Dalmatian Coast, Croatia
Reviews
“What an adventure. My head is filled with magical memories.”
Horses
Type of horses:
English bred, Arabian, Anglo Arab, Lipizzaner, Holsteins, Croatian Warmbloods, ponies and a Falabella
Nature of horses:
Kind temperament, well trained, sure footed, reliable. These horses are very fit, forward going and fast but they know their job well. They act in a herd mentality which adds to the experience and reflects the natural environment that they live in.
Height of horses:
Tiny (55cms) - 17.3hh
Weight limit:
90kg (can accommodate 2 riders just over 90 Kgs)
Tack type:
English, Western,Trail
Weather
Current Conditions:
Light Rain, 9 C
Forecast:
Wed - Rain. High: 10 Low: 6
Thu - Rain. High: 12 Low: 4
Full Forecast at Yahoo! Weather
(provided by The Weather Channel)
Pricing
Plitvice Trail
2010 Price of £880 includes:
Six days of breakfast, lunch and dinner. Arrival day dinner and breakfast on departure day. All drinks with meals are included. Transfers from the Ranch to Gracac and to the Plitvice lakes, transportation of your luggage, six days of riding and an experienced English speaking guide is also included.
Dalmatia Trail
2010 price: £775 includes:
Six days of breakfast, lunch and dinner plus drinks with meals; dinner on arrival and breakfast on departure day, an English speaking guide and also includes the transportation of luggage and six riding days.
Availability/Booking Form
Ride Description
Here you will find stunning views and varied landscapes. Riding areas are unspoilt and surrounded by small cultural villages, open plains, pastures, mountains, lakes and rivers. Expect to find a hands on family atmosphere, where you will be expected to help out and interact as a group. A good team spirit is needed to create the necessary bond to work as a team member to create the freshly prepared lunches, wash up, and help care for the horses. These trails are for hands on people looking for adventure and challenges, gaining a sense of achievement and building an unbelievable bond and trust with your horse who will carry you every step of the way.
This is not a relaxed riding holiday and you will not find your horses groomed and prepared for you, however, there is always help at hand if needed. You need to be competent in grooming, tacking up, mounting and dismounting.
Here you will find amazing trail horses that are fit, forward going and in fantastic condition, each having their own individual characters. They live the natural lifestyle in herds, it is a great joy to spend time watching these horses and learning about herd hierarchy. You must be open minded and understand that although your host Ivo very much loves his horses and they are his passion, this is a developing Eastern European country and they offer guests what they can in terms of their available resources. Ivo has twenty years experience of running and guiding these trails and shows huge passion for his horses and guests' happiness. He is a very wise, generous and kind individual.
You will stay in places that allow you to explore the stunning countryside and experience the lives of locals who are indeed very generous, warm-hearted and kind, but you will not find many luxuries. It is about you, your horses, exploring the beautiful countryside and building magical memories. There are two trails and a stationary programme to enjoy on this beautiful, almost untouched land, in two of the most stunning regions of Croatia. Here you can experience the hidden nature and treasured areas of Dalmatinska Zagora (the rural part inside of Dalmatia) and Lika (the continental part of Croatia).
The Dalmatia trail is suitable for intermediate riders and above, comfortable in walk, trot, canter and at least willing to gallop. In the summertime you can also refresh yourself by swimming in Peruca Lake where you can also take your horse for an enjoyable swim. The Plitvice trail, which is suitable for experienced riders, is where you will get the chance to experience the most beautiful and well known part of the Croatian national park, the Plitvice lakes. This is protected by the UNESCO Register of World Natural Heritage. There are sixteen little lakes interconnected with waterfalls, which create the main attraction of this unique park.
In the park you will find the spring of the Korana River, surrounded by dense forests of beech, fir and spruce, partly in the form of primeval virgin forest. Apart from the lakes and forests, the Park is ornamented with several caves, springs, flower meadows and is inhabited by brown bear, among other animal species. (The park can be entered at an extra cost during the ride).
Each day of your ride you can explore the natural beauty of the varied landscape. You will experience breathtaking rides; crossing and swimming through rivers (Dalmatia trail), galloping through open plains and climbing mountains.
These holiday programmes allow riders to take responsibility for their own horse during the trail (grooming/tacking up), however assistance is offered.
The rides will always be accompanied by a truck and/or car, so there is always the possibility to pick up important items such as waterproofs. You will also need to bring your own sleeping bag. Your luggage will be safe as the van follows the group and meets at regular check points.
See Programmes.
Food & Accommodation
The club is situated on a Ranch in the small village Radunic, in Dalmatian Zagora, around an hour away from the town of Split.
The Ranch house offers very basic accommodation over two floors and shared facilities. There are only two bathrooms to be shared between guests, one upstairs and one downstairs. The ground floor offers a small club room which displays pictures and newspaper articles on trails and the club's history. There is also a kitchen, bathroom and a bedroom with a double and a single bed. Expect to share rooms with other guests on the trails.
The top floor has five rooms with double and single beds and a basic shared bathroom. The rooms are basic and very simply furnished with two of the rooms having access to the balcony where you can experience the stunning views over to surrounding mountain tops.
All guests are taken care of in this friendly and warm environment, whilst having fun, making new friendships whilst enjoying a stress free time and back to basic lifestyle.
Whilst you are on the trails you will be sleeping in various places including tents or a hay barn in sleeping bags. Please note accommodation may vary. You will always receive tasty food including two hot meals (lunch/dinner), which is freshly prepared, mostly on open fires in the amazing countryside.
They prepare and cook tasty, traditional Dalmatian food made with homegrown, organic vegetables, fruit and meat. They also offer wines produced by local people, domestic cheeses, which are hand made 'the old way' from goat's, sheep and cow's milk. You can eat your meals in the club room or outside on the terrace around the big table. Vegetarian dishes and special diets can be catered for.
Alcoholic drinks, such as, spirits and wine are locally produced. The most famous spirits include walnut, honey, grape and plum schnapps. Many guests ask to take a bottle of schnapps or some of their traditional cheese home because they are highly satisfying on the taste buds and prove to be very popular!! You will never go hungry or thirsty here!
Activities
The position of the Ranch makes it an ideal base to bike or go hiking around, exploring the local environment, visiting the nearby mountain of Svilaja (1509m) or you can just relax and read. There is also the option of exploring the nearby towns of Split and Trogir.Many clients have really enjoyed taking a few days extra to visit Split so this is worth considering.
Further Details
Languages: English speaking host and German is spoken
Health requirements: No specific requirements
Age limit: 16 years for trails and 12 years if accompanied by an adult
Tuition: No tuition is included. You have an assessment/horse matching day on the first day, there will be a chance to change tack or your horse before the trail starts.
Included: Six days of full board with breakfast, lunch and dinner, dinner on arrival and breakfast on departure day, drinks with meals, an English speaking guide, six days of riding and the transportation of your luggage.
Not included: Flights, transfers to the ranch from the airport, buses, trains, tickets to the national park Plitvice lakes and any additional drinks.
Travel Information
There are several low cost flights going to Split. You can be transferred directly to the Ranch from Split airport or from the bus or train station in Split. Fly Be in 2009 will fly into Split from Southampton and flythomascook offer competitive prices and fly from various airports including Gatwick and Manchester.
Transfer cost £40 (return), this can be paid in Kuna, euros or pounds.
Alternative airport:
Zadar, Dubrovnik – transfers are NOT included, you have to come to Split by bus where you can be transferred to the ranch.
Airport: Kastela (Split)
Programmes
Plitvice Trail
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In this rural and unspoilt region of Lika, Croatia, you are far, far away from a busy lifestyle. Here you can enjoy the natural, almost untouched beauty of the region, explore the magical Plitvice lakes and maybe even see some wild deer or birds of prey. There are bears in this area, but are very rarely seen. You may not always keep to a strict time table, but hopefully you will enjoy Croatia's delicious traditional cuisine, wines, Schnapps and other drinks, as well as the endless and fabulous nature trails, without any stress. The Plitvice trail is suitable for more experienced riders. Here rides go through untouched forests, vast open fields and mountains where you can often see wild animals in their natural environment. You are given the choice of horse you wish to ride and the type of tack (English, Western or trail). The horses are fit, some lively, some quiet, but all responsive. There is a horse for everyone. You will also ride to the town closest to the Plitvice lakes, where the horses enjoy a well earned break in the shade, leaving you to explore the well known destination of the national park with its unique and stunning Plitvice lakes which are under UNESCO protection (you will be transferred to and from the lakes). After visiting the park the ride continues through further fantastic, varied landscapes, each day being longer with faster gallops. Each day you start your ride after breakfast, at around 09.30. You will then have short breaks and water stops before lunch. After eating lunch, you have the chance to chat or as most do, take a two hour nap! The horses are always turned away on the pasture land and set free to roll and graze in enclosed areas over lunch breaks. Trail Itinerary Saturday: Guests arrive during the day. You may wish to visit the town of Split and the remains of the Diocletian Palace (over 1700 years old,) or the little town of Trogir, (both under Unesco protection) before your transfer to the ranch. Split is one of the biggest and most beautiful cities in Croatia with nice beaches. Once on the ranch you have the opportunity to get to know the other riders, horses and people on the ranch. Dinner in the evening is a fun affair, drinking local wine and for the brave members of the group some locally made schnapps. Sunday: After breakfast on the ranch you set off for a test ride to familiarise yourself with your horse and to see if you are matched with the right horse. If this is not the case you can change your horse before the start of the trail. The trail starts by going up to a little cottage near the top of Mount Svilaja (1512m) on a sandy road walking and trotting through tracks and open fields. On the way up you get to enjoy some fabulous views. It takes about two hours to get to the cottage where you unsaddle the horses and leave them in a "natural", stone paddock. You have a typically Croatian lunch or BBQ and afterwards you can opt to rest or climb up to the top of the mountain (about a 30 minute climb, which is quite challenging) where there is a splendid panoramic view over the River Cetina and Peruca lake. It is well worth the climb. When you get back to the cottage you saddle up the horses and return to the ranch for dinner and a well-deserved rest. On the way back you canter and gallop round fields to get a good feel for your horse. Monday: After breakfast you get ready for the trail. The horses and riders are transported to Gracac where the trail begins. You begin by riding through woods and fields in the direction of Udbina to a small hill in Oudic where you have lunch. You then continue to Udbina where you have dinner and sleep indoors on a small farm. If you want you can try some “domestic” plum schnapps – quite strong and definitely not for the faint-hearted! Tuesday: After breakfast, you start with a fast ride through a 15km long field, often enjoying long gallops. Your well-deserved lunch is on a family estate with friendly local people. You get a warm welcome, homemade bread and enjoy typically Croatian food. Next you ride through areas with beautiful landscape, lush pastures and small hills. Tonight you eat out at the restaurant and sleep in a hotel. Wednesday: Today begins with a fast gallop towards the city of Korenica where you will either enjoy a picnic meal or may have the opportunity to eat in a restaurant. You leave the horses to rest near the guesthouse where you will be staying overnight. You will then be transported to the Plitvice lakes. These are under UNESCO protection. There are several stunning walks to explore where you can see the natural wonders and beauty of Plitvice. There are sixteen breathtaking lakes joined by amazing waterfalls. The Silver Lake is the most amazing of them all. In the evening you will return to the guesthouse where you can change and prepare for dinner in a restaurant. Thursday: After a tasty breakfast you continue your ride towards Mount Licka Pljesevica (1613m). On the top of the mountain you enjoy your lunch, nestled in a beautiful spot of the mountains and enjoy a well-deserved break after climbing up the mountain. Next, you ride down the forest-covered mountain, down forgotten cattle routes to the old farm where your host is waiting for you with a glass of homemade schnapps! Here you spend your night in tents or in a hay barn on the farm. The people are very generous and will show you what Croatian hospitality is all about. It is worth noting that although there is plenty of clean water availability for drinking and washing, it is not always sourced directly from the mains. Friday: After breakfast you leave the farm and make your way trotting and cantering through the fields. You climb Mount Kremen, where you have lunch and enjoy the panoramic views. Then you re-saddle the horses and continue riding down the mountain, passing through pastures to the finish point. You load your horses in the truck and then drive back to the ranch, have dinner and relax after your fantastic trail, enjoying a relaxed evening with your new friends, discussing the lasting memories of your trail. Saturday: After breakfast everybody prepares to leave and says their goodbyes. Itineraries may change due to weather or unforeseen circumstances but we assure you that this ride will be a real adventure. |
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| Accommodation: |
On the Plitvice trail you will spend one night in the home of a local man, again the accommodation is very basic and undergoing building work. However, it is set in beautiful countryside and offers a friendly atmosphere. One night will be spent in hotel accommodation, choosing food from their menu and here you will find en-suite rooms and hot power showers. The Wednesday night offers a pretty and comfortable guest house with shared shower facilities which is set in the closest town to the Plitvice lakes, again tasty food and a friendly atmosphere. Thursday you will camp at the basic and traditional farmhouse of an elder couple, this is a fantastic place for the horses and they love it, this will certainly give you a taste of the traditional culture. Accommodation may vary. Due to the weather or any other unforeseen circumstances the route/programme may have to be adapted and accommodation changed. This ride is for the adventurous types who are happy to go with the flow. |
| Minimum group size: | 6 |
| Maximum group size: | 12 |
| Ability description: |
Experienced riders only. You need to be a competent rider and comfortable in trot, canter and gallop, with a good balanced seat. Absolutely no novices! This trail requires you to be fit and because of the terrain, you will be required to walk alongside your horse up steep inclines. This trail is for adventurous people only, be prepared for basic accommodation, good food and forward going horses. You will also be required to groom, tack up, mount and dismount from your own horse. |
