Dust, Sea, and Cliffside Monasteries: Quadting Čiovo’s Hidden Trails
A compact off-road day on Čiovo that trades beaches for backroads, and postcards for places you have to earn.
The morning wind off the Adriatic arrives like a dare: cool, salty, and intent on moving you forward. You’re on a Yamaha-style automatic quad, helmet snug, gloves dusty from the first stretch of limestone track. Below, the island’s southern flank falls away into clean, pebble beaches; ahead, a ribbon of singletrack carves through maquis and scrub toward a monastery wedged into the cliff face. This is Čiovo not as seen from the ferry or the Trogir promenade, but from its back roads—the one you earn with a grin, a little grit, and 25 kilometers of off-road driving.
Trail Wisdom
Wear closed-toe shoes
Stony tracks and loose gravel demand sturdy footwear—sneakers with good tread are the minimum.
Bring a small daypack
Carry water, sunscreen, and a camera; hands-free mounting or chest straps keep photos steady.
Expect dust and wind
Bring a bandana or buff and opt for sunglasses with side coverage; raincoats are provided if needed.
Listen to your guide
Guides set pace and signals for group safety—follow instructions for gaps, stops, and technical sections.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Secluded pebble coves on the island’s southern coast for a one-stone swim
- •Small terraces near Žedno with views overlooking Split and Šolta
Wildlife
Yellow-legged gulls, Dalmatian wall lizard
Conservation Note
Stick to marked tracks to reduce erosion, avoid driving over terraces, and pack out anything you bring—coastal ecosystems here are fragile.
Čiovo’s proximity to Trogir and Split ties it to centuries of Adriatic trade; Trogir’s old town is UNESCO-listed for its medieval architecture.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: wildflower viewing, comfortable riding temperatures, fewer crowds
Challenges: occasional rain, muddy sections early in season
Spring brings cooling breezes and blooming maquis; trails can be soft after rain, but the island is quieter and lush.
summer
Best for: clear sea views, long daylight hours, warm post-ride swims
Challenges: heat midday, more tourists in Trogir
Summer delivers perfect light and warm water—ride early or late to avoid the strongest sun and busiest docks.
fall
Best for: mild weather, harvest-season charm, stable trails
Challenges: shorter daylight hours, sea temperatures drop
Fall is ideal: stable conditions, cooler air, and a quieter harbor scene after the high season.
winter
Best for: off-season solitude, lower prices, clear coastal visibility
Challenges: windier days, cooler temperatures, some operators reduce runs
Winters are cool and wind-prone; the tour runs in calmer spells, but bring warm layers and expect shorter outings.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Closed-toe hiking shoesEssential
Protects feet on gravel tracks and during quick walks to viewpoints.
Sunglasses with strapEssential
Keeps dust and glare out of your eyes and stays secure on bumpy trails.
Light waterproof jacket
Useful for unexpected showers; operators provide raincoats but a personal layer increases comfort.
Small daypack with hydrationEssential
Holds water, sunscreen, camera, and personal items without limiting movement.
Common Questions
Do I need previous quad experience?
No—the tour includes a safety briefing and uses automatic quads, so first-time riders are welcome.
What is included in the price?
Helmets, basic instruction, quad rental, guide services, and raincoats (if needed) are included; food and drinks are extra.
Can children participate?
Age and weight limits vary by operator—check in advance, but many tours allow passengers or youth riders with guardian approval.
What happens in bad weather?
Tours run in light rain and raincoats are provided; heavy storms may force rescheduling or cancellation with full refund.
Is riding on the beach allowed?
No—riding is restricted to established inland and coastal tracks to protect fragile shorelines and nesting areas.
How do I get to the meeting point in Žedno?
Most travelers transfer from Trogir by short taxi or arranged pick-up; the operator will confirm meeting details on booking.
What to Pack
Closed-toe shoes for rocky tracks, Sunglasses/buff to manage dust and glare, Refillable water bottle to stay hydrated, Lightweight waterproof layer for sudden showers
Did You Know
Trogir’s historic center, viewed across the channel from Čiovo, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its preserved medieval architecture.
Quick Travel Tips
Book morning or late-afternoon slots to avoid heat, Confirm pick-up or meeting point with the operator ahead of time, Carry small local currency for snacks and tips, Leave valuables in your hotel—bring only essentials on the quad
Local Flavor
After the ride, head to Trogir’s waterfront: grab grilled fish and a draft beer at a konoba (tavern), or try fritule—Croatian doughnuts—while wandering the UNESCO-registered old town.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Split Airport (SPU) ~6–15 km by road; Typical drive to Žedno meeting point: 15–30 minutes from Trogir; Cell service: Generally good but spotty in some coves; Permits: None required for tourist quad tours.
Sustainability Note
Operators stick to established tracks to prevent erosion; riders should avoid driving across terraces or sensitive shoreline habitats and pack out all trash.