Bosko's Ranch and Croatian Culture riding holiday in Croatia

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Overview
Description
Horses & Riding
Food & Accommodation
Other Activities
Travel
Testimonials
Itineraries

Overview Description Horses & Riding Food & Accommodation Other Activities Travel Testimonials Itineraries

Overview

Highlights

Canter across open plains and wade across clear rivers
Swim with your horse during warmer months
Experience the wild and unspoilt Croatian countryside
Visit Krka National Park
Take a boat trip to Visovac island

Essential Facts

1 itinerary available
Max 10 riders per group
Average of 5 hours riding per day
Weight limit: 100kg / 220 lbs / 15 stone 10lbs

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Description

This welcoming Croatian destination is situated 2km from Sinj, a town in the continental part of Split - Dalmatia county. The region of Sinj is rich and diverse featuring magnificent views of the mountains, forests and the Cetina river. The ranch itself covers 20,000 square metres and includes a corral for the horses, pasture, lawn, sports court and restaurant area. It is geared towards keen riders, offering riding opportunities for the intermediate to experienced rider who is happy to ride a forward-going horse. Whether you are a single traveller, couple or group, it provides a real cultural experience due to the rich history of the area and the warmth of its people. Bosko and Dijana work hard to make every guest feel truly welcome, providing them not only with the appropriate horse but with delicious food, a good drink and some fantastic company.

The riding here offers you an insight into the heart of Croatia, exploring untouched areas of beauty, interesting old villages and a variety of terrain. Besides horse riding, there is the chance to visit Sinj itself - a town with an interesting history which is well known for the game called Alka. This was originally a knights' game that has been around for over 280 years and is featured in the Sinj museum. The town also has a swimming pool, about 1km away from the ranch, and the area offers nice walking opportunities. The ranch is also situated not far from Split and Trogir (30km) which are under UNESCO protection and these are great places for sightseeing, shopping and to experience more of the real Croatia. The food of this area is well represented on the ranch.

The hospitality here is unmatched and whichever programme you choose, you are guaranteed to feel welcome and to enjoy the riding out. Lovely, long canters across open plains followed by wading through clear rivers and even swimming with your horse during the warmer months. The selection of loved horses means that you can be well matched to make the most of these unspoilt lands, quaint villages and spectacular views.

This destination has been visited by Holly from Far and Ride in 2015 so please just get in touch with any questions. Your hosts would also like to let you know that they are fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

Horses & Riding

Tack

The saddles are either trail saddles or occasionally English saddles made from leather or a synthetic material. Saddles and bridles are not always the smartest, but they are well looked after and functional. Similarly, the bridles are mostly leather but some synthetic endurance style bridles are also used - most horses are ridden in simple snaffles.

Horses

You will meet various types of horses on this ride, ranging from Thoroughbreds to chunkier breeds, crosses and the occasional sturdy pony. The horses are all forward going and fun to ride, particularly notable for their stamina and spirit. Bosko is a true Croatian horseman and some of his horses have been rescued and rehabilitated to make them ideal for the trails.

Riding

There is 1 itinerary:

Krka Trail is a trail ride

Ages

16+ years

Health

Fit and healthy

Weight

100kg / 220 lbs / 15 stone 10lbs

Food & Accommodation

Food

Food on the ranch is authentic of the region and is rich and diverse. Some Sinj specialities are arambasici (mince with spices wrapped in sour cabbage leaf or in wine grape leaf), home-reared lamb, trout of Cetina and pasticada (beef in a sweet and sour sauce with gnocchi). Vegetarian options are also offered.

Accommodation

The accommodation is provided at the main ranch and in family guesthouses on the trail nights. It is relatively basic but clean, comfortable and welcoming. You will need to be prepared to share a room during the trip as single rooms cannot be guaranteed, especially in busy times. Every room at the ranch is en suite but you may need to share bathrooms at the other accommodations.

Itineraries

Krka Trail Standard accommodation.

Other Activities

There is nice walking in the area and also a football field. There is a swimming pool about 1km from the ranch.

Travel

The nearest airport to the ranch is Split.

Transfers are available from the airport to the ranch for an additional cost (see individual itinerary). We can also arrange collection or drop-off at a hotel in the city - there is an additional charge for this (in each direction).

If you are staying in Split after your trail ride and have some time, then there is also a local bus service between Sinj town and Split city - please contact us for further information on this.

Testimonials

Deborah T., April 11, 2022

I had an incredible holiday with fantastic riding, amazing scenery, great people and very tasty food!

Laura R., Oct. 5, 2021

The holiday was amazing, I didn't realise how much I needed it until I went. It was so lovely to spend long days with nice people, riding lovely horses and with lovely scenery. It was fast paced and Bosko, Marko, Angelico and Angela all went out of their way to keep us happy. It was great fun and I would love to go back!

Nick C., June 7, 2021

Amazing! Very good value for money. Good company, food, accommodation & Bosko went out of his way to make everyone happy!

Roger T., June 7, 2021

A fast, exciting trail that experienced riders will enjoy. Fit forward-going horses, beautiful scenery and good food. Bosko has a wide selection (of horses) suitable for all standards. Mine was one of his best and wonderful in all respects. Will miss her.

Rachel B., June 7, 2021

This holiday was amazing. Bosko and his team were so helpful and friendly, the horses were really good and very well looked after. It's really hard to say what my favourite part was as I enjoyed every moment of my time there. I was so happy with my horse. Bosko paired up really well and all the equipment was perfect. I really cannot think of any way to improve the holiday as to me, it was perfect!

Truddi, Feb. 18, 2020

The accommodation, food and friendliness of the hosts made this a good holiday. With long canters on good horses with wonderful scenery

Amanda R., Oct. 20, 2018

Amazing. Great riding and great horses. Guides a lot of fun and favourite memory - long gallops. Good vegetarian options - a lot of food and drinks with meals

Pam G., Oct. 20, 2018

Amazing! Fantastic hospitality by Bosko and Dijana, great horses, fast riding, beautiful scenery and a great group. Would highly recommend for advanced riders. Surpassed my expectations and our hosts made our week so special. The horses were well looked after, very fit and the tack was all very good

Vera & Joost, Sept. 13, 2018

It really was the most perfect trail ride you can imagine. A beautiful trail with different landscapes. Many gallops and riding through water. A very good price also! (the people?) they were great! Bosko, Ivan and Ivan really made the week more perfect with their stories and interactions with us. Bosko really understands what people want from a holiday like this: good horse, good food and wine, good conversations in the evening and most importantly: he takes the time and effort to make sure everyone goes home with great pictures and movies!

Corinna M., Nov. 23, 2017

It was simply fantastic.The team were fabulous, wonderful hosts, listening and communicating brilliantly. All people involved were helpful and obviously also enjoyed their work. The horses are in brilliant shape, forward going, unbelievable stamina and footsure (no stumbling despite rocky ground).the tack was in good order and comfortable. I was very happy with my horse. Unbelievably fit and eager but also easy to control. One does have to be a confident rider to enjoy all as thoroughly as I did, I think.

Stina P., Nov. 23, 2017

Nice horse. Nice gallops. Beautiful landscape. Nice people. Bosko and his staff were taking good care of us. I was happy with my horse. The first day all horses were very excited... and maybe the riders too. It was hard to keep the line and hold him back in the gallop. But after that fighting everything was fine. (Favourite memory?) one long and fast gallop (of course) but I also enjoyed the landscape and the countryside. Riding tour is perfect for seeing things you never meet as a tourist. I like nature and being outside and we were also passing small villages, fields, vineyards and so on. It is also so relaxing to sit on a horse and walk and walk. It refreshes my mind and brain.

Karen B., June 29, 2016

Fantastic! Great horses, people and countryside. We were very well looked after and the horses were amazing - fit and well-mannered. My favourite memories from the holiday were the long canters and the beautiful national park.

Robert & Barbara, Dec. 8, 2015

We found it as described and as expected. Good fun, good food, good horses - challenging at times, but we coped OK! (Favourite memory?) having a long gallop through fields covered in autumn crocuses at the head of Krka National Park.

Krka Trail

at a glance

The Krka trail is ideal for the riders that want to experience wild and unspoilt Croatian countryside. You will be dazzled by the quaint and romantic villages of Dalmatia, which await you at the beginning of your journey. Then as you make your way through lush fields and forests, the Dinara and Svilaja mountains will watch over you.

There are many spectacular views of the Cetina river which runs through the valley, plus numerous streams and springs where you can refresh yourself and relax, listening to the sound of buzzing bees on blossoming heather or picking some of the sweet red cherries.

Your trail follows the river and Peruca lake and you will pass the romantic old towns of Vrlika and Drnis. After passing Drnis you will arrive into the Krka National Park. The Krka river region was declared a national park in 1985. Here you will be able to enjoy the exceptional beauty of the Krka river, the special features of its natural phenomena and the history surrounding it.

The Krka river hosts several amazing waterfalls and the park is characterised by an exceptionally rich flora and fauna, because of its distinctive position and diverse types of habitats, over 860 plant species and sub-species have been documented in the park. The Krka River area features many cultural and historical monuments representing traces of human activity from prehistory to the present day.

Please note this itinerary should be used as a guideline and may be altered.

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Krka Trail

Itinerary & Pricing

Day 1 - Saturday

Riding: No riding.

You will arrive during the day. If you wish you can visit the town of Sinj and the remains of the fortress of Grad (the Town) that are the only witnesses of the numerous battles though history. One of the famous battles was in the year 1715 when the people of Sinj, inspired by their faith in Our Lady of Sinj drove away the powerful Turkish army which had besieged the town. Another monument of victory over the Turkish conquerors is the " ALKA". The game called "ALKA" has been performed every year since 1715. Guarding the symbols of the victory with their original outfits, the people of Sinj simulate the battle with horses. People from all over the world come to Sinj just to see this amazing game.

You will have the opportunity to get to know other riders, horses and friendly people on the ranch. Dinner will take place at sunset and you can relax, drink wine from the ranch's own vineyards, and eat delicious local food as well.

Day 2 - Sunday

Riding: 4 hours

After breakfast on the ranch, you will set off for a test ride to see if you are matched with the right horse. If you are not satisfied with your horse you can change it before you start the trail. You can have an exhilarating gallop in the big fields of Sinj and then a chance for you and your horse to cool off as you swim in the river. You will then head back to the ranch where lunch will be served.

Day 3 - Monday

Riding: 6 hours

After breakfast you will tack up your horse and ride through beautiful fields up to the river Cetina where you can have a long gallop.

Lunch will be prepared in stunning surroundings by the river. After a delicious lunch the ride will continue, climbing up rolling hillsides to the plateau named "Bitelic". You will ride on old Roman stone roads and enjoy the views of the mountains Dinara and Svilaja that surround you.

The trail passes an old stone village called "Vucipolje" and will lead you to the lake Peruca where you can swim with your horse (weather permitting). After some relaxation time you will leave the horses by the lake and go back to the ranch by car (20 minute journey), where you will have dinner with a glass of home-made wine and enjoy traditional music played by your host on the guitar.

Day 4 - Tuesday

Riding: 6 hours

After breakfast, you will be driven to the lake where you will saddle the horses and ride up to the river, following the waters edge of the lake Peruca. With adrenaline pumping after some trotting and a long fast gallop, you can refresh yourself by the river and tuck into lunch. Moving on, the ride will cross the river and you can enjoy another long gallop through the lush open fields, arriving at a little Croatian town named Vrlika where you can learn about the rich history of the area. You will eat dinner and sleep in a family home here tonight with the opportunity to explore the town after your meal.

Day 5 - Wednesday

Riding: 6 hours

The next morning, you will ride through Vrlika and start climbing up the mountains through the village of Maovice. At the top of the mountain you will be amazed at the breathtaking, panoramic views across the beautiful landscape of wild rivers, fields and hills. After a quick break, you will start the descent down to the foot of the mountain where you will have lunch. After lunch the pace picks up as you trot, canter and gallop through stunning plantations of vineyards to the town of Drnis.

After unsaddling your horse you will walk to the motel in the centre of the town, where you can refresh yourself before a short walk to a nearby restaurant for scrumptious Croatian cuisine and local wines. Afterwards you can enjoy a good nights sleep.

Day 6 - Thursday

Riding: 3 hours

Today you will start the adventure to the Krka National Park, galloping to the little village Bristane where lunch will be served at a family farm with local cuisine and schnapps. You then leave the horses and travel by boat to see the island of Visovac which is counted among the most important natural and prehistorical monuments of the Republic of Croatia. Since 1445 it has been the site of the Franciscan Monastery of Our Lady of Mercy and the church of Our Lady of Visovac.

Together with the magnificent landscape of Visovac lake this creates a unique setting. The monastery has an important archaeological collection of historical vessels and a rich library of many historical manuscripts and valuable books. After seeing the island Visovac and its lake you will continue with the sightseeing tour to see "Roski slap". You will be able to swim in the river, enjoying the amazing surroundings and marvel at the beautiful waterfalls along the river.

After sightseeing this breathtaking landscape you will head back to the lovely village of Bristane, to enjoy dinner in the company of your hospitable hosts, followed by a good nights sleep.

Day 7 - Friday

Riding: 6 hours

In the morning you will continue trotting and galloping to the Canyon of the river Cikola. The canyon is one of the most beautiful places in Krka National Park. As you continue, on your right hand side you will be able to see the river Cikola entering the Visovac lake, surrounded with enormous cliffs which are rich in colourful flora. You will then make your way down into the canyon and continue trotting and galloping to the Cikola river crossing. After climbing up the canyon you will have lunch and refresh yourself with a cold drink.

After a lunch break you carry on riding through the villages Goris and Konjevrate, with a combination of trotting and galloping until you arrive at the entrance of Krka National Park, named "Skradinski Buk". This is also the end of your unforgettable trail and after unsaddling your horse, you will be transferred back to the ranch.

There will be time to go sightseeing and visit "Skradinski Buk", the longest and most widely visited series of waterfalls on the Krka river. It is the one of the best known natural beauties of Croatia. The waterfalls are composed of travertine barriers, islands and lakes, which can be viewed freely thanks to a network of paths and bridges that enable a comfortable and safe walk. At the bottom of the waterfalls you can enjoy swimming in the clean water whilst watching butterflies flutter around you.

The travertine cascades of the Krka river are made of very delicate material and are sensitive to natural changes and all human activity. They can even be considered a living creature as they grow, develop and age and can die if there is no water.

One of the interesting things that you will be able to see is the renovated water-mills of the Krka National Park - the presentations include the milling of grain, the washing and treading of cloth, the weaving of bags and rugs, the smithing of horseshoes, ploughing, sowing, and the preparation of food in an old-fashioned kitchen.

Day 8 - Saturday

Riding: No riding.

After a final delicious breakfast you will prepare to leave, taking with you many unforgettable memories of your magnificent trail.

NB. The horses used on this trail are English bred, Anglo Arab, Holsteins, Croatian Warmbloods, Bosnian horses. They have a kind temperament and are well trained, sure footed, reliable. These horses are fit and forward going 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.

Due to the weather or any other unforeseen circumstances, the route and programme may have to be adapted.

Accommodation	Your accommodation Saturday, Sunday, Monday and Friday night will be at the ranch. On the other three nights you will stay out at a family home, motel and a private family farm.
Experience	Experienced Experienced riders only, confident and capable of controlling a fit and potentially spirited horse in open countryside. You need to be comfortable riding at all paces and physically fit as there are times when you may trot for up to 20 minutes or go for long canters. You may also need to walk beside your horse over rough terrain.
Minimum group size	4
Maximum group size	10
Departure windows	March 26, 2022 - April 2, 2022 April 2, 2022 - April 9, 2022 April 9, 2022 - April 16, 2022 April 16, 2022 - April 23, 2022 April 23, 2022 - April 30, 2022 April 30, 2022 - May 7, 2022 May 7, 2022 - May 14, 2022 May 14, 2022 - May 21, 2022 May 21, 2022 - May 28, 2022 May 28, 2022 - June 4, 2022 June 4, 2022 - June 11, 2022 June 11, 2022 - June 18, 2022 June 18, 2022 - June 25, 2022 June 25, 2022 - July 2, 2022 July 2, 2022 - July 9, 2022 July 9, 2022 - July 16, 2022 July 16, 2022 - July 23, 2022 July 23, 2022 - July 30, 2022 July 30, 2022 - Aug. 6, 2022 Aug. 6, 2022 - Aug. 13, 2022 Aug. 13, 2022 - Aug. 20, 2022 Aug. 20, 2022 - Aug. 27, 2022 Aug. 27, 2022 - Sept. 3, 2022 Sept. 3, 2022 - Sept. 10, 2022 Sept. 10, 2022 - Sept. 17, 2022 Sept. 17, 2022 - Sept. 24, 2022 Sept. 24, 2022 - Oct. 1, 2022 Oct. 1, 2022 - Oct. 8, 2022 Oct. 8, 2022 - Oct. 15, 2022 Oct. 15, 2022 - Oct. 22, 2022 Oct. 22, 2022 - Oct. 29, 2022 Oct. 29, 2022 - Nov. 5, 2022 Nov. 5, 2022 - Nov. 12, 2022

Pricing

£ $ €

2022 Per person, sharing	£1060 $1340 €1250
Included	7 nights accommodation in shared rooms, all meals from dinner on arrival to breakfast on departure day, drinks with meals, 6 days of horse riding with an experienced guide and transportation of luggage.
Not included	Flights, travel insurance, transfers to the ranch from the airport, bus or train stations, entrance tickets for the Krka national park, optional boat trip, extra drinks, tips and other personal expenses.

Extras

£ $ €

2022 - Split Airport Transfer

€50
Paid locally
Split airport transfers, return fare. * Split city or bus station transfer will incur an additional 25€ (EUR) surcharge, per person, each way.

Note: All programmes and itineraries are weather dependent; in the face of adverse, or unexpected, weather conditions reasonable attempts will be made to provide equivalent riding. All programmes are accurate at the time of writing. However, the team may adapt or modify details, whilst aiming to provide a similar experience.