Swimming with dolphins is a given and is a common holiday activity but have you ever thought of swimming with horses? If you have found a vacation rental in Istria and you are spending time unwinding in the area then why not head out on an excursion on horseback to explore the gorgeous Istrian landscape? Horseback riding is known to be good for creating a sense of serenity and for relaxation and horseback riding through new surroundings sounds like an especially charming and picturesque way to get to know an area. Sound intriguing to you? Then check out our vacation rental in Istria and plan a visit to Samy's Ranch where you can go horseback riding along country paths, on the beach, and right into the Adriatic! Get closer to nature and discover the most interesting way to get to know Istria and Croatia.
Samy's Ranch is a family-run business hosted by wife and husband, Sandra and Igor, in Medulin. Founded in 2003, when they came up with the idea of establishing a business that would allow adventurous people to spend a whole day immersed in nature and informed by Sandra's famous love of horses, Samy's Ranch is a place where one can enjoy time with the majestic beings that are horses while being sure that they are well cared for and happy at all times. Well-trained and calm, the horses are perfectly equipped to take on both beginner riders and those with far more experience, allowing for memorable experiences to be made even if one or all of your party has never tried out horseback riding before or if someone is a little bit nervous or hesitant. There are four different routes (as well as longer trekking and multi-day tour options) to choose from, with different options for beginners, children, and experienced riders and those who want to actually go into the water or not. Lasting between 45 minutes and four hours and with prices starting at around €28, these trips take riders through olive groves, vineyards, forests, meadows, along clifftop paths overlooking the sea, and onto the beach. Make memories with this truly magical experience of forming a connection with a horse, the enhanced beauty of your surroundings while exploring this stunning part of the coastline of Istria on top of a horse, and the surreal wonder of swimming together with one of those beautiful animals in the glittering waters of the Adriatic.
Igor, meanwhile, has brought and added even more adventure to the ranch with his paintball and quad activities. For the Quad Safari tours, there are three different options to choose from, with prices starting at around €28 for one person and €35 for two people sharing a quad. These tours also last between 45 minutes and four hours and take visitors though the same beautiful landscape but on more rugged roads, at faster speeds, and with more excitement. It is important to note, however, that you will need a B category driving license to operate a quad and that minors must be accompanied by a parent or adult. The paintball activity, meanwhile, takes place in a specially set up field with obstacles that make the game more dynamic and that can accommodate up to sixteen people at any one time. You must be at least 12 years of age to take part in the traditional paintball games but those over five can also participate by trying it out with the JT splatmaster instead, which does not hurt when you're hit by a round. This activity is also priced by the amount of ammunition you use, rather than by a session, with the initial 100 rounds costing around €16 (or €10 for 45 rounds for the JT splatmaster) and additional rounds costing €13 per 100. As well as the gun and ammunition, you will also be kitted out with all of the necessary protective equipment to ensure the games are both fun and safe.
So, whether you want your adventure peaceful and natural or high-octane and exciting, there is something for you at Samy's Ranch! For unforgettable experiences while you enjoy a villa in Istria and vacation in Croatia, this is a must-see spot.
So, whether you want your adventure peaceful and natural or high-octane and exciting, there is something for you at Samy's Ranch! For unforgettable experiences while you enjoy a villa in Istria and vacation in Croatia, this is a must-see spot.