Nature & wildlife trip

Explore Velebit on horseback, a week of cowboy life on Via Dinarica

Live in the mountains for a week and get around by horseback riding, hiking and riding off-road in 4x4s. With a western-themed ranch as your home base, you’ll experience the lifestyle of a cowboy while exploring Velebit, the monumental Croatian mountain.

Trip highlights

  • Luxury and unique 4-star accommodation in the wilderness of the Velebit mountain UNESCO Biosphere Reserve
  • A great escape from the crowds and traffic
  • Possibility to experience an unforgettable connection with nature through mastering different types of horse-riding skills
  • Waking up to the birdsongs
  • Fun and outdoor educational program for children
  • Scenic horseback rides in the valley with stream crossings, gorges and meadows
  • Hike along the beautiful mountain landscapes 

Create your adventure

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Spend a week on the authentic western yet luxury ranch on the magnificent Velebit mountain. Velebit is the largest mountain range in Croatia. Its biodiversity and natural beauty have long been acknowledged and the entire range was included in 1978 in the world network of biosphere reserves within the UNESCO programme of Man and the Biosphere (MAB). 

 Unleash your adventurous spirit and become a real cowboy. Enjoy the ranch activities from riding classes to hiking, caving/spelunking, canoeing, mountain biking, archery, and off-ranch activities like ziplining, all-terrain vehicle adventures, and kayaking. With guides and gear always provided, you do not need to worry about feeling safe. In this all-inclusive offer, an all-day connection with nature and horses will allow you to fully renew your spirit, recharge with energy and bear the stress of everyday life more easily.

The ranch is located inside Velebit National Park, a member of the European Destinations of Excellence (EDEN) network, being the national winner in the category „Tourism and Protected Areas“.

From the start, it has committed to being a part of the Velebit ecosystem in an entirely environmentally sustainable manner. The ranch started with a vision for a sustainable wilderness resort. The dream became a reality as the food for people and livestock has come from local farms and gardens.

All the windows, doors, furniture, carpets, decors, and construction material have been made by local artists and craftsmen and sourced in the valley. You are thinking green? This is a place for you. Enjoy the concept that puts human in the centre of attention to create a balanced and integrated living system for all creatures.

An extensive variety of on-ranch activities are available from 9 am to 6 pm. All guided activities include professional guides with a passion for the adventure and a selection of gear, such as cowboy hats and boots, raincoats and walking canes.

With so much to discover, we encourage you to do two activities per day, one in the morning and one in the afternoon, or to participate in one of the day-long activities. Schedule is designed around a 7-day stay, from Saturday to Saturday. During your stay you can try every activity at the ranch at least once.

Itinerary and the duration of the activities are subject to change due to group abilities and preferences, weather conditions and forecasts, snow and water levels, special events or interests, etc. Ranch guides and trip leaders will do their utmost to ensure the best possible experience for their clients without compromising safety at any time. This may mean changing the original itinerary to avoid discomfort or risk which could be caused by exceptional situations. You as a guest are not a mere spectator but rather an active participant. You absorb a wealth of knowledge and wisdom from locals and you leave some of your own wisdom behind.

Day-by-day itinerary

DAY 1

Saturday – Explore the Ranch and Unwind

Arrive at Zadar Airport where your driver will greet you and take you to your mountain retreat. Nestled in the serene Velebit Mountains, this ranch offers an escape into nature's tranquility. Check into your cozy accommodation, featuring luxurious feather beds, massage showers, and sheep wool insulation for the ultimate peace and quiet. Meet your host over a welcome drink in the Saloon to discuss the week ahead. Dinner and overnight at the ranch.

DAY 2

Sunday – Saddle Up and Enjoy a Wagon Ride

Begin your day with a fresh, delicious breakfast before embarking on a two-hour horseback riding adventure. As you start your cowboy journey, breathe in the fragrant mix of saddle leather, wildflowers, and sun-warmed pine. After lunch, join a wagon ride through the village, experiencing organic farming firsthand and even trying your hand at driving a team of horses. Conclude the day with a BBQ and barn dance, where you can show your cowboy spirit and learn new dance moves. Overnight at the ranch.

  • *The maximum weight for riders is 100 kg (220 lbs US). Exceptions might be made for very experienced/athletic riders. No prior riding experience is needed.

DAY 3

Monday – Cowboy Breakfast and Cathedral Hike

Start with a hands-on cowboy breakfast around a fire, where everyone helps prepare the meal. Afterward, enjoy a hike on the picturesque logging trails, perfect for all levels of hikers. Post-lunch, children can join the Little Bears kids' club for outdoor adventures and learning about Croatia's history. Try your skills in archery for an exciting end to the day. Overnight at the ranch.

DAY 4

Tuesday – Trail Ride, Natural Horsemanship, and Geocaching

Savor the aroma of freshly brewed coffee before a scenic two-hour ride through the valley's stunning landscapes. In the afternoon, witness a Natural Horsemanship demonstration, enhancing your understanding of horse communication. Later, embark on a geocaching adventure, using GPS to find hidden treasures and learning about the area's nature and history. Overnight at the ranch.

DAY 5

Wednesday – Ghost Town Day Trip (Horseback/Jeep/Hike)

Choose your adventure to the abandoned Ghost Town: ride a horse, hike, or take a 4x4 jeep. Explore the preserved ranching town and enjoy a simple lunch. Return to the ranch via your chosen mode of travel. Relax in the hot tub before dinner, letting the warm water soothe your muscles. Overnight at the ranch.

DAY 6

Thursday – Create Your Own Adventure

Enjoy a morning trail ride, then explore the valley at your leisure. Visit nearby caves, climb peaks, or relax in the meadows. Alternatively, bike to the Nikola Tesla museum in Smiljan or join the kids in the Little Bears club for survival activities and cowboy games. The day is yours to discover the hidden wonders of the valley. Overnight at the ranch.

DAY 7

Friday – Cowboy Breakfast and Lake Day

After a hearty cowboy breakfast, embark on a canoe adventure along the Lika River canyon. Paddle through the calm waters, navigate ancient dams, and enjoy the stunning scenery. After a BBQ lunch by the lake, return upstream and head back to the ranch. Overnight at the ranch.

DAY 8

Saturday – Just one more thing before departure

After breakfast and check-out, visit the breathtaking Plitvice Lakes National Park if your schedule permits. Explore the 16 cascading lakes and lush surroundings of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Conclude your adventure with a private transfer to Zadar Airport for your departure. 

Ask about availability & get an offer

What happens when you request an offer?

1

We will double-check availability and make reservations for your rooms, restaurants, guides etc.

2

With reservations confirmed, we will prepare the best offer possible in regard to your arrival date & party size

3

You will get the offer via e-mail, along with the payment options. Feel free to request further customisations!

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