Castello di Santa Cristina is a strikingly beautiful 17th century castle, located just one and a half hours from Rome, between the rolling hills of Lazio, Tuscany, Umbria. With its fairy tale style turret, it’s a romantic but comfortable setting for those wishing to explore the surrounding countryside and culture on horseback.  

Discover medieval castles, beautiful countryside trails, and delicious local recipes and wine as you explore the  Briganti Trail, or “Brigands' Path",” a historic trekking route in the shadow of the Central Apennines, which crosses the countryside between historic estates and medieval villages. 

There are 20 horses, a mix of mostly TB Crosses and Warmblood Crosses, ranging from 15hh to 17hh plus some smaller horses and ponies from 13.2hh. They all live out in herds in the large fields surrounding the castle with as much of a natural environment as possible.

All the horses are bought and trained by Antonio Mancini himself along with his instructor team.

All Levels Welcome

All the trails are matched to the ability and preferences of the riders; experienced riders can enjoy the comfort of knowing that they can look forward to fast canters and interesting terrain on forward-going horses and equally novice riders can enjoy slower paced meanders through beautiful countryside as well as lessons in the arena.

Accompanying non-riders are welcome!

 
What's my riding level? 

The castle has been the property of the noble Caterini family for generations. It was once the residence of a Cardinal who housed the Vatican’s treasure here to keep it safe during the revolution in 1848… needless to say it is crammed full of fascinating artefacts. He chose the castle to be his personal residence and now his descendants, Count Antonio and his family, use this enchanting place as their country home.

The family has lovingly restored the cottages and main farmhouse, once used by local farmers. It has become 8 self-catering apartments and 14 twin or double rooms, all ensuite. They are all elegantly designed and in keeping with the old worldly feel of the castle.

While this may be a riding tour, the real reason you visit Italy is for the food, of course! Meals will consist of farm-to-table ingredients, perfectly paired wines, and exquisite cuisine all around.  

Bookings include breakfast, but select the half-board (breakfasts + lunches) or full-board (breakfasts + lunches + dinners) add-on for full meal service. The castle restaurant serves a daily fixed menu.

Sightseeing suggestions:

• Orvieto

• Civita di Bagnoregio

• Montalcino

• Montepulciano

• Siena

• Terme di Vulci

Guests may self-drive or transfers can be arranged, but are not included.

After a check-in, meet your hosts for a welcome drink and guided tour of the Castle, followed by dinner in the castle restaurant. 

Each day begins with breakfast served in the old castle stables from 8-10am.

Each itinerary includes several hacks (2-3 hours) and 1-2 full-day* rides. Your daily ride times will be determined by your itinerary and the weather. You may ride in the morning and then sightsee in the afternoon, or vice versa. 

Lunch is served at 1pm and dinner is served at 8:30pm in the castle restaurant.

*In July and August, the full-day ride will be changed to 2 hacks in the morning and afternoon instead, due to high temperatures.

Castello di Santa Cristina is a great jumping-off point to explore the area. Orvieto, Onano, Siena, Civita di Bagnoregio, Montalcino, Montepulciano, and Lake Bolsena are just a few suggestions in the area.

For self-driving guests, these sites are all within an hour or two of the castle. A driver can also be arranged, or a guided tour. Contact us to set that up.