07/28/2026
(Last photo is our ABSOLUTE FAVE).
What everyone thinks about when they hear Montenegro is the stunning blue waters of the bay of Kotor.
What we think about? The mountains and valleys of Durmitor National Park.
On our first visit to Montenegro, all we could rave about was Kotor but after spending a day exploring Durmitor National Park this time around, we’re going to remember Montenegro just as much for its mountains, alpine lakes, winding roads, and endless valleys.
And it was an absolute highlight of our trip!
Did we convince you to add it to your bucketlist?
Here are a few tips if you go:
Start early (around 6–7 AM) to avoid traffic and give yourself plenty of time to get to the park (it’s about a 3 hour drive from around Kotor)
Walk the easy loop around Black Lake. It’s family friendly and one of the most beautiful spots in the park. You can turn around anytime you like.
Drive part of the Durmitor Ring Road for incredible viewpoints (you don’t have to complete the entire loop to experience the best scenery, start off going clockwise up to Mountain Pass Sedlo and then turn around whenever you like)
Stop at Tara Canyon and the Tara Bridge for one of Europe’s deepest canyons. (Check opening and construction schedules)
Pack snacks or stop for a local lunch in Zabljak before continuing your drive, there are plenty of good options and even a restaurant right on Black Lake.
Even in summer, bring a light jacket, the mountains are much cooler and windier than the coast
Montenegro surprised us twice: first with the sea, then with the mountains.
Don’t skip either.
