Horseback riding in Francica: Countryside trails with picnic

The picnic happens mid-ride, not after. You eat surrounded by the landscape you just crossed.

Horseback riding in the countryside of Francica takes you through green hills, small streams, woods and flower-filled meadows on routes matched to your skill level. Groups stay small (2 to 10 riders), and the ride includes a stop for a picnic with homemade Calabrian products. A live Italian-speaking guide leads the excursion, and the facility provides all safety equipment needed.

The experience

The ride starts in the province of Vibo Valentia, where you'll move through a mix of terrain: along a small stream, into woods, across flower-filled meadows and past olive groves. The operator pairs you with reliable horses and adjusts the route based on whether you're a beginner or experienced rider. Small groups mean the pace stays manageable and the guide can watch each person.

You choose between a 1-hour or 3-hour excursion depending on how much time you have and what kind of rider you are. Both options include the picnic stop with homemade delicacies and local Calabrian products. The facility handles all the safety gear and equipment, so you show up ready to ride. If you're staying in Tropea or the surrounding area, transfers are available for an extra cost.

What’s included

• Picnic with tasting of typical Calabrian products.
• all safety equipment and gear needed for the ride.
• live guide speaking Italian.
• horses matched to your riding level.

Before you book

Days and timesNext departure: 20 Apr 2027

Book up to1d before

AgesAdult (13 and older) · Child (4 to 12 years) · Under 4: can't be booked

GroupPrivate

Live guideItalian

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

ConfirmationConfirmation within 48 h

Prices and times updated yesterday

Good to know

Low physical effortStroller-friendly

Operated by CST Tropea

Is this one for you?The 1-hour ride fits a morning or afternoon slot without eating up your whole day. The 3-hour option is for riders who want a deeper countryside experience and have the time to spend. Children from age 4 can ride, so families can book together.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (4 to 12 years). Children under 4 can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

Can I do this if I've never ridden a horse before?

Yes. The excursion is designed for both beginners and experienced riders, and the guide will choose a route that matches your level. The 1-hour option is a good entry point if you're new to riding.

What's the landscape actually like between the stream and the olive groves?

You ride through a mix: small streams, wooded sections, flower-filled meadows and olive groves. It's countryside riding, not open field, so you're moving through different terrain and vegetation as you go.

How many people ride together on these excursions?

Groups are kept small, between 2 and 10 riders. That size lets the guide pay attention to each person and adjust the pace if needed.

What does the picnic include?

The picnic features homemade delicacies and typical Calabrian products. It happens during the ride, not at the end, so you eat in the landscape you've been riding through.

Do I need to arrange my own way to the starting point?

If you're in Tropea or the surrounding area, the operator can arrange a transfer for an additional cost. Otherwise, you'll need your own transport to Francica.