Hiking Montenegro
Is Montenegro good for walking?
Montenegro hiking map
Hiking in Montenegro as well as trekking in Montenegro can be a thrilling and rewarding experience for outdoor enthusiasts. The country’s diverse landscapes offer a range of opportunities for hiking, from the rugged peaks of the Durmitor and Bjelasica mountains to the rolling hills of the Zabljak region and the stunning coastline of the Adriatic Sea.
One of the main attractions of hiking and trekking in Montenegro is the stunning natural beauty of the country. The rugged mountain landscapes, deep canyons, and crystal-clear lakes offer breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences. Hikers can discover hidden waterfalls, explore ancient forests, and encounter a wide range of wildlife, from bears and wolves to eagles and vultures.
In addition to the natural beauty of the country, hiking and trekking in Montenegro offer a unique cultural experience. The country’s rich history and cultural heritage are evident in the many historic sites and monuments that can be found along the trails. From the ancient ruins of the Roman city of Doclea to the medieval fortress of Kotor, hikers can discover the history and traditions of Montenegro.
While hiking and trekking in Montenegro can be challenging, the rewards are well worth the effort. The sense of accomplishment that comes from reaching a mountain summit or completing a long-distance trek is second to none. Hiking and trekking can also provide a sense of peace and tranquility, as hikers immerse themselves in nature and leave the stresses of daily life behind.
Overall, hiking and trekking in Montenegro offer a thrilling and rewarding experience that is not to be missed for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you are an experienced hiker looking for a new challenge or a beginner looking to explore the natural beauty of the country, Montenegro has something to offer for everyone.
The Durmitor National Park is one of the most popular hiking destinations in Montenegro. It features over 20 peaks that are higher than 2,000 meters, and numerous trails that cater to hikers of all levels. The Black Lake trail is a popular route that takes hikers through dense forests and along the shores of the park’s two glacial lakes.
The Prokletije Mountains, also known as the “Balkan Alps,” are located in the southeast of Montenegro, and offer challenging and rewarding hikes for experienced hikers. The Grbaja Valley is a popular starting point for hikes, and the peak of Zla Kolata offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
In addition to these mountain ranges, Montenegro also has several other scenic areas for hiking, such as the Skadar Lake National Park and the Biogradska Gora National Park.
When hiking in Montenegro, it’s important to be prepared for changing weather conditions, wear appropriate hiking gear, and carry enough food and water. It’s also a good idea to hire a local guide or join a guided tour for added safety and to get the most out of the experience.
Overall, hiking in Montenegro is a fantastic way to experience the country’s natural beauty and to challenge yourself physically. With its stunning mountain ranges, scenic trails, and varied terrain, Montenegro is an excellent destination for hiking enthusiasts.
Hiking holiday Montenegro for family
Montenegro offers a range of hiking and trekking trails that are suitable for families with children. Here are a few examples:
Skadar Lake National Park: Skadar Lake National Park offers several easy trails that are suitable for families with children. The trails offer stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains, and hikers can also spot a range of wildlife, including pelicans, herons, and otters.
Plav Lake: Plav Lake is a beautiful lake located in the Prokletije Mountains in the north of Montenegro. The area offers several easy hiking trails that are suitable for families with children, and hikers can enjoy stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
Biogradska Gora National Park: Biogradska Gora National Park offers several easy to moderate hiking trails that are suitable for families with children. The park is home to the stunning Biogradska Gora Lake and a range of wildlife, including bears, wolves, and lynx.
Durmitor National Park: Durmitor National Park is a popular destination for hiking and trekking in Montenegro, but it also offers several easy trails that are suitable for families with children. The park is home to the stunning Black Lake and several other beautiful lakes and waterfalls.
Lovcen National Park: Lovcen National Park offers several easy trails that are suitable for families with children. The park is home to the stunning Njegos Mausoleum and offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and coastline.
These are just a few examples of the hiking and trekking trails in Montenegro that are suitable for families with children. It’s always a good idea to research the trails and choose one that is appropriate for the age and ability of your children.
