About Žabljak
Žabljak is located 1456 meters above sea level, making it the highest urban location in the Balkans. Set against the backdrop of the magnificent Durmitor Mountain – in Durmitor National Park – this charming, relatively small city offers a range of exciting activities throughout the year. However, visitor numbers peak during the winter when Žabljak transforms into one of Europe’s prettiest skiing resorts.
Žabljak is surrounded by natural beauty. As well as the domineering Durmitor Mountain, the city is neighboured by Europe’s deepest canyon – created by the Tara River. Lush forests, snow-capped mountains, and crystal-clear lakes and waterways can be found at every turn. So, whether you’re an adventurer or someone who likes to relax while surrounded by natural beauty, you can’t fail to enjoy a memorable experience in Žabljak.
What to See in Žabljak
If you’re a lover of the Great Outdoors, Žabljak is the perfect place for a vacation. Whether you’re looking for adrenaline-fueled winter sports or relaxing forest hikes, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for in this beautiful part of Montenegro. While we could list dozens of beautiful places to see or visit in Žabljak, here are a few of our favorites.
Durmitor National Park
You don’t need to be a skier or a watersports enthusiast to have a fantastic time in this part of the world. If you’re searching for things to see in Žabljak, just spend some time in the resplendent Durmitor National Park. Not only is it blessed with some of the most spectacular mountain and forest landscapes in the world, but it’s also home to some exceptional hiking tours. Whether you’re an expert or a complete novice, there’s a guided walking tour for you.
Žabljak Tara Canyon and Tara Bridge
The Tara River has flowed through this area for thousands of years – cutting a spectacular canyon into the landscape in the process. The river winds its way through Durmitor National Park for more than 90 miles, which is just one of the reasons why it enjoys UNESCO World Heritage status. A lot of people choose to kayak along the river, but a rafting tour with friends provides a thrill ride while allowing you to see the area’s beauty at close quarters.
The most spectacular man-made sight in the Durmitor National Park has to be Đurđevića Tara Bridge – a 150-meter arched bridge designed to provide a quick route across the Tara River. Originally built just before the outbreak of World War II, the bridge was destroyed in 1942 to hinder the movement of occupying Italian and German troops. Incredibly, the man responsible for building the bridge was the one to plant the bomb that destroyed it. Lazar Jauković was executed by Axis forces on the remains of the bridge. However, his brave heroism was marked in 1946 when the bridge was rebuilt in his name.
Black Lake (Crno Jezero), Zminje Lake, and other lakes
Did you know that there are 18 glacial lakes in Durmitor National Park? To get the most from your visit, make sure you spend some time at the largest – The Black Lake. Even if you don’t want to get onto the lake itself, make sure you take a gentle stroll around it. The two-mile path that surrounds The Black Lake is punctuated by a series of educational notice boards that explain the flora and fauna that make the area so special. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can hire a kayak or rowing boat and spend an hour or two on the water.
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 the Durmitor mountains, and standing at more than 2,500 meters, it’s the highest point in Montenegro. Located within the Durmitor National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage site – this picturesque part of the region is characterized by its jaw-dropping summits and valleys. If you like challenging hikes or adventures in the great outdoors, it doens’t get much more adventurous than this!
Curevac, Žabljak
This charming village near Žabljak has everything that makes Montenegro one of the world’s most beautiful tourist destinations. As well as incredible views of the Tara River, the settlement plays host to a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and nature spotting. Even if you simply enjoy the peace and quiet of rural settings, you’ll find plenty to keep you occupied in Curevac Žabljak.
Sedlo Pass
If all the things to see in Žabljak, this is one of the most spectacular. Sedio Pass in Durmitor National Park is nearly 2,000 meters above sea level and attracts visitors from all over the world due to the awe-inspiring views it offers. Along the way, you’ll be greeted by a range of rocky terrains, luscious meadows, and mountainous vistas. Start in Žabljak and continue along the Sedio Pass until you reach the picturesqsue town of Plužine. Whether you’re on foot or two wheels, you’re sure to enjoy an outdoor experience you’ll remember for the rest of your life.
