Dolomites, italy

Venice & The Dolomites on Horseback

A mesmerizing experience through the summits

Ride overview

FROM VENEZIA/BOLZANO/INNSBRUCK TO THE DOLOMITES

From Venezia Marco Polo Airport, meet our driver who will take you to the heart of the Dolomites for the Ride. Other options include arriving to Bolzano Airport or Innsbruck Airport (Austria). 

ACCOMODATING FIT & EXPERIENCED RIDERS

Due to the challenging routes and rough terrain on this Ride, we only accept experienced & fit riders. Upon inquiry for intermediate riders in private groups.

You will spend between 2 to 8 hours in the saddle each day. Riding in the heart of the Dolomites is predominantly slow due to the steep exposed climbs and rocky narrow descents. The saddle is an Italian Trekker based on a military saddle, light and comfortable for both the horse and the rider.

GROUP DEPARTURES FOR THE 2024 SEASON :

6 DAYS JOURNEYS

  • 30 JUNE – 5 JULY
  • 7 – 12 JULY
  • 14 – 19 JULY
  • 21 – 26 JULY
  • 26 JULY – 2 AUGUST
  • 4 – 9 AUGUST
  • 25 – 30 AUGUST
  • 1 – 6 SEPTEMBER

2 DAYS JOURNEYS

  • FROM 15 – 30 JUNE
  • FROM 8 – 30 SEPTEMBER

TAILOR-MADE JOURNEYS

From JULY to SEPTEMBER, we offer the possibility of customizing the journeys to the Dolomites : Stay in Venice, The Dolomites.

TIME SPENT IN THE SADDLE, TYPE OF RIDING & EQUIPMENT

You will be spend between 2 to 8 hours in the saddle each day. Riding in the heart of the Dolomites is predominantly slow due to the steep exposed climbs and rocky narrow descents. The saddle is an Italian Trekker based on a military saddle, light and comfortable for both the horse and the rider.

Just a few hours away from the iconic city of Venice, lies one of Europe’s most beautiful mountain sceneries: The Dolomites. Nestled in the northern Italian Alps, this mountain range numbers 18 peaks rising dramatically above 10, 000 feet, offering unparalleled views for nature hedonists.

Along with the brave and powerful Haflinger horses, ride through narrow paths and deep valleys to reach the summits and admire the sheer cliffs, while enjoying the calm and comfort of mountain Chalets, and savoring the best of Südtirolean cuisine.

Designed for experienced and fit riders, The Venice & The Dolomites on Horseback is the promise of an adrenaline-inducing and mesmerizing experience within Europe’s most romantic city and thrilling landscapes.

The schedule

ARRIVAL TO VENICE

☼ A.M – International/National Flight to Venezia Marco Polo Airport.

☽ P.M – Upon arriving from your flight, a private boat will be waiting for you to join your hotel. Your accommodations await at the Historic 5-star Danieli, one of Venice’s oldest palace, offering unparalleled views on the Grand Canal, and just a few steps away from Piazza San Marco.

☽ Night at Danieli

VENICE TO CAMPITELLO DI FASSA

☼ A.M – Begin your journey in the romantic and iconic Venice, Italy’s treasured floating city. Set on a series of canals, Venice boasts a rich tapestry of history, culture and breathtaking architecture. Strolling through the streets, you will be marveled by historic sights such as the Rialto bridge, Piazza San Marco or the Doge’s Palace.

☽ P.M – After lunch, our driver will be ready to take you to Campitello di Fassa – 3h drive. Also called the “Balcony of the Dolomites”, this mountain village is the perfect foretaste of the natural beauty you will witness in the following days.

☽ Night at Hotel Medil.

RIDE IN THE DOLOMITES

☼ A.M – As the sun rises, be greeted by your guides Alberto and Marcos and meet your horses. You will leave for your first ride within the Dolomites, to reach the chalet for the night. The trail is quite simple, but is a perfect foretaste of what you will face in the following days – rough terrain and narrow paths. 2h Ride

☽ P.M – Arriving at the Chalet, you will be greeted by your hosts, Bruno & Sylvia. A well-deserved traditional lunch awaits you within the family soothing atmosphere of the rifugi. Upon lunch, rest on the lush meadows and take in the brilliant summer sun while admiring the massive peaks surrounding you.

☽ Night at Bruno & Sylvia’s Rifugi

UP TO THE 2500M LAKE

☼ A.M – After enjoying breakfast, begin an early ride to take in the first morning lights and eventually cross wildlife. This is the first intense climb of your journey – challenging but rewarding – as you will reach the 2500m altitude turquoise mirror Lake Antermoia, nestled among the Catiniccio mountains. Pause for a moment in a charming rifugi, greeting you with a selection a local cakes.

☽ P.M – After you and your horses recuperate, you will continue riding towards Platköfel, surrounded by the Dolomites’ natural amphitheatre, in the heart of the Rosengarten. You will be reaching the luxury chalet of Luisa & Markus to savor a late lunch. In the afternoon, we invite you to rest within the cozy suites of the chalet or unwind in the Sauna room overlooking the mountain ranges.

☽ Night at Markus & Luisa Alpine-style Chalet

REACH THE SCILIAR PLATEAU

☼ A.M – Upon breakfast, meet your horses and begin one of the longest and most technical days of the journey. With your essentials in your saddlebags, ride towards a spectacular 7000 hectares plateau : The Sciliar.

☽ P.M – At 2500m, be greeted by you new hosts, the Zöggelers, a family of shepherds in their cozy mountain hut. We invite you to rest, and let yourself be cradled in this serene and lush summer cattle’s pasture, where time seems to stand still.

☽ Night at Zögeller Family Hut

TO THE HILLS OF SEISER ALM

☼ A.M – After a hearty breakfast, it is time to say goodbye to the Zöggeler family. The ride begins towards the hills of the Seiser Alm, until a descent on foot between rocks and steps while leading the horses for about 30 minutes. After this challenging trail, a relaxing ride awaits you through the meadows before reaching Luisa & Markus Chalet for lunch.

☽ P.M – After lunch, we invite you to soothe in the SPA and wellness areas overlooking the mountain ranges or being lulled by the warmth of the fire in the living room.

☽ Night at Markus & Luisa Alpine-style Chalet

SASSOPIATTO TO SASSOLUNGO

☼ A.M – After enjoying breakfast from the delicious buffet, begin the ride towards one of the most dramatic views of the week. Navigating in the shadow of the Sassopiatto towards Sassolungo; the sun’s rays passes above your head and through the rocks, creating a one-of-a-kind light set. Ride through the woods before Saltner Hütte for a brunch full of fresh homemade products such as cheeses, butter, speck and dumplings.

☽ P.M – After savoring sudtirolean culinary specialties, continue riding through the meadows of the Seiser Alm. For the last dinner together, the chef will prepare a barbecue on the terrace overlooking the soaring peaks of the Dolomites.

☽ Night at Markus & Luisa Alpine-style Chalet

DEPARTURE FROM VENICE

☼ A.M – For the final day together, begin the ride to be amazed one last time by the beauty of the alpine woods and the magnificent Dolomite peaks that will surround you until reaching Campitello. After saying goodbye to your horses and your guides, our driver will be ready to take you back to city of Venice at 12.00p.m.

☽ P.M – International/National Flight from Venezia Marco Polo Airport.

Accomodations

Surrounded by rocky peaks and offering incomparable views of the mountain ranges, the settings will leave you breathless and renewed. From the timeless elegance of a Historic 5-star hotel in Venice to the intimate charm of family-owned cozy huts, the comfort of the luxury and wellness Alpine-style chalets, step into a journey that seamlessly blends splendor with the warmth of tradition. Upon a challenging ride through the alpine trails, we invite you to relax in the modern Alpine-style decorated rooms and the soothing environment of the mountain chalets, or savor traditional Südtirolean gourmet cuisine. Thanks to our guides’ close relationships with the hotel and chalets management, guests can expect exceptional service in a warm and welcoming environment.

Activities around

The dolomites

A scenic UNESCO World heritage suite

Crowning Italy’s northern border and dividing the Venetian plain from Austria, the Dolomites display a series of highly distinctive mountain landscapes, consisting of 18 peaks rising up to 10,000 feet. Internationally regarded as one of the most spectacular landscapes in the world, the Dolomites have been classified as a World Heritage Property in 2009, citing the beauty of their unique scenery as a superlative natural phenomena. 

Rough and untouched, The Dolomites are an exquisite treasure for any biophiles, nature hedonists and artists, recognized as such as « the most beautiful architectural work in the world » by renown architect Le Corbusier. 

Nestled within three diverse provinces, this mythical mountain range unveils a charming blend of Südtirolean and Ladin cultures, creating a tapestry of local traditions that enriches the region. The Dolomites’ legendary status is not just in its soaring peaks but in the vibrant cultural mosaic that graces its slopes. 

