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

The best part of this ride is the setting: you follow an ancient Roman trail high above Podstrana, with the Adriatic islands spread below you. The route links Podstrana and Krilo over the mythic hill of Perun, and the views reach toward Hvar, Brač, Šolta, Vis, Čiovo, Split, Stobreč, and Trogir.

I like the gentle horses and the small private format, which lets a guide such as Ana or Ante set a comfortable pace for your group. I also like the finish: homemade wine, bread, cheese, and other snacks at the ranch. The main consideration is the rocky mountain path. It is a walking ride only, not a fast trot, and riders wanting an easy, smooth arena-style outing may find it slow or uneven.

Key points

• Ancient Roman route: Ride above the old village of Gornja Podstrana on a historic stone track between Podstrana and Krilo.
• Wide Adriatic views: Look across to Hvar, Brač, Šolta, Vis, and Čiovo, with Split and Trogir visible along the coast.
• Beginner-friendly horses: The horses are described as calm, obedient, and well-mannered, with helmets and riding equipment provided.
• Small private outing: Your party rides together, with a maximum of five people and a personal guide throughout.
• Quiet pace: The horses walk the whole route, making this suitable for first-time riders but less appealing if you want faster riding.
• Wine and local food: Return to the ranch for homemade wine, bottled water, and a spread of simple snacks.

Riding an old road above Podstrana

Ranch 22 Podstrana sits about 12 kilometers from Split, but the ride feels far removed from the city. The meeting point is at Ul. Don Petra Cara 160 in Podstrana, in the old village of Gornja Podstrana. From there, the trail climbs into the hills and leaves the coastal traffic behind.

The route follows a stone mountain way linked with the Roman past of the area. You are not visiting a polished archaeological site with signs and barriers. Instead, the history comes through the road itself, the old villages, the ruins, and the guide’s stories as you ride.

That informal style is part of the appeal. You get a sense of how people once moved through the hills, rather than simply hearing a lecture about Roman roads. Your guide stays with the group and explains points of natural and historical interest along the way.

The trail connects Podstrana and Krilo over Perun, a hill with a mythic name and a strong presence above the coast. The setting changes as you gain height. Below, the settlements and sea open into a broad view. Around you, the stone track and mountain terrain create a quiet, almost rural scene despite Split being close by.

Calm horses and a careful first lesson

You do not need previous riding experience. The horses are selected for their mild temperaments, and the route is taken at a walking pace. That matters if you are nervous, have not ridden since childhood, or are bringing children who can participate.

Before setting off, the guide gives you basic instructions and helps you get comfortable with the horse. The experience is not described as a formal riding lesson, so you should expect a short orientation rather than a full course in riding technique.

Guides named in rider accounts include Ana and Ante. Ana is particularly praised for making a first-time rider feel at ease, taking photographs during the ride, and sharing high-quality files afterward. The exact guide can vary, but the important point is that you have one person with you for the whole trail rather than being sent out alone.

The horses are repeatedly described as gentle, obedient, and well trained. That does not make the route completely effortless. A horse still moves beneath you, and the stone surface can be uneven. Hold your position, follow the guide’s instructions, and tell the guide early if you feel uncomfortable.

One practical point deserves attention: horse assignments may not match your preference. One account describes a rider being unhappy about being placed on a smaller horse and having to switch with a companion. If horse size matters to you, ask about it before the ride rather than assuming you can choose.

The route over Mount Perun

The ride’s main attraction is not speed. The horses walk the entire way, and the guide controls the order and pace of the group. This makes the outing accessible, but it also defines the experience.

You will pass along a rough stone trail in the mountain area above Podstrana. Some descriptions call the ride peaceful and tranquil. Others point out that the route is steep and rocky in places. Both impressions can be true. The quiet surroundings and sea views are lovely, but the trail is not a smooth forest path.

I would pack shoes that stay secure on your feet and clothes you can ride in comfortably. A helmet and riding equipment are included. The information does not specify a dress code, so practical clothing is the sensible choice. The route is outdoors and weather-dependent, so check the forecast before you leave Split.

The route is especially good for riders who want time to look around. Since the horses do not run, you can take in the islands and coastline without trying to control a faster-moving animal. You might also appreciate the slower pace if photography is important to you.

For experienced riders, the outing may feel restrained. There is no promise of trotting or cantering, and the entire trail is walked. If your idea of horseback riding involves speed or technical riding, this is not the right match. It is a scenic mountain walk on horseback.

The Adriatic view from the stone trail

The view is the payoff for the climb. From the route, you can see across the archipelago toward Hvar, Brač, Šolta, and Vis. The peninsula of Čiovo and coastal towns including Split, Stobreč, and Trogir also appear in the wider panorama.

The exact view will depend on weather and where the group pauses, but the ride is designed around this high position above the coast. You are not simply circling a ranch. You are moving through a historic hill route with open sightlines toward the sea.

This is a strong choice if you want a break from Split’s stone streets and busy waterfront. The ranch is close enough to work as a half-day addition to a city stay, yet the hill setting gives you a different side of the region. You see the coast from above rather than from a ferry deck, beach, or crowded viewpoint.

The guide may also take photographs during the ride. Ana is specifically praised for sending clear image files after the outing instead of relying only on compressed messaging-app pictures. Photography is not listed as a formal inclusion, so treat this as a guide-dependent courtesy rather than a guaranteed service.

Wine, cheese, bread, and a simple ranch finish

After the trail, you return to the meeting point and sit down for snacks. Included refreshments are homemade wine, bottled water, and food described in different accounts as cheese, bread, meats, and other simple picnic items.

This finish gives the outing a social, local feel. You are not rushing straight back to Split after dismounting. Instead, you have time to relax, talk with the guide, and look back toward the coast from the ranch.

Homemade wine is included, so plan accordingly if you are driving. The activity does not include private transportation, and a transfer from central Split or your accommodation can be arranged for an extra charge. One account describes a pickup from Split’s Riva, but you should confirm the current cost and meeting arrangement before booking.

The food is not presented as a full restaurant meal. Think of it as a generous snack or picnic-style finish. If you need a substantial lunch, eat beforehand or plan another meal afterward.

How long the experience really feels

The advertised duration is about two hours. That includes the riding and the time at the ranch for refreshments, though the exact balance can vary.

Some accounts describe around one hour on horseback followed by snacks, while others describe the full outing as lasting two hours. A later start can also bring the ride closer to sunset and affect the amount of daylight. If you care about getting the full riding time or want bright views for photographs, confirm the schedule and expected riding duration when you book.

The small group size helps the guide adjust the pace. The maximum is five riders, and the experience is described as private for you and your party. That is a much better setup for a first ride than joining a large line of horses with little personal attention.

The private format also makes this appealing for couples, families, and small groups of friends. A honeymoon couple described it as a favorite part of a Croatia trip, while a family found the horses gentle enough for children. Still, every rider should be able to follow instructions and remain comfortable on a horse.

Is $105 good value?

At $105, this is not the cheapest way to spend two hours near Split. The price includes the guided ride, horse, helmet, riding equipment, insurance, bottled water, snacks, and homemade wine. The small group format adds value, especially if you want individual attention rather than a basic trail ride with a large crowd.

The setting is also doing much of the work. You are paying for access to a mountain route with broad views, a guide who provides local context, and a meal-like finish in addition to the riding itself.

The value is weaker if you are expecting two full hours in the saddle, fast riding, or a smooth trail. The horses walk, the route is rocky, and some of the total time is spent eating and drinking afterward. Ask exactly how much riding time is planned if that is central to your decision.

Transportation is not included. Since Podstrana is outside central Split, an added transfer charge may affect the final cost. Public transportation is nearby, but the meeting point is in Gornja Podstrana, so check the route and timing rather than assuming a simple walk from the coast.

Weather, cancellations, and practical limits

The ride requires good weather. You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the local start time. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded, and changes inside that period are not accepted.

If poor weather causes the operator to cancel, you are offered another date or a full refund. That policy is useful for an outdoor activity, but it also means you should avoid booking it too tightly against a flight or other fixed plan.

Confirmation is provided at booking. Service animals are allowed, and the activity is near public transportation. Most people can participate, but the trail is rocky and includes steep sections, so physical comfort on uneven ground matters.

The activity has a maximum of five riders. That limit is one of its practical strengths, but it also means popular dates may fill quickly. If you are visiting in summer or want a particular time of day, booking ahead is sensible.

Who should book this ride?

I would choose this for a first-time rider who wants scenery, quiet, and a guide nearby. The calm horses and walking pace remove much of the pressure that can make a first ride unpleasant.

It also suits couples looking for a romantic outing. The hill views, private format, and wine and cheese afterward create a more personal experience than a standard city tour. Families can enjoy it too, provided everyone is comfortable with a rocky mountain trail and follows the guide’s instructions.

Experienced riders should book only if they want a slow scenic outing. You will not be racing across open ground. The route is walked, and the charm comes from the views, old road, horses, and setting.

My verdict on Ranch 22 Podstrana

Book this if you want to see the Split coast from a high, quiet trail and you are happy with a slow ride on uneven stone. The strongest features are the gentle horses, personal guides, small group size, Roman route, and wide views toward the islands.

Think twice if you want a long ride at several speeds, a level trail, or a guaranteed two hours in the saddle. Ask about horse assignment, pickup cost, riding time, and the day’s weather before paying.

For the right rider, this is a memorable change of pace from Split. You get history without a museum, scenery without a crowded viewpoint, and a simple local snack at the ranch when the horses are back in their stalls.

FAQ

Where does the horseback ride begin?

It begins at Ul. Don Petra Cara 160, 21312 Podstrana, Croatia, in the old village of Gornja Podstrana.

How far is Ranch 22 Podstrana from Split?

The ranch is about 12 kilometers from Split.

How long does the activity last?

The listed duration is approximately two hours, including the ride and refreshments. The riding portion may be about one hour, so confirm the expected riding time when booking.

Do I need previous horseback riding experience?

No. The horses are described as suitable for beginners and experienced riders, and the guide provides basic instruction before the ride.

Do the horses run or trot?

No. The entire trail is walked, with the guide setting the pace and order of the group.

What is included in the price?

The price includes snacks, bottled water, homemade wine, riding equipment, a helmet, and insurance.

Is transportation from Split included?

No. Private transportation is not included. A transfer from central Split or your accommodation can be arranged for an additional charge.

How many people can join the ride?

The activity has a maximum of five riders and is arranged as a private ride for you and your party.

What happens if the weather is bad?

The activity may be canceled in poor weather. You will then be offered a different date or a full refund. You can also cancel up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund.