Bologna: Horseback Ride in the Bolognese Hills

If you’re dreaming of exploring Italy on horseback, this tour in the Bolognese Hills offers a charming combination of scenic views, historic routes, and the chance to enjoy nature away from the busy city center. While it’s not a full-day adventure, the options for either an hour or two hours make it flexible enough for most travelers, whether you’re a beginner or experienced rider.

What we love about this experience is how it captures the essence of Emilia-Romagna’s countryside, with knowledgeable guides who make the ride engaging and safe, and the stunning scenery that makes every moment memorable. Plus, the chance to pass by the majestic Palazzo de Rossi adds a touch of history to the ride. That said, it’s important to remember this experience is best suited for those comfortable on a horse or eager to learn.

A potential consideration? The tour is geared toward people over 14 years old, and weight restrictions apply, so it’s not ideal for very young children, pregnant women, or those with back problems. Still, for most adventurous travelers looking to combine outdoor activity with cultural sights, this is a worthwhile outing.

This horseback ride is perfect for those who want a relaxed, scenic experience in Italy’s countryside without the hassle of organizing their own trail. It’s equally suitable if you’re after a gentle introduction to riding or if you’re more confident and want to explore further along the historic route.

Key Points

• Scenic Routes: Ride along the Via degli Dei, passing fields, river trails, and historic estates.
• Flexible Options: Choose between a 1-hour beginner ride or a 2-hour more advanced route.
• Guided Experience: Led by experienced guides who ensure safety and provide insights into the landscape and history.
• Authentic Views: Enjoy sights like the Renaissance-style Palazzo de Rossi and unspoiled lakes.
• Well-Trained Horses: The horses are calm, responsive, and suitable for various experience levels.
• Value for Money: At $59 per person, it offers a memorable, scenic experience at a reasonable price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering the Bolognese Hills on Horseback

This tour takes you from the starting point at the Gess Ranch in Sasso Marconi, a quiet village about a 30-minute drive from Bologna. The journey begins with a brief, friendly introduction where your guide explains riding basics, which reassures first-timers and sets the tone for a relaxed adventure. Expect to spend about 15 minutes on safety instructions and getting acquainted with your horse before heading out on the trails.

The route’s length and complexity depend on your choice—either a 1-hour ride suitable for beginners or a 2-hour option for more experienced riders. The shorter route is designed to keep things simple yet scenic, taking you along cultivated fields, lined with centuries-old plane trees, and along the Reno River. According to reviews, the beginner ride is particularly popular among first-timers, with one guest praising the horses as “gentle and easy to ride,” making it a stress-free introduction to horseback riding.

For those opting for the 2-hour experience, the ride pushes a bit further along the historic Via degli Dei, passing by the impressive Palazzo de Rossi, a 16th-century estate with its stately facade. This route also leads you to the Laghetti del Maglio, a series of small, untouched lakes home to local flora and fauna, offering a peaceful setting for photos and quiet reflection. One review enthusiastically noted how the landscape along this path is “varied and beautiful,” providing plenty of opportunities for memorable photos.

What Makes the Experience Special?

The real charm of this tour lies in its blend of nature, history, and culture. Riding along the Via degli Dei—a route that once connected Bologna to Florence—adds a historical dimension that makes the journey more meaningful. The guide’s commentary (available in both Italian and English) enriches the experience, offering tidbits about the region’s past, local flora, and the significance of these ancient trails.

The horses themselves are a highlight, with riders praising their calm demeanor and responsiveness. This reassures those who might feel a bit nervous, emphasizing that the experience is accessible to beginners as well as seasoned riders. The tour’s cost—$59—is quite reasonable considering the scenic beauty, expert guidance, and the chance to see a less-touristy side of Italy.

A few reviewers mentioned that the guides are very knowledgeable, making the ride not just a sightseeing trip but an educational experience as well. The guides are attentive and friendly, ensuring everyone feels comfortable and safe throughout the ride, whether you’re a first-timer or more experienced.

