Žabljak stands as Montenegro’s alpine crown jewel, where pristine wilderness meets adventure at the gateway to the magnificent Durmitor National Park.
Wondering what to discover in Žabljak? Prepare to be captivated by one of Europe’s most spectacular mountain destinations. This remarkable region boasts an extraordinary collection of natural wonders—from the crystal-clear waters of glacial lakes to soaring limestone peaks and Europe’s deepest canyon. Whether you’re seeking tranquil moments in unspoiled nature, exhilarating mountain hikes through ancient forests, or world-class skiing on powder-perfect slopes, Žabljak delivers unforgettable experiences year-round. We’ve curated the definitive list of six extraordinary locations that showcase the breathtaking beauty and diversity of Montenegro’s premier alpine treasure.
Must-Experience Destinations in Žabljak
Durmitor National Park
The Durmitor National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site covering nearly 40,000 hectares of breathtaking landscapes in northern Montenegro. Located at the gateway to the park, Žabljak serves as the ideal starting point for exploring this natural wonder. The park features 48 limestone peaks over 2,000 meters high, including the majestic Bobotov Kuk (2,523 m), 18 glacial lakes known as «mountain eyes,» and the spectacular Tara River Canyon—Europe’s deepest gorge. The diverse ecosystems support extraordinary biodiversity with numerous endemic species and pristine ancient forests. Visitors can discover spectacular viewpoints, hidden valleys, and remarkable geological formations shaped over millions of years.
Winter transforms Durmitor into a serene snow-covered wonderland from December through March. The park remains accessible through maintained roads to Žabljak, with specialized winter hiking routes marked for safety. Snowshoeing excursions organized by the Visitor Center (€25-40 per person) offer guided access to otherwise difficult-to-reach viewpoints. Wildlife tracking becomes easier with animal prints visible in fresh snow, particularly for observing the park’s deer and fox populations. The panoramic views of snow-capped peaks against bright blue skies create spectacular photography opportunities. Winter visitors should dress in layers with waterproof outer shells, use crampons or traction devices for icy trails, and always check weather conditions at the Visitor Center before departing.
When planning your visit, the park entrance fee is €3 per person (free for children under 7), with annual passes available for €20. The park is open year-round, though some high-altitude areas are inaccessible from November through April due to snow. The Visitor Center in Žabljak operates daily from 8 AM to 6 PM (summer) and 9 AM to 4 PM (winter), offering trail maps (€3-5), guided tours, and equipment rentals. For accommodation, options range from mountain huts (€15-25 per night) to private guesthouses (€30-60) and hotels in Žabljak (€50-120). Book at least one month in advance during July-August and winter holiday periods. Transportation options include daily buses from Podgorica (2.5 hours), organized tours, or rental cars for maximum flexibility when exploring multiple areas of the park.
Spring (April-June) brings dramatic transformation as melting snow feeds waterfalls and rivers while wildflowers cover the meadows. This period offers excellent hiking conditions with moderate temperatures (10-20°C) and fewer visitors than summer. Bird watching reaches its peak as migratory species return, with over 170 bird species documented in the park. The Visitor Center offers specialized spring botanical tours (€30 for half-day) highlighting the park’s diverse flora, including rare orchid species. Water levels in the Tara River reach their highest in late May, creating ideal conditions for white water rafting adventures (€60-80 for full-day trips including equipment and guides). Trails to higher elevations gradually open as snow recedes, with real-time updates available at the Visitor Center.
Summer and autumn (July-October) present the park’s most accessible season with all trails open and natural features at their most vibrant. The famous Black Lake (Crno Jezero) circuit trail (2 hours, moderate difficulty) provides spectacular reflections of surrounding peaks in calm morning waters. For more adventurous visitors, the summit trail to Bobotov Kuk (8-10 hours round-trip) rewards hikers with panoramic views across Montenegro and into neighboring countries. Guided jeep safaris (€45 per person) access remote areas including primeval forests and hidden valleys. Autumn foliage typically peaks in early October, transforming the landscape with golden and red hues. The park’s iconic Ice Cave remains naturally frozen even in summer months, accessible via a guided tour (€35 including transportation and safety equipment). Visitor facilities include picnic areas, educational nature trails for families, and observation platforms strategically positioned for wildlife viewing and photography.
Žabljak Tara Canyon and Đurđevića Tara Bridge
The Tara River Canyon stands as one of Europe’s most impressive natural monuments, reaching depths of up to 1,300 meters and stretching over 80 kilometers through Montenegro’s northern region. Often called «Europe’s Grand Canyon,» this UNESCO-protected wonder features the crystal-clear Tara River carving through dramatic limestone cliffs draped with lush vegetation. The canyon’s crown jewel is the magnificent Đurđevića Tara Bridge, an architectural masterpiece soaring 172 meters above the river with five elegant arches spanning 365 meters across the gorge. Built in 1940, this remarkable concrete structure not only connects the canyon’s steep sides but also offers visitors breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness. Together, the canyon and bridge create an iconic landscape that embodies Montenegro’s extraordinary natural beauty and engineering heritage.
Winter transforms the Tara Canyon into a spectacular frozen landscape from December through February, with snow dusting the cliffs and occasional ice formations along the river edges. The Đurđevića Tara Bridge remains accessible year-round, offering unique photography opportunities with far fewer tourists than summer months. The viewpoint platform at the bridge’s northern end provides the best winter vistas with full canyon perspectives. While rafting is not available during winter, guided snowshoe hiking tours along the canyon rim (€35-45 per person) offer alternative adventure experiences. Winter visitors should dress warmly in layers and wear appropriate footwear with good traction, as paths can be slippery. The nearby mountain teahouse (300 m from the bridge) serves traditional hot drinks and homemade brandy perfect for warming up after canyon exploration.
When planning your visit, consider that the bridge and canyon viewpoints are accessible free of charge, though parking at the official lots costs €2-3 per vehicle. The canyon is viewable year-round, with the bridge offering 24/7 pedestrian access. For accommodations, options range from riverside cabins (€40-70) to guesthouses in nearby villages (€30-50) and hotels in Žabljak (€50-120). Transportation options include regular buses from Žabljak (€3 one-way, 30 minutes), taxi services (approximately €15-20 one-way), or rental cars. The most comprehensive experience combines the bridge visit with a rafting trip (May-October) or canyon rim hiking trail (year-round). Allow at least 2-3 hours for exploring the bridge and viewpoints, or a full day if adding activities like zip-lining (€20-25) or rafting (€50-80 for half-day trips).
Spring (April-May) brings dramatic transformation to the canyon as melting mountain snow increases the Tara River’s flow, creating impressive rapids and waterfalls. This period marks the beginning of the rafting season, with experienced guides offering trips ranging from gentle Class II to challenging Class IV rapids (prices from €50-90 depending on duration and section). The surrounding forests burst with vibrant greenery and wildflowers, making spring ideal for nature photography and bird watching. Hiking trails along the canyon rim become fully accessible, with the 7 km Lever Tara Trail offering spectacular viewpoints of both the canyon and bridge. Spring temperatures range from 10-20°C, requiring light layers that can adapt to changing conditions throughout the day. Morning visits typically offer clearer skies and better lighting for photography of the bridge against the canyon backdrop.
Summer and autumn (June-October) represent peak seasons for experiencing the canyon’s full range of activities. Rafting reaches its zenith in June and July with optimal water levels combining excitement with safety (advance reservations essential during this period). The zip-line crossing the canyon near the bridge provides an adrenaline-filled perspective, reaching speeds of 50km/h while suspended 170 meters above the river. Swimming is possible in designated calmer sections of the river, with water temperatures reaching 15-18°C in July and August. The bridge illumination during summer evenings creates magical photography opportunities, particularly around sunset (7-9 PM). Autumn brings spectacular foliage colors to the canyon walls from late September through October, with cooler temperatures (12-18°C) ideal for hiking the full 15 km canyon rim trail. Cultural experiences include meeting local honey producers near the bridge who offer tastings of rare canyon cliff honey (available for purchase from roadside stands). For the ultimate canyon experience, combine a morning rafting trip with an afternoon bridge visit and zip-line adventure, concluding with dinner at the riverside restaurant featuring locally-caught trout and traditional Montenegrin cuisine.
Black Lake (Crno Jezero), Zminje Lake, and other lakes
Black Lake (Crno Jezero): Nestled at the foot of Durmitor Mountain, Black Lake is the most famous of Montenegro’s glacial lakes. Its crystal-clear waters, framed by dense forests and towering peaks, make it a popular spot for hiking, kayaking, and peaceful nature walks.
Zminje Lake: Smaller and more secluded, Zminje Lake offers a serene escape surrounded by lush greenery. Its tranquil atmosphere is perfect for those seeking solitude and a quiet connection with nature.
Other Lakes: Durmitor National Park is home to several other pristine lakes, each with its own unique charm, making the region a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers.
Bobotov Kuk
Bobotov Kuk is the highest peak in Montenegro’s Durmitor National Park, towering at 2,523 meters above sea level. This majestic mountain offers some of the most breathtaking views in the region, with expansive vistas of rugged landscapes and deep valleys.
A popular destination for hikers and mountaineers, Bobotov Kuk provides challenging trails that reward climbers with panoramic scenery and a sense of accomplishment.
Its striking beauty and impressive height make it a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts seeking to experience Montenegro’s dramatic mountain terrain.
Ćurevac, Žabljak
Ćurevac is a striking viewpoint located near Žabljak, offering panoramic vistas of the Tara River Canyon and the surrounding rugged landscapes of Durmitor National Park.
Rising over 1600 meters, this majestic plateau provides a bird’s-eye view of the canyon’s dramatic cliffs and lush forests.
Curevac is a favorite spot for hikers and nature lovers seeking breathtaking scenery, peaceful surroundings, and one of the best overlooks in Montenegro.
It’s an ideal destination for those who want to experience the raw beauty of the country from a unique vantage point.
Mountain pass Sedlo
Sedlo Pass, located in Durmitor National Park, is one of Montenegro’s most breathtaking mountain routes. At an elevation of 1,907 meters, it offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks, deep valleys, and alpine landscapes.
This winding mountain pass is a must-see for adventurers, whether driving or hiking, as it reveals the raw, untamed beauty of Durmitor.
The dramatic cliffs and panoramic vistas make it a prime destination for photographers and nature lovers seeking to explore Montenegro’s rugged wilderness.
