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. 

 Daily writing workshops will be led by award-winning memoirist and veteran teacher and Jennifer Browdy, PhD, known for offering inspiring prompts that encourage contemplative reflection on your past, with an eye to living more joyfully in the present and in the ever-unfurling future. 

Writers of fiction and poetry are also welcome; the writing sessions can be tailored to the needs of the group. There will be time for you to work on your own writing projects, participate in a writers’ sharing circle if you wish, and book individual coaching sessions with your instructor. 

Over the course of the week, you will feel your creative spirit rise, buoyed by the marvelous synergy of Riding and Writing with a group of kindred spirits. 

Horses

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.

Riding Level: 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

Tack: Riders will ride English, and should be prepared for several hours in the saddle daily at all paces. 

Terrain: Hilltops, open fields, creek crossings, dirt and paved roads through quaint villages and the Italian countryside.  

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.

Meals will consist of farm-to-table ingredients, perfectly paired wines, and exquisite cuisine all around.  

Some meals during this itinerary will be served at the Castello and included, while other meals will be dining out during your excursions.

Arrival and transfer from Rome airport to Castello di Santa Cristina

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

8 am breakfast in the old castle stables

10 am morning ride

1 pm lunch at the Castello

2:30-4 pm writing workshop

8 pm dinner at the Castello

8 am breakfast in the old castle stables

10 am morning ride

1 pm lunch at the Castello

2:30-4 pm writing workshop

4 pm excursion to Orvieto with dinner in Orvieto

8 am breakfast in the old castle stables

10 am full day ride to Lake Mezzano with lunch in Fra Viaco

8 pm dinner at the Castello

8 am breakfast in the old castle stables

10 am morning ride

1 pm lunch at the Castello

2 pm excursion to Terme di Vulci, writing and dinner at Terme

Return to Castello at 10 pm

8 am breakfast in the old castle stables

10 am morning ride

1 pm lunch at the Castello

2:30-4 pm writing workshop

4 pm excursion to Civita di Bagnioregio with dinner in Bagnioregio

Return to Castello 10 pm

8 am breakfast in the old castle stables

10 am morning ride

1 pm lunch at the Castello

2:30-4 pm writing workshop

8 pm dinner at the Castello and sharing writing

Breakfast and departure for Rome airport