Volunteering at an Educational Farm and Equestrian Center Italy

Finland

5

My experience in Pochano was just what I wanted: do physical work and be with horses. I worked with young horses which was very rewarding, I got to ride few times and enjoy beautiful nature. It was very fun to meet all friendly and amazing people during my stay and also learn a lot about italian (food) culture. After all the work in stable is really physical but it gets easier when you get used to it, but also previous experience with horses and stable work is a big advantage. I really enjoyed my stay in Ilaria's home and I will come back later to see Mababka and all lovely people there!

10 days ago

Germany

5

My stay at the farm was amazing! It's the perfect place to learn about horses and to get in touch with nature. 🐴🌳 Even if the place is very isolated, you can go to Siena at some time. The house and the surroundings are sooo beautiful and Ilaria makes sure that you will feel at home. :) There are a looooot of animals everywhere - more than people, hehe. I didn't have a lot of horse experience before I came but that was okay - just be prepared for physical work (everyday haha). Greetings! ❤️

about 1 month ago

Brazil

5

I felt warmly welcomed by Ilaria, her family, and friends. I joined their daily routine and learned about the local culture. The best part, though, is getting to interact with the horses every day and take care of them.When you first arrive, you can feel like it is a lot of information to take in, but after just a few days you start to recognize all the horses by name and get to know which ones are the most playful, the biggest eaters, the calmest.For animal lovers, it's heartwarming to see how well they're cared for. I'm very grateful for this unique and unforgettable experience.

about 1 month ago

Ilaria replied

One of the nicest people I've ever hosted, always available, tireless and ready to help even when not asked... she's truly a lovely person, I hope to see her again one day... we all miss you so much Gabriela

Mexico

5

Volunteering here was amazing. I helped with stable tasks like cleaning and feeding the horses, at first it might seem a bit heavy if you are not used to, but you quickly get used to it, and I found it very light. I rode a horse once and loved it, went to two of Ilaria's dance classes, and she gave me a tour to Siena. The views and nature are stunning, and sometimes Wi-Fi is limited, which helps you disconnect. I felt very welcome, grateful for everything, and will miss it all, especially her dog Sky💗such a sweetheart

2 months ago

Germany

5

The farm is not less than paradise on earth and Ilaria is its angel. She is the most caring host I ever stayed with and one of the most generous, inspiring and funny people I ever had the pleasure to meet. She is treating the horses with so much love and knowledge and this atmosphere is all over the scenic farm. She needs help throughout the whole day and you get to connect really close with the horses, people and Italian culture. The area is remote but breathtaking and if you get the chance to come here - don't even hesitate. Grazie mile e a dopo!

3 months ago

Ilaria replied

Ruth is the kindest person I've ever met. She's also cheerful, tirelessly hardworking, precise, attentive, and intuitive. She learns everything incredibly quickly. I'll miss her so much as a person and as a friend... having her here was a real blessing.

Vietnam

5

Staying at the horse farm was such a special experience! Surrounded by beautiful nature of the Tuscany countryside, fresh air, and warm people, it felt like a dream. I loved taking care of the horses and it made me feel more connected to them than ever before. The host is super kind and welcoming. I really felt like part of the family, sharing meals, laughs, and stories. Plus, my Italian improved a little bit by being around everyone and talking daily. If you love animals and being in nature, this is the perfect place.

3 months ago

Ilaria replied

Ragazza bravissima, gentile, solare, energica, ha imparato tutti i compiti in pochissimo tempo anche senza avere esperienza con i cavalli, la aspetto presto è stato un piacere ospitarla

United Kingdom

5

I spent the most amazing time here and already can't wait to go back! Ilaria was the kindest and most welcoming host, and went above and beyond to make sure I was happy. The work is not much, and you have time to spend some peaceful time in SUCH a beautiful place. Everyone else I met around the stables were also so welcoming and made me feel at home. Grazie Mille! ❤️❤️

8 months ago

Ilaria replied

❤️

Argentina

5

I spent 2 months here and they were the best, this was my first volunteering experience and I couldn't have chosen better. Ilaria and her boyfriend Nico are amazing hosts, they treat you like family, the neighborhood is fantastic, is small so you get to know everyone and they are all very warm and welcoming, always with a smile. In the scudería where you have to work are more people that take care of their horses and are terrific, they will make you laugh a lot and make you feel at home. I totally recommend the experience here and mostly as a first, I'd say it's better to go in winter/spring.

9 months ago

Ilaria replied

❤️

Canada

3

Ilaria was very very kind to me and even though my stay was short, because I didn't know exactly what I'd gotten myself into, she was always very understanding. It's definitely a place for physical work and solitude. So if that's what your looking for then it's great for you!

5 days ago

Ilaria replied

Yes, Kate has been to our farm very little... because we are immersed in the Tuscan hills and people come here to be with the animals and in nature... we go to the city once in a while and to the village when we want but since it is a farm it is in the countryside.

Colombia

4

I only spent two weeks on the farm because I had to leave due to a family situation, I'd recommend this volunteer program for people who are truly comfortable working with horses, love spending time in nature, and are used to hands-on, outdoor physical work. From the very beginning, you're expected to manage the horses on your own, so feeling confident and experienced is important. It's also worth keeping in mind that the work is very physical

16 days ago

Ilaria replied

Evelyn had written to me that she had some experience with horses, but in reality she had none and was also a little scared of them... During the two weeks she was here, she was always with another very experienced volunteer who encouraged her to learn and handle the horses, but I understand that for someone who has never been in contact with these animals, it's not easy, so I ask as a requirement that you not be afraid of horses...

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