding Course
The course aims to perfect control of the horse in the open. Having completed this you should be able to master all challenges that may occur under normal circumstances riding out. It is held partly in the arena and partly in a field with difficulties of various levels and includes exercises to train for trail, western riding and pleasure.
During the lessons you develop and deepen the knowledge of "natural western", “collaboration between horse and rider” and “guidance” . You need to be able to walk, trot and canter in the arena to attend this course. The lessons take place in the afternoon and last about 2 hours. In the morning you may go for a ride in the open or observe the training of the young horses.
On request (for minimum 5 persons) courses can also be arranged in:
"Starting" and training of young horses.
Farriery: since the right horseshoes are important, learn how to replace a horseshoe. Introduction to the most common models of horseshoes and travel equipment.
Orientation and map rading: how to use maps and a compass to plan and lead trips on horseback.
GETTING TO the ride
As a fully ATOL bonded and registered agency we would be delighted to book your flights for you. Should you wish to book your own flights please see our flights page for some options.
The weight limit for this ride is 16 st/220 lb/100 kg, please enquire if you are an experienced rider exceeding this weight.
WHAT IS INCLUDED
Full board (breakfast and 2 three course meals including wine), all accommodation, riding/lessons, horses, tack and English speaking guide/instructor.
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED
Transfers from/to station/airport (payable on site), drinks other than wine with meals, optional extras, items of a personal nature and gratuities.
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