When most people imagine exploring Istria, they think about driving from one hilltop town to another or walking along the coast. Horseback riding rarely comes to mind. Maybe it should.
Just a short drive from Rabac, Ranch Marconi offers a completely different way to experience eastern Istria. Instead of looking at the landscape through a car window, you’ll ride quietly through forests, across open meadows and up into the hills, seeing the countryside at the same pace people once did. It’s peaceful, surprisingly relaxing and suitable even if you’ve never sat on a horse before.
You Don’t Need Any Riding Experience
One of the biggest misconceptions about horseback riding is that it’s only for experienced riders. At Ranch Marconi, that’s simply not the case.
Before setting off, you’ll meet your horse, receive a short introduction and learn everything you need to know. Beginners and experienced riders are placed into separate groups, so nobody feels rushed or out of their comfort zone. If it’s your first ride, you’ll explore the trails at a relaxed walking pace. More experienced riders, when the whole group has the necessary skills, also have the opportunity to enjoy sections at a trot or gallop.
It’s one of those activities where confidence grows surprisingly quickly. Within a few minutes, you’re no longer thinking about riding—you start noticing the forest around you instead.
Short Forest Adventure: A Relaxing Introduction
If you’ve never been horseback riding before, this is the perfect place to start. The Short Forest Adventure follows quiet woodland trails shaded by tall oak and pine trees, making it especially enjoyable during the warmer months. The ride lasts around 45 minutes, giving you enough time to settle into the rhythm without feeling tired.
There’s something incredibly calming about moving through the forest on horseback. No engine noise, no busy roads and no hurry. Just the steady sound of hooves on the trail, birds singing overhead and the occasional glimpse of sunlight breaking through the trees.
It’s less about adrenaline and more about slowing down.
Your Forrest Adventure starts HERE.
Catching the Views: Worth Every Climb
If you’d like to spend a little longer in the saddle, Catching the Views takes everything a step further. The trail climbs into the hills above Labin and Rabac, reaching around 500 metres above sea level, where some of the best panoramic views in eastern Istria are waiting. From up here, the Adriatic stretches towards Cres and the surrounding islands, while the green hills roll away behind you. It’s the kind of scenery that makes everyone stop for a moment before reaching for their camera.
The ride itself feels wonderfully varied. One moment you’re surrounded by woodland, the next you’re crossing open meadows with uninterrupted views of the coastline. The pace remains relaxed, allowing you to enjoy both the landscape and your horse rather than simply focusing on reaching the next viewpoint.
BOOK HERE to see the Adriatic from a different perspective.
It’s the Horses That Make the Difference
Beautiful scenery is one thing. Feeling completely at ease on horseback is another. One reason Ranch Marconi receives so many glowing reviews is the way the horses are cared for. Visitors consistently describe them as calm, well-trained and incredibly patient, making even nervous first-time riders feel comfortable within minutes. The guides are equally welcoming, creating an atmosphere that feels more like visiting friends than joining a commercial excursion.
You quickly get the feeling that this isn’t just a business—it’s something the family genuinely loves doing.
Which Ride Should You Choose?
If you’re looking for your very first horseback riding experience, travelling with children or simply want a peaceful ride through nature, Short Forest Adventure is the ideal choice.
If you’re hoping to spend more time on horseback and would love to combine riding with some of the finest viewpoints in eastern Istria, Catching the Views is well worth choosing.
Whichever route you pick, you’ll discover something many visitors never do. The most beautiful side of eastern Istria isn’t always found on the coast. Sometimes it’s waiting quietly in the forests, with four hooves setting the pace.
Little Book Notes
Wear long trousers and closed shoes, even on hot summer days—they’ll make the ride much more comfortable. And don’t worry if you’ve never ridden before. Most guests arrive feeling a little unsure and leave wondering why they didn’t try horseback riding years ago. If you have the choice, book a late afternoon ride. The softer light, cooler temperatures and long views across Kvarner Bay make the experience feel even more special.
