Hiking in Montenegro: 11 Best Hikes For Different Seasons
I continue to expand my list of the best hikes in Montenegro since there are always new trails to explore. This summer I am based in the north of the country, discovering Montenegro’s mountains with their hideaway places and non-crowded paths.
But prior to coming here, I spent almost 3 months in Bijela, getting to know the Bay of Kotor in detail with some of its impressive hiking paths. And I am adding them to this article below.
So you’ll find here different suggestions for Montenegro hikes, from those in coastal areas to trekking in quite remote non-touristy parks. Some are great for hiking while others offer nice walking opportunities. All are absolutely worth a trip (and some are even accessible in winter), allowing you to experience this country in a way that many people miss. They all are also safe.
Because one of the best things to do in Montenegro is go hiking. While focusing on a beach holiday or going on a road trip is better than nothing, a deeper exploration provides a broader glimpse of its beautiful interior and offers a chance to experience some of the best hiking trails in Europe.
So add all of them (or at least some of them) to your Montenegro itinerary and enjoy the wilderness!
NOTE: These Montenegro hiking trails suit anyone who is not a professional hiker. They are excellent for day hikes while slowly traveling through the country, but those who wish, can easily combine them with the suggestions I give below and turn these hikes into multi-day hiking opportunities.
So why not rent a car in Montenegro and go on a drive for a little hiking adventure? If you need tips on car hire, here’s my take – this year renting cars from locals seems to be a cheaper and more convenient option.
When is the Best Time to Go Hiking in Montenegro?
There is no one definite answer here since the climate of Montenegro is strikingly different on the coast and in the mountains. Even different mountain ranges within Montenegro experience different weather too.
While in some areas it can be still (or already) cold and snowy, the nearby trails can be perfect for early hiking in spring (when it is possible to see many flowers and snowy mountain peaks) or late hiking in fall (when there is a foliage boom).
The coastal area is accessible pretty much year-round, so going on a hike is possible at any time of the year besides winter days when it rains non-stop or summer days when the weather is scorching hot.
Below, together with information on hikes around Montenegro, I also mention the time and season when these hiking trails are accessible and best to enjoy.
Best Day Hikes in Montenegro Along the Coast
1. Hike in Kotor to Sveti Ivan Fortress
This is probably one of the most famous and easiest hikes in Montenegro which you can do in one (or half) day without leaving Kotor. It is famous because of Sveti Ivan fortress from where you get stunning views of Kotor Bay. Many resources highlight it as a top hike in the Kotor area, although I don’t really agree with it (mainly because it is already too overrated), yet it is really spectacular and shouldn’t be missed, especially so if you plan to visit Kotor city.
Most people who reach the top of Sveti Ivan usually get there by taking a road from Old Kotor and paying 15 euros per person for the entrance (the price is going up every year).
Instead (especially if you are on a budget), I recommend going to the Northern part of Kotor to start this hike for free and with only a few people on the trail.
Besides the fact that it’s free and less crowded (if crowded at all), it also opens a beautiful panorama of the city and bay area. The hike is a bit steep and may be challenging for little kids and elder people. If you are used to hiking and walking a lot, you’ll get to the top pretty quickly. If not, just make stops and take it slower.
Once you step on a trail, you’ll start noticing a beautiful view of the city. The higher you go, the more spectacular view will be opening up.
For directions: this hike starts near Apartments Ana and zigzags for almost two kilometers up to the top. The trailhead starts here.
What to know: much of this Montenegro hike is in open sunlight, so it can get incredibly hot in summer. Have plenty of water with you, sunscreen, and a hat. On the way back you can take Old Town road which is known as the ladder of Kotor and exit through the gate where others pay to enter.
However, from this year on (since officials still don’t know what to do with the free entrance), everyone who exists through the gate might need to show tickets (might need as they talked about it but haven’t implemented yet).
We’ve done this hike a few times and hiked adjacent trails and I still believe that the best way to hike it is in the direction that I described above. If you start by the main entrance and climb the ladder of Kotor, you’ll need to turn around all the time to see the view. Besides that, the ladder is steeper and going up will be more strenuous than on the trail that starts in the north.
Where to Stay in Kotor for Hiking:
Anywhere that fits your budget and what you like. Kotor is a small town, so no matter which place to choose, you are going to be close to the beginning of this hiking trail (and others that intersect with it). If you have a car, you can also pick one of the other towns in Kotor Bay since driving distances are short.
Here are a few options that I think are great directly in Kotor:
HOTEL VILLA DUOMO – reliable and comfortable hotel in a central location of Kotor Old Town. There are different types of rooms available with free breakfast.
