Tucked into the gentle hills between the Ionian coast and the trulli country of the Itria Valley, Mottola offers a landscape that begs to be explored at the pace of a horse's gait. Centro Ippico La Stella opens the door to this world, where ancient olive groves give way to oak forests and centuries-old masserie dot the horizon.
Rides Through the Puglian Heartland
The center specializes in guided trail rides that wind through the countryside surrounding Mottola, a landscape that shifts from cultivated farmland to wild Mediterranean scrub. Riders thread through groves where the scent of rosemary and wild fennel rises with each hoofbeat. The trails here are varied enough to suit confident beginners and experienced riders alike, with routes ranging from gentle valley loops to hillside climbs that reward with sweeping views toward the Murgia plateau.
The horses are calm, well-trained, and accustomed to the rocky terrain and narrow paths that characterize this part of Puglia. Guides know the land intimately and often point out hidden ravines, abandoned stone farmhouses, and the seasonal blooms that carpet the hills in spring.
Learning the Saddle in All Seasons
For those new to riding or looking to refine their technique, the center offers lessons tailored to every skill level. The teaching approach is patient and grounded, with a focus on building confidence and understanding the animal. Instructors work with riders in a relaxed outdoor setting, where the natural environment becomes part of the learning experience.
The best months for riding here are late spring and autumn, when temperatures are mild and the countryside is lush. Summer mornings offer cooler conditions, and winter rides have a stark, quiet beauty, with mist clinging to the valleys and fewer visitors on the trails.
What to Bring and Nearby Wonders
A few practical tips make the experience smoother and more enjoyable:
- Wear long pants and closed-toe shoes with a small heel riding boots are ideal, but sturdy sneakers work too
- Bring sunscreen and a hat for morning rides, especially in summer
- A water bottle is essential; trails can last over an hour
- Ask your guide about the gravine spectacular limestone ravines nearby that are perfect for a post-ride hike
- Combine your visit with a stop in Mottola's old town, where the historic center clings to a rocky outcrop with panoramic views
Mottola sits at a crossroads between coast and countryside, making it an ideal base for exploring both. The baroque splendor of Martina Franca is just twenty minutes north, and the beaches of the Ionian are an easy drive south. Centro Ippico La Stella offers a slower, more grounded way to connect with the land one that reveals the textures, scents, and rhythms of rural Puglia in a way no car ever could.