Or in my latest experience riding horses in Tuscany, Giddy Up!!!
Yes, I was lucky enough to get the slow horse! Followed by my hubby who had the stallion, “Paco”-who really really really liked my horse! ha
The kid’s horse, Lady, was perfect and it was a great riding day for her.
We had so much fun joining our guide Rosi in Bagni di Lucca for coffee before heading off to the hills of Lucca. A ranch named “Il Nostro”, located in Mutigliano Lucca was a full riding ranch with rings, trails, picnic tables, and of course a cafe! The day we arrived many kids were there for a day camp where they learned to feed, groom and ride.
The three of us mounted up and had a brief introduction to our horses-I was the most experienced rider and left the ranch feeling pretty comfortable. Well, about 500 yards later I realized my horse liked to “snack”. She literally would dead stop and eat an entire tree! The guide would yell, “Melonie, you must be strong…give her a quick strong pull at the reins, show her you are in charge”…well after about 30 minutes of pulling I couldn’t feel my arms and she continued to eat the entire trip. I am certain they do not have to do any trail maintenance as my horse kept the trails very clean! I finally gave up and just started laughing because I was so pitiful!
My daughter, who was a novice but can do anything athletic had a great trail ride, leading the group down the “Strada del Vino” (road leading to several wineries) and enjoying the views of the lovely hills of Tuscany. We passed estates, olive trees, lots of pretty flowers (which my horse wanted ate) and mountains!
Rosi, who along with her husband Adriano, run the Villa Talenti, www.villatalenti.com where you can rent a home, or just email her to guide you around Lucca doing fun things….like horseback riding! Look her up-she is a fistful of knowledge of the Bagni Di Lucca area.
The kid and “Lady” getting to know each other with Rosi.
Wasn’t “Paco” handsome…just like the rider!
Almost ready to ride….
My horse was so naughty I forgot her name…but she was pretty.
Off we go!
Cafe?…only in Italy will they have a coffee bar at a ranch!
Plenty of places to learn to ride, picnic, and more. They have a huge competition here every year that draws lots of visitors.
We always try to do something off the beaten path and get out of the museums..this was a a great day!
