Croatia’s Dalmatian Hinterland Ride

You will LOVE riding on historical ancient Roman roads and cattle paths through beautiful rural parts of Dalmatia known as the Dalmatian hinterland. Riding next to the mountains Svilaja and Mose and peaks of untouched nature, you will feel like the original settlers of the area as it looks much the same as past years.

Louise G.

The week was one on the best riding weeks ever. We had fast & long canters and gallops. This ride is for a rider who is accustomed to riding on trails of varying difficulty. This would not suit a paddock or ring rider. The horses are in great shape and well cared for. It is heart warming to see how much Stipe cares for his horses and attends to their welfare. It is evident all the staff and riders at this center love the center and there is a strong sense of community among them.

The terrain is quite varied, from rocky dry expanses with low level scrubs to lush green fields to forests. We rode through a herd of cattle wandering the countryside. There are beautiful stone walls all throughout the countryside and remnants of historic stone houses.

Stipe anticipates your needs and desires. He goes above and beyond in making you comfortable, welcomed and feel a part of the family. Videos and pictures are posted daily of your rides. He is fun and always in a jovial mood. His mom cooks homemade meals and Stipe cooks breakfast to meet your individual tastes. There is more food than you could possibly eat.

The whole family contributes to make your stay a great experience. His grandmother made fresh cheese and butter. His sister made jelly preserves for us. All meals included fresh vegetables from their garden. One meal was fresh trout caught that morning and cooked over an open fire. I will definitely do a repeat visit to this magical place!

Kendall N.

This ride in the Dalmatian Hinterlands was absolutely spectacular and allows you to see a different side of Croatia away from the tourist-filled coastal cities! Our host, Stipe and his mom were so kind and welcoming. This is truly a unique experience where you not only have the opportunity to ride the beautiful Dalmatian countryside on great horses, but also be welcomed into a Croatian home, enjoy home cooked Croatian food, homemade cheeses, and Croatian wines made by your hosts! One day in the middle of the week we had a rest day and I and another rider were able to take a local bus down into Split to see the city, including Diocletian’s Palace, hike Marjan Hill, and relax on a beach. The buses were easy to navigate and we were able to take a bus back to the ranch at the end of the day. Alternatively one could have spent the rest day on the ranch and enjoy the small pool.

I rode a few different horses throughout the week and each one was amazing, easy to handle, and smooth to ride. Definitely this itinerary best suits advanced riders who are accustomed rocky terrain, canters and gallops, and long hours in the saddle.

This was by far the best riding holiday I’ve been on. I would recommend to anyone looking for exciting and beautiful scenic trail rides, a less “touristy” experience, and exposure to local food and culture! Truly I would not hesitate to go on this itinerary again.

Laura L.

This was a fantastic trip! Stipe and Branca went above and beyond on the food, accommodations and horseback riding! By far my favorite riding vacation. I did not want to leave!!