SPLIT: Guided ATV Tour Gornja Podstrana & Horses

The best part of this outing is the quick change from Split’s coast to Podstrana’s mountain tracks. In about 10 minutes, you leave the city behind and ride high above the sea, with wide views toward Split and the nearby islands. The old stone quarry, also used as a Game of Thrones filming site, gives the trip a memorable local twist.

I like the new, well-kept quad bikes and the small groups, limited to eight people. I also like the choice of adding horseback riding at the quarry, especially on the 5:30 PM sunset departure. The main consideration is that the ride may take about 2.5 hours rather than the advertised three, and food at the tavern costs extra.

Key points at a glance

• Ride above Split: Reach Gornja Podstrana’s mountain roads quickly from the city.
• New ATV equipment: The quad bikes are described as smooth, comfortable, and easy for first-time riders.
• Game of Thrones location: Add horseback riding at an old stone quarry used for filming, if weather allows.
• Small-group format: The group is limited to eight, allowing the route to match the riders’ ability.
• Sunset option: The 5:30 PM departure includes a tavern stop for optional food and drinks.
• Practical inclusions: Your guide, ATV gear, cold drinks, photos, and a storage box are included.

From Podstrana Parking to the Mountain Tracks

You meet at the parking spot at Advent u Podstrani, then return to the same place when the ride ends. That simple arrangement matters if you are staying in Split and using a taxi app such as Bolt, as one participant found the location easy to reach and inexpensive to access.

The experience is run by Xtreme Quad Podstrana, a newer ATV operation in the area. You receive a licensed guide, the required quad equipment, cold drinks, photographs, and a storage box for personal belongings. Bring a valid driver’s license, comfortable clothes, and sturdy, comfortable shoes.

The driver must hold a category B permit. Children under 12 cannot take part, and alcohol and drugs are not allowed. The activity is offered in English and Croatian.

Before setting off, you can expect a short introduction to the quad bikes and the basic riding process. The feedback is especially encouraging for first-time riders. The machines are described as easy to handle, and the route can be adjusted to suit your ability. That is useful because an ATV ride should feel adventurous, not like a driving test you accidentally booked on holiday.

Why Gornja Podstrana Makes a Better Ride Than City Streets

Podstrana lies just southeast of Split, but this trip quickly leaves the built-up coastal strip. The ride heads into the historic mountain village area of Gornja Podstrana, where the reward is the view rather than a list of formal sights.

From the higher roads, you look back toward Split and across the sea to the islands. The views are one of the strongest reasons to book this particular ATV trip. You are not simply circling a practice field or riding a short loop beside a resort. You are moving through a mountain setting with changing viewpoints and open air.

The route also lets the guide tailor the pace and stops to the group. If you are new to quad bikes, you can get comfortable without being pushed into a fast ride. If you already ride, the mountain route gives you a more satisfying outing than a basic introduction.

That flexibility is valuable in a small group of no more than eight people. A large convoy can spend much of its time waiting, but a compact group makes it easier for the guide to explain the area, pause at viewpoints, and keep the ride moving.

The ATV Ride: About Two and a Half to Three Hours

The advertised duration is three hours, though the practical information describes the ride as about 2.5 hours. I would plan your day around roughly three hours, while understanding that the exact time can vary with the group, weather, and route.

The focus is mountain riding. You can expect a mix of riding and stops rather than three straight hours on the throttle. The guide takes you through the village and up toward viewpoints, with time to see the area and take photographs.

The included photos are a useful touch. You can keep your phone safely in the storage box instead of trying to steer and take pictures at the same time, which is good for both your memory and everyone else’s safety. Cold drinks are also included, a small but welcome detail during a warm Croatian afternoon.

The equipment is a clear strength. The quad bikes are new and maintained, and the available feedback describes them as smooth, comfortable, and simple to learn. That makes this a good option if you have never driven an ATV before. You should still listen carefully to the guide and follow the route instructions, but you do not need previous quad-bike experience.

The ride is not presented as a high-speed thrill trip. Its appeal is the combination of manageable driving, mountain air, local scenery, and the chance to reach places that are difficult to see from a standard Split sightseeing route. If you want racing, jumps, or a hard-core off-road challenge, this may feel too gentle. If you want a scenic introduction to ATV riding, it fits better.

The Ancient Quarry and Game of Thrones Connection

The old stone quarry is the most unusual stop on the route. It gives the trip a physical link to the area’s stone-working past and a screen connection through Game of Thrones filming.

The quarry is not included as a separate horseback-riding charge in the basic price. Horseback riding is available on request for €15 per person during the 5:30 PM sunset tour, and it depends on weather conditions.

That extra activity changes the character of the outing. The ATV ride provides movement and views, while the horses offer a slower way to take in the quarry setting. You can book two single riders, and the available experience allows riders to share a horse in some cases, though you should confirm the arrangement when booking rather than count on it.