On the back of your horse, you will be able to ride through emblematic trails and witness the magic of the Dolomites : From mountaintops wreathed in mists to traditional farmhouses dotting the valley floors.

The horses :
The Haflinger breed, a powerful mountain-bred horse

Step into the world of the Haflinger, a breed that captivates any rider with its distinctive golden chestnut coat, complemented by its flowing white mane and tail. With roots dating back to the Middle Ages, the Haflingers had many roles—from pack and draft horses to military companions and, ultimately, cherished companions for sports and leisure. Originating from the Tyrolean Mountains where you will ride, the Haflingers emerged as the preferred companions for mountain treks. Maneuvering through narrow trails in these challenging terrains demanded horses that embodied agility, stability, and strength. This historical backdrop forged their essence—imbuing them with unmatched strength, courage, and loyalty. Navigating treacherous terrains is now second nature to them, ensuring the safety of their riders. Embark on a journey with the Haflinger, and witness their hardiness firsthand. Confronting steep mountain sides or rocky trail sections, these Austrian and Italian alpine natives prove their mettle, making them the ideal companions for the challenges of an extensive and demanding trek such as this one.

Your guides

Meet alberto & marcos

In the heart of the Dolomites, your horse-riding adventure is guided by two remarkable individuals – Alberto and Marcos – each with a unique story woven into the fabric of their equestrian passion. Alberto, a true son of the Italian mountains, traces his love for horse-riding to his grandfather, an Italian Cavalry Captain. From childhood sports to horse-treks through the Alps, his journey led him away briefly to hockey and engineering, only to draw him back to the saddle. Four transformative years in Patagonia living with gauchos solidified his connection to the land, shaping him into later becoming a guide and unveil the magic of the Dolomites. Marcos is an Argentine gaucho, practically born on a horse. With a lifelong dedication to training horses, including a decade shaping elite polo horses in Buenos Aires, Marcos is your silent force and backup guide. His expertise ensures that every step on this Dolomite journey is guided by a rhythmic understanding of the Haflingers and the spirit of the Argentine gaucho. After meeting each other in Argentina and fuelled by their desire to share their passion with others, Alberto and Marcos decided to embark on the adventure of curating the very best horse-riding experience in Alberto’s homeland. Their desire was to create more than a horse-riding experience; but offer an immersion into passion, culture, tradition and the breathtaking nature of the Dolomites.

what our riders say

ICO QUOTE W v1

Frequently asked questions

For the Venice & The Dolomites on Horseback journey, we only accept fit & experienced riders, due to the challenging routes and rough terrain on this ride.

If you find yourself uncertain about your fit, we are here to help and assist you. Please feel free to contact us via our Contact form, email, or WhatsApp, and we will be more than happy to guide you.

If you are looking for a « first-time in the saddle » experience, we recommend exploring The Imperial Heritage Ride, Versailles & its gardens, or The Castles of the Loire Valley – both tailored to suit both novices and experienced riders. These rides are crafted with gentle and calm horses, navigating mostly flat lands to provide a more relaxed introduction to horse-riding tours.

If you are seeking a more challenging and exhilarating ride, consider options such as The Royal Marwar Safari in Rajasthan, India or The Tölt, Glacier, and Well-being in Iceland. These holidays are designed for more fit and experienced riders as they feature spirited horse breeds, navigating rough terrains, with long canters and more time spent in the saddle.

Yes. Our commitment lies in curating tailor-made experiences that cater to the unique preferences and needs of each of our guests. This includes accommodating dietary restrictions and allergies to ensure a seamless and enjoyable journey.

Prior to embarking on a horse riding holiday or day trip, we request guests to complete a comprehensive form. This form allows us to gather essential information, not only about dietary restrictions and allergies but also about your gastronomic preferences. By doing so, we can craft an experience that not only meets but exceeds your expectations.

Your safety, well-being and satisfaction are at the forefront of our personalized service, making every ride with us a truly unforgettable experience.

As a general guideline, the minimum age for participants is 6 years old. However, age restrictions can vary based on the destination and individual circumstances. We take into consideration factors such as size, stamina, and riding ability, as well as the dynamics of the group.


At the heart of our philosophy is a commitment to providing tailor-made experiences for each guest. We understand that everyone is unique, and our goal is to design experiences that cater to individual preferences and needs.


For those who may not wish to participate in every aspect of the ride, we also offer the flexibility of one-base options and the possibility of following the journey by car. Our aim is to ensure that every guest, regardless of age or preference, can enjoy the beauty of horse riding in a way that suits them best.


