Ranch 22 Podstrana, ” Horse riding 12 km from SPLIT “

Leave Split for the hills. This gentle horseback ride follows an ancient Roman trail above Podstrana, with wide views across the Adriatic islands and a relaxed meal waiting at the ranch. I especially like the small private group, limited to five people, and the calm, well-trained horses that help first-time riders feel at ease. The homemade bread, cheese, meat, and wine are another lovely touch. The main thing to consider is the rough, rocky trail. This is a walking ride, not a fast gallop, and some riders may find the uneven mountain path uncomfortable.

The setting does much of the work here. From the old village of Gornja Podstrana, you ride across Mount Perun between Podstrana and Krilo, looking toward Hvar, Brač, Šolta, Vis, Čiovo, Split, Stobreč, and Trogir. The coastal views and quiet mountain air are the real reward. Still, a booking issue has caused disappointment for at least one rider, so confirm the exact start time and expected riding time before you go.

Key points to know before you book

• Ancient Roman route: The ride uses an old stone mountain way over mythic Mount Perun, linking Podstrana and Krilo.
• Calm horses for beginners: No previous riding experience is required, and the horses are described as gentle, obedient, and well-mannered.
• Small private group: Your party rides with a personal guide, with a maximum of five people.
• Big Adriatic views: You can see several Dalmatian islands, the coast, Split, Stobreč, and Trogir from the trail.
• Food and wine afterward: Homemade snacks, bottled water, and homemade wine are included at the ranch.
• Rocky, slow-going path: The horses walk rather than run, and some sections are steep or stony.

From Split to Gornja Podstrana

Ranch 22 is in Podstrana, about 12 kilometers from Split. The meeting point is Ul. Don Petra Cara 160 in Podstrana, and the ride ends back there.

You can reach the area by public transportation, and the experience is near a transport connection. A transfer from central Split or your accommodation can also be arranged for an extra fee. One couple reported that pickup from the Riva was arranged without charge, but the standard information says private transportation is not included. I would ask about the current pickup price before assuming it is free.

The ride begins in Gornja Podstrana, an old hillside village above the busy coastal road. That starting point matters. You are not simply circling a riding arena or following a flat farm track. You move quickly into a quieter setting of stone paths, mountain slopes, and open sea views.

Wear practical clothing. The supplied information does not give a formal dress code, but the terrain makes closed shoes and long trousers sensible. You will also receive riding equipment and a helmet. Since the path is rocky, sturdy footwear is more useful than beach sandals.

Meeting the horses and guide

Your personal guide stays with the group for the full ride. The guide sets the pace and order, explains the local history, and points out natural features along the way. Individual guides named in the feedback include Ana and Ante, both praised for helping riders feel comfortable.

That personal attention is important for beginners. One first-time rider described receiving a short tutorial before setting off, with Ana making the process feel easy and manageable. Other riders appreciated guides who took photographs during the ride and sent them afterward, including high-quality files in one case.

The horses are a major strength. They are repeatedly described as calm, gentle, obedient, and easy to handle. That does not mean you should arrive without respect for the animals. You still need to listen carefully, follow the guide’s instructions, and remain aware that horseback riding is an active outdoor experience.

The group limit is five people, which keeps the ride more personal than a large stable outing. It also means the pace can be adjusted more easily to the group. If you are booking as a couple or family, ask whether the ride will be private for your party and confirm the number of people included in your reservation.

Riding the old Roman trail over Mount Perun

The route follows an ancient Roman trail across Mount Perun, the mythic hill above Podstrana. The path connects Podstrana and Krilo, and its old stone surface gives the ride a sense of place that a modern road could never provide.

The horses walk for the entire route. This is the right pace for a first ride and for anyone who wants to take in the scenery, but it may feel too restrained if you are expecting a canter or a more adventurous riding lesson. One rider called the ride thrilling because of the mountain setting, while another found the walking pace less exciting. Both reactions make sense.

The path is also uneven. Some sections are described as steep and quite rocky. You should be comfortable sitting on a horse while it picks its way over stone terrain. The guide controls the order and tempo, which helps, but this is not a smooth, groomed trail.

The best way to think about it is as a scenic mountain walk on horseback. You get the pleasure of riding without needing to control a fast-moving animal, while the horse does the careful work over the rough ground. If your main goal is speed, jumping, or technical riding, this is not the right choice. If your goal is calm scenery, fresh air, and a gentle introduction to trail riding, it fits much better.

The views across the Dalmatian coast

The view is the reason to make the trip from Split. From the old mountain route, you look over the coast and the archipelago, including Hvar, Brač, Šolta, and Vis. The peninsula of Čiovo is also visible, along with Split, Stobreč, and Trogir.

The elevated position changes your view of the region. From Split’s waterfront, you see the sea at eye level and the mountains rising behind the city. From Mount Perun, you look across settlements, coastline, and islands in one broad sweep. The ride gives you a quieter way to understand the geography around Split.

Bring your phone or camera, but keep your hands free when the horse is moving. Guides have taken photographs for riders during the route, and that can be especially helpful if you are riding alone or want a picture with the coast behind you.

Sunset timing can be attractive, but it also needs care. One negative experience involved a same-day change to a later start, which moved the ride closer to sunset and reduced the time the rider felt was included. The experience requires good weather, and the timing may shift if conditions change. Confirm the start time and ask how the two-hour duration is divided before setting out.