PALAZZO RADOMIRI HERITAGE HOTEL – historic 18th-century old hotel in the cute town of Dobrota adjacent to Kotor with views, outdoor pool, sauna, and even yoga classes.
ASTORIA HOTEL – another beautiful historic accommodation in Old Town with unique interior and decor.
For more information on where to stay in the area, check my guide to the best areas in Kotor and where to stay in Montenegro.
2. Hiking in Montenegro Kotor Bay to an Abandoned Village of Gornji Stoliv
For a more unique hike in Kotor area take a look at the Vrmac hill, famous for mountain villages, fortresses and a lot of trails. Vrmac hill is a mountain peak with sweeping views on the Vrmac peninsula. And Vrmac peninsula is that part of Kotor Bay where besides Tivat there are some beautiful towns such as Donji Stoliv, Muo, and Lepetai.
One of the short day hikes on Vrmac hill is a hike to the abandoned village of Gornji Stoliv. There, you’ll see a gorgeous panorama of Perast with Our Lady of the Rocks and Saint George islands. Do not forget to grab a bottle of water and snacks since you’ll want to replenish the calories spent on climbing a hill with a height of 240 m.
What to know: The town of Stoliv is divided into two parts – Gornji (Upper) and Donji (Lower) Stoliv. About 350 people live near the sea coast in Donja Stoliv where there is a decent number of restaurants, a post office, and a few guest houses for tourists.
But after half an hour of walking up the hill, you can get from Donji Stoliv into a completely “different world” of Gornji Stoliv, the world of the recent past that will never return. This abandoned settlement is 8 km away from Kotor and Tivat.
If half a century ago, 64 people lived in Gornji (Upper) Stoliv, in our time, there is only 1 house. The reason for this was the catastrophic earthquake of 1979, the Yugoslav war with the economic crisis, and the development of tourism in the 21st century. Besides this house, there is also a church of St. Anne with a beautiful panoramic platform next to it, an abandoned grocery store, olive oil mills and bakeries.
The bell tower of the church is visible from Perast or from the bay, so it will be interesting to visit it, especially if you’ve seen it from the other side. You cannot enter the territory of the church through the gate, but you can climb through the hole in the fence on the left. After the church, you can continue hiking to Gornja Lastva for more panoramic views.
For directions: The trailhead starts here, in Donji Stoliv near the sea. You’ll see a red mark on the wall of one of the houses pointing where to go. The walk to the church takes around 30 – 40 minutes. But in spring it can be slippery because of the humidity after the rain and may take more time.
Here is the beginning of another trail that is less popular and not so slippery. If you wish you can also start a hike here near the old church which is located next to Our Lady Temple.
If you go to Gornja Lastva then on the way back take a Blue Line bus that runs along the coast in Donji Stoliv. It travels from Kotor to Tivat and back, so you can go in any direction. And here are the coordinates where to start if you start hiking this trail in Gornja Lastva.
Where to Stay Nearby:
If budget allows, treat yourself to a stay in a new luxury hotel in the village outside Kotor – Blue Kotor Bay Premium Spa Resort. It is next to the trail and to the Bay of Kotor in a very secluded area.
3. Best Hike Near Budva – Yegor’s Trail Hiking Route
Among Russian-speaking tourists (and residents), Yegor’s Trail Hiking Route is among the most popular hikes near Budva. It is panoramic, easy to hike, and offers a great chance to enjoy the nature of Budva Riviera.
The only thing – you want to avoid hiking it in summer when temperatures are too high. The best time to go trekking there is fall through spring. And yes, winter in this part of Montenegro is also an amazing season since with cooler weather it is much more pleasant to enjoy the hike. And with heavy skies, the landscape looks more impressive.
The trail starts in Przno at the Praskvica Monastery (right here, but open on maps.me to see hiking trails). Then it leads above the coast to the village of Celobrdo and the Rustovo Monastery. Along the way, there are magnificent views of the Adriatic Sea, surrounding mountains, Sveti Stefan and the whole Budva Riviera.
The hike itself is moderately challenging, about 7.5 kilometers long, and takes approximately 5 hours to complete (with time on snacks and photos). I’d say that hikers of all levels of experience can do it, just make sure to have proper shoes, take water and food (although there is one source of water on the way), and do it in the right type of weather.
Psst: You can also reach this path by car (there is an asphalt serpentine road nearby) but nature lovers will appreciate a hiking opportunity much more.
Where to Stay for This Hike:
Przno and Sveti Stefan are both wonderful places where to make a base, although Przno is more expensive. If you are looking for a nice hotel stay, look at Maestral Resort & Casino, a luxurious 5-star hotel with all amenities and direct access to the beach.
