SPLIT: Guided ATV Tour Gornja Podstrana & Horses

The most unusual part of this ATV tour near Split is its finish at an ancient stone quarry used as a Game of Thrones filming site. You ride there through the old mountain village of Gornja Podstrana, with wide views over Split and the islands. I like that this is not just a machine-and-mud outing: the guide adds local scenery, history, and a stop for drinks at a village tavern.

I also like the new, well-kept quad bikes and the small group limit of eight. The route can be adjusted to suit your riding ability, which helps first-time drivers get comfortable quickly. The main catch is that horseback riding costs an extra €15 per person, depends on the weather, and is available on request only during the 5:30 PM sunset tour.

Key points at a glance

• Game of Thrones quarry: Add horseback riding at an old stone quarry used as a filming location.
• New ATV vehicles: The quads are described as smooth, comfortable, and easy for beginners to handle.
• Views above Split: Mountain tracks open onto broad views of the city, sea, and nearby islands.
• Small-group format: A maximum of eight people allows the guide to match the pace to the group.
• Sunset option: The 5:30 PM departure adds the best light, horse riding on request, and a tavern stop.
• Practical inclusions: A licensed guide, ATV equipment, cold drinks, photos, and a storage box are provided.

Why this ATV ride feels different from a city tour

Split is easy to enjoy from its stone lanes and waterfront, but the hills above the city show you another side of Dalmatia. This tour takes you only about 10 minutes from Split, yet quickly moves into the mountain village of Gornja Podstrana. You trade busy streets for rough tracks, old stone buildings, and open views across the coast.

I like the balance here. You get the fun and control of an ATV ride, but the outing also gives you a sense of place. The guide points out local areas, mountain viewpoints, and the history around the old quarry. That makes the trip more worthwhile than simply driving a quad in circles on a purpose-built course.

The tour is a new venture in the area, using newer quad vehicles. That matters if you have little or no ATV experience. You do not need to arrive as an expert, and the route can be tailored to the group’s ability. Experienced drivers still get mountain riding and scenic routes, while beginners have room to learn without feeling pushed.

The group limit is eight participants. That is small enough for the guide to keep an eye on everyone and change the pace when needed. It also means the ride should feel more personal than a large convoy, though the exact feel will depend on how many people book your departure.

Starting at Advent u Podstrani

The meeting point is listed as a parking spot at Advent u Podstrani, and the tour finishes at the same place. Check the exact meeting instructions when you book, since a clear arrival plan matters more for a mountain outing than it does for a central Split walking tour.

If you are staying in Split, the short distance is useful. The experience is outside the city rather than in the historic center, but it does not require a full day of transport. Some people have used the Bolt app to reach the start and return afterward, which can be a practical option if you do not have a car.

Bring your driver’s license, comfortable shoes, and clothes you do not mind wearing for an active ride. The driver must have a category B permit. Alcohol and drugs are not allowed, and children under 12 cannot take part.

The supplied timing is a little inconsistent: the experience is described as three hours, while the additional information says about two and a half hours. I would plan for roughly three hours from arrival to return, and avoid scheduling a tight dinner reservation immediately afterward.

Riding the new quads through Gornja Podstrana

The main part of the outing is a guided ATV ride through the mountain area above Podstrana. You are not simply handed a vehicle and sent off alone. A licensed guide leads the group, helps you get familiar with the quad, and sets a pace suited to the participants.

That is especially helpful if this is your first ATV ride. The controls are described as easy to learn, and the route can be adapted to your ability. You still need to pay attention, follow the guide, and handle uneven mountain ground, but you do not need previous quad experience.

The ride is as much about the views as the driving. As you climb and move through the hills, you can look back toward Split and the islands. The changing elevation gives you a different view of the coast than you get from the city or a boat. Bring your phone if you want personal photos, but keep it secure while riding. A storage box is provided for belongings.

The route is not presented as a high-speed race. That is good news for most people. A guide-led ride lets you focus on the setting, stop at viewpoints, and stay together. If you want nonstop speed, this may feel too measured. If you want a scenic introduction to quad biking, the pace sounds more suitable.

The old stone quarry and Game of Thrones connection

The quarry is the tour’s most distinctive stop. It is an ancient stone site and was also used as a Game of Thrones filming location. You get a bit of film history without giving up the local character of the place.

The quarry adds texture to the trip because it is not a generic photo stop. You see how stone shaped the area and how the setting later served a television production. The nearby horse stables are also described as part of the Game of Thrones set, making the stop more memorable for fans of the show.

Do keep your expectations sensible. This is not described as a formal studio tour, museum, or fully explained production exhibit. The value is in seeing the actual setting as part of a broader mountain ride. If you are a serious fan, the location will likely be a fun bonus. If you have never watched the show, the quarry still works as a scenic and historic stop.

Horseback riding is available here on request. It costs €15 per person and is offered during the sunset tour departing at 5:30 PM, provided weather conditions allow it. The supplied details do not promise horseback riding on every departure, so arrange it ahead of time rather than assuming it will be waiting when you arrive.

Adding horses to the 5:30 PM sunset tour

The sunset version gives this experience a stronger sense of occasion. You ride through the hills late in the day, reach the quarry, and may add a short horseback riding experience. The evening light should make the views especially appealing, although the exact sunset conditions will vary by season and weather.

