Omis: From Pirate Haunts to Soaring Ziplines
Tucked away just a 30-minute drive south of the bustling city of Split lies the captivating town of Omis. This isn’t just any seaside spot. It’s a place where history echoes with the swashbuckling tales of pirates! Centuries ago, the formidable Omis pirates used the town’s unique geography – nestled at the mouth of the Cetina River, surrounded by steep mountains – as a perfect hideout to ambush rich merchant ships sailing between Venice, Dubrovnik, and Naples in Italy.
Their clever strategy relied on more than just the hidden estuary. Large sea-going vessels couldn’t navigate the river, allowing the pirates to retreat safely to their mountain fortress. They even brokered shrewd non-aggression pacts with local villages, creating a web of “cooperation” that made them the undisputed rulers of this stretch of coast.
While the charming old town itself is a lovely place for a wander, our mission in Omis was one of modern-day adventure – to conquer one of Europe’s longest and most thrilling zipline courses.
An Adrenaline-Fueled Flight over the Cetina Canyon
Forget looking for pirates. We came to fly like them! The Zipline Croatia course in Omis is a true adrenaline junkie’s dream, featuring eight separate cables that stretch for over two kilometres in total. The journey begins in the town centre, where you’ll find the official zipline office. A quick five-minute walk from the main car park, which is a blessing for any driver, and we were signed in and ready for action.
A quick but important note: payment was cash-only in Croatian Kuna ( at that time around 400 Kn, or €45 per person), but with Croatia’s adoption of the Euro in 2023, that’s one less thing to worry about! Also, note this is not an activity for young children, and as you’re transported deep into the mountains, there’s no option to leave them behind.
Soon, our group of about twelve adventurers was whisked away by bus into the dramatic landscape. Upon arrival at the base camp, we were kitted out and given a comprehensive safety briefing. The instructors were brilliant – thoroughly professional and full of good humour. We even had a practice run on a short 20-metre cable to ensure everyone was confident before the real fun began.
And what fun it was! The first run is the longest – a breathtaking 700-metre glide that sends you soaring 150 metres above the stunning canyon floor. While this initial flight is designed to be relatively gentle, the sensation of hanging in the air, with the wind gently swaying you as you take in the phenomenal views, is absolutely unforgettable. Each of the eight sections has its own character. Some are steeper and faster for a real thrill, while others are flatter, allowing you to truly soak up the magnificent scenery.
The entire experience passed in what felt like a glorious, heart-pounding minute. Before we knew it, we were sharing laughs and taking group photos at the end, buzzing from the shared adventure. The buses returned us to Omis centre, and our high-flying journey was complete.
A Well-Earned Feast at Radmanove Mlinice
After such an exhilarating feat, a proper feast is mandatory. Following a tip from some friendly locals, we drove about six kilometres upstream to the local Restoran Radmanove Mlinice. Set on the banks of the serene Cetina River, this place is more than a restaurant. It’s an idyllic recreation complex buzzing with life.
As we dined, we watched rented boats and kayaks glide peacefully past – rafting is the second major adventure activity in the region, with offers plastered all over town. The restaurant itself is vast, yet the service was remarkably swift. The food was delicious and, considering the superb quality and stunning location, felt like an incredible bargain.
A Perfect Day’s End
With our appetites thoroughly sated, we took the scenic mountain route back to our home in Sevid, reflecting on a day that truly had it all – a dash of history, an immense dose of adrenaline, and a perfect, peaceful conclusion. If you’re seeking a Croatian adventure that goes beyond the beach, Omis delivers in spectacular fashion.