| Type of ride: | Trail |
| Total riding time: | 6 days riding, 4 to 7 hours per day |
| Departure dates: | 2010 dates: 5 - 12 June (new date!); 12 - 19 June (six places left); 26 June - 3 July; 10 - 17 July; 24 - 31 July; 7 - 14 August; 21 - 28 August; 4 - 11 September. |
| Pricing: | See Pricing |
Dalmatia Trail
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The Dalmatia trail is suitable for riders with basic experience who can walk, trot, canter and gallop. You will ride on historically old tracks, Roman and Napoleon roads, old cattle ways and through the beautiful rural parts of Dalmatia known as Dalmatinska Zagora. You will follow the River Cetina and Peruca lake straight to one of the sources of the River where you can drink the clear, fresh and refreshing spring water. In the summertime you can also refresh yourself and your horse by swimming in the Peruca lake. You will also experience the local culture when passing through the small villages full of friendly and welcoming people. Saturday: Guests arrive during the day. You may wish to visit the town of Split and the remains of the Diocletian Palace (over 1700 years old,) or the little town of Trogir, (both under Unesco protection) before your transfer to the ranch. Split is one of the biggest and most beautiful cities in Croatia with nice beaches. Once on the ranch you have the opportunity to get to know the other riders, horses and people on the ranch. Dinner in the evening is a fun affair, drinking local wine and for the brave members of the group, some locally made schnapps. Sunday: After breakfast on the ranch you set off for a test ride to familiarise yourself with your horse and to see if you are matched with the right horse. If this is not the case you can change horse for the start of the trail. You go up to a little cottage near the top of Mount Svilaja (1512m) on a sandy road walking and trotting through open fields. On the way up you see some fabulous views. It takes about two hours to get to the cottage where you unsaddle the horses and leave them in a "natural" paddock. You have a typically Croatian lunch and afterwards you can opt to rest or climb up to the top of the mountain (about a 30 minute climb and quite challenging) where there is a splendid panoramic view over the River Cetina and Peruca lake. It is well worth the climb. When you get back to the cottage you saddle up the horses and return to the ranch for dinner and a well-deserved rest. On the way back you canter and gallop round fields to get a good feel for your horse. Monday: After breakfast you prepare for the trail. You start by heading eastwards, towards the village of Orgorje and then climb through the forest to a hill called Zelova where you settle down to enjoy your lunch. After lunch you ride to the small village of Satric and have dinner round a fire. Tuesday: After breakfast you have a long ride to the river Cetina. You cross the river and enjoy a long fast gallop to get the adrenaline pumping. In the early afternoon you come to Peruca lake where you relax, have lunch and where you can have a swim with the horses. Early evening you ride on a path between the lake and Mount Dinara to the overnight sleeping place. This is near the lake so that you can have a refreshing swim in the morning. Wednesday: In the morning you head towards the spring of the river Cetina galloping through two beautiful long fields. You have lunch at the spring and can have a swim in the clear water of Cetina. In the early evening you have a short ride to a lovely field where you dine and sleep in a camp surrounded by trees. Thursday: Today you walk through the river in order to cross it, then gallop through fields and ride to the town of Vrilka. People here are very friendly. You then climb up a small hill to the spot where you enjoy a rest and your lunch. The afternoon is spent riding down the hill where you will be sleeping. Friday: After breakfast you ride through some big fields and through the river with plenty of trotting and galloping. After lunch you continue on an old path in the valley where you can see the old water mills and then you come to a big field for a long gallop. In the evening you return to the ranch, have dinner and relax after your fantastic trail, enjoying a your evening with your new friends. Saturday: After breakfast everybody prepares to leave and says their goodbyes. |
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| Accommodation: |
Your accommodation varies on this ride as you would expect on this kind of trail. Saturday, Sunday and Friday night you will stay in the Ranch. On this trail you will sleep in sleeping bags and tents (tents and mattresses provided). You are always close to the river where you can refresh yourself, and they always carry water tanks if you want to wash. Due to the weather or any other unforeseen circumstances, the route and programme may have to be adapted. |
| Minimum group size: | 6 |
| Maximum group size: | 12 |
| Ability description: |
Intermediate to experienced. You need to be comfortable in trot, canter and at least willing to gallop. Absolutely no novices! You also need to be fit because there will be occasions where you will have to walk alongside your horse due to the demands on the terrain. This trail is for adventurous people only, prepared for basic accommodation, good food and forward going horses. You will also be required to groom, tack up, mount and dismount from your own horse. |
| Type of ride: | Trail |
| Total riding time: | 6 days, 4 to 7 hours per day |
| Departure dates: | 2010 dates: 10 - 17 April; 24 April - 1 May; 8 - 15 May; 22 - 29 May; 18-25 September,25 September - 2 October; 9 - 16 October; 23 - 30 October. |
| Pricing: | See Pricing |