If you find yourself unsure whether a horse-riding holiday is the perfect fit for your family, particularly when considering the participation of your children, do not hesitate to reach out to us. We understand that safety and comfort are paramount, especially when it comes to younger riders. We will be more than happy to assist you in making an informed decision. Feel free to contact us via our Contact form, email, or WhatsApp, with any questions or concerns, and we will work together to ensure that your horse-riding adventure becomes a cherished and memorable experience for every member of your family.

When gearing up for your horse-riding adventure, packing the right essentials is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Each horse-riding holiday is unique, and your packing list will be influenced by factors such as the weather conditions, the ride’s difficulty, the destination’s disease risks and sometimes dress code requirements for riding in nature. Before embarking on your journey, we provide guests with a comprehensive list tailored to their specific horse-riding holiday. 

We have outlined a typical packing list designed to cover the basics for riders :

For the time in the saddle:

  • Riding Pants: Choose the fabric based on the weather of the destination, ensuring comfort and adaptability.
  • Riding Boots and Chaps: If not provided on-site, these are essential for a secure and comfortable ride.
  • Lightweight Riding Helmet: Ensure you have a suitable helmet for protection, especially if not provided on-site.
  • Sports Bras for Women: Prioritize support and comfort during rides.
  • Long Socks: Opt for woolen ones in colder weather to keep your feet warm and cozy.
  • Button-Up Long-Sleeved Cotton Shirts: Choose thermal options in cold weather for added warmth.
  • Fleece or Wool Jumper: Layering is key, and a jumper provides insulation during cooler rides.
  • Waterproof Windbreaker Jacket: Be prepared for unexpected weather changes with a reliable, waterproof jacket.
  • Waterproof Over Trousers: Protect yourself from rain and wind with these essential over trousers.
  • Sunglasses: Shield your eyes from sun, wind, and dust for a clear and comfortable ride.
  • Riding Gloves: Ensure a good grip and protect your hands during the ride.
  • Filtered Water Bottle: Stay hydrated with clean water throughout your journey.
  • Sunscreen: Guard against sun exposure, especially for extended rides under the open sky.

For after the ride:

  • Hat and Gloves : Stay warm during chilly evenings after your ride.
  • Sun Hat: Shield yourself from the sun during the afternoon visits.
  • Soft Shoes: Slip into comfortable footwear after hours in riding boots.
  • Comfortable Loungewear: Relax and unwind post-ride with comfortable clothing.
  • First-Aid Necessities: Be prepared with a basic first-aid kit, based on your medical needs.
  • Paracetamol: For general pain relief and fever.
  • Gastro-Stop Medication: To address digestive issues if they arise.
  • Nurofen or Ibuprofen: In case of muscle soreness for a comfortable recovery.

Lip Balm: Keep your lips moisturized, especially in varying weather conditions.

On the Venice & The Dolomites on Horseback journey, you will be welcomed and led by 2 local passionate horse-riding guides, who are fluent in English, Italian and Spanish. 

Yes. Our travel packages always include travel insurance – including horse-riding, and medical coverage. 

For the Venice & The Dolomites on Horseback journey, a medical helicopter support is always available and our guides have First Aid training.

If you have any questions about the insurance we are providing, feel free to reach out to us through our Contact form, email, or WhatsApp. Your safety and peace of mind are our top priorities.

To confirm a ride’s booking with us, guests have the possibility of sending a deposit through two payment options: Bank wire transfer or Online payment. Traditional bank wire transfer provides a secure and direct way to process payments. Alternatively, online payment offers more convenience but usually includes additional card payment fees.

We acknowledge that unforeseen events may occur and we are committed to providing our guests with a fair and transparent cancellation policy. It is important to note that our cancellation policy may be subject to variations based on the conditions of our guiding partners.

For the Venice & The Dolomites on Horseback journey, our cancellation policy is the following : 

    • If you cancel more than 120 days before departure: Full refund (excluding 50€ booking fee),
    • If you cancel 90 days before departure : The deposit is non-refundable (excluding 50€ booking fee),
    • If you cancel less than 60 days before departure: We reserve the right to retain full payment.

In the case your initial booking no longer fits your schedule or an unexpected event arise, we are open to flexibility and willing to consider alternative options where feasible. Feel free to contact us via our Contact form, email, or WhatsApp, and we will be more than happy to guide you and find a suitable solution.

A GLIMPSE INTO VENICE & THE DOLOMITES ON HORSEBACK

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