The horses and the old stable area are a major draw for anyone who enjoys animals or wants a more unusual photo stop. The setting was described as especially striking, with the stable area connected to the Game of Thrones filming site. If that show means little to you, the quarry still has value as an old stone site in a mountain setting.

The weather condition is important. Horseback riding is not guaranteed, and the €15 fee is separate from the $82 ATV price. Ask ahead if you are booking mainly for the horses.

Why the 5:30 PM Sunset Departure Is Worth Considering

The sunset tour adds two things: the possibility of horseback riding and a stop at a local tavern. Food and drinks at the tavern are not included, so bring some extra spending money.

The later departure is a strong choice if you care most about atmosphere and photographs. The high position above the coast gives you a good chance of seeing Split and the islands in softer evening light, though the exact sunset view depends on weather and timing.

The tavern stop adds a local pause after the ride. Instead of returning directly to the city, you can sit down for snacks and drinks in a less formal setting. This is one of the more authentic touches of the trip, since it connects the ATV outing to everyday local hospitality rather than keeping everything inside the tour vehicle.

There are tradeoffs. A sunset ride gives you less daylight, and weather can affect both the riding conditions and the horse option. You should also allow time after the activity if you have dinner reservations in Split, since the actual duration can vary.

What the $82 Price Includes

At $82 per person, this is not the cheapest way to see the hills near Split. The price makes more sense when you count what is included: a licensed guide, quad equipment, cold drinks, photos, and a storage box, all within a small group.

You are also paying for access to a route that combines several elements in one outing. A typical short ATV rental may give you the machine but not the guide, local context, organized viewpoints, or a visit to a filming site. Here, the guide handles the route and adjusts it to the riders’ experience.

The value is strongest if you want variety. You get mountain riding, sea views, local village scenery, and the option of a tavern stop. It is less compelling if your only goal is to drive a quad for as long as possible, or if you dislike paying extra for optional activities.

Horseback riding costs an additional €15 per person and is only offered on request during the sunset tour. Food and drinks at the tavern are also extra. Add those costs before comparing this with other excursions.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later, which helps if your Split plans are still shifting.

Who Will Enjoy This Trip Most

I would recommend it to couples, friends, and independent-minded visitors who want an active half-day outing close to Split. It suits first-time ATV riders particularly well because the bikes are easy to learn and the route can be adapted to ability.

The sunset departure is a good match for couples. The sea views, horseback option, old quarry, and tavern stop make it feel more special than a daytime driving session. It also works for friends who want a few hours outside the city without committing to a full-day excursion.

You should think twice if you are under 12, do not hold a category B driving permit, or are looking for a quiet sightseeing tour with no physical activity. You will need comfortable clothes and shoes, and you should expect dust, outdoor riding, and mountain roads.

The trip also depends on conditions. Horseback riding is specifically weather dependent, and the route or timing may not be identical on every departure. If the horse experience is your main reason for booking, confirm it in advance.

Six Smart Questions to Ask Before You Go

• Confirm the start time, especially if you want the 5:30 PM sunset departure.
• Ask whether horseback riding is available on your date and how the €15 supplement will be handled.
• Plan for about three hours, despite the practical duration also being listed as roughly 2.5 hours.
• Bring your category B driver’s license, since the driver must have one.
• Wear clothes and shoes you are comfortable using outdoors.
• Keep extra money for tavern food and drinks, which are not included.

The small group is another reason to book ahead. With a maximum of eight participants, the experience is not built for a large busload, and availability may be limited at popular times.

FAQ

How long does the ATV tour last?

The activity is advertised as three hours, while the practical information describes the tour as about 2.5 hours. Check the available departure details and allow roughly three hours in your schedule.

Where does the tour begin and end?

You meet at the parking spot at Advent u Podstrani. The activity ends back at the same meeting point.

Is horseback riding included?

No. Horseback riding at the old quarry is an optional extra costing €15 per person during the 5:30 PM sunset tour. It is available on request and depends on the weather.

Is food included at the tavern?

No. Food and drinks at the local tavern are not included. The tavern stop is offered with the sunset tour at 5:30 PM, and you pay separately for anything you order there.

Do I need a driver’s license?

Yes. The driver must hold a category B permit, and you should bring your driver’s license with you.

Is the tour suitable for children?

The activity is not suitable for children under 12 years old. The tour is offered in English and Croatian, with groups limited to eight participants.

Should You Book the Xtreme Quad Podstrana Ride?

Book it if you want active sightseeing near Split, especially if mountain views matter more to you than a polished city tour. The new quad bikes, friendly guide-led format, adjustable route, and small group make it approachable for beginners, while the quarry and sunset options give it more character than a standard ATV rental.

Choose the 5:30 PM departure if you want the best chance to add horseback riding and finish at the tavern. Just confirm the horse option, budget for extra food, and remember that weather can change the plan.

Skip it if you want a guaranteed horse ride, a full three-hour drive with no variation, or a very cheap activity. For everyone else, this is a lively way to trade Split’s pavement for mountain tracks, sea views, stone, and a memorable evening above the coast.