Siena: Horseback Riding on the Via Francigena

The best part of this Siena horseback ride is its setting: you leave the city behind and follow the old Via Francigena through the Montagnola Senese, passing woods, open fields, and the quiet Hermitage of San Leonardo al Lago. It is a gentle countryside outing rather than a fast-paced riding lesson.

I love the chance to ride a historic pilgrimage route and the friendly, family-style welcome described by several riders. The horses are chosen for beginners, which makes this a good first ride, but that same calm pace may disappoint experienced riders. One serious concern is a report of a lame horse and worn equipment, so I would pay attention to the animals and tack before setting out.

Key points to know before booking

• Historic route: Ride along the Via Francigena, the old road used by pilgrims crossing Europe toward Rome.
• Quiet countryside: The route passes through Montagnola Senese woods, green hills, and golden fields.
• Spiritual stop: You pass beneath the Hermitage of San Leonardo al Lago, an atmospheric medieval religious site.
• Beginner-friendly horses: The stable has more than 10 horses, and the ride is designed for all skill levels.
• Small group size: Groups are limited to eight people, allowing more room for basic instruction and questions.
• Bring the right clothes: Wear long, comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes. Sandals, flip flops, and skirts are not allowed.

Riding the Via Francigena outside Siena

This is a short, rural horse ride with a clear sense of place. The Via Francigena was a major medieval pilgrimage road linking northern Europe with Rome. You will not spend the day following a long-distance trail, but even this brief section gives the route meaning beyond its pleasant views.

The ride begins at Centro Ippico La Balzana on Strada del Pian del Lago, about 15 minutes from central Siena. That short distance matters. You get a countryside setting without committing to a full day away from the city, but you must arrange your own transport because hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.

The total activity lasts about 90 minutes. The mounted portion is about 70 minutes, with the remaining time used for arrival, introductions, mounting, and basic instruction. At $82 per person, this is not the cheapest way to see the Tuscan countryside, but the price makes more sense if you value a small group, an English-speaking guide, and a real horse ride rather than a quick photo opportunity.

What happens at Strada del Pian del Lago 6

Arrive 10 minutes before your scheduled time. At the meeting point, look for a shed that serves as a covered riding arena for lessons. Follow the tree-lined road uphill, where someone will direct you to the guide.

The arrival setup may not feel perfectly polished. One rider described the welcome and organization as chaotic before the ride began. That is useful to know if you like tightly managed tours. Give yourself those extra minutes, follow the directions carefully, and do not expect a city-center meeting point with a large sign and a reception desk.

Once the group gathers, the guide introduces the horses and explains the basics on the ground. You then mount and spend time getting used to the animal before leaving the stable. This pause is important for beginners. It lets you learn how to sit, hold the reins, and respond to simple instructions without immediately entering a narrow trail.

Helmets are included. Boots are not, so choose shoes with a secure sole and enough support for riding. Comfortable trousers are the sensible choice. Skirts, sandals, and flip flops are not permitted.

The guide speaks Italian and English. Groups are limited to eight riders, a useful size for an activity where everyone needs help mounting, adjusting equipment, and keeping a safe distance between horses.

Through the Montagnola Senese

Once everyone is ready, the group leaves the stable and heads into the Montagnola Senese. This area west of Siena is known for wooded paths, rolling hills, and open farmland. The scenery changes slowly, which suits a relaxed ride. You can watch the trail, listen to the countryside, and notice the difference between riding through trees and crossing open fields.

Do not expect a gallop or a technical lesson. The horses are described as experienced and suitable for beginners. One rider with more riding experience found the animals slow and not ideal for someone wanting a more active ride. That is not a flaw for a first-time rider, but it sets the right expectation.

The terrain may include stony sections. One complaint described rocky and uneven paths, along with equipment in poor condition. Since the route is outdoors and follows natural trails, you should expect a country path rather than a smooth arena surface. Ask for a quick equipment check before mounting. If a horse appears uncomfortable or lame, speak up before leaving.

At the same time, another rider specifically found the horses well cared for, and a first-time rider felt comfortable thanks to the kind, welcoming staff. The most sensible reading is that the experience can be warm and relaxed, but standards may not feel equally consistent on every departure.

Passing the Hermitage of San Leonardo al Lago

The ride passes in the shadow of the Hermitage of San Leonardo al Lago. This religious site gives the route its most distinctive stop. Set in quiet surroundings, the hermitage adds a reflective moment to what could otherwise be a simple trail ride.

The name San Leonardo al Lago points to the area’s connection with water and old religious travel, though the activity does not present a long guided history lecture. If you want detailed explanations about the building, ask the guide as you pass. One piece of feedback asked for more explanation during the route, so do not assume every historical detail will be offered without prompting.

The attraction here is the mood. Horses, trees, old stone, and the memory of pilgrims create a peaceful setting. You will not visit a major museum or spend a long time touring the interior. Instead, you see the hermitage as part of the route, from the saddle, in the stillness of the countryside.

That can be a strength. You get a sense of the place without turning a short ride into a formal cultural tour. It can also feel brief if San Leonardo is your main reason for booking.

A gentle ride for first-timers

This activity is best suited to someone who wants to try horseback riding in a low-pressure setting. The initial instruction, helmet, experienced horses, and small group all help reduce the usual worry of not knowing what to do.

The stable has more than 10 horses, so larger family groups can potentially ride together, though each departure is limited to eight participants. Families should contact the provider before booking if a child will be under 14 at the time of the reservation. The provider will check if the child can be accommodated.

I would choose this ride for:

• A first-time rider who wants countryside scenery rather than a formal riding course
• A family group with older children, after confirming age arrangements
• A couple looking for a quiet activity outside Siena
• Someone interested in seeing a section of the Via Francigena at an easy pace
• A rider who enjoys walking-speed trail rides and gentle horses

I would think twice if you want advanced instruction, fast riding, jumping, or a long expedition. The ride is designed to be accessible, not demanding. Experienced riders may find the pace too slow.

What the praise gets right

The strongest part of the experience is the combination of setting and approachability. Several riders liked the friendly welcome, and one first-time rider found the staff’s family-style manner reassuring. Another group described it as good family fun, while a rider from Puerto Rico praised the host’s kindness and felt the horses were well cared for.

Those details matter because horseback riding can feel awkward when the staff rushes the introduction. Here, the plan includes time to meet the horses and learn the basics before heading onto the trail. That is exactly what you want if you have never ridden before.

The Via Francigena also gives the outing a stronger identity than a generic ride around a farm. You are following a route with centuries of purpose, then reaching a quiet religious site in the woods. The experience remains simple, but it is tied to the history of Siena and Tuscany.

The setting receives less universal praise. One rider found only a few attractive patches of woodland and did not consider the scenery especially impressive. Keep your expectations grounded. This is a peaceful rural route, not a panoramic tour of the famous Val d’Orcia hills or a sightseeing circuit through Siena’s grand architecture.

Safety, comfort, and animal care

The provider lists clear restrictions: the ride is not suitable for pregnant women, people over 220 pounds, or people over 75 years old. These limits may relate to rider safety, horse welfare, mounting, and the uneven trail.

Wear clothes that let you sit comfortably for more than an hour. Long trousers are the practical choice, and sturdy, closed shoes are essential. You should not arrive in flip flops, sandals, or a skirt.

The horses are described as experienced, and the ride is open to beginners and experts. Still, the feedback includes two concerns you should take seriously: a report of a horse that appeared to be limping and a complaint about worn equipment. This does not prove that every ride has the same problem, especially since another rider found the horses well cared for. It does mean you should look at the horse’s movement and the condition of the saddle and bridle before setting off.

A calm horse is helpful. A horse that seems unwell is not. Ask the guide if anything concerns you, and do not feel pressured to continue if basic safety appears neglected.

Is $82 a fair price?

At $82, the ride sits in the middle to upper range for a 90-minute outdoor activity, depending on what you compare it with. You are paying for a guide, helmet, horse, stable handling, and access to a rural route near Siena. The small group limit also adds value because the guide can keep the pace manageable and help riders individually.

The value is strongest for beginners. You receive an introduction, time to adjust to the horse, and a guided route without needing prior experience. For an experienced rider, the same price may feel less worthwhile if the horses remain at a slow walk and the guide gives little commentary.

There are no drinks, food, boots, or transfers included. Since the meeting point is outside central Siena, add the cost and effort of reaching Strada del Pian del Lago 6. If you already have a car or easy transport, the price is easier to justify.

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start and the option to reserve now and pay later make the booking less risky. Check the available starting times, since the experience runs only 90 minutes and may need to fit around your Siena plans.

Should you book this Siena horseback ride?

Book it if you want a gentle first horseback ride in the countryside, especially if the Via Francigena and San Leonardo interest you. The small group, English-speaking guide, included helmet, and beginner-friendly horses make it a practical choice for families and casual riders.

Skip it if you want a fast, athletic ride or detailed historical commentary at every stop. Also ask questions about current horse and equipment condition before mounting. At its best, this is a calm, memorable break from Siena’s city streets. Its value depends on accepting a slow pace, modest scenery, and a simple rural operation rather than expecting a polished equestrian show.

FAQ

How long does the horseback ride last?

The mounted ride lasts about 1 hour and 10 minutes. The full activity, including the introduction and preparation, lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Where does the horseback ride meet?

The meeting point is Strada del Pian del Lago 6, about 15 minutes from central Siena. Look for a shed that serves as a covered riding arena, then follow the tree-lined road uphill for directions.

Is the ride suitable for beginners?

Yes. The guide gives a ground introduction, explains basic riding skills, and allows time to become familiar with the horse before the group leaves the stable.

What languages does the guide speak?

The guide speaks Italian and English.

What should I wear and bring?

Bring comfortable clothing and comfortable shoes. Sandals, flip flops, and skirts are not allowed. Helmets are included, but boots are not.

Are there age, weight, or health restrictions?

The activity is not suitable for pregnant women, people over 220 pounds or 100 kilograms, or people over 75 years old. If a child will be under 14 at the time of booking, contact the provider to ask if the child can be accommodated.