If you’re looking to add a genuine sense of adventure and local flavor to your trip to Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, an ATV quad tour on Ciovo Island is hard to beat. This experience, offered by Quad Adventures in Slatine, combines roughly 2.5 hours of guided exploration with unforgettable panoramas, a dash of history, and a bit of adrenaline. It’s ideal for those who enjoy outdoor activities, scenic drives, and discovering lesser-known corners of the islands away from the typical tourist trail.
One of the standout features I love about this tour is the variety of stops, which balances natural beauty with historical sights. From panoramic hilltop views of Split to the peaceful monastery of Our Lady of Prizidnica, every part provides a new perspective. The guides, Branka and Ivo, consistently earn praise for their warmth, local knowledge, and friendly guidance, making the journey feel more like exploring with friends rather than a mass tour. Plus, the inclusion of all safety gear like helmets, gloves, and glasses, along with bottled water, makes this whole adventure feel both secure and comfortable.
However, a consideration worth keeping in mind is that the tour requires participants to be at least 18 with a driver’s license if they wish to operate the ATV. Also, it’s a half-day adventure, so if you’re craving a full-day experience, you might want to look into combining this with other activities or extending your time on the island. The price of about $85 per person is reasonable for the scope and quality of the tour, especially considering the personalized service and stunning views.
Key Points
- Scenic variety: The tour offers panoramic views of Split, the coast, and neighboring islands, making it visually rewarding.
- Knowledgeable guides: Branka and Ivo bring enthusiasm and local insights, enriching the experience.
- Historical highlights: Visiting the 16th-century monastery of Our Lady of Prizidnica adds a cultural touch.
- Flexible options: You can choose between a 2-hour or 3-hour tour, with extra beach time for swimming.
- Well-organized itinerary: Stops are thoughtfully spaced, blending nature, history, and viewpoints.
- Good value: The price includes safety gear, bottled water, a test drive, and most stops, making it a solid investment in your Croatia trip.
Exploring the Ciovo Island ATV Quad Tour in Detail
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Ciovo Island.
What’s the First Step? Meeting Location and Starting Point
The adventure kicks off in the small village of Slatine on Ciovo Island, where Quad Adventures has their base. The easiest way to reach it is by car—just about 10 minutes from Trogir or 35 minutes from Split. Alternatively, you can take a 30-minute ferry from either city, which adds a scenic element before you even start riding.
Once there, you’ll be greeted, fitted with safety gear, and given about half an hour of training and a test drive. This initial step is crucial for beginners and ensures everyone feels comfortable before hitting the trails. The small group size—limited to 12 travelers—means the guides can give personal attention, and you won’t feel lost in a crowd.
The Drive Through Ciovo’s Panoramic Landscapes
After meeting, the ride begins with a drive through Slatine, heading toward the island’s interior. This part of the tour usually lasts about 40 minutes, during which you’ll drive through quiet villages and pine forests, with periodic stops for photos and brief rests. I enjoyed the way this segment offers a glimpse of everyday life on Ciovo and scenic nature—a perfect way to start the adventure while warming up the quads.
Visiting Gospa od Prizidnice
One of the most unique stops is the monastery of Our Lady of Prizidnica, perched on southern cliffs. This 16th-century site provides both cultural insight and spectacular views of the coast. The reviews praise the hosts, Branka and Ivo, for their detailed explanations of the history and significance of this monastery. Expect about 35 minutes here, including time to enjoy the tranquil setting and snap some photos of the dramatic cliffs and sea below.
The Glava Viewpoint and Split Panorama
Next, you’ll continue to the easternmost part of the island, reaching the Glava viewpoint, which offers sweeping vistas of Katela Bay and the city of Split. This is often considered the tour’s highlight—standing at the edge of the island with Split sprawling in the distance. Many reviewers mention how breathtaking the scenery is and how perfectly the guides blend informative commentary with moments for quiet appreciation.
Beaches and Coastal Views at Heliodrom
The route then skirts along the coast, passing by some of Ciovo’s beautiful beaches, where you might catch glimpses of crystal-clear waters and rocky coastlines. The tour includes a short stop at a viewpoint near Heliodrom for more photos and some downtime. Visitors report that this segment captures the natural beauty of the island, making it ideal for photographers and nature lovers alike.
Returning to Base and Village Charm
After exploring the coast and viewpoints, the tour winds back through the center of Slatine. The return journey underscores the small-town charm of the village, leaving you with impressions of a quiet, authentic part of Croatia often missed by travelers in larger resorts.
What’s Included and What to Bring
Your ticket price covers helmets, gloves, glasses, fuel, bottled water, and the guide’s expertise. Since lunch and hotel transfers aren’t included, plan accordingly—most travelers opt to bring snacks or plan a meal afterward in nearby Trogir or Split.
Who Will Love This Tour?
From reviews, it’s clear that this tour appeals to people seeking a mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and learning. It’s suitable for ages 18 and over, especially if you hold a driver’s license, making it perfect for solo travelers, couples, and small groups of friends or family with older children. The small group size and friendly guides create an intimate atmosphere, ideal if you’re after a personal experience.
The Value of the Experience
For around $85, this tour packs a lot—unmatched views, cultural stops, and outdoor fun—making it a good value. The fact that many reviewers comment on the professionalism and friendliness of the guides suggests you’re in capable hands. Plus, the flexibility of choosing a shorter or longer tour, with optional swimming, adds to its appeal.
The Authentic Touch
What sets this experience apart is the hosts’ local knowledge and warm hospitality, highlighted repeatedly in reviews. Branka and Ivo don’t just lead a ride—they share stories and tips that make the experience memorable. Several mention that the guides’ commentary about the island’s landmarks and history added depth to the adventure.
The Sum Up
This ATV quad tour on Ciovo Island offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural sights, and outdoor excitement. It’s especially good for travelers wanting a more immersive, active way to experience Croatia’s coast beyond the typical sightseeing. The friendly guides, stunning viewpoints, and authentic atmosphere make it stand out.
If you love outdoor adventures, scenic drives, and are interested in local insights combined with a safe, well-organized outing, this tour is a strong choice. It’s particularly suitable for those comfortable with operating an ATV and eager to explore from a different perspective. Plus, the opportunity to relax with a swim included in the longer option makes it a versatile and memorable addition to your Croatian itinerary.
FAQs
Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour begins with a half-hour training and test drive, making it accessible even for those new to riding ATVs. The guides are patient and helpful.
What is the minimum age to participate as a driver?
Participants must be at least 18 years old and hold a driver’s license if they want to operate the ATV.
How long does the tour last?
The basic tour is approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, with a longer option offering an additional hour and time for swimming on the beaches.
Are safety gear and equipment provided?
Yes, helmets, gloves, and glasses are included in the price, along with fuel and parking.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations within 24 hours aren’t refundable.
Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour starts and ends at the designated meeting point in Slatine. Organized transport is available but not included in the price.
What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of panoramic views, historical stops, and the warm, knowledgeable guides like Branka and Ivo make it a memorable Croatian experience.
Will I have free time to swim?
Yes, the 3-hour tour includes additional free time for swimming at one of Ciovo’s beautiful beaches, perfect for cooling off after riding.