Otherwise, there is Villa Pstrovka, a budget guesthouse next to the sea and main beach or Harmonia Bungalows & Pool, a beautiful studio apartment for a mid-budget with kitchen and infinity pool.
Best Hiking Trails in Montenegro Mountains
4. Hiking Wolf Trail Near Cetinje in Lovcen National Park
We found out about this beautiful hike by accident when visiting Lovcen National Park.
While on the way to the Mausoleum, we decided to stop at a small village called Ivanova Korita to grab a snack and take a stroll, and this is how we discovered numerous trails that start right from the village and lead into the park, including Wolf Trail, a moderate 6.5-mile loop hike with amazing views of the Adriatic Sea, mountains, and villages.
There was something magical about this hike. Perhaps because we visited in the fall when the forest looked very dreamlike or maybe the reason was the number of vistas and spectacular views.
Views you get on a trail are breathtaking. You can see the mountains, Tivat, sea and on a good day even Kotor Bay in the distance. My favorite part is that it is a loop and you don’t have to walk the same path twice. The scenery is changing multiple times throughout the hike – you walk through the valley, forest, village, and rocky hills.
Follow my guide to hiking in Lovcen National Park where I talk in detail about this hike and a few other beautiful trails.
Where to Stay in Lovcen National Park:
Lovcen National Park is conveniently located not far from Budva, Cetinje, and Kotor. It can be always a one-day trip if you are staying in one of those cities.
However, if you decide to stay overnight in a park, there are only a few nice options to choose from, some are newly built cabins or Hotel Monte Rosa and Ivanov Konak Hotel.
Another option is to choose Cetinje (the first capital) or a nearby Njegusi village where more and more accommodation options pop up each year. One of the newer projects is Ethno Village St. George Hotel where we ate the most delicious Priganice (traditional mountain food of Montenegro) and tried all Njegusi specialties like cheeses and cured meats.
5. Hike to Bendovac Peak for the Most Beautiful View of Biogradska Lake
This is one of the easiest hikes in Montenegro which also opens up incredible views. It starts in Biogradska Gora National Park (primarily known for Biograd Lake, one of the six mountain glacial lakes in the area, and one of the three remaining rainforests in Europe) and goes through the forest and meadows to the beginning of Bjelasica Mountains that hide more interesting trails and striking panoramas.
Chances are high you’ll be visiting the park (because many tourists do) and when you come there, don’t miss a hiking opportunity to follow this path for the scenery and authentic Montenegrin mountain feel.
Hiking to Bendovac Peak is a good starting point for all hikes in Biogradska Gora. It is a mountain top and at the same time viewpoint, located at an elevation of 1774m. It offers the most beautiful view of the Biogradska Gora rainforest and Lake Biograd from above.
And the best part? You can hike to it comfortably within 2-3 hours (one way) by following a serpentine gravel road. (You can also drive this road in a Jeep but be ready for a bumpy ride on some patches).
Here is the exact walking route which is very straightforward, but you can also use forest paths between the road’s curves for a more authentic hiking experience. Although do it better on the way up than down to have less pressure on the knees. And avoid them after the rain (stick to the gravel road instead), as paths are slippery and muddy.
If you plan to visit Biogradska Gora National Park, include this scenic hike to Bendovac Peak for breathtaking views and rewarding adventure. And if you want to turn it into multi day hiking in Montenegro mountains, then opt to stay in Camp Janketic or Koliba Damjanovica (very basic wooden houses, but very nice and so authentic) and continue your hike on the following day to Sisko Lake and beyond.
Where to Stay for This Hike
Since it is close to Kolasin, I would base yourself there and just drive to Biogradska Gora at any time (it is a 30-min drive). More and more beautiful accommodation options pop up in Kolasin (both hotels and flats), so the choice is big.
Another option is to stay on the hills of Mojkovac, where its eco-resorts and ethno village are silent retreats with a view of the mountains. Examples of those are Fern Farm and Ethno Village Stitarica.
An alternative would be Camp Janketic or Koliba Damjanovica directly in Biogradska Gora which are budget accommodations in the wild.
6. Hike to Pešića Lake in Kolasin
In my opinion, after hiking already quite a few trails in Montenegro, I can honestly say that route to Pešića Lake is the most scenic hike in the Kolasin area (together with the hike mentioned above).
It starts by Kolasin 1600 (the new ski resort village which is still under construction, location here) and can be completed in two different ways – either partially by ski lift to Troglava mountain and from there to the lake or starting from the Swissotel Resort area and following the path to the lake as well.
