Mountains of Montenegro: Best Destinations and Things to Do (2023)

Discover the truly spectacular mountains of Montenegro. Where to go, what to see and what to eat!

Nestled in the Balkans, Montenegro is a hidden gem known for its pristine coastlines and charming cities. 

But did you know that this beautiful country is characterised by its mountains?

A full two-thirds of Montenegro’s 13,812km2 area is considered mountainous, and Montenegro’s mountains are known as some of the most rugged mountain terrains in Europe. 

In fact, Montenegro is named for its dramatic mountain scenery. Montenegro literally translates as Black Mountain. Monte = mountain and negro = black.

The best places to visit Montenegro's mountains are in the national parks. They are all special in their own way and the scenery and opportunities for outdoor activities in the parks are stunning!

Not only are Montenegro’s mountains stunning, but here you’ll discover different cuisine and different way of life than on the coast. No trip to Montenegro is complete without a trip to the mountains, and as you’ll see in this article, there are plenty of incredible things to do and see here!

You also don’t need to spend a lot of time travelling to see Montenegro mountains, you can easily experience some of the main mountains of Montenegro in as little as an hour from the coast.

So, let’s dive in! Here, I’ll share with you all the best places to go, things to see and do and what to eat in the mountains of Montenegro!

Contents

About the Mountains of Montenegro
     Major Mountains of Montenegro
     Main Mountain Ranges in Montenegro
     Geology of the Mountains of Montenegro
     Ecology of the Mountains of Montenegro
Durmitor National Park
Lovćen National Park
Biogradska Gora National Park
Prokletije National Park
What to Eat in the Mountains of Montenegro
Tips For Exploring Montenegro's Mountains
Top Tours to the Mountains of Montenegro
Frequently Asked Questions About the Mountains of Montenegro

About the Mountains of Montenegro

Major Mountains of Montenegro

Montenegro has 4,573 peaks, 50 of which are over 2,000m. Here are some of the major mountains in Montenegro:

Bobotov Kuk: Located in Durmitor National Park, Bobotov Kuk is the highest peak in Montenegro, standing at an impressive elevation of 2,523m (8,278 feet). It offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

Zla Kolata: Situated in the Prokletije mountain range, Zla Kolata is the highest peak in Montenegro's part of the range, reaching an elevation of 2,534m (8,314 feet). It is a popular destination for hikers and mountaineers.

Jezerski Vrh: Found in Lovćen National Park, Jezerski Vrh is the second-highest peak in the Lovćen mountain range, standing at an elevation of 1,657m (5,436 feet). It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area, including the Bay of Kotor and is topped by the Mausoleum of Petar Petrović-Njegoš.

Rumija: Located near the coastal town of Bar, Rumija is a mountain with cultural significance. It reaches an elevation of 1,596ms (5,236 feet) and is known for its historic monasteries and diverse flora.

Bjelasica: Situated in the central part of Montenegro, Bjelasica is a mountain range with multiple peaks, including Crna Glava, Zekova Glava, and Troglava. It offers scenic beauty and is a popular destination for hiking and skiing.

Komovi: Found in northeastern Montenegro, the Komovi mountain range is known for its three prominent peaks: Kom Kučki, Kom Vasojevićki, and Kom Ljevoriječki. It offers stunning vistas and attracts hikers and nature enthusiasts.

Main Mountain Ranges in Montenegro

Dinaric Alps: The Dinaric Alps stretch across several countries in the Balkans, including Montenegro. This mountain range is characterized by rugged peaks, deep canyons, and stunning landscapes.

Prokletije: Also known as the "Accursed Mountains," Prokletije forms the southeastern border between Montenegro, Albania, and Kosovo. It offers breathtaking alpine scenery and is home to the highest peak in Montenegro, Zla Kolata at 2,534m (8,314 feet).

Durmitor: Located in northern Montenegro, Durmitor is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most prominent mountain ranges in the country. It features majestic peaks, glacial lakes, and deep river canyons, including the iconic Tara River Canyon.

Komovi: Situated in the northeastern part of Montenegro, the Komovi range is known for its picturesque landscapes, including three prominent peaks: Kom Kučki, Kom Vasojevićki, and Kom Ljevoriječki.

Prokletije Gora: Located in the northwest region of Montenegro, Prokletije Gora is a sub-range of the larger Prokletije/Bjeshket e Namuna mountain range. It offers rugged beauty, with sharp peaks and stunning valleys.

Sinjajevina: Situated in central Montenegro, Sinjajevina is a vast plateau surrounded by rolling hills and picturesque mountain peaks. It is known for its rich biodiversity and is a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts.

Geology of the Mountains of Montenegro

The geology of Montenegro's mountains is characterized by a combination of limestone, dolomite, and other sedimentary rocks, which have been subjected to tectonic forces and erosion over millions of years.

This geological process has created dramatic features such as towering peaks, deep canyons, and karst formations, which cover over half of Montenegro's land area.

This High-Karst Zone includes the Orjen range, which features many caves and dangerous sinkholes (especially in winter when they are covered with snow). It also includes another popular, but dangerous, area popular with hikers: the Accursed Mountains. Both are part of the Dinaric Range, which was shaped by glaciers.

Montenegro's mountains are also home to glacial lakes, carved out by ancient glaciers during the Ice Age. There are 18 glacial lakes, known as 'mountain eyes' in Durmitor National Park.

Ecology of the Mountains of Montenegro

Montenegro is one of Europe's smallest countries, but it's one of the most biodiverse. Within the mountainous regions, a remarkable variety of ecosystems flourish, supporting a wide array of plant and animal species.

The diverse landscapes give rise to an impressive range of flora, with over 3,000 species of plants, including many endemics found only within Montenegro. From majestic forests of beech, oak, pine, and juniper to vibrant alpine meadows, the mountains are adorned with a tapestry of wildflowers, herbs, and trees.

The mountains of Montenegro are also home to a thriving wildlife population. The rugged terrain provides a sanctuary for numerous mammal species, including brown bears, wolves, lynx, wildcats, and chamois.

There are also over 330 bird species soaring through Montenegro's mountain skies. Rare and protected species like the Eurasian eagle-owl, Dalmatian pelican, and the endangered griffon vulture find refuge in these mountainous habitats.

In addition, the rivers and lakes nestled within the mountains are teeming with diverse fish species, contributing to the flourishing aquatic ecosystems.

Montenegro has three distinct ecoregions:

Balkan Mixed Forests

The Balkan Mixed Forest ecoregion covers Montenegro's northeastern and eastern borders.

Within this diverse ecoregion, you'll find pine trees, beech trees, oak trees, fir trees, and spruce trees. In the undergrowth, you may encounter wildflowers like the vibrant Turk's cap lily, the delicate lady's slipper orchid, and the aromatic mountain thyme.

These forests provide habitat for a wealth of wildlife, such as the elusive brown bear, graceful European lynx, Eurasian wolf, European wildcat and various bird species like the striking black woodpecker, melodious song thrush and Eurasian eagle-owl.

This ecoregion is also home to a range of smaller mammals, including the agile red squirrel and the shy European badger.

Dinaric Mountains Mixed Forests

The Dinaric Mountains mixed forests in Montenegro span across the central and eastern regions, and are characterized by a wide variation in elevations, resulting in two distinct forest zones within this ecoregion.

Between 1,200 to 2,500m (3,937 to 8,202 feet), you'll find the mountainous conifer zone, which is dominated by silver firs, black pines, and spruces.

Below 1,200m, the forests are dominated by broadleaf beeches and mixed oaks. Here, a diverse range of tree species flourishes, including Hungarian oaks, sessile oaks, downy oaks, common oaks, Turkey oaks, field elm, European ash, common hornbeam, maple, and rowan.

Several of Montenegro's national parks, such as Durmitor and the Accursed Mountains, are nestled within this bioregion, providing protected habitats for a remarkable array of wildlife.

Within these protected areas, you'll discover a great variety of mammals, including predators like the gray wolf, Eurasian lynx, Eurasian brown bear, red fox, Eurasian otter, and European wildcat. Herbivores and omnivores such as the wild boar, red deer, fallow deer, roe deer, and chamois also thrive in this region.

The ecoregion is home to numerous bird species, including the golden eagle, peregrine falcon, snake eagle, European honey buzzard, scops owls, Eurasian eagle owls, capercaillies, rock partridges, and snow finches.

Reptiles like Prokletije rock lizards, green lizards, fence lizards, horned vipers, adders, and Greek tortoises find their habitat within these forests, while amphibians such as the yellow-bellied toad, fire salamander, and fire-bellied toad also inhabit the region.

Illyrian Deciduous Forests

The coastal regions of Montenegro are dominated by Illyrian deciduous forests, which are made of mixed broadleaf zones below 1,200m (3,937 feet) and coniferous forests above 1,200m.

The conifer forests are made of of mixed firs, spruces, beeches, and pines, while the broadleaf zones are made of beeches and mixed oaks. Along the coastal areas, you'll predominantly find Aleppo pines, maquis shrubs, and holm oaks.

The Illyrian deciduous forests of Montenegro also serve as home to a diverse range of bird species, including capercaillies, peregrine falcons, kestrels, and griffon vultures.

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Durmitor National Park

Durmitor National Park, nestled in the beautiful northern part of Montenegro, is one of the best places to experience the Mountains of Montenegro. This is my personal favourite and I love to head up here from the coast for a change of scenery.

The mountains here were shaped by glaciers and the scenery is very dramatic and wild. Durmitor National Park is renowned for its majestic peaks, with 48 peaks over 2,000 meters. Bobotov Kuk is the highest at 2,523m. This makes it an ideal destination for hiking.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts an impressive array of flora and fauna, many of which are rare and endemic. The park includes dense forests of pine, beech, and spruce trees, which shelter an abundance of wildlife, including 130 bird species and rare species such as lynx, chamois, and brown bears.

The park also has 18 glacial lakes, affectionately called 'mountain eyes.' You can find them on hiking trails and even swim in them… if you don’t mind the cold!

Durmitor National Park is one of the best places to experience Montenegro’s stunning and dramatic mountain scenery because there are so many things to see and do. You can easily spend one or two nights here and have plenty of things to do, especially if you’re into hiking or adventure sports!

Best Things to Do in Durmitor National Park

• The Black Lake: The 4km track around the Black Lake is an easy and popular way to experience Durmitor. You can also hire a boat or kayaks on the lake
• Durmitor Ring: Durmitor Ring (Durmitorski Prsten) is a circuit route of around 76km that will take you through some of Durmitor's most stunning scenery. The Sedlo Pass is particularly beautiful and has some great photo ops
• Tara River Canyon: The Tara Canyon is the deepest canyon in Europe and the second-deepest canyon in the world after the Grand Canyon.
• Đurđevića Tara Bridge: once the highest vehicular concrete arch bridge in the world, this is the best place to see the Tara Canyon. You can also zipline across the canyon from the bridge!
• Rafting in the Tara Canyon: one of our must do activities every summer, white water rafting in the Tara Canyon is lots of fun and the scenery is simply stunning!
• Via ferrata: a mix between rock-climbing and hiking, the Durmitor via ferrata is an awesome way to experience Durmitor’s dramatic peaks!
• Nevidio Canyoning: test yourself on Montenegro’s most popular canyoning tour. Hike, swim, rappel (abseil) and jump your way through Nevidio Canyon. This is the ultimate fun for thrill-seekers!
• Bogumiljski Stećci: Bogumiljski Stećci are medieval Greek tombstones from the 7th to 8th century that lie near Riblje Jezero
  
• Bobotov Kuk: A popular hike to the peak of Bobotov Kuk at 2,523m. Taking a guide is recommended because of changeable weather and general safety
• Ski and snow: Durmitor’s Savin Kuk ski resort is a modest resort with a black run, red run, three blue runs and a baby run

Getting to Durmitor National Park

By Car

Durmitor National Park is very easy to get to. You can hire a car (I recommend Localrent.com for the best service and deals) to drive to Durmitor National Park. It’s a very easy drive on good roads and having a car gives you the freedom to visit the top sights in the park.

Here are the driving distances from major towns in Montenegro to Žabljak:

• Podgorica to Žabljak: Approximately 125 kilometers (78 miles) with a driving time of about 1 hour and 50 minutes.
• Budva to Žabljak: Approximately 180 kilometers (112 miles) with a driving time of about 2 hours and 40 minutes.
• Kotor to Žabljak: Approximately 164 kilometers (102 miles) with a driving time of about 2 hours and 30 minutes.
• Herceg Novi to Žabljak: Approximately 162 kilometers (101 miles) with a driving time of about 2 hours and 30 minutes.
• Bar to Žabljak: Approximately 175 kilometers (109 miles) with a driving time of about 2 hours and 40 minutes.

Please note that these distances and driving times are approximate and can vary based on traffic conditions and the chosen route.

Durmitor, Tara and Ostrog Monastery Day Trip

RATING: 4.8/5 (521+ reviews) | DURATION: 13 hours | BOOK NOW

The Durmitor, Tara and Ostrog Monastery Day Trip is the best day tour to Durmitor National Park.

The tour includes two destinations in Durmitor National Park: the Black Lake and the Đurđevića Tara Bridge, where you can zip line across the Tara Canyon.

It also includes photo stops in Perast and Lake Slano, breakfast in Nikšić and a visit to Montenegro’s most revered religious site, Ostrog Monastery.

With fun guides and small group, this is a fun way to explore Montenegro's north!

1-Day Montenegro Hiking Tour to Durmitor National Park

RATING: 5/5 (9+ reviews) | DURATION: 13 hours | BOOK NOW

This full-day tour offers you a chance to explore the breathtaking beauty of Durmitor National Park by hiking through some of the park’s best scenery.

The tour begins with a scenic drive from Kotor, taking you through the picturesque Montenegrin countryside to Durmitor National Park. Led by an experienced guide, you'll embark on a challenging yet rewarding hike to the summit of Mount Prutaš. Along the way, marvel at the dramatic landscapes, including glacial lakes and rugged terrain.

With knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and unforgettable views, the Montenegro Hiking Tour to Durmitor National Park is a great way to see some of Montenegro’s most stunning mountain scenery.

Where to Stay in Durmitor National Park

The best place to stay in Durmitor National Park is in the little mountain town of Žabljak. I recommend spending at least one night here to give yourself enough time to see at least the Black Lake and Tara Canyon.

Casa di Pino Eco Lodge

RATING: 9.7/10 (767+ reviews) | LOCATION: Žabljak | BOOK NOW

Casa di Pino Eco Lodge is a modern and beautiful mountain lodge near the centre of Žabljak.