Montenegro offers a range of medium to advanced trekking trails for experienced hikers. Here are a few examples:
Durmitor National Park: Durmitor National Park is one of the most popular destinations for hiking and trekking in Montenegro, offering a range of medium to advanced trails. The park is home to the stunning Bobotov Kuk peak, which is the highest point in the park at 2,523 meters. The trails in Durmitor offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and glacial lakes.
Prokletije National Park: Prokletije National Park is located in the north of Montenegro and offers some of the most challenging trekking trails in the country. The park is home to the highest peak in Montenegro, Maja Kolata, which stands at 2,534 meters. The trails in Prokletije offer stunning views of the rugged mountains and deep canyons.
Bjelasica Mountain: Bjelasica Mountain is located in the central part of Montenegro and offers a range of challenging trekking trails. The trails in Bjelasica offer stunning views of the mountain landscape and several beautiful glacial lakes.
Komovi Mountain: Komovi Mountain is located in the north-eastern part of Montenegro and offers some of the most challenging trekking trails in the country. The trails in Komovi offer stunning views of the surrounding peaks and deep valleys.
Rumija Mountain: Rumija Mountain is located in the southern part of Montenegro and offers a range of challenging trekking trails. The trails in Rumija offer stunning views of the Adriatic Sea and the surrounding mountains.
These are just a few examples of the medium to advanced trekking trails in Montenegro. It’s always important to research the trails beforehand and make sure you are prepared for the challenges they present. Always bring appropriate gear and be aware of the weather conditions and any potential hazards on the trail.
Prokletije Mountains
Prokletije Mountains, also known as the “Balkan Alps,” is a range of peaks located on the border between Montenegro, Albania, and Kosovo. This rugged and beautiful mountain range is a paradise for hikers and offers some of the most challenging and rewarding treks in Montenegro.
The Prokletije mountains are a vast tract of wildness that define the border between Kosovo and Albania. In 2009, a 160-square-kilometer area on the Montenegrin side was designated the fifth national park of the country. On the Albanian side, there are two national parks: Theth (26 km2) and Valbona Valley (80 km2). There are ambitious ambitions to make the entire mountain range a transnational Balkans Peace Park.
Ironically, both the Slavic and Albanian translations of the mountain range’s name imply ‘cursed,’ referring to the harsh climate of these craggy peaks. They reach their highest point at Jezerski Vrh (2694m) on the Albanian side of the border and include Kolac, the tallest mountain in Montenegro (2534m). This stunningly picturesque region may be one of the least explored in Europe.
From both Gusinje and Plav, there are yellow signs that indicate various walking paths and provide distance and time estimates for each. You can reach glacial lakes and alpine springs within a few hours. The Prokletije Hiking & Biking Map, accessible from the Plav Tourism Office, is an invaluable resource.
Prokletije National Park
The newest national park in Montenegro was established in 2009, encompassing 16,000 hectares of rugged terrain along the border with Albania and Kosovo. It contains the country’s highest peak, Kolac (2534m), although the Prokletije mountains on the Albanian side of the border reach a height of 2694m. Long has there been talk of designating the entire range a transnational Balkan Peace Park, but the politics have yet to be resolved.
Ancient glaciers shaped the Plav Valley on the mountain’s edge. Lake Visitor, located in the same-named mountain above Plav, has the peculiar feature of a floating island. According to local tales, it was formerly a raft used by ancient shepherds to move livestock. It grew soil and vegetation since it was adequately fertilized, and it now floats around the lake.
At Plav and Gusinje, the infrastructure for tourists is minimal, but this is expected to change in the near future. The park offers ample opportunities for mountain biking, hiking, and severe climbing.
Talk to one of the firms specializing in adventure tourism if you’re interested in serious mountaineering, as you’ll need assistance in booking guides, gaining access to mountain lodges, and navigating bureaucracy if you wish to cross the Albanian border.