Weather in Žabljak
What to Do in Žabljak
We’ve covered the amazing things to see in Žabljak, so let’s take a look at the things to do in the area – and there are plenty of them. This area is home to dense forests, majestic mountains, and gorgeous lakes and waterways. So, if you like boating, hiking, climbing, skiing, or wildlife spotting, a trip to this stunning part of Montenegro makes perfect sense.
We are hereWe work with a range of local activity providers to ensure you don’t need to look anywhere else for exciting things to do in Žabljak. Talk to our experts about your favorite activities, and we’ll arrange everything on your behalf.
To help you plan the perfect Žabljak vacation, here are a few of the most popular activities we organize on a regular basis. Here are our top recommendations for things to do in Žabljak:
Hiking and Trekking in Durmitor National Park
from €150 to €300 /tour
EThere are plenty of opportunities to hike in Žabljak – some of which are available throughout the year in Durmitor National Park. However, if you want to get the most out of your hiking experiences, take a trip to Žabljak during the spring and summer months. One of the most popular hikes involves walking along three of the region’s most beautiful lakes – The Black Lake, Zminje Lake, and Borno Lake.
Skiing and snowboarding at Savin Kuk
from €100 to €280 /tour
Located more than 1400 meters in the mountains of Montenegro, Žabljak is a great place for people who want to ski or snowboard while steering clear of Europe’s most commercialized resorts. One of the most popular options in the region is the Savin Kuk Ski Resort, which provides nearly five kilometers of slopes for skiers and snowboarders. The resort is served by six ski lifts and some charming hotels and lodges.
White Water Rafting on River Tara
from €120 to €250 /tour
If you’re someone who loves adrenaline-fueled activities in beautiful natural surroundings, a white-water rafting trip along the River Tara is a must! With a professional instructor or guide at the help of your vessel, you’ll be able to stay safe while enjoying the white-knuckle ride of a lifetime.
Cycling Along Scenic Mountain Trails
from €200 to €400 /tour
Particularly during the spring and summer, there are several cycling tracks and trails in Žabljak. So, whether you’re a novice or an expert, you’ll find the perfect cycling route for your ability. Nothing beats the sense of freedom you get when cycling through the forests of Durmitor National Park and through the region’s incredible mountain trails.
Zip-lining over the Tara Canyon
from €70 to €180 /tour
If you want to see the stunning beauty of the Tara Canyon from a unique perspective, take a zip-line across it with the help of qualified experts. Put simply, there is no better way to enjoy Europe’s deepest canyon.
Paragliding Over the Durmitor Mountains
from €200 to €400 /tour
The Durmitor Mountains are every bit as beautiful as the Alps, so any opportunity to see them from a panoramic point of view should be embraced. And that’s exactly what’s on offer when you take a guided paragliding tour of the area. Whether you’re a nature lover or a thrill seeker, you won’t find a more rewarding way to enjoy the area.
Exploring Glacial Lakes Such as Black Lake (Crno Jezero)
from €200 to €400 /tour
Žabljak and the surrounding areas are home to some of Europe’s most breathtaking glacial lakes – and they don’t get more beautiful than Black Lake. Hike or cycle around the region’s most stunning inland waterways under the supervision of a professional tour guide to ensure you don’t miss any of this area’s highlights and landmarks.
Exploring Đurđevića Tara Bridge
from €200 to €400 /tour
This marvel of modern engineering has a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. Dating back to the 1930s, this arched arched bridge looks like something from a Hollywood movie. Connecting two sides of Europe’s deepest canyon, it has to be seen to be believed – preferably with a professional tour guide leading the way.
Horse Riding
from €200 to €400 /tour
One thing you won’t be short of during your stay in Žabljak is the opportunity to to explore sweeping landscapes and areas of outstanding natural beauty. If you’re looking for exciting ways to explore this gorgeous Montenegrin region that don’t involve hiking boots or bicycles, mount a horse with a qualified expert and see the natural beauty of Žabljak from a different perspective.
Climb to Savin Cook by Lift
from €200 to €400 /tour
Did you know that you can take the lift to Durmitor’s Savin Kik skiing resort area throughout the year. There’s no better way to relax and take in the beauty that surrounds you. Jump aboard and let the automated chairs take you to some of the most beautiful areas of Europe.
ATV and Quad Driving
from €300 to €500 /tour
Combine your love of Mother Nature with your passion for adrenaline-fueled motor sports by taking a tour of Žabljak and the Durmitor National Park on an all-terrain vehicle or a quad bike. Not only will you get professional instruction on how to use your vehicle, but you’ll also be taken to some of the area’s best beauty spots.
Jeep Safari
from €50 to €150 /tour
There’s a dazzling array of fauna and flora to explore in and around Žabljak. However, it’s not always to get close to it. That’s unless you have a spot in one of the region’s four-wheel drive safari vehicles. Sit back, relax, and let the professionals take you around this beautiful part of Montenegro in style and comfort.
Canyoning
from €50 to €150 /tour
Tara Canyon is the deepest – and one of the most beautiful – in Europe. That’s why it’s the perfect place to get your fix of outdoor activities. Climb, abseil, jump, and swim your way through this spectacular canyon under the strict supervision of qualified guides and experts.
Best Restaurants in Žabljak
When it comes to snacking and dining in Žabljak, we’ve got you covered. That’s because our Žabljak travel experts have sampled many of the dishes in the city’s most prestigious eateries.
While there are several international cuisines represented in the region, we believe that the best restaurants in Žabljak are those that serve classic dishes from Montenegro and the Balkans.
As well as having first-hand knowledge of the restaurants and cafes in Žabljak, we also enjoy productive relationships with many of them – allowing us to provide priority reservations and discounts you won’t get anywhere else.
Whether you’re searching for an exclusive apres-ski eatery or a quick bite for lunch, we can help you plan the perfect culinary experience. To help you plan, we’ve put together a short list of what we believe to be the best restaurants in Žabljak.
Hotel Soa Restaurant
$$ — $$$
Surrounded by natural beauty, Hotel Soa Restaurant in Žabljak offers a dining experience like no other. The perfect location for a more formal dining experience, this stylish eatery specializes in the dishes and flavor combinations of Eastern Europe. Among the most popular options on the menu include pasta truffles, pizza truffles, and the T-bone steak. During the warmer months of the year, ask for a table on the terrace to enjoy a dining experience set against the backdrop of the stunning Durmitor National Park.
National Park Durmitor, Žabljak, Durmitor National Park, Žabljak Municipality 84220 Montenegro +382 52 360 110
Dvorište
$$ — $$$
Known for its relaxed ambiance and fresh, local cuisine, Dvoriste is home to a wide range of traditional Montenegrin delicacies – as well as a few from around the world. Among the most popular options on the menu are rich and rustic stews, homemade sausage, and an array of grilled meats. If you book a table here, it would be criminal to let the occasion pass by without sampling regional specialties such as kačamak (a creamy potato and cheese dish) and cicvara (a savory cornmeal porridge).
Jakova Ostoji a, Žabljak, Durmitor National Park, Žabljak Municipality 84220 Montenegro +382 68 497 173
Izvor
$$ — $$$
Skiiers and hikers love Izvor because of its rustic dishes and huge portion sizes. Not only that, this cabin-style property looks particularly beautiful when it’s covered in snow – offering a cozy retreat from the sub-zero conditions of winter. Among the most popular options on the menu are veal cream soup, grilled lamb, peasant meat stew, and traditional kachamak with cheese. If you love Montegrin food and want to sample local beers such as Mammut, this is the perfect place for dinner.
Jezerska Povrs, Žabljak, Durmitor National Park, Žabljak Municipality 84220 Montenegro +382 67 661 300
Restaurant Oro
$$ — $$$
Specializing in European dishes and classic Montenegrin dishes that have been passed down several generations, Restaurant Or’O is a very large eatery that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner seven days a week. Among the house specialties are the charcuterie plate and the Durmitor dinner plate – both of which showcase local meats and vegetables. Located in the heart of Žabljak, this charming yet rustic eatery is the perfect place to recharge after a day of hiking or skiing.
