Each day starts at the agriturismo and heads out on a different trail. The routes wind through old woodland, drop into valleys and follow streams, then climb to open ground with views over the land. Local guides lead every ride and set the pace for the group, so the week works for riders of varying confidence rather than only experienced ones.

The riding is the anchor, but the week is not only saddle time. A visit to Pitigliano takes you to an Etruscan town perched above its valley, with a long history and streets built into the rock. Another outing goes to San Casciano dei Bagni, where warm thermal springs have been used for centuries.

Food and wine are part of the day here rather than a separate activity. Vineyards in the area produce the wines poured at the table, and the meals at the farm follow Tuscan traditions — cooked and shared in the way the family running the place has always done it.

What separates this from a generic riding holiday is the combination: a working farm as a base, guides who know these particular trails, and stops at Pitigliano and the thermal waters built into the week. It is southern Tuscany's lesser-known corners rather than the postcard towns further north.

The team is confirmed before your stay, and the retreat leader is Elias, based in Italy. Exact arrival and departure times, room allocation and any extras are confirmed with him when you book.

What's included

- 8-day guided horse riding programme with local guides - Accommodation at a family-run agriturismo - Homemade meals at the farm, tailored to the group's dietary needs - Guided rides on trails through woodland, valleys and hills - Excursion to the Etruscan town of Pitigliano - Visit to the thermal waters of San Casciano dei Bagni - Local wines from surrounding vineyards at the table

What's not included

- Travel to and from Castell'Azzara - Travel insurance - Optional upgrades and extras - Anything not confirmed by the retreat leader for your dates