Practical Details and What to Prepare

The meeting point is the Gess Ranch in Sasso Marconi, where you’ll gather in the entrance hall. The tour includes all riding equipment, and the guide will adjust the pace and route based on your experience level. For comfort, it’s advised to wear long pants, closed-toe shoes, and bring a t-shirt or sweatshirt depending on the weather. The horses are well-trained, but high heels, sandals, shorts, or open-toe shoes are not permitted for safety reasons.

The tour lasts between 1 to 2 hours, making it a flexible option whether you want a quick escape or a more substantial ride. It’s not suitable for children under 14, pregnant women, or those with back problems or over 209 lbs (95 kg). You can reserve your spot now and pay later, which adds to the convenience.

The experience is conducted in English and Italian, making it accessible for international travelers. Cancellation is possible up to 24 hours prior, providing peace of mind in case your plans change.

Additional Insights from Reviews

Reviewers consistently highlight the quality of the horses and the professionalism of the guides. One guest remarked, “The horses were gentle and easy to ride,” which is reassuring if you’re a novice. Others appreciated the variety of scenery—riding along the river, past the estate, and through fields—offering visual diversity that enhances the overall experience.

A traveler named Santiago underlined the value by mentioning the good connection from Bologna and the overall “worth it” nature of the trip, while Thomas praised the fact that the “small tour is varied with very beautiful corners.” This suggests that even a short ride can feel quite fulfilling, especially if you’re after a quick but scenic escape.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Will Enjoy This Experience?

This horseback riding tour is ideal for travelers who want to enjoy Italy’s countryside with minimal hassle. It suits beginners looking for a gentle introduction to riding, as well as more confident riders wanting to explore the scenic trails. The tour’s pace and guided nature make it a safe choice for those new to horseback riding.

It’s perfect for visitors interested in combining natural beauty and a touch of history, especially given the route along the ancient Via degli Dei. Nature lovers will appreciate the lakes and river views, while history buffs will enjoy passing landmarks like Palazzo de Rossi.

If you’re traveling with someone who isn’t keen on long or physically demanding activities, this is a relaxed yet scenic way to explore Emilia-Romagna’s countryside. Just be sure to meet the requirements—no high heels, shorts, or open shoes—and you’re set for a memorable ride.

The Sum Up

This tour offers good value for money with its scenic routes, expert guidance, and well-trained horses. It’s an experience that balances outdoor adventure with cultural discovery, making it suitable for a range of travelers. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned rider, the relaxed pace and stunning scenery make it a worthwhile addition to your Bologna itinerary.

The opportunity to see lesser-known sights, like the Palazzo de Rossi and the small lakes, adds a special touch that sets this experience apart. The knowledgeable guides, combined with the calm horses and scenic trails, create a relaxed atmosphere that encourages enjoyment and discovery.

If you’re after a peaceful, scenic outing that combines Italy’s natural beauty with historical charm, this horseback ride in the Bolognese Hills is a solid choice. It’s especially suited for those who prefer an active day outdoors but without strenuous effort, and for anyone eager to see Emilia-Romagna from a different perspective.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the 1-hour ride is designed with beginners in mind, and the horses are calm and well-trained.

What should I wear for the ride?
Long pants and closed-toe shoes are recommended. Avoid shorts, open-toed shoes, or high heels for safety.

Can I book the tour and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay nothing until closer to the date, offering flexibility.

Are children under 14 allowed?
No, this experience is not suitable for children under 14 years old.

Is the experience accessible for pregnant women?
No, pregnant women are advised not to participate.

What if I weigh more than 209 lbs (95 kg)?
The tour is not suitable for travelers over this weight limit.

How long does the tour last?
You can choose either a 1-hour or 2-hour ride, depending on your experience and interest.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak both Italian and English, making it accessible for international travelers.

This horseback ride through the Bolognese Hills offers a delightful mix of natural beauty, history, and relaxed adventure. Perfect for those seeking a genuine slice of Italy’s countryside, it promises a memorable, well-led outing that showcases the best of Emilia-Romagna outside the city.

You can check availability for your dates here: