Split Countryside: Horse Ride, Soparnik & Klis Fortress

Travelers looking to soak up the heart of Dalmatia will find this full-day adventure offers a well-rounded mix of cultural, culinary, and historical highlights. It’s perfect for those who want a taste of authentic Croatian life beyond the beaches and city streets. The tour combines scenic drives, hands-on workshops, and awe-inspiring sights, all packed into one manageable day.

What we particularly like about this experience are the variety of activities—from horseback riding across stunning countryside, to learning how to make Soparnik, a regional delicacy, to exploring a medieval fortress. Plus, the guides and hosts are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the journey both enjoyable and informative. The only potential snag? The busy schedule might feel tight for some, so pace yourself if you’re slow-moving.

This tour is ideal for curious travelers eager to connect with local traditions and history in a relaxed, well-organized manner. If you like a mix of outdoor activity, culinary discovery, and cultural exploration, this will fit the bill splendidly.

Good To Know

• Authentic cultural experience with hands-on Soparnik making
• Scenic countryside with panoramic views on a comfortable open-top bus
• Historical insights at Klis Fortress, a notable filming location
• Family-friendly activities including horseback riding suitable for beginners
• Complementary Split walking tour adds extra city insights
• Value for money at $84 for a full-day guided experience

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Split Countryside Tour

What makes this tour stand out?

This experience offers a balanced blend of adventure, culture, and history, making it a versatile option for many travelers. Starting from the centrally located Apodos Travel Agency, you’ll hop on a bright open-top bus that whisks you through the picturesque Dalmatian hinterland. The bus ride alone sets the scene with stunning views of rolling hills, traditional villages, and rugged landscapes—perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the scenery.

The horseback riding experience

One of the highlights is the 20-minute guided horseback ride on a family-owned estate. The guides, praised for their friendly and professional approach, ensure everyone is comfortable, regardless of experience. The riding takes place in a secure, enclosed arena, making it suitable for complete beginners or those who haven’t been on a horse in years.

Visitors have appreciated the chance to interact with animals on the estate, which also hosts domestic and exotic species, adding a fun touch to the day. The horses are well cared for, and the setting is peaceful, making it a memorable part of the day.

Culinary delights with Soparnik

Next comes the Soparnik-making workshop. Often called a precursor to pizza, this regional pastry is filled with Swiss chard, garlic, and olive oil. The hands-on class is led by local artisans who teach traditional techniques. Reviewers have loved learning how to prepare the dish, describing it as a “really fun and tasty experience.”

After the workshop, you get to taste your creation along with a hearty homemade lunch. The rustic tavern setting, often praised for its authentic vibe, makes the meal an integral part of understanding Dalmatian culinary culture. The homemade dishes, often made with ingredients from local land, are hearty, flavorful, and give a real taste of regional traditions.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Exploring Klis Fortress

Following lunch, the journey continues to Klis Fortress, an ancient medieval stronghold perched above Split. The guided tour takes you through its storied walls, while offering stunning vistas over the city and surrounding countryside. This fortress is also famous for being a filming location for Game of Thrones, adding an extra layer of intrigue for fans.

Visitors highlight the well-preserved structure and the informative guides who recount tales of battles, sieges, and royal history. The climb to the fortress is manageable, and the panoramic views from the top are often described as breathtaking.

Hidden Dalmatia Visitors Centre & Virtual Reality

A unique part of the tour is the Visitors Centre Hidden Dalmatia. Here, interactive multimedia exhibits and virtual reality experiences bring to life the stories and landscapes of the region. It’s a modern way to deepen your understanding of Dalmatia’s history and culture, especially for those who enjoy immersive learning.

The Split Walking Tour Bonus

To wind down, the tour includes a complimentary walking tour of Split. With multiple time slots available throughout the day, this extra insight into the city’s streets, markets, and historic sites adds a nice finishing touch. Reviewers mention that the guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making it a relaxed, engaging way to explore more of Split.

Practical Details and Value

What’s included?

For $84, you get quite a lot: transportation on an open-top bus, horseback riding, Soparnik-making class, a homemade lunch, entry to Klis Fortress and Visitors Centre, and the guided tours. The free walk of Split is a great bonus, providing additional city insights without extra cost.

What’s not included?

Beverages during meals are not included, so plan to bring some water or buy drinks separately. The tour doesn’t specify any restrictions on bringing your own snacks or drinks, so do so if you’d like to stay hydrated during the day.

Tour logistics

Starting at Apodos Travel Agency, the entire experience lasts about 8 hours. The schedule includes several short bus rides, giving you time to enjoy the scenery and relax between activities. The group size appears manageable, with guides offering personalized attention.

Suitability and considerations

While the tour is family-friendly and accessible for beginners, it’s not recommended for children under 6 or wheelchair users. The horse riding, though gentle, requires a basic level of mobility, and the day involves some walking and climbing.

Authentic Experiences & Genuine Insights from Reviews

One recent reviewer, Jamie from the Netherlands, pointed out that “the people on the tour were super friendly” and that they learned a lot about Croatian history. The homemade lunch was a standout for its freshness and authenticity, with Jamie noting, “It was really tasty, fresh from their own land and handmade.”

Another reviewer praised the “cute kittens and village zoo” at the estate, emphasizing the informal, family-run atmosphere that adds charm to the experience. Many appreciated the stunning views on the scenic drives, describing the landscape as postcard-worthy.

The guides’ storytelling skills are often highlighted, with visitors remarking on the knowledgeable guides who keep the experience lively and informative. The combination of cultural activities and historical sites seems to hit the right note for most.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a comprehensive taste of Dalmatia, blending outdoor adventure, culinary discovery, and historical exploration in a seamless way. The well-organized itinerary ensures you’ll see some of the most iconic sights, like Klis Fortress, while also enjoying authentic local experiences like making Soparnik and riding horses.

For those who enjoy learning through hands-on activities and appreciate beautiful scenery, this experience provides excellent value. The friendly guides, scenic drives, and delicious food make it a perfect day trip for curious travelers who want to deepen their understanding of Dalmatian culture.

While it’s a packed day, the variety keeps it engaging from start to finish. If you’re keen on a full immersion into regional traditions with a good balance of activity and relaxation, this tour will likely be a highlight of your Dalmatian adventure.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes transportation on an open-top bus for the entire day, making it easy to relax and enjoy the scenery.

How long is the horseback riding session?
The guided horseback ride lasts approximately 20 minutes, suitable for all experience levels, with all necessary equipment provided.

What is Soparnik, and can I eat my own?
Soparnik is a savory Croatian pastry filled with Swiss chard, garlic, and olive oil. You’ll learn to make it during the workshop and get to enjoy your own creation as part of a homemade lunch.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The experience is suitable for children over 6 years old, but it may not be ideal for very young kids or wheelchair users due to the nature of some activities.

Are the guides local and knowledgeable?
Yes, guides are fluent in English and praised for their friendliness and ability to share engaging stories about Croatian history and culture.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended, along with sun protection and a camera to capture the stunning views.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility to adapt your plans.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a hearty homemade lunch featuring traditional dishes, including your Soparnik, is part of the experience. Beverages are not included, so bring your own or purchase at the venue.

This full-day tour through Dalmatia offers a thoughtful mix of adventure, culture, and history, making it a worthwhile addition to your Croatian itinerary. Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, or outdoor enthusiast, you’ll find memorable moments every step of the way.

You can check if your dates are available here: