Benevento: Horseback Riding Tour with Aperitif

Imagine riding through lush forests, crossing mountain streams, and stopping for a relaxed outdoor tasting of local Sannio products—all in just an hour. That’s what this Horseback Riding Tour in Benevento offers: a perfect blend of adventure, nature, and regional flavors, all led by knowledgeable guides in the scenic setting of Cusano Mutri. This experience is designed to be accessible for beginners and family-friendly, making it an appealing choice for anyone looking to connect with authentic countryside life while enjoying some well-earned local treats.

One of the standout features is how the tour combines gentle riding through unspoiled landscapes with a taste of local Sannio specialties, making it both active and delicious. However, since the ride is only an hour, those seeking a more extended equestrian adventure might find this a bit brief. Still, for its price—around $56 per person—and its focus on authentic regional scenery, it offers remarkable value. This tour suits travelers who love nature, want a relaxed introduction to horse riding, or are looking for a family-friendly experience in the Campania region.

Key Points

• Authentic Landscape Exploration: Ride through beech and chestnut woods, sunny clearings, and along the Titerno River.
• Suitable for Beginners and Families: No previous riding experience needed; children aged 5-13 can participate in pony workshops.
• Relaxing Outdoor Aperitif: Enjoy regional Sannio products with views after your ride.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 10 participants for a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere.
• Expert Guides and Equipment: Knowledgeable guides and safety gear including helmets and body protectors are provided.
• Value for Money: An hour-long experience with regional tastings at $56, offering a genuine taste of the local culture.

Discovering Benevento’s Horseback Riding Experience

This tour set in Cusano Mutri, a charming village within the Matese National Park, provides a wonderful way to explore parts of Campania often missed by typical travelers. The experience is carefully curated to showcase the area’s natural beauty—rolling past beech and chestnut woods, sunny clearings perfect for photos, and trails that follow the flow of the Titerno River. You’ll be riding in a peaceful environment, where the sound of hooves on dirt mixes with the gentle babble of mountain streams.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour begins at a stable located near the Civitella Licinio roundabout, where you’ll meet your guide and get a quick safety briefing. From there, the riding session lasts around 10 minutes of instructions and preparation, before setting out on the trail. The actual horseback riding lasts about 50 minutes, during which you’ll traverse grassy pastures, pass through shady woods, and follow river trails.

What makes this different from other standard tours? The variety of scenery. Riders will cross the Titerno River, feeling the splash of water under their hooves, a simple but memorable thrill. The gentle pace means you can truly soak in the landscape—spot grazing animals, listen to the sounds of nature, and enjoy the feeling of being part of this unspoiled environment.

The Authentic Aperitif

Halfway through, the group stops for a well-deserved outdoor aperitif. This includes a sampling of regional Sannio products such as local sausage, cheese, and a glass of wine, complemented by water. Guests have described this as a highlight—“a perfect way to unwind and taste the flavors of Campania amidst nature.” It’s a laid-back moment that elevates the experience from a simple ride to a regional culture.

Who It’s For

The tour is explicitly suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike, thanks to the guidance of professional instructors and the availability of safety equipment like helmets and body protectors. Families with children aged 5 to 13 are welcomed, with a special pony workshop designed to introduce young kids to horseback riding in a safe, playful setting.

Practical Details

• Duration: 1 hour, including safety briefing and tasting
• Price: $56 per person, offering good value considering the scenic surroundings, expert guidance, and regional tastings
• Group Size: Limited to 10, ensuring a relaxed, personalized experience
• Languages: Guides speak Italian and English
• Meeting Point: Near Civitella Licinio, with free parking available
• What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, water, and casual clothes suitable for riding
• Accessibility: Not suitable for pregnant women, children under 5, or those with back problems

Why This Tour Works Well

This experience strikes a balance between adventure, relaxation, and culture. It’s ideal if you’re seeking a gentle introduction to horseback riding, with the bonus of exploring untouched natural landscapes. The scenic trails along the river, combined with the regional food tasting, make it a well-rounded, memorable outing.

The tour’s small-group format ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and the guides’ local knowledge enriches your understanding of the area’s natural and cultural heritage. Plus, the fact that you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance with a full refund adds peace of mind, especially for those planning a spontaneous trip.

The Value

At just $56, this experience packs in scenery, guidance, safety, and regional flavors—a package that offers considerable value for anyone wanting a quick yet authentic escape into nature. Compared to other similar experiences in Italy, it’s competitively priced, particularly given the inclusion of quality equipment and a knowledgeable guide.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Experience?

If you love the idea of seeing beautiful landscapes on horseback without the commitment of a full-day ride, this tour is a winner. It’s perfect for families with children, beginners who want a safe introduction to riding, or anyone curious about the natural beauty of Campania. The added bonus of tasting local products makes it more than just a ride—it’s a small, flavorful glimpse into the Sannio region’s culinary traditions.

However, if you’re a seasoned rider or seeking a longer or more challenging equestrian experience, you might find this a bit limited in scope. Still, for its target audience, this tour offers a thoughtful, enjoyable way to connect with nature and regional culture without overdoing it.

FAQs

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 5 to 13 can participate in a 45-minute pony workshop, which is designed to introduce them to horseback riding safely and fun.

Do I need previous riding experience?
No, the tour is suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike, with guides providing instructions and safety gear.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended, along with a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to stay protected during the outdoor activity.

Is transportation to the start point included?
No, transportation is not included. Guests are advised to use the free parking available at the stable, near the intersection with Civitella Licinio.

What does the outdoor aperitif include?
It features local Sannio products such as sausage, cheese, a glass of wine, and water—perfect for unwinding after your ride.

How long is the actual horseback ride?
The riding portion lasts approximately 50 minutes, after a brief safety briefing and instructions.

Is this experience accessible for people with back problems?
No, it’s not suitable for those with back issues.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are safety equipment provided?
Yes, helmets, gaiters, calf protectors, and body protectors are included.

What is the group size?
Limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

This horseback riding adventure in Benevento offers a relaxed, scenic taste of Campania’s countryside, topped with regional flavors. Whether you’re a family, a beginner rider, or simply someone craving a peaceful nature escape, you’ll find this tour a worthwhile, authentic experience.