The first option takes around 1.5-2 hours (one way) with time for snacks and photos (and cable car including) and second option is 3-3.5 hours (one way), but the final time will depend on your pace of course.
The lake itself is rather small, but don’t go just for the lake – the entire hiking path is incredibly scenic. Even if you don’t have enough time or energy to reach the lake, don’t be discouraged. You can still enjoy a partial hike to experience the stunning scenery.
On a nice sunny day, there is a chance to see the Komovi mountains on the horizon and mountains of Prokletije National Park (as in my photos).
If you would like to understand more of what to expect on the trail, see my post about the Pesice Lake hike. We hiked it twice (with the lift and without) while spending two months in Kolasin and now sharing our experience there.
Where to Stay for This Hike:
Best places are Kolasin or directly in Kolasin 1600. By the ski resort, in Kolasin 1600, so far there is only one hotel available – Swissotel Resort (very beautiful, we’ve been there too, but part of it as well as other hotels are still under construction).
In Kolasin city, if you want something nice yet not overly expensive, look at the Pini Apart Hotel (in a very quiet location, but car is preferred), Forest Green Flat (in the building where we stayed, next to the forested area and with views of the mountains), or Rooms at Mirovic (by the river farther away from the center).
7. Curevac Hike in Durmitor National Park
It is one of the northernmost hikes in Durmitor National Park which brings you to the top of Tara Canyon. On this hike, you get a view of the second-largest canyon (after Grand Canyon) in the world.
Since the trail starts in the wilderness you need to have a car to drive to where it starts. Just find on a map Curevac and follow the directions towards it. The road gets a bit bumpy so watch out when driving. You’ll see a parking lot on your right (after you pass Govede lake) where you can park and start your hike from there.
The path is well-marked and clear, but it is a bit steep and rocky. It may be challenging for small kids and elder people.
This hike is short and can be completed within 1.5-2 hours.
I recommend going either during the first part of the day or before sunset. Going in the morning means that the sun will shine right on the canyon and you’ll get a clear view and take good pictures. We went for the sunset and the sun rays were getting right into our eyes making it difficult to see all the beauty of the canyon.
I have a full guide to Durmitor National Park hiking, where besides this trail I mention other amazing trails. So you can add them to your Montenegro itinerary.
8. Savin Kuk Hike in Durmitor National Park
Everyone, who goes to Durmitor National Park, hears about Black Lake or Bobotov Kuk hike. In fact, local tour agencies, when introducing visitors to Durmitor park, usually bring them to Black Lake. So it is easy to find lots of information on hikes around the lake and nearby forest.
Savin Kuk hike is not anywhere near the lake but if you go all the way to the end of this trail you’ll get a stunning view of the Black Lake from above.
This hike is very strenuous if you decide to do it without a chairlift.
When we were there in October the skylift was closed for the season, so we decided to give it a try and hike all the way to the top wearing just sneakers and jeans. We were not thinking on that day, you know. And oh my gosh, how challenging it was. We hiked almost 3 kilometers one way (2 miles) with an elevation gain of more than 2 km (7K feet.) Crazy us!
But we’ve done it.
I recommend doing the entire hike only if you are an experienced hiker, who wants a strenuous workout, has proper shoes, hiking pants and a lot of time. Otherwise, take a skylift, save time and enjoy the same views. After you get to the top of the mountain by skylift, it will take another 30 minutes to hike to the summit.
In order to reach this trail, you need to have a car. It starts near the restaurant KOLIBA in Virak (coordinates here) and takes approximately 10 minutes to drive from Zabljak.
Where to Stay in Durmitor:
The best place to stay would be in Zabljak town. Mark and I have stayed there in two different hotels and Airbnb apartments (because we often travel there).
Lately, our favorite became North Story – a new hotel of a luxury type with an outdoor jacuzzi, sauna for guests, buffet breakfast, and mountain views. But I talk about other nice options in my post best hiking in Durmitor. All the information on the best accommodation is all the way in the end.
Other Awesome Montenegro Hikes
9. Hike in Central Montenegro to Kapetanovo Lake in the Moraca Mountains
If previously mentioned treks are more or less known among some travelers, this hike in Montenegro is a true gem that no one knows about. Kapetanovo Lake is located right in the center of the country, between Kolasin and Niksic. Not many people know about this place, that’s why it’s still one of the least visited and non-discovered gems in Montenegro.
In my opinion, this lake and surrounding nature look very similar to some scenery in Norway. In general, I believe many places in Montenegro look like some places in Norway, just in miniature.
To get to Kapetanovo Lake you either have to hike around 5 km (3 miles) one way from the end of the paved road or go there by jeep.
In the summertime, you can camp, stay overnight, go on other hikes, picnic, and even dine at one of the local katuns. Also, in summer flocks of sheep and cows graze near the lake making it look a bit fairytalish. In winter, everything is closed and looks abandoned.
If you would like to hike a bit more, check out another lake in the area – Manito Lake. It would take around 40 minutes one way to get there.
The best way to get to Kapetanovo lake is through Niksic. But keep in mind that at some point the asphalt road ends and from there you need to hike (unless you come by jeep.)
What to know: In winter, the weather is usually cold and very windy, so perhaps hiring a jeep would work better. In summer, when nearby Niksic is baking hot, Moraca mountains experience lower temperatures.
WHERE TO STAY:
A trip to Kapitanovo Lake can be done as a day trip from Kotor, Budva, or Tivat, or when on the way from/to Durmitor National Park to/from the coast. You can also camp near the lake, stay in Savnik or combine with a trip to Zabljak.
In Savnik, I personally can recommend Eco Selo Nevidio. Even if you don’t get to stay here, stop for lunch or coffee at their village-like restaurant with a lovely view.
10. Trek to the Mountainous Lakes – Stabansko Lakes
Suppose you will be in the area of Piva Lake near the Durmitor National Park. In that case, I recommend you devote one day to a hike to two small but beautiful lakes at the foot of the Volujak mountain, located on the border with Bosnia & Herzegovina.
The difficulty of this hike is average. In some parts of the forest, the trail goes up 45 degrees and since it’s covered with a lot of leaves, it can be easy enough to go astray. Although red marks on tree trunks and stones will not let you lose your way.
Most of the trail runs in the shade of trees in a deciduous forest. There are no people on this path since no one really knows about this beauty. The lakes are small and not promoted as much as nearby Black Lake in Durmitor. Introverts will definitely love it there.
We hiked in the summer and didn’t see any wild animals or snakes. There were also no mosquitoes, just some ticks, so watch out for them.
After the hike, if you are tired and would like to swim in icy water, go down to the Vrbnica River. Leave your car behind the bridge and on the left side (here) you will see the path upstream to the beach.
For directions: I am dropping coordinates below to make it easier for you to understand where to start this hike.
Drive all the way here to park your vehicle in the shade of trees near the sign ‘Piva Nature Park’. Once you turn from the main road, the rest of the road will be gravel but it is in good condition, so driving a small sedan car is not a problem. Once you park the car, start your hike towards a small lake (here) and then a few more minutes towards a big Stabansko lake (here).
The hike one way takes around 2 hours to go from the parking place to the first small lake.
Note: If you prefer to go with a guide, contact the office of the Piva Nature Park and they will arrange a tour for you.
WHERE TO STAY IN THE AREA:
The area near Stabansko lakes is breathtaking. If you are not in a hurry to return to Budva beaches, pause for a night in a small town Pluzine, situated on picturesque Piva Lake. And one of (my favorite) places where to stay there is BB Konak.
This mini-hotel consists of bungalows by the lake that have their own entrance to the water and includes breakfast in the morning. There is also a beach nearby where to swim, rent out paddleboards or kayaks, and do boat trips on Lake Piva.
11. Hike to Gate of Wishes and Old Military Road in Mrtvica Canyon
The most fabulous canyon in Montenegro is the Mrtvica River and you definitely have to hike to see it. There are no roads, just a trail here, so you will be left alone with the seething mountain river and local jungle. It is incredibly beautiful, without any big climbs, and easy to access. Perhaps you’ve seen photos of this canyon on the Internet.
The road from Budva to the Mrtvica Canyon runs through Podgorica. There is nothing to see on the way, except for the local ‘Niagara Falls’ or Crnojevicha River with its famous panorama. On the way back you can stop at the “Pechenyara” restaurant for meat from a sacha or carp.
On the way to the canyon, you will also pass the beautiful and formidable canyon of the Moraca River with a couple of panoramic platforms and a suspension bridge that will tickle your nerves.
I have read a few guides about Mrtvica Canyon hike in Montenegro but it seems not many people still do it. During all six hours that we spent trekking, we met only a few other hikers that seemed to be locals. Overall the trail was empty and quiet.
On this hike, you pass the village, cross a few bridges, walk along the crystal clear river, forest and hike through the deep canyon. Once you are in the forest, there are not any signs pointing to the Gate of Wishes. So you need to make sure you don’t pass a side path that leads to it. There is only one side path on your left if you are hiking from the trailhead. Just don’t miss it. We almost did because were busy talking.