The lodge has suites with balconies that sleep up to 4 people. Some suites come with a fully-equipped kitchen, so make sure to book one of these if you like to cook for yourself. If not, there is an onsite restaurant and all stays include a breakfast that guests say is exceptionally good!

You can hire bikes here to go out and explore the area. It's only 3km from the Black Lake, which makes it an ideal destination to explore by bike or on foot. And there's a sauna and massage room, which is perfect for relaxing after a day in the outdoors!

This is also one of the few properties in this area where you'll find an electric vehicle charging station. Montenegro doesn't have many of these yet.

If you're looking for somewhere cozy, stylish and close to town, you can't go wrong with Casa di Pino Eco Lodge.

Hotel Polar Star

RATING: 8.5/10 (188+ reviews) | LOCATION: Žabljak | BOOK NOW

Set just outside of Žabljak, Hotel Polar Star is set on a large estate among the rolling hills of Durmitor and you have countryside as far you can see.

This a great place for families, with lots of space and small playground for kids to run around. 

We stayed in a studio apartment and found it very spacious, and the staff brought us a cot for my son to sleep in. I loved having a balcony to sit out on to enjoy the views too!

There's an excellent restaurant onsite that serves traditional-style hearty mountain food. A generous and delicious breakfast comes included with your stay to get your day of outdoor exploration off to a strong start!

You will need a rental car to stay here (check Localrent.com for the best deals in this region) because there's no public transport and the hotel is not within walking distance from the town.

Hotel Soa

RATING: 9.5/10 (1,183+ reviews) | LOCATION: Žabljak | BOOK NOW

Hotel Soa is my favourite place to stay in Žabljak. It’s a modern and comfortable hotel in a peaceful area that’s within walking distance of the town centre and the Black Lake.

There's a very good restaurant in the hotel (I love their chocolate souffle) and a comfortable lounge with a fire that fits perfectly with the mountain atmosphere.

Breakfast comes included when you stay here and you can book single rooms, one- and two-bedroom apartments.

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Lovćen National Park

One of two coastal mountain ranges in Montenegro (the other being Rumija), Lovćen National Park is a great option if you’re on the coast and want to experience Montenegro’s mountain scenery and culture.

Located near the historic royal capital of Cetinje, this park offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. In fact, it was Lovćen’s dense pine forests that inspired the Spanish and Venetians to start calling this area Montenegro!

Lovćen National Park hosts a diverse range of flora and fauna. As you explore the park's dense forests, you'll encounter an abundance of plant species, including beech, oak, pine, and juniper. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, such as wild boars, foxes, and numerous bird species, including the rare and protected Balkan chamois.

At the heart of Lovćen National Park its second-highest peak, Jezerski Vrh, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, including the Bay of Kotor and the Adriatic Sea. 

It also holds historical and cultural significance. 

At its summit, you can pay homage to Petar II Petrović-Njegoš, a revered Montenegrin ruler, poet, and philosopher. His mausoleum stands as a symbol of national pride and offers a remarkable vantage point to admire the surrounding landscapes. On a clear day, you can see as far as Croatia and Albania.

The park also gives you the chance to experience Montenegro’s mountain culture and cuisine. Stop in Njeguši to try the best prosciutto in Montenegro, traditional cheeses, wine and brandies. And visit the Petar Petrović-Njegoš museum to see how aristocratic families lived in 19th-century Montenegro.

Whether you're an avid hiker, a history enthusiast, or simply seeking tranquility in nature, Lovćen National Park is one of the best places to experience Montenegro’s stunning mountain scenery and culture!

Best Things to Do in Lovćen National Park 

• Serpentine Road: From Kotor you'll drive up the serpentine road with its 25 hairpin turns. The view of the Bay of Kotor gets better with each turn until you enter the national park where you get the view above
• Njeguši Village: On the way into the park you'll go through a village called Njeguši. This is the birthplace of Montenegro's favourite ruler, Petar Petrović-Njegoš. The village is also famous for its prosciutto and cheese, and you can try both (along with a slug of rakija brandy and some local wine) at Montenegro's oldest restaurant, Kod Pera na Bukovicu
• Petar II Petrović-Njegoš Mausoleum: The mausoleum on Jezerski Vrh, the second-highest peak on Mount Lovćen, was the highest altitude mausoleum in the world when it was built. The ornate mausoleum is fascinating and you'll get views of Montenegro, Croatia and even Albania from the 360° lookout behind the mausoleum, but beware, you'll have to scale 461 steps to get there!
• Ivanova Korita: Ivanova Korita is a favourite weekend destination for Bay of Kotor families. The grassy fields include playgrounds, walking tracks, bike rental, barbecue facilities and a high ropes course. It's the perfect place to spread a picnic!
• Adventure Park Lovćen: If you’re travelling with kids, put Adventure Park Lovćen on your list of things to do. With several courses ranging in difficulty, it’s perfect for families!
• Cetinje: Cetinje is Montenegro's old capital, before Podgorica became the capital city. Here you can visit the former royal palace and the national museum. Although not part of the national park, most people combine a visit to Cetinje and Lipa Cave with a visit to Lovćen

Getting to Lovćen National Park 

By Car

Lovćen National Park is very easy to get to from anywhere in Montenegro. You can hire a car (I recommend Localrent.com for the best service and deals) to drive to Lovćen National Park.

