Embracing adventure: Montenegro travel tips from a local expert

Feel the call of the wild in Montenegro, a small yet mighty country of unparalleled natural landscapes in Europe. There’s so much more to it than its beaches, so lace up your boots and wield those walking poles as you ready yourself to embrace its remote reaches, brimming with endless beauty, history and tradition. As our local expert Vukoman reveals in this spotlight interview, outdoor adventurers, nature enthusiasts with a thirst for active pursuits, and those yearning to get firmly off the beaten path could find no better. Read on for all the Montenegro travel inspiration you could need!

What do you love most about living in Montenegro?

Montenegro is a small country with a high concentration of unspoiled natural beauty – in any step across it you’ll be stunned with something new and different. A traditional lifestyle still exists in remote parts of the country, reminding us of our ancestors and the way they built our rich culture. Cultural diversity, authentic local products (food, wines, olive oil), the traditional hospitality of Montenegrin people… it’s really hard to name just one thing!

What would you recommend first-timers do in Montenegro?

Amongst many amazing spots, I’d recommend visiting Lovćen’s Njegoš Mausoleum, the highest one in the world, placed on top of the mountain at an altitude of 1,657m. It’s dedicated to Petar II Petrović Njegoš, one of the most influential figures in the history of Montenegro and South Slavic people in general. This grandiose place shows the brutal beauty of southern Montenegro; it tells an amazing story of Montenegro’s past and our long struggle for freedom, our culture, and the influence of the person buried there.

What’s one piece of advice you would give someone visiting your country?

I’d definitely recommend finding some truly unknown and undiscovered places in tourist terms, and staying at the homes of local farmers. Feeling their original, simple lifestyle, tasting the food they produce, waking up in a super-calm and beautiful spot, is probably the biggest luxury that Montenegro still offers. Some examples of such places are the massif of Moračke planine in central Montenegro, as well as the remote villages of Piva Natural Park.

Could you share your top Montenegro travel highlights for an active adventure?

• Durmitor National Park: If you haven’t experienced this place, then you can’t truly say you’ve been to Montenegro. It’s the most spectacular and most loved mountain area in the country, with 48 peaks exceeding an altitude of 2,000m and 18 beautiful, surreal glacial lakes. Durmitor is home to many endemic species, plants and animals, as well as plenty of cultural monuments. Together with the Tara Canyon and ancient cemeteries of Stećci in the same area, it’s listed by UNESCO as a part of the World’s Natural and Cultural Heritage.
• Lake Skadar National Park: Another true gem of Montenegro. It’s the biggest lake in the Balkan Peninsula and one of the most important ecosystems in this part of Europe, especially in terms of birdlife: it permanently or seasonally hosts 272 different species, and it proudly keeps the title of birdwatching paradise. In cultural terms, the lake’s area is the birthplace of Montenegro, that still holds myriad historical monuments that tell stories of our roots and our constant fight for freedom through the centuries. We’re always excited to bring our guests to remote and hidden parts of Lake Skadar for a kayaking tour, letting them enjoy everything that this magical place offers, including wine and gastronomy experiences – this area is widely known for its authentic Montenegrin wines and fish-based delicacies.
• Moračke planine: A wide, remote highland in Central Montenegro, featuring tall grassy peaks, glacial lakes, streams of clear drinkable water, and summer villages of local nomadic farmers. Visiting this fabulous piece of land, you’ll probably see no other tourists, as it’s still a kind of secret place and perfect for those who wish to get away from busy spots. There you’ll find untouched nature, absolute silence, and real inner peace. It’s a God-given area for hut-to-hut hiking and mountain biking, combined with stays at local homes and learning about the traditional hospitality of the people who call this land home.

For hungry stomachs, what dish would you suggest trying?

Kačamak, described by most guests as a “cheesy mashed potato”. It’s a pretty old and simple vegetarian meal that you can enjoy as a main meal or side dish, combining it with a local version of goulash, yogurt or winter salads. Some people find it to be a bit heavy, but it’s delicious and a favorite meal of most Montenegrins.

When is the best time to visit Montenegro, particularly for enjoying its great outdoors?

Definitely visit pre- and post-season, which means May to early June and September to the first half of October. These are periods when you can enjoy plenty of privacy wherever you go in Montenegro, and the weather is also much more pleasant for those who don’t enjoy high temperatures.

Make it happen

Montenegro is waiting for you, so get in touch with our local experts today, and begin planning a dreamy itinerary that’s perfectly tailored to you and your needs.