One of the most popular tracks in Prokletije Mountains is the Peak of Zla Kolata, which is the highest peak in Montenegro, reaching a height of 2,534 meters. The trek to the peak can be challenging, but the stunning views of the surrounding landscape make it worth the effort.
Zla Kolata is a popular destination for hikers and mountaineers due to its challenging terrain and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The peak can be accessed from several different trails, with the most popular starting from the town of Gusinje.
The best time to climb Zla Kolata is during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is typically dry and clear. However, hikers should be prepared for sudden changes in weather and bring appropriate gear for cold and wet conditions.
Overall, climbing Zla Kolata is a rewarding experience for those seeking adventure and a chance to explore one of Montenegro’s most beautiful natural wonders.
Another popular track in the Prokletije Mountains is the Grbaja Valley trail, which offers hikers a chance to explore the stunning landscapes and traditional villages of the region. The trail is relatively easy and is suitable for hikers of all levels.
The Grbaja Valley trail is a popular hiking trail in Montenegro that leads through the stunning Grbaja Valley in the Prokletije mountain range. The trail is known for its beautiful scenery, including the turquoise waters of the Grbaja River and the towering peaks of the surrounding mountains.
The trail starts in the village of Rikavačko, near the town of Gusinje, and follows the Grbaja River upstream for approximately 14 kilometers (8.7 miles) until it reaches the base of Zla Kolata, the highest peak in Montenegro. Along the way, hikers will pass through dense forests, alpine meadows, and rocky terrain, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains at every turn.
The Grbaja Valley trail is considered moderately difficult, with some steep ascents and descents, as well as some narrow and rocky sections. Hikers should be prepared for changing weather conditions and bring appropriate gear for cold and wet conditions.
Overall, the Grbaja Valley trail is a must-do hike for anyone visiting Montenegro who wants to experience the natural beauty of the Prokletije mountain range.
For experienced hikers looking for a challenge, the Theth to Valbona trail is a 4-day trek that takes hikers through the rugged and remote landscape of the Prokletije Mountains, with breathtaking views and traditional Albanian and Montenegrin villages along the way.
The hike from Theth to Valbona is a popular trekking route in the Albanian Alps, offering stunning views of the rugged mountains and valleys of northern Albania. The hike covers a distance of approximately 16 kilometers (10 miles) and takes around 6-8 hours to complete, depending on the pace of the hiker.
The trail starts in the village of Theth, located in the Theth National Park, and follows a well-marked path through dense forests, across streams, and over mountain passes. Along the way, hikers will pass through several small villages and traditional shepherds’ huts, providing a glimpse into the local culture and way of life.
One of the highlights of the hike is crossing the Valbona Pass, which offers panoramic views of the Valbona Valley and the surrounding peaks. The trail then descends into the Valbona Valley, where hikers can enjoy the beautiful scenery and relax in one of the local guesthouses or campsites.
The best time to hike from Theth to Valbona is during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is mild and the trails are easily accessible. Hikers should be prepared for changing weather conditions and bring appropriate gear for cold and wet conditions.
Overall, the hike from Theth to Valbona is a challenging yet rewarding experience, offering stunning scenery and a chance to experience the natural beauty and culture of northern Albania.
Other popular tracks in the Prokletije Mountains include the Hridsko Jezero Lake trek, the Grlja Waterfall trek, and the Volusnica Peak trek, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.
Hridsko Jezero, also known as Lake Hrid, is a popular trekking destination located in the Prokletije mountain range in Montenegro. The lake is situated at an altitude of 2,429 meters (7,969 feet) above sea level and is surrounded by rugged peaks, making it a stunning location for hiking and trekking.
The trek to Hridsko Jezero Lake starts from the village of Plav and follows a well-marked trail through dense forests, across rocky terrain, and up steep mountain passes. The hike takes approximately 6-8 hours to complete, depending on the pace of the hiker, and covers a distance of around 14 kilometers (8.7 miles).
Along the way, hikers will pass through several small villages and traditional shepherds’ huts, providing a glimpse into the local culture and way of life. The trail also offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks, including the nearby Zla Kolata, the highest peak in Montenegro.
