Top 10 Day Hikes in Montenegro
Nestled along the Adriatic coast, Montenegro boasts a stunning landscape of rugged mountains, dramatic cliffs, and deep-blue bays, making it a paradise for hikers. From the towering peaks of Durmitor National Park to the lush, hidden trails of Lake Skadar, Montenegro offers trails that reveal both its wild beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Who is this for?
This article is for anyone of all levels! There are hikes of ranging difficulties, all with levels from easy to difficult stated as well as the rough time it should take. Be sure to check the weather before going and hopefully you will have a great time!
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1. Prutaš - Škrka, Durmitor
Length (loop) - 12.1km ( 7.5miles)
Elevation - 1,115m
Difficulty - Difficult
Hiking time - approx. 4 hours
Start: Dobri do
Restaurants - see map below!
Highlight of the trail
The Prutaš - Škrka hike loop in Durmitor National Park is a challenging yet rewarding trail that takes you through some of Montenegro's most breathtaking scenery. Starting from the iconic Prutaš peak, known for its unique rock formations and sweeping views, the path leads you down to the secluded Škrka Lakes, surrounded by towering peaks and alpine meadows. This loop offers a true wilderness experience, blending rugged terrains with awe-inspiring natural beauty, ideal for seasoned hikers.
Weather and map linked below!
2. Kotor Fortress Ladders
Length - 4.2km (3.4 miles)
Elevation - 220m
Difficulty - Easy
Hiking time - approx. 2 hours
Start: Kotor
Restaurants - see map below!
Highlight of the trail
The ladders of Kotor is a historic trail that climbs the steep mountainside above the Bay of Kotor, offering panoramic views of the ancient walled city below. With each zig-zagging switchback, hikers are rewarded with sweeping vistas of the Adriatic Sea, stone fortifications, and lush hillsides. This trail, steeped in history and rugged charm, is a must for those seeking a blend of culture, scenery, and a heart-pumping climb.
Weather and map linked below!
3. Žabljak loop
Length - 17.4km (10.8 miles)
Elevation - 945m
Difficulty - Moderate
Hiking time - approx. 6 hours 30 mins
Start: Žabljak
Restaurants - see map below!
Highlight of the trail
The Žabljak Knob Loop is a picturesque trail near the town of Žabljak, providing a moderate hike through Montenegro's stunning highland landscapes. This loop offers expansive views of the Durmitor Mountains, with sections winding through fragrant pine forests and open meadows dotted with wildflowers. Ideal for hikers of all levels, the trail combines scenic tranquility with breathtaking views, capturing the unique charm of Montenegro’s mountainous terrain.
Weather and map linked below!
4. Bobotov Kuk
Length - 9.8km (6.1 miles)
Elevation - 910m
Difficulty - Moderate
Hiking time - approx. 3 hours
Start: Viewpoint Valovito lake
Restaurants - see map below!
Highlight of the trail
The Bobotov Kuk hike takes you to the highest peak in Montenegro, offering an exhilarating journey through the dramatic landscapes of Durmitor National Park. This challenging trail leads hikers across rocky ridges, alpine meadows, and glacial valleys, with panoramic views stretching as far as Bosnia and Herzegovina. Standing at the summit, you’re rewarded with an unparalleled 360-degree view of the rugged mountain ranges and valleys that make this region so unforgettable.
Weather and map linked below!
5. Babina Glava
Length - 18.3km (11.4 miles)
Elevation - 570m
Difficulty - Moderate
Hiking time - approx. 5 hours 30 minutes
Start: Kotor cable car
Restaurants - see map below!
Highlight of the trail
The Babina Glava hike is a scenic trail in the Bjelasica mountain range, ideal for those looking to experience Montenegro's lush landscapes. The path ascends through dense forests and opens onto rolling green meadows with sweeping views over Lake Biograd and the surrounding peaks. This moderate hike is perfect for nature lovers, offering serene beauty and a chance to spot local wildlife in a tranquil, unspoiled setting.
Weather and map linked below!
6. Crna jezera (black lakes) loop
Length - 4.7km (2.9 miles)
Elevation - 70m
Difficulty - Easy
Hiking time - approx. 2 hours
Start: Zabljak
Restaurants - see map below!
Highlight of the trail
The Crna Jezera Loop, or "Black Lakes Loop," is a scenic trail circling two connected glacial lakes near the town of Žabljak in Durmitor National Park. This easy, family-friendly hike leads you through dense pine forests and along the shimmering shores of the lakes, reflecting the surrounding mountain peaks in their dark, crystal-clear waters. Perfect for hikers of all levels, the loop offers a peaceful retreat into nature, with breathtaking views at every turn.
Weather and map linked below!
7. Mt. Popadija – Mt. Talijanka loop from Dolja
Length - 9.8km (6.1 miles)
Elevation - 870m
Difficulty - Moderate to difficult
Hiking time - approx. 5 hours
Start: Planinarski dom Branko Kotlajic
Restaurants - see map below!
Highlight of the trail
The Mt. Popadija – Mt. Talijanka loop from Dolja is a spectacular hike through the dramatic Prokletije mountain range, known as the "Accursed Mountains." This trail leads you along Montenegro’s border with Albania, offering stunning views of steep cliffs, jagged peaks, and expansive valleys. With the rugged beauty of both Mt. Popadija and Mt. Talijanka, this loop provides a challenging yet rewarding experience for adventurous hikers seeking Montenegro’s wild, untamed landscapes.
Weather and map linked below!
8. Njego's mausoleum on Lovcen
Length - 13km (8.1 miles)
Elevation - 530m
Difficulty - Moderate
Hiking time - approx. 4 hours 30 mins
Start: Ivanova Korita
Restaurants - see map below!
Highlight of the trail
The hike to Njegoš's Mausoleum on Mount Lovćen from Ivanova Korita is a journey through Montenegro’s rich history and striking landscapes. Winding up through the national park, the trail offers breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea, surrounding mountains, and charming coastal villages. At the summit, you’ll reach the majestic mausoleum of Montenegro’s beloved poet and ruler, Petar II Petrović-Njegoš, where panoramic vistas reward hikers with an unforgettable experience.
Weather and map linked below!
9. Trnovačko lake loop
Length - 12.6km (7.8 miles)
Elevation - 1,100m
Difficulty - Difficult
Hiking time - approx. 6 hours
Start: Prijevor - Maglic Parking
Restaurants - see map below!
Highlight of the trail
The Trnovačko Lake Loop is a picturesque hike that takes you to one of Montenegro’s most iconic alpine lakes, nestled in the heart of the Prokletije mountain range. The trail winds through lush forests and scenic meadows before revealing the stunning, heart-shaped Trnovačko Lake, framed by towering peaks. Known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant turquoise hue, this loop offers a peaceful escape into nature’s pristine beauty, perfect for both seasoned hikers and nature enthusiasts.
Weather and map linked below!
10. Kotor loop
Length - 22km (13.7 miles)
Elevation - 1,200m
Difficulty - Difficult
Hiking time - approx. 7 hours
Start: Kotor
Restaurants - see map below!
Highlight of the trail
This loop is a captivating trail that showcases the diverse beauty of the Bay of Kotor and its surrounding landscapes. Starting from the historic city of Kotor, the path ascends through olive groves and ancient stone villages, passing the impressive fortress walls that have protected this area for centuries. As you navigate the trail, you'll also encounter remnants of old Austro-Hungarian borders, offering a glimpse into the region's rich history while enjoying breathtaking views of the bay and its majestic mountains.
Weather and map linked below!