What the two-hour experience really includes

The stated duration is approximately two hours. In practice, the full outing includes preparation, the trail ride, and snacks and drinks afterward. Several descriptions refer to roughly one hour of riding followed by food, while the advertised experience presents the activity as a two-hour horseback outing.

That difference is worth clarifying. If you are paying $105, you should know whether you are getting two full hours in the saddle or approximately one hour riding plus time at the ranch. The available descriptions are not entirely consistent on this point.

The route itself is unhurried. The horses walk, the guide stops to explain the surroundings, and the group pauses for views and photographs. That makes the outing feel more like a guided nature and history experience than a riding workout.

For most people, this pacing is a benefit. Beginners can settle into the saddle, families can stay together, and you have time to look around. Experienced riders may wish for more time on horseback or more active riding. If that is important to you, ask the provider directly about the current route and riding time.

Homemade snacks, wine, and the return to the ranch

After the trail, you return to the ranch for refreshments. Included items are homemade snacks, bottled water, and homemade wine. The food has been described as bread, cheese, meats, and other simple picnic-style servings.

This ending suits the experience. After a slow ride over rough stone, sitting down with local food and a glass of wine gives you time to talk with the guide, enjoy the view, and look at any photographs taken along the way. One especially positive account praised the wine, cheese, and bread, while another highlighted fresh grapes picked during the ride.

The wine is alcoholic, so tell the provider if you do not drink or if you prefer water. Bottled water is included. Families can still enjoy the food and setting, though anyone under the legal drinking age should not drink the wine.

The snack stop also adds value to the $105 price. You are paying for a guided private ride, riding equipment, a helmet, insurance, refreshments, and the setting itself. It is not a cheap way to spend two hours, but it offers more than a basic stable ride. The value is strongest for couples, small families, and first-time riders who want a hosted experience with scenery and food included.

Who will enjoy this ride most

This outing is a strong choice for beginners. No prior riding experience is required, and the horses are known for their calm temperaments. A short introduction before the ride can help you feel ready, and the guide remains with you throughout.

It also suits couples looking for a quiet break from Split. The mountain route, coastal views, and shared snack stop create a more personal outing than a standard city excursion. One couple booked it during a honeymoon and considered it one of the best moments of their Croatian holiday.

Families can enjoy it as well. The maximum of five people keeps the group manageable, and the gentle horses make the activity accessible to many first-time riders. Still, parents should consider the rocky trail and the need to remain seated and attentive for the whole ride.

Experienced riders may like the horses, views, and old route, but should adjust expectations. The horses do not run. The ride stays at walking pace, and the path is rough rather than technically polished.

The activity is also suited to people who want history and nature together. The guide explains the area’s past and points out the surroundings, so the route has more meaning than a simple scenic loop.

Who may want to choose something else

I would hesitate to recommend this ride if you want a long, fast, or highly athletic horseback experience. The route is walked, not run, and the rocky surface limits what the horses can do.

You should also think carefully if you have difficulty with uneven ground, steep paths, or sitting in a saddle for an extended period. The information says most people can participate, but the trail is not described as flat or smooth.

Horse selection is another point to discuss in advance. One unhappy rider felt forced to take a smaller horse and did not feel listened to. That appears to be an individual complaint rather than the general pattern, but it gives you a useful question to ask: can the ranch match the horse to your height, weight, confidence, and riding needs?

Finally, check the duration and time of day. A later start may affect the light, views, and amount of riding time. Clear communication before the outing can prevent the main source of disappointment.

Practical details for your booking

The experience costs $105 and includes a mobile ticket, riding equipment, helmet, insurance, bottled water, snacks, and homemade wine. Private transportation is not included, though a paid transfer can be arranged from Split or your accommodation.

The maximum group size is five people. Service animals are allowed, and the activity is near public transportation. Confirmation is provided at booking, and most people can participate.

Free cancellation is available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the local start time. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded, and late changes are not accepted. Since the ride depends on good weather, a cancellation by the operator due to poor conditions should result in another date or a full refund.

Should you book Ranch 22 Podstrana?

Book it if you want quiet mountain scenery, gentle horses, a small group, and a local food stop rather than a fast riding lesson. The old Roman route and broad views toward the Dalmatian islands give the experience a strong sense of place, while the patient guides and calm horses make it approachable for beginners.

Think twice if you expect two full hours in the saddle, smooth trails, or any running. Before paying, confirm the exact riding time, pickup cost, horse assignment, and start time. With those points clear, Ranch 22 offers a memorable countryside break from Split, especially for couples, families, and first-time riders who value scenery more than speed.

FAQ

Where does the horseback ride begin?

The meeting point is Ul. Don Petra Cara 160, 21312 Podstrana, Croatia. The activity ends back at the same meeting point.

How far is the ranch from Split?

Ranch 22 Podstrana is described as being about 12 kilometers from Split.

Is previous horseback riding experience required?

No. The ride is suitable for all experience levels, and no previous horseback riding experience is required.

How large is the group?

The experience has a maximum of five participants. It is described as a private ride for you and your party, with a personal guide.

What is included in the price?

The price includes snacks, riding equipment, a helmet, insurance, bottled water, and homemade wine. Private transportation is not included.

What happens if bad weather cancels the ride?

If poor weather causes the experience to be canceled, you will be offered another date or a full refund. You can also cancel for a full refund if you do so at least 24 hours before the scheduled start time.