This trailhead starts in Medjurecje village, where you leave your car (we parked our car near Danilov bridge here), and has lots of signs. Partially it can be done as a loop and is rather long (around 15 km.) It is great for long-distance hiking in Montenegro that suits almost anyone.
In case you don’t feel like covering all this stretch, just turn back after you visit Gate of Wishes.
If you plan to explore more than just the Bay of Kotor and the coast of Montenegro, do not miss this hike. You will be definitely amazed.
WHERE TO STAY:
For accommodation, I recommend staying in Kolasin. Check availability and rates here.
So for now, these Montenegro hikes are a good starting point for your short trip to the country. As I mentioned in the beginning, I will be adding more hikes as we hike in Montenegro a lot this summer, but for now, these treks are a good place where to start.
Other Posts About Montenegro to Help You Plan a Trip
- How Many Days to Spend in Montenegro? – when you plan todo hiking and when you don’t
- Quick Intro to Herceg Novi – when it is worth visiting and when it is not
- Things to Do in Herceg Novi – best activities and places to visit
- Driving Sedlo Pass – things to know about the most scenic road in Durmitor National Park
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I love hiking and these hikes look phenomenal! I love that you have hikes that overlook the city and then also ones that weave through a forest surrounded by fall foliage. They all look unique and interesting in their own way. Loved this blog post!
Thanks, Martha!
That alternative hike to Sveti Ivan Fortress sounds like a great way to avoid the crowds! And for that breathtaking view, I’d suffer a bit of uphill climbing 🙂
We did too, but the climb was not bad at all!
We are obsessed with hiking!!! I love this post. We have not yet visited Montenegro, but I would really love to. Thanks for the inspiration!
Thanks for your comment, Bea. If you get to visit, you won’t be disappointed, I promise!
I second your thoughts on Norway. In fact, after I visited Kotor, I was surprised to learn that its bay is technically a fjord itself! I have only been to Kotor, and I remember loving every single moment of that short trip (it was a stop on a longer Balkan itinerary). I would defiitely love to go back to Montenegro and get to see a bit more. Thank you for the inspiration!
I am glad to know I am not the only one who believes that Montenegro reminds Norway, even if a little bit 🙂 I think visiting once during a short trip is never enough!
A very awe-inspiring post on the natural wonder of this little country on the Balkans. I do not personally hike but I love reading posts like yours as, thanks to your beautiful pics, I can discover more of enchanting paths and sceneries.
I hear you, Federica. I am a fan of reading posts about experiences and adventures in something that I personally don’t do. Thank you for stopping by and dropping your comment.
These look like some incredibly picturesque hikes! I’m not much of a hiker, so I’d probably have to miss out on these, but dang they sure are pretty!
Thanks, Brianna. They are indeed!
Breathtakingly beautiful. A good friend grew up in Montenegro and she is always telling me I’d love it there. You’re post has just totally proven her right. Desperate to go!
I am sure you’ll love it, Jenny. There is so much to do and see in this tiny country!
Beautiful photos!! These are the kinds of views that make hiking worth it! It seems like you had many incredible viewpoints!
We truly did and honestly, there are so many other shorter and less tried trails all over the country!
You just had me hooked at the first photo. Montenegro looks stunning and I LOVE hiking. The views of the mountains and into the city are simply gorgeous.
I had not really considered Montenegro for a holiday, but now I know how many amazing hikes there are, we might just have to visit! <3
And you won’t be disappointed, Josy!
Hi! Thank you for all of your posts. They are so detailed and informative and such a great help.
I am wondering what your thoughts are on living in Montenegro (Kotor) as a single female (mid 30s). I’d like to know more about the culture, way of life and general disposition of the people there. What types of interactions & lifestyle could I expect to have there and what other Balkan areas do you recommend considering in my search?
About Me:
– digitally employed with a reasonable budget, but looking to live comfortably below it in order to add to savings/retirement and travel surrounding areas.
– don’t need fancy a living space with top end ammenities to be happy
– high speed RELIABLE internet connection is an absolute must.
-Looking for a laid back yet still vibrant environment/community
– love being surrounded by dynamic landscapes – especially ones that are mountainous & varied
– prefer a moderate/cooler environment & don’t mind extended periods of cloud and rain
-a place where I can walk, bike or motorbike for daily needs
– adequate amenities, restaurants and bars but not a nightclub or party scene environment.
I am open to options and am looking to narrow down to maybe 3 or 4 areas to explore on my preliminary travels.
I really appreciate your time and any suggestions you may have to offer. Thank you!
Your pictures are so dreamy I really want to dive into them. I am loving all the options. It must have been an amazing feeling seeing it all.
It truly was, thank you for your kind words, Farah!
I’ll be moving to Montenegro soon from the United States for work. I love hiking but since I am moving by myself, I was wondering you consider the hikes to be safe for solo trips (especially considering I am a young woman)?
Hi Michelle, thank you for your question and I apologize for responding with a delay. Hiking in Montenegro (as traveling in general) as a solo traveler is very safe, although I personally wouldn’t recommend going by yourself on very long and intense hikes. All trails have markings and signs but a lot of them are very isolated, not many people go there and cellular connection is non-existent.
On almost every hike I mention in this and other posts, we saw at least one solo hiker, including a female.
I hope that helps. If you have any other questions, feel free to ask!
Dear Anya,
As an Ukrainan-American I assume you are still a foreigner in this country and the first rule in foreign countries is to show respect. It is very much ok that you share with other people nice spots and ideas for hiking tours which you liked, but if you don’t like, better just don’t mention. Niksic is a pleasant city with nice people who are happy to live there and are not going depressed. And the climate is much better than in Podgorica. Regards
Dear Stephane,
So, first of all, as Ukrainian-American (as you emphasize it,) on my blog I am writing whatever I want, whenever I want and however I want it. This is a place where I share both positive and negative experiences, including what I liked and what I didn’t. I am producing articles that show two sides of a place, not just a sugary-vanilla one. And as a professional travel blogger and journalist, I will be always mentioning places and tours that I didn’t like personally, explaining why exactly I didn’t like them. Those are my own points of view but my readers decide for themselves which decisions to make.
If you personally don’t enjoy reading my post(s), just exit. You are only one click away from leaving my blog.
But coming and telling me that “It is very much ok that you share with other people nice spots and tours which you liked, but if you don’t like, better just don’t mention” does not make much sense. No, it is NOT ok to speak only about good bright experiences. And it is definitely NOT ok for you to try to shut another person up and make her/him quiet about what he/she doesn’t like. Just because you personally don’t like hearing something, it does not imply that other people should not be talking about it.
If you don’t agree with my point of view, so express it and give clear reasons to support your opinion. Don’t come and basically tell me to shut up. While being disrespectful yourself you are trying to teach me lessons on a definition of respect.
Second of all, speaking of respect. Me, sharing how I feel about the tour or a place, does not have anything to do with how respectful I actually am at that particular place. During the time my husband and I lived in Montenegro, we were always respectful of local culture, people and their way of living. Today, saying that I find Niksic boring, it looks depressing and I do not recommend staying there overnight does not have anything to do with me not respecting people who live in this city. Just use common sense when making conclusions.
And third of all, Stephane, if there are people in this world who don’t share your opinion about the place or city, that’s not a big of a deal. We are all different and like different things.
Sorry if you feel offended when I say Niksic looks depressing. To me, it does indeed. I am sure people who live there are nice and happy to live there. Although, one of my friends who comes from Niksic but lives in London, feels the same way about her hometown as I feel. Not everyone is liking what you like.
Nowhere in my post though, I mention anything about people and nowhere in my post I speak disrespectfully of something or someone.
I am solely talking about the city and what it can give a traveler who comes on vacation.
Again, if you have something valid to share on why Niksic is worth visiting for a few days, please do, just in a meaningful way.
love your posts and your reply to Stephane in 2019 when he basically told you to keep your negative opinions to yourself as they are disrespectful! Not trying to tell you what to do, but: Please keep on being you and sharing honestly! thank you so much!!
Randy, thank you so much for a dose of encouragement 🙂 I really appreciate it!!!
Thanks Anya for all your great suggestions for our trip to Montenegro! We also did the alternative direction up to Sveti Ivan Fortress which worked out great. Parking was challenging at the trailhead so we ended up paying near the supermarket, totally worth it. The next day we found a trail on the opposite side of the harbor called Pjesacka staza Vrmac. There is an abandoned fort at the top and you can see Tivat with all the super yachts and a bit of the Adriatic. Easy footing with a lot of switchbacks. The trail kind of walks you through the back of peoples yards in the beginning to get there. We went in the end of May and the wildflowers were blooming everywhere. We also had time to Visit Luvcen for 2 days which is also spectacular and we had it mostly to ourselves. Our 6 day road trip was too short but we packed a lot in. We stopped at several towns and found all sort of interesting museums and historical monuments. Cetinje has a fabulous museum and is totally worth visiting. Again thanks for all your great suggestions!!! And yes getting back over the border to Croatia took several hours even though there were only 30 cars in front of us. Traffic in Dubrovnik was like getting out of Manhattan on a Friday night in August. Just made it our sailboat connection.