The best time to trek to Hridsko Jezero Lake is during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is mild and the trails are easily accessible. Hikers should be prepared for changing weather conditions and bring appropriate gear for cold and wet conditions.
Overall, the trek to Hridsko Jezero Lake is a challenging yet rewarding experience, offering stunning scenery and a chance to experience the natural beauty and culture of Montenegro.
When hiking in the Prokletije Mountains, it’s essential to be prepared for changing weather conditions, carry enough food and water, and hire a local guide or join a guided tour for added safety and to get the most out of the experience.
Overall, the Prokletije Mountains offer some of the most beautiful and challenging hiking tracks in Montenegro, with stunning views of the rugged landscape and traditional villages along the way. It’s a must-visit destination for any hiker or nature lover visiting Montenegro.
Bjelassica and Biogradska Gora
Bjelasica is a massif located in northeastern Montenegro, known for its beautiful scenery and abundant wildlife. The massif covers an area of around 630 square kilometers (240 square miles) and is home to several peaks over 2,000 meters (6,562 feet) above sea level.
The Bjelasica massif dominates northeastern Montenegro with seven peaks exceeding 2000 meters in height. At 2139 meters, the Crna Glava (Black Head) peak is the highest.
Any preconceived notion that Montenegro’s mountains are gray and desolate will be destroyed as the snows melt and expose virgin forest (within the protected boundaries of Biogradska Gora National Park) and flower-filled meadows. In the higher meadows, there are katuns, which are round thatched shelters used for centuries by seminomadic shepherds who move their animals here for the summer. It’s a far more forgiving environment than the Orjen, Lovćen or Durmitor mountains and consequently simpler to explore.
The towns that encircle the mountain provide access to the trails: Kolain, Mojkovac, Bijelo Polje, Berane, and Andrijevica. The ideal times to go hiking are at the end of summer and in the fall, when the trees are a kaleidoscope of colors. Be prepared for abrupt drops in temperature and storms. The local tourist office should be able to supply you with maps, information, recommendations, and guide contact information. Instead, contact one of the travel agencies that specialize in adventure vacations.
Bjelasica is a popular destination for hiking, trekking, and skiing, with numerous trails and ski runs available for visitors to explore. The massif is also home to several lakes and rivers, including Biogradska Gora National Park, which contains one of the last remaining primeval forests in Europe.
One of the most popular hiking trails in Bjelasica is the Bijele Vode Trail, which leads hikers through the beautiful Biogradska Gora National Park, past the stunning Biogradska Lake, and up to the summit of Crna Glava, one of the highest peaks in the massif.
The Bijele Vode Trail is a popular hiking trail in Montenegro that leads through the stunning Biogradska Gora National Park in the Bjelasica massif. The trail is known for its beautiful scenery, including the turquoise waters of Biogradska Lake, the rugged peaks of the surrounding mountains, and the pristine forests of the national park.
The trail starts at the entrance of Biogradska Gora National Park and follows a well-marked path through dense forests, across streams, and up steep mountain passes. Along the way, hikers will pass several waterfalls and small streams, providing plenty of opportunities to rest and take in the beautiful scenery.
The highlight of the Bijele Vode Trail is the stunning Biogradska Lake, which is located at an altitude of 1,094 meters (3,589 feet) above sea level and is surrounded by towering mountains. The lake is one of the last remaining primeval forests in Europe, and its crystal-clear waters and serene surroundings make it a popular destination for nature lovers.
From Biogradska Lake, hikers can continue along the trail to the summit of Crna Glava, one of the highest peaks in the Bjelasica massif, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
The Bijele Vode Trail is considered moderately difficult, with some steep ascents and descents, as well as some narrow and rocky sections. Hikers should be prepared for changing weather conditions and bring appropriate gear for cold and wet conditions.
Overall, the Bijele Vode Trail is a must-do hike for anyone visiting Montenegro who wants to experience the natural beauty of Biogradska Gora National Park and the Bjelasica massif.