The horse portion is a separate add-on, not part of the $82 base price. At €15 per person, it is a fairly modest extra for people who want to combine two outdoor activities in one outing. I would choose it if the quarry and horses are central to your plans, especially if you are booking for a special evening.

The weather rule matters. Horseback riding can be canceled when conditions are unsuitable, and it is not available as a guaranteed feature of every departure. Ask about it when you reserve. If your main goal is the ATV ride, this uncertainty is minor. If the horses are the reason you are booking, it deserves attention before payment.

You do not need to be an experienced rider based on the information provided, but the tour details do not explain the length or riding style of the horse portion. Ask the provider for those specifics if you need a longer ride or have particular riding expectations.

Tavern stop, cold drinks, and what is actually included

The sunset outing ends at a local tavern, where you can enjoy snacks and drinks. This is a pleasant finish because it connects the ride with local food rather than sending you straight back to the parking area.

Read the inclusions carefully. Cold drinks and photos are included with the activity, but food and drinks at the tavern are not included. The tavern stop is listed only for the 5:30 PM sunset tour. Budget a little extra if you want to eat or order something there.

I like this arrangement because you can decide what you want instead of paying for a fixed meal. Still, do not arrive expecting a full dinner included in the $82 price. If you are hungry after riding, check what is available at the tavern or plan another meal afterward.

Photos are included, which is useful when you are busy handling the quad and enjoying the views. You may want to confirm how and when the photos are delivered, since the supplied details do not specify the format.

Is $82 a fair price?

At $82 per person, this is not the cheapest way to spend three hours near Split. It is also more than a basic equipment rental, because the price covers a licensed guide, the ATV, equipment, cold drinks, photos, and access to a planned mountain route.

The value depends on what you want. If you only want to drive a quad for a short time, you may find the price hard to justify. If you want transportation into the hills, a guide, scenic stops, a filming location, and a small group, the package makes more sense.

The newer vehicles are another part of the value. Well-maintained quads reduce the worry that comes with unfamiliar equipment, particularly for first-time drivers. You are paying for the setting and guidance as much as for the machine.

Horseback riding adds €15 per person, and tavern food and drinks cost extra. The base price is therefore not the full cost of the sunset version if you want every optional feature. I would compare the total against other Split excursions based on the whole experience, not just the ATV time.

Who will get the most from this outing?

This tour suits couples, friends, and active families with children aged 12 or older. It works particularly well for someone who wants to try ATV riding without committing to a full-day adventure. The short transfer from Split and the small group size make it easy to add to a city break.

It is also a good choice for first-time quad drivers. The quads are reported to be easy to handle, and the guide can adjust the route to the group. You should still be comfortable with outdoor activity and able to follow instructions.

The sunset tour is the best match for couples or anyone interested in the horses, quarry, and tavern stop. The standard ride may suit you better if you mainly want mountain views and ATV time without paying for extra food or horseback riding.

I would be more cautious if you dislike uneven roads, want a quiet sightseeing trip, or have limited time. This is an active excursion, and the tour information does not promise a completely smooth ride. The duration may also run close to three hours, so leave space around it.

What to bring and how to prepare

Wear comfortable clothes and closed, comfortable shoes. You do not need to bring ATV equipment, since that is provided, but you should dress for an outdoor ride rather than a polished city outing.

Your driver’s license is essential. The driver must hold a category B permit, so check that before booking if several people hope to drive. The supplied information does not state whether passengers can ride without driving, so ask the provider if that is important to your group.

Use the storage box for valuables that you do not need while riding. Keep the rest secure, especially your phone. Photos are included, but your own camera may be useful at the quarry and viewpoints if you can carry it safely.

The tour is offered in English and Croatian. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the activity, and you can reserve now and pay later. Those policies are useful if your Split plans depend on weather, though the horseback riding itself remains weather dependent.

My take: book it if the hills matter as much as the ride

I would book this tour if you want more than a standard ATV circuit. The combination of Gornja Podstrana, high views over Split and the islands, a Game of Thrones quarry, and a possible horse ride gives the three hours a clear sense of place.

The strongest choice is the 5:30 PM sunset departure if you want the quarry, horses, and tavern stop. Ask in advance to add horseback riding, and budget €15 per person plus whatever you order at the tavern.

Choose another activity if you want a guaranteed horse excursion, a long riding session, or a full meal included. But for a small-group mountain outing close to Split, with newer quads and a guide who can match the route to your ability, this is a strong use of half a day.

FAQ

How long does the ATV tour last?

The experience is advertised as three hours, while the additional details describe the ride as about two and a half hours. Plan for approximately three hours overall.

Where does the tour start and finish?

It starts at a parking spot at Advent u Podstrani and returns to the same meeting point.

Is horseback riding included in the price?

No. Horseback riding at the old quarry costs €15 per person, is available on request during the 5:30 PM sunset tour, and depends on weather conditions.

What driving license do I need?

The driver must have a category B permit and must bring a driver’s license.

Are food and drinks included?

Cold drinks are included with the activity. Food and drinks at the tavern are not included and are available only during the 5:30 PM sunset tour.

Can children join the tour?

Children under 12 are not permitted to take part.