We leave in the morning S. Cristina castle and we ride through the neighboring farmland, through chestnut woods and using an ancient track which will carry us right above the crater of Lake Bolsena, the largest volcanic lake in Europe. The descent of the crater will start from the village of Gradoli dominated by an impressive renaissance palace,that it was meant to be the wedding gift of Pope Paulus III Farnese to his nephew around the middle of 1500.

While riding, we will witness some breath–taking views of the lake and surrounding area and of the two islands Isola Bisentina and Martana. The shore of the lake will be reached after crossing the fields just before the water, we will then border the lake ending on the beach where horses will be set into a canter before crossing a ford where a small river joins the lake. After that we finally reach our mid day stop.
Lunch is served on the terrace of a typical trattoria right on the beach,where Antonietta the cook will serve delicious local food. In the right season if you wish to cool off in the water, a swim in the lake can be done before starting riding back up. As we head up back to the castle, you will note many Etruscan tombs scattered throughout the countryside some reused by farmers as cellars for their wine but still serving as a reminder of the ancient history which abounds in this area You will be Passing through the archeological area of Pianezze literally full of Etruscan tombs dating back 2600 years. Once at the top of the crater, we turn right through some vineyards where again a breathtaking view of lake Bolsena will provide a wonderfull opportunity to rest the horses and take some photographs. After crossing the vineyards we reach the shepherds’ trail in the woods that will lead you back to the Santa Cristina Castle estate.
Accommodations: Santa Cristina Castle