Horse-riding has a long tradition in Croatia with indigenous breeds such as the Medimurje, Posavina, Lipizzaner, Hladnokrvnjak, and the Croatian Coldblood Horse. The latter is the most common. Many of these horses have been domesticated over hundreds of years and have proved useful on the farm as well as for recreation.

Certainly the most elegant breed is found on the famed Lipizzaner stud farm in Dakovo, Slavonia. Founded in 1506, it is one of the oldest horse farms in Europe. Slavonia remains a popular spot for horse riding mainly because of the flat terrain, but there are also riding clubs throughout Istria and Dalmatia.

The most colourful example of Croatian horsemanship is the famous Sinj Alka horse-riding competition that occurs each August in the Dalmatian town of Sinj.

Perhaps galloping to a high ring and trying to put a lance through it is not what you're after? No problem. There are many opportunities to enjoy the Croatian countryside on horseback no matter your skill level. From full-service horse centers with riding schools and therapeutic programs to family-run stables there are a wide range of choices.

Be aware that horse riding in Croatia is not yet oriented to foreign visitors, unlike, say scuba diving or other water sports. There are a limited number of operators who have websites or speak English but they do exist. Here's a selection:

Banja Luka (Slavonia): Paddock

Fuzine (Kvarner): Fuzine Riding

Medulin (near Pula): Klub Medulin

Pazin: Klub Soko

Split: Equestrian Club Split

Umag: Horse Center

Zapresic (near Zagreb): Trajbar

Zagreb: Geronimo

For a complete list of horse-riding clubs, see the Croatian Equestrian Federation.

Travel Insurance

No matter which outdoor activity you engage in, I highly recommend that you purchase a travel insurance policy. You'll get the best possible deal by going through Travelex. The policies are flexible and can be purchased or upgraded at any point in your trip. Prices are highly competitive and coverage includes 24-hour emergency assistance, trip cancellation, theft, full medical reimbursement and an option for coverage of a wide range of adventure sports.

 

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