It’s a very easy drive on good roads, however I recommend checking the roads on AMSCG (Auto Moto Savez Crne Gore) if you're visiting any time between November and May. Lovćen National Park is covered with snow throughout winter and this can last until early May.

Here are the approximate driving distances from major towns in Montenegro to Lovćen National Park:

• Podgorica to Lovćen National Park: Approximately 57 kilometers (35 miles) with a driving time of about 1 hour.
• Budva to Lovćen National Park: Approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles) with a driving time of about 1 hour.
• Kotor to Lovćen National Park: Approximately 32 kilometers (20 miles) with a driving time of about 1 hour.
• Herceg Novi to Lovćen National Park: Approximately 77 kilometers (48 miles) with a driving time of about 2 hours.
• Bar to Lovćen National Park: Approximately 85 kilometers (53 miles) with a driving time of about 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Please note that these distances and driving times are approximate and can vary based on traffic conditions and the chosen route.

Montenegro Full-Day Tour to Lovćen National Park and More

RATING: 4.9/5 (460+ reviews) | DURATION: 12 hours | BOOK NOW

This is the best small group day tour to Lovćen National Park from the coast. I love it because it covers an incredible amount, is suitable for all ages and it's lots of fun!

The tour includes:

• The serpentine road
• Prosciutto and brandy tasting in Njeguši
• Petar II Petrović-Njegoš Mausoleum
• Walking tour of Cetinje
• Pavlova Strana lookout at Skadar Lake National Park
• Lunch in Rijeka Crnojevića
• Boat trip in Skadar Lake National Park
• Sveti Stefan lookout

The day is well-paced, so you have a good balance of activity and rest. It's a great way to get to know Montenegro and see some of the highlights of this beautiful country in just one day!

Epic ‘25 Turns’ Bike Descent with Best Views of Kotor Bay

RATING: 4.5/5 (37+ reviews) | DURATION: 3 hours | BOOK NOW

Get ready for an epic adventure with the Epic 25 Turns Bike Descent to Kotor tour!

This tour is a thrilling downhill ride from the mountains to the coastal town of Kotor. It offers breathtaking landscapes as you navigate the 25 exhilarating hairpin turns of the serpentine road, enjoying panoramic views along the way.

With expert guides leading the way and top-quality equipment provided, this exhilarating bike descent guarantees to be an unforgettable experience!

Where to Stay in Lovćen National Park

The best places to stay in Lovćen National Park are in one of the hotels in Ivanova Korita inside the national park, or in Cetinje.

Cetinje is a small town just 7km from the national park and has lots of accommodation options for every budget. It's also the old royal capital and has lots of attractions like museums, and restaurants.

Hotel Monte Rosa

RATING: 8.3/10 (504+ reviews) | LOCATION: Ivanova Korita | BOOK NOW

Hotel Monte Rosa is located at Ivanova Korita, the centre of Lovćen National Park. It's the ideal place for exploring the national park.

Here, you'll find the start of walking trails, mountain biking trails (you can hire bikes at the hotel) and the treetops ropes course at Lovćen Adventure Park. You'll also find beautiful natural areas, playgrounds and barbecue facilities.

The hotel is surrounded by the mountains and has comfortable rooms and apartments that sleep up to 3 people. You can book a one-bedroom apartment here that has a kitchenette, these are ideal if you want to make basic meals or packed lunches.

Hotel Gradska Cetinje

RATING: 9.4/10 (391+ reviews) | LOCATION: Cetinje | BOOK NOW

Hotel Gradska Cetinje is the best hotel in atmospheric and charming Cetinje. The town lies just 7km from Lovćen National Park, so it's the ideal base if you're looking for a city stay near the national park.

Cetinje was once the capital of Montenegro and this hotel lies in what was once the house of Duke Ivo Radonjić. Later, it was turned into the Bulgarian embassy and recently, completely renovated into this beautiful hotel.

The hotel is ideally positioned on Cetinje's main square. It's surrounded by King Nikola's Palace and park, the ethno museum and the Bilijarda. Cetinje's main streets with boutiques, museums and more palaces are just a few minutes' walk away.

The hotel has beautiful rooms, all for 2 people, that include coffee machines and some have terraces overlooking the town square or have views of the national park's mountains.

The town's main cafe is also part of the hotel, which is a gathering place for locals meeting up for coffee and all stays include breakfast here.

If you're looking for a comfortable city stay from which to explore Lovćen National Park, Hotel Gradska Cetinje is the ideal place.

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Biogradska Gora National Park

Biogradska Gora National Park is located in the mountainous Bjelasica region in central Montenegro and is a popular tourist destination.

One of the park's most remarkable features is its ancient forest, which dates back over 5,000 years, making it one of the oldest primeval forests in Europe. It's one of only three virgin rainforests left in Europe.

The park is a pristine wilderness teeming with biodiversity and because of this it's one of the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves.

This national park was established in 1952 with the aim of preserving the unique ecosystem and its natural heritage. The park is characterized by dense forests of beech, fir, and black pine, forming a lush canopy.

As you explore the park, you may encounter a variety of wildlife, including brown bears, gray wolves, lynx, and numerous bird species such as owls, woodpeckers, and golden eagles.

Biogradska Gora National Park also boasts six glacial lakes, including the stunning Lake Biograd, which is the park's main attraction.

Biogradska Gora National Park is a great place to see Montenegro's mountain scenery, go hiking over the Bjelasica mountain range and experience one of Europe's oldest forests.

Best Things to Do In Biogradska Gora National Park

• Lake Biograd: Hire a boat or walk around the easy walking path around the lake
• Hiking: Explore the routes over the rolling hills of the Bjelasica mountain range
• Jeep safari: The easiest way to see the katuns (traditional villages), scenery and lakes of Biogradska Gora National Park
• Skiing and snowboarding: Nearby, Kolašin is Montenegro's top ski resort. If you're visiting in summer you can ride the ski lift to the top and take a walk to visit the katuns (traditional summer pastures and shepherd's huts)
• Morača Monastery: Morača Monastery is a beautiful monastery on the banks of the Morača Canyon.
  

Like Durmitor, Biogradska Gora National Park is best seen in an overnight trip but you can visit it in a day trip, especially if you're staying in Podgorica.

Getting to Biogradska Gora National Park

By Car

Biogradska Gora National Park is easy to get to from anywhere in Montenegro. The roads are well-maintained and easy to drive.

You can hire a car from any town in Montenegro with Localrent.com and drive up the beautiful Morača Canyon to Biogradska Gora National Park.

Here are the approximate driving distances from major towns in Montenegro to Biogradska Gora National Park:

• Podgorica to Biogradska Gora National Park: Approximately 90 kilometers (56 miles) with a driving time of about 1 hour and 25 minutes.
• Budva to Biogradska Gora National Park: Approximately 145 kilometers (90 miles) with a driving time of about 2 hours and 30 minutes.
• Kotor to Biogradska Gora National Park: Approximately 165 kilometers (102 miles) with a driving time of about 3 hours.
• Herceg Novi to Biogradska Gora National Park: Approximately 220 kilometers (137 miles) with a driving time of about 3 hours and 45 minutes.
• Bar to Biogradska Gora National Park: Approximately 135 kilometers (84 miles) with a driving time of about 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Please note that these distances and driving times are approximate and can vary based on traffic conditions and the chosen route.

Skadar Lake and Biogradska Gora Day Tour

RATING: 4.5/5 (2+ reviews) | DURATION: 12 hours | BOOK NOW

This tour takes you to two of Montenegro's five national parks in one day. They're both beautiful, but very different, offering you the chance to experience Montenegro's diversity.

The first stop on the tour is Lake Skadar National Park, Europe's largest bird reserve and a Ramsar Convention List of Wetlands of International Importance destination.

Here, you take a boat tour on the lake where you can see some of the reserve's wildlife, including rare pygmy cormorants and endangered Dalmatian Pelicans.

From there you drive through the winding Morača Canyon to Biogradska Gora National Park. There, you can walk around the 3.5km (2 mile) walking trail around the Lake Biograd, row around the lake or enjoy the scenery from the lakeside restaurant.

Private Full-Day Tour in Morača and Tara Canyons, Durmitor & Biogradska Gora National Parks

RATING: 5/5 (16+ reviews) | DURATION: 12 hours | BOOK NOW

This tour takes you to Montenegro's best mountain regions: Durmitor National Park and Biogradska Gora National Park.

It also includes the must-see destinations in each: the Black Lake and Lake Biograd, as well as the Morača and Tara Canyons.

This is a great tour for experiencing Montenegro's mountains!

The tour starts from Podgorica and from there you drive up along the Morača Canyon, where you'll see waterfalls and the clear green Morača River.

Along the way you stop at Morača Monastery, an 800-year-old monastery built over a waterfall that drops into the canyon below. This monastery has some of the most beautiful frescoes in the Balkans.

The next stop is Biogradska Gora National Park, where you can walk around Lake Biograd, hire a boat or just enjoy the scenery.

After that, you drive to the Tara Canyon, the deepest canyon in Europe and another protected pristine wild area in Montenegro. You can see the canyon from the Đurđevića Tara Bridge and even zip line across it!

Next, you head to the Black Lake in Durmitor National Park. This lake has a beautiful and interesting walking trail that takes about an hour to walk around. Along the way, there are boards with information about the park and the flora and fauna found here.

You can walk the circular trail, or hire a boat or swim in the lake. From here, the tour returns to Podgorica.

Where to Stay in Biogradska Gora National park

The best place to stay near Biogradska Gora National Park is the quaint mountain town of Kolašin.

This is one of our favourite places to go for a few days of rest and relaxation. We love to stay in Bianca Resort and Spa, walk around the town and we absolutely love the restaurants up here.

Despite Kolašin's popularity as a mountain resort, the town has retained it's authenticity and pricing for the locals, not tourists. You can get a coffee for just 50c (!) and plate of fries or pancakes for as little as €1.50.

However, I recommend trying the local specialties like:

• Layered cheese
• Kajmak - similar to clotted cream
• Buckwheat, barley and cornbread
• Lamb sač - slow-roasted under an iron dome results in succulent, falling-off-the-bone meat
• Kačamak - maize porridge
• Cicvara - cornmeal mixed with kajmak
• Pies - thin layers of pastry filled with regional cheese, meat or vegetables

Savardak is a popular restaurant in a traditional-style thatch house. This is a great place to try traditional dishes like kačamak (maize porridge). 

Although it's popular, we didn't like that the portions are for several people, making it hard to take several different dishes to try between our group. It's also smoky inside and the service was lacklustre.

We really love two other restaurants in Kolašin: Konoba Amanet and Restoran Vodenica. Both have delicious, hearty mountain food in generous portions and excellent service.

Bianca Resort and Spa

RATING: 8.7/10 (962+ reviews) | LOCATION: Kolašin | BOOK NOW

Bianca Resort and Spa is our favourite place to stay in Kolašin. The rooms are spacious and luxurious, and the hotel's wood and stone decor make you feel like you're in a mountain chalet.

The hotel has an excellent restaurant and you book half-board stays in that include generous and tasty buffet breakfasts and dinners.

The huge indoor pool, outdoor pool, Jacuzzi and sauna and steam are great for winding down at the end of the day. And you can book additional spa services like massages and beauty treatments.

Houses Amanet

RATING: 8.5/10 (79+ reviews) | LOCATION: Kolašin | BOOK NOW

Houses Amanet is part of one of our favourite restaurants in Kolašin, Konoba Amanet.

These traditional-style bungalows are perfect if you want to experience authentic Montenegrin mountain accommodation and hospitality.

We love staying in these kind of Montenegrin bungalows (usually called etno selo/ethno villages) because they're so relaxing and surrounded by beautiful nature.

Houses Amanet is in a beautiful rural location alongside the Tara River, perfect for enjoying this area's natural beauty.

The bungalows are comfortable one-bedroom houses that sleep up to 4 people. Your stay includes an exceptional breakfast in the neighbouring restaurant, where you can also get very reasonably priced meals throughout the day.

Houses Amanet is located around 3km from Kolašin, so you'll need a rental car (try Localrent.com for the best deals) to stay here. 

Prokletije National Park

Prokletije National Park lies on the border with Albania and includes the Prokletije mountain range. Literally translated the range is called the Accursed Mountain, which gives you an idea of how inhospitable it is. 

Bobotov Kuk in Durmitor National Park is often given the title of highest peak in Montenegro, but it's actually Zla Kolata at 2,534m (8,314ft) here in Prokletije that's the highest.

Because it lies in the far north east of Montenegro, Prokletije is usually only visited by keen mountaineers and intrepid tourists. This means you'll find less in the way of tourist attractions, but also fewer tourists and a pristine and authentic environment.

The best place to stay in Prokletije is the small town of Plav. Here you'll find modest accommodation and a pretty lake that's a favourite swimming spot in summer.

Best Things to Do in Prokletije National Park

• Hiking: Prokleije's 'Accursed Mountains' draw serious hikers from around the world. However, they're very dangerous should only attempted with a guide. This guided hiking tour has three options to suit every fitness level
• Ali Pasha Springs: Beautiful natural springs with very clean water. This is a popular picnic spot and the most popular place in the area for proposals!
• Redžepagić Tower: Built somewhere between the 15th century and 1671 to defend Plav, this tower is now a small museum and significant historical monument in this area
• Lake Plav: The largest lake in the area, Lake Plav is a popular spot for swimming and kayaking
• Hrid Lake: Known as the 'Lake of Happiness', Hrid Lake is one of the highest altitude lakes in Montenegro at 1,970m. The lake lies on the 192km-long Peaks of the Balkans trail and it's said that swimming in the lake will bring you health and luck in marriage! 

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What to Eat in the Mountains of Montenegro

The cuisine in the mountains of Montenegro is distinctly different to what you'll find on the coast. Instead of seafood and fresh salads you'll find hearty, cooked meals and comfort food that's ideal after a day in the outdoors. Here are some top dishes to try:

• Sač: You'll also find this on the coast but eating it surrounded by mountains is the way to really enjoy sač. Sač (pronounced 'such') is meat (usually lamb or veal, sometimes goat) that's been slow roasted under an iron dome. It comes with the best roast potatoes you've ever had and it goes best with a simple cabbage salad. Try this, you won't be sorry!
• Pasulj: When it comes to food so good your eyes roll back in your head, the humble bean stew might not be the first thing that comes to mind. That's because you haven't had pasulj. This innocuous-looking bean stew that cooked with smoked sausages will blow. Your. Mind
• Kačamak: Kačamak is a maize porridge that's made with potatoes and kajmak cheese, which is a kind of clotted cream
• Kajmak: You can also try kajmak on its own. Fresh kajmak is milder, while more aged kajmak is stronger. If you really want to go local head to the local farmers market and look for skorup, kajmak aged in a sheep's stomach
  
• Lamb cooked in milk: This dish is just what the name says. Lamb is slowly stewed in milk with vegetables and spices. The result is deliciously tender and flavourful meat

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Tips for Exploring Montenegro's Mountains

Now that you're filled with excitement to explore Montenegro's magnificent mountains, let's dive into some essential tips to ensure you have an unforgettable experience. First and foremost, consider the best time to visit, taking into account the weather conditions and seasonal attractions. The summer months offer pleasant temperatures for hiking, while the winter season brings opportunities for winter sports enthusiasts.

As you pack for your mountain adventure, make sure to bring appropriate gear and clothing. Sturdy hiking boots, comfortable layers, and a reliable backpack are essential companions for your journey. Don't forget essentials like sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent to keep you protected under the sun. And for the avid photographers, be sure to pack your camera to capture those breathtaking moments.

While exploring Montenegro's mountains, consider hiring a local guide who can provide valuable insights and ensure your safety. Local guides have an intimate knowledge of the trails, wildlife, and hidden gems, allowing you to make the most out of your adventure. Plus, they can share fascinating stories and local folklore, enriching your experience even further.

Last but not least, let's remember the importance of respecting nature and practicing sustainable tourism. Stay on designated trails, follow Leave No Trace principles, and avoid disturbing wildlife or damaging the fragile ecosystem. By leaving only footprints and taking beautiful memories with you, you can contribute to the preservation of Montenegro's natural treasures.

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Tours to the Mountains of Montenegro

There are lots of tour options to the mountains of Montenegro. You can join a day trip or a multi-day tour and there are group, private and self-drive options.

top Day Tours

• Montenegro: Durmitor, Tara and Ostrog Monastery Day Trip: This full-day tour covers a lot in a day: Žabljak, Durmitor National Park, the Đurđevića Tara Bridge and Ostrog Monastery. 
• Montenegro: Full-Day Tour to Lovćen National Park and More: This tour is a great introduction to Montenegrin scenery, history and culture. You'll try rakija, prosciutto, climb to the Petar Petrović-Njegoš mausoleum, see Pavlova Strana, take a boat ride and have walking tours of Cetinje and Budva. 
• Montenegro: Tara River Whitewater Rafting: This day tour takes you up through the scenic north to the north-west tip of Montenegro, where you can raft in the Tara Canyon. 
• Untouched Montenegro: This is a private, guided tour with a fantastic guide. The full-day tour covers the Budva Riviera, Skadar Lake, Podgorica, Biogradska Gora National Park, the Tara Canyon and Durmitor National Park... phew!

Top Multi-Day Tours

• Activity Holidays: You can book guided, multi-day holidays that include a combination of activities like hiking, canyoning and rafting. The accommodation is in authentic ethno villages and the focus is on enjoying nature. 
• Scenic Montenegro Tour: This is a private, guided tour around all of Montenegro's top spots, including the coast and mountains of Montenegro. 
• Discover Montenegro Tour: This is a self-guided itinerary that I've created. You can personalise it to suit you or just follow it as it is. 

Recommended Montenegro holiday Resources

If you haven't booked your trip to Montenegro yet, here are some useful resources to help you get the holiday of your dreams:

• Free Montenegro Quick Start Guide: This is an essential guide that will help you decide where to stay, where to visit and when to come. It also has handy information about staying connected and common words you'll need. If you want to plan and book your own trip, this guide will help you do it with ease Read more >
• Package Holidays from the UK: Package holidays are one of the easiest and most secure ways to book a trip... everything is done for you! Balkan Holidays have great-value package holidays from the UK
• Tour Radar: Tour Radar has a huge range of tours around Montenegro and Europe. You'll find gulet cruises, biking trips, budget tours, self-guided tours and just about any kind of tour you can think of. Lots of their Montenegro tours combine countries like Croatia and Slovenia, so you can see several countries in one trip, which is great if you're coming from outside of Europe. Read more >
• More Montenegro Holidays: Find out more about Montenegro holidays and browse a range of unique and authentic holidays that you can book directly with the tour operator in Montenegro. These are small, family-owned companies that offer personal service and guarantee an unforgettable experience! Read more >

Frequently Asked Questions About The Mountains of Montenegro

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Book Your Trip With My Recommended Providers

• Accommodation with Booking.com
• Tours and activities with Get Your Guide
• Tours and activities with Viator
• Cheap car hire with Localrent.com
• Cheap flights with WayAway
• Organised adventure tours with TourRadar
• Transfers with Kiwitaxi

About Sarah

I'm a New Zealander who's lived in Montenegro since 2008. I love exploring this beautiful country and sharing the best of it with you!

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