Njegoševa 3, Žabljak, Durmitor National Park, Žabljak Municipality 84220 Montenegro 382 69 406 210
Enigma Restaurant
$$ — $$$
Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Durmitor Mountains, Enigma is a rustic eatery that offers both flavors of Montenegro and classic European dishes tourists love. The menu has a lot to offer people who wish to sample local specialties while they’re stating in the Durmitor region. However, there are also hearty soups, pasta dishes, pizzas, and traditional grilled meats for those happy to stick to what they know. Characterized by rustic, timber-frame architecture, open fires, and a stunning outdoor terrace, Enigma is the perfect place to enjoy some apres-ski with friends after a long day on the slopes.
Tmajevci Bb, Žabljak Municipality 84220 Montenegro +382 69 037 854Best Hotels in Žabljak
The best hotels in Žabljak are usually those that offer style, comfort, and the quintessential Montenegrin style of service in equal measures. We enjoy working relationships with most of the area’s top accommodations to ensure you don’t have to look anywhere else for the perfect base for your Žabljak vacation.
Žabljak is most popular during the winter months when it comes to life as a skiing resort. That’s why so many of the region’s hotels are geared towards the needs of the winter sports enthusiast. However, the exceptional guest houses, lodges, and hotels in the area provide a premium service throughout the year. So, whether your priority is luxurious comfort, hearty food, or spectacular views of the mountains and countryside, you can’t fail to find the perfect Žabljak hotel for your needs.
We have options for every taste, budget, and itinerary. Here are some of what we believe to be the best hotels in Žabljak.
Soa hotel
from €55 to €280 /night
This is the perfect place to rest your head in Žabljak if you want to be surrounded by nature and stunning vistas 24/7. Just a stone’s throw from Durmitor National Park and with convenient access to the main pistes, this charming lodge features a rustic yet stylish restaurant, a bar, a lounge area, various wellness facilities, and a sauna.
While you’ll find reasonably priced rooms at Hotel Soa, we recommend upgrading to a suite with mountain views. There are also apartments available, complete with kitchens and all the trappings you’d expect in a rental property.
Porto Tara
from €88 to €200 /night
This charming hotel takes its name from the region’s famous river and canyon. The Hotel Porto Tara is nestled in the heart of Montenegro’s breathtaking natural landscape. Located about 20 km from the iconic Black Lake, this charming Alpine-style lodge is perfect for those looking to disconnect and immerse themselves in the beauty of Montenegro’s highest major settlement.
But there is far more to this four-star hotel than stunning views and seclusion. The Hotel Porto Tara provides top-notch amenities, including complimentary parking, WiFi, and a daily breakfast that will leave you full until dinner! Local and international dishes characterize the menu in the on-site restaurant. There’s also a relaxing lounge bar and exclusive access to a private beach during the warmer months of the year. Spend a little extra on a river-view room, and you’ll have around-the-clock access to some of the most spectacular vistas imaginable!
Hotel Žabljak
from €75 to €150 /night
If your top priority is to find a hotel that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes, take a close look at Hotel Žabljak. Just a short stroll from Black Lake, this rustic yet stylish hotel provides the perfect getaway for nature lovers. Featuring a gym, beautifully maintained gardens, and a terrace with stunning views, the overall ambiance is one of relaxation and seclusion.
The rooms at Hotel Žabljak are modern and minimalist, yet they’re equipped with workstations, satellite TV, a safe, and free toiletries. For the best experience, opt for a room with a balcony to enjoy views that will live forever in your memory. There’s also a sumptuous breakfast buffet on offer each morning – perfect for fueling up before a day exploring or skiing. Free parking and WiFi are also included in the room rates.
Hotel Pavlovic
from €70 to €150 /night
Modern yet charmingly rustic, Hotel Pavlovic has something for everