Tucked into the rolling hills of Montincello, in the Province of Foggia, this family-run riding facility opens the door to the wild beauty of northern Puglia. The scent of Mediterranean herbs mingles with pine forest air as you saddle up for a journey through valleys and olive groves that few tourists ever see.
Trails That Speak to Every Rider
Whether you're a first-timer gripping the reins nervously or an experienced rider craving open space, the guides here match horses and routes to your comfort level. Gentle trails meander through farmland dotted with centuries-old masserie, while more confident riders can canter along ridge paths with views stretching to the Adriatic coast on clear days.
The horses are calm, well-trained, and accustomed to the terrain. Most rides last between one and two hours, giving you enough time to disconnect from screens and reconnect with the rhythm of hoofbeats.
A Countryside Untouched by Mass Tourism
This corner of Puglia remains refreshingly quiet, even in high season. You'll pass stone farmhouses, herds of grazing sheep, and wildflower meadows that explode with color in spring. The landscape here is softer than the dramatic cliffs of the Gargano, but it carries its own quiet magic—wide horizons, birdsong, and the kind of stillness that makes you realize how loud your daily life has become.
What to Bring and When to Go
The facility welcomes riders year-round, but spring and autumn offer the most comfortable temperatures and the most dramatic scenery. Summer rides are best scheduled for early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
- Wear long pants and closed-toe shoes—sneakers work fine if you don't have riding boots
- Bring sunscreen and a hat, especially for summer rides through open fields
- A small backpack with water is useful, though guides often carry supplies
- Cameras are welcome, but keep them secure—the trails can be bumpy
- Ask about longer rides if you're experienced; some routes venture deeper into the hills
Nearby Treasures Worth the Detour
Montincello sits within striking distance of Vieste, the jewel of the Gargano Peninsula, where limestone cliffs plunge into turquoise water. After your ride, head to the coast for a swim at Baia delle Zagare or explore the sea caves near Pugnochiuso. The Foresta Umbra, a dense beech forest that feels more Alpine than Mediterranean, is another half-hour inland and offers hiking trails and cool shade even in July.
If you're staying in the area for a few days, consider combining your ride with a visit to Monte Sant'Angelo, a UNESCO-listed pilgrimage site perched on a limestone spur, or the white-washed lanes of Peschici, a coastal town that seems to defy gravity as it clings to the cliffside.