Susan and Nick
Hey guys, yay, I am so happy to hear that!
I am so glad I was able to help a little bit with planning your holiday! And really appreciate you finding time to write this message and share about your experience!!! 🙂
I can only imagine how packed it is during the summer months if it was that busy in the end of May. Thank you again for sharing!
This post is incredibly helpful! Thank you for all the information. I am thinking of visiting in mid-October of this year and was wondering if many of these hikes/areas will be open during this time of year other than the lift up to the top? (I will avoid that hike at this time of year). I understand October is the beginning of offseason, hence the reason I would like to visit then along with seeing what is available to see at this time of year. Thanks for all the information! I will definitely be using this as a useful tool!
Cheers,
John
Hi John! I have no idea how I missed this comment, so I am responding just now. Apologize for the delay!
I assume you are on the way to Montenegro now and I am wishing you to have a fabulous time! October is a fantastic month for visiting this country, especially if you plan to go to the mountains. Speaking of hikes, those on this list in Durmitor national park along the Sedlo pass can be challenging to reach now. They are on a higher elevation and it has already started to snow there.
Other hikes are open and easy to do and in October the scenery around them is gorgeous!
I am sure you’ll enjoy them, have a wonderful time in Montenegro!
One thing people don’t say about hiking in Montenegro is that there is trash everywhere. Every single parking pull out I have stopped at in the most beautiful places is a place where people tip trash. It’s a beautiful country for sure, but be prepared for ugly scenes of trash everywhere.
Dear Anya,
I would like to send you a very big THANK YOU for your blog posts. They really guided us on our 10-day road trip through Montenegro. We went on 4 of the hikes in this post (Kotor Fortress via the secret backway, the abandoned village of Gornji Stoliv, Wolf’s Trail in Lovcen, and the Gate of Wishes in Mrtvica canyon) and we absolutely adored every single one of them. We also went on 2 of the hikes in your Durmitor post (Zminje lake and Jablan lake) and a couple of Majestic Hidden Places (Karuc village, Radenovici church, Bjelasica Mountains and Piva Lake canyon). I think it’s safe to say that without the information and inspiration of your blogposts, it would’ve been a very different trip, and we probably would’ve missed some of these fantastic experiences.
Some updated information we gathered from our hikes:
In Kotor Fortress, the window which you need to crawl through, now has a small wooden ladder, and a sign saying entrance is forbidden. But there were no guards when we visited. It’s best to start the hike as early as possible in summer, as the trail enjoys shadow during the morning.
For the hike in Mrtvica canyon, most people park their car in the village or close to the main road. However, this means that you’ll spend the first part of the hike on a road, and not in the actual canyon itself, which can only be accessed on foot. Our accommodation host advised us to drive as far as possible on the road, and to park the car near some houses at the end of the road, where the trail starts (42°43′49.67″N 19°20′45.88″E, use maps.me app to get there). This will allow you to have as much time as possible in the actual canyon and reach deeper into it, rather than spend your energy walking on the road, which can get very hot in summer (the canyon is a little cooler). The road is macadam and a bit bumpy, but we managed just fine with a small rental car. A lady charges a hefty fee to park your car in her garden (5€ when we visited) but you can opt to leave your car on the side of the road before you reach the house. After you visit the Gate of Wishes, about 2km further up the trail, there is another very cool place of interest called Mrtvičke Grede (42°44′35.63″N 19°19′25.33″E). It was made by the army and is definitely worth seeing. In summer, at various places along the trail, you can swim in the very cold but very refreshing water. Please note that it’s not possible anymore to do a loop, as the bridge near Ban-Lug isn’t there anymore. This hike was our favorite hike of the holiday, it was so incredibly beautiful!
In Bjelasica mountains, we found it quite hard to get good information on hikes. Apart from the classic 3.4km around the Biogradska lake and some rather long one way trails, we didn’t find much. Eventually we went on a 16.5km circular hike in Mojkovac which we found in the outdooractive app, which was nice but not superb. If you have any recommendations on hiking in this area, we look forward to returning there one day!
Once again thank you so much Anya, thanks to you we made some unforgettable hikes, and completely fell in love with Montenegro!
I am so happy to hear that, Sophie! And thank you for stopping by to share your feedback and actually add so much valuable information to this article! It will be definitely useful to others who stop by to read it.
I plan to return to Montenegro soon, so will be adding new hikes for sure, although next time I plan to go to the Prokletije National Park which also has incredible unexplored trails.