In the winter months, Bjelasica is a popular destination for skiing and other winter sports, with several ski resorts offering a variety of runs for skiers of all levels. One of the most popular ski resorts in the massif is Kolašin 1450, which offers a range of amenities and facilities for visitors.
This beautiful national park is situated within the Bjelasica mountain range and is home to 1600 hectares of virgin forest, one of Europe’s last three remaining virgin forests. During a visit in 1878, King Nikola was so captivated by the beauty of Lake Biograd (Biogradsko jezero) that the locals gifted him the land and he ordered its preservation.
Biogradska Gora National Park
Biogradska Gora National Park is a stunning protected area located in the Bjelasica mountain range of northeastern Montenegro. The park covers an area of around 54 square kilometers (21 square miles) and is known for its beautiful forests, crystal-clear lakes, and abundant wildlife.
History: The area around Biogradska Gora has been inhabited for thousands of years, with evidence of human settlements dating back to the Neolithic era. The park itself was established in 1952 and was one of the first national parks in Montenegro. The park is named after the Biogradska Lake, which is one of the park’s main attractions.
Myths: According to local myths, the area around Biogradska Gora was once home to a fierce dragon named Mužička, who terrorized the nearby villages until a brave hero named Mujo managed to defeat him. Another legend tells of a group of fairies who lived in the park’s forests and would sometimes appear to travelers, offering them food and drink.
Attractions: The main attractions in Biogradska Gora National Park include the stunning Biogradska Lake, which is surrounded by pristine forest and offers opportunities for boating and fishing. The park is also home to several other smaller lakes, as well as numerous hiking trails, offering visitors a chance to explore the park’s beautiful forests, mountains, and valleys. Wildlife is abundant in the park, with the chance to see animals such as bears, wolves, and lynx.
Tracks: The most popular hiking trail in the park is the Bijele Vode Trail, which leads hikers through the park’s forests and up to the summit of Crna Glava, one of the highest peaks in the Bjelasica massif. Other popular trails include the Plav-Biogradska Gora Trail and the Vragodo Trail, both of which offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
How to get there: Biogradska Gora National Park is located around 90 kilometers (56 miles) northeast of Podgorica, the capital of Montenegro. The easiest way to get to the park is by car, with several major roads leading to the park entrance. Alternatively, visitors can take a bus from Podgorica or nearby towns such as Kolasin or Mojkovac.
Lovćen National Park’s
The 6220-hectare Loven National Park offers both cultural and ecological attractions, including the historic core of Montenegro and the striking Njego mausoleum. Loven is karstic in nature, like many of Montenegro’s mountains, with rugged grey-white outcrops, scarce flora, and caves beneath. Water seeps into the rock and then rises up in other places to create springs.
The lower slopes of Mt. Lovcen (1749 m) are covered in black beech forests. You’ll see why the Venetians called it the “black mountain” once these deciduous trees drop their leaves and reveal their characteristic black trunks. The beech is joined higher up by the munika pine, an endangered species. Sage, rosemary, balm, mint, chamomile, and St. John’s wort are just a few of the medicinal and opulent-smelling plants that protrude from the rocky slopes.
Although Kotor and Budva are also close by, Cetinje, Montenegro’s historic capital, is a terrific site to start exploring the park’s hiking and mountain-biking paths.
Lovćen National Park is a protected area located in the southwestern region of Montenegro, covering an area of around 64 square kilometers (25 square miles). The park is named after Mount Lovćen, which is the highest peak in the park and stands at 1,749 meters (5,738 feet) tall. The park is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and cultural significance.
History: Mount Lovćen has been a site of cultural and historical significance for centuries, and the park is home to several monuments and buildings that reflect Montenegro’s rich heritage. The park’s most famous monument is the Mausoleum of Petar II Petrović-Njegoš, a writer and philosopher who was also the ruler of Montenegro from 1830 to 1851. The mausoleum is located near the summit of Mount Lovćen and is accessible via a winding road or a steep hiking trail.
Attractions: Apart from the Mausoleum, Lovćen National Park is known for its stunning landscapes, rocky peaks, deep canyons, and lush forests. The park is also home to several lakes and rivers, including the Skadar Lake, which is the largest lake in the Balkans. Hiking and trekking are popular activities in the park, with several trails offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The park is also home to a wide variety of wildlife, including bears, wolves, and lynx.
Tracks: The most popular hiking trail in the park is the Lovćen Trail, which leads hikers through the park’s forests and up to the summit of Mount Lovćen. Other popular trails include the Ivanova Korita Trail, which leads to the Mausoleum, and the Njeguši Trail, which passes through the historic village of Njeguši and offers stunning views of the Adriatic Sea.
How to get there: Lovćen National Park is located around 20 kilometers (12 miles) from the coastal town of Kotor and can be accessed by car or bus. The park’s main entrance is located near the town of Cetinje, which is the historic capital of Montenegro. Visitors can also take a taxi or hire a private driver to take them to the park.
Safety hiking and trekking in Montenegro
Hiking and trekking in Montenegro can be a thrilling and rewarding experience, but it’s important to take precautions to ensure your safety. Here are some tips to help you stay safe while exploring Montenegro’s beautiful mountains and national parks:
- Plan your route and inform others: Before heading out, make sure to plan your route and let someone know where you’re going and when you plan to return. This can be a friend, family member, or the staff at your accommodation.
- Check the weather: Be sure to check the weather forecast before setting out on your hike or trek. Montenegro’s mountains can be unpredictable, and weather conditions can change quickly.
- Bring appropriate gear: Make sure to bring appropriate gear for the season and conditions. This may include sturdy hiking boots, waterproof clothing, and warm layers for colder weather.
- Stay on marked trails: Stick to marked trails and avoid venturing off-trail. This can help you avoid getting lost and ensure that you’re not damaging fragile ecosystems.
- Stay hydrated and fueled: Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks to keep you fueled and hydrated throughout your hike or trek.
- Respect wildlife: Montenegro is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, wolves, and lynx. Be sure to keep a safe distance and avoid feeding or approaching animals.
- Know your limits: Be realistic about your fitness level and don’t push yourself beyond your limits. It’s better to take things slow and enjoy the scenery than to risk injury or exhaustion.
The best time to hike or trek in Montenegro is during the summer months of June through September, when the weather is warm and dry. However, it’s still important to be prepared for changing weather conditions and bring appropriate gear for colder or wetter conditions. Some popular hiking trails may also be closed during the winter months due to snow and ice.
Hiking and trekking Montenegro shops
Montenegro has a growing outdoor sports community and there are several shops that sell hiking and trekking equipment in the country. Here are some options:
- Montenegro Outdoor: This outdoor sports shop has several locations throughout Montenegro, including in Podgorica, Budva, and Kotor. They sell a variety of hiking and trekking equipment, including boots, backpacks, clothing, and accessories.
- Planeta Sport: Planeta Sport is a large sports retailer with several locations throughout Montenegro, including in Podgorica, Bar, and Nikšić. They sell a range of outdoor gear, including hiking boots, backpacks, clothing, and camping equipment.
- Outdoor Montenegro: Located in Kotor, this outdoor sports shop specializes in hiking and trekking gear. They sell boots, backpacks, clothing, and accessories from a range of top brands.
- Delta Sport: Delta Sport is a large sports retailer with several locations throughout Montenegro, including in Podgorica, Nikšić, and Bar. They sell a range of outdoor gear, including hiking boots, backpacks, clothing, and camping equipment.
- Sport Vision: Sport Vision is a large sports retailer with several locations throughout Montenegro, including in Podgorica, Bar, and Budva. They sell a range of outdoor gear, including hiking boots, backpacks, clothing, and camping equipment.
These are just a few examples of the outdoor sports shops available in Montenegro. It’s always a good idea to research and compare options to find the best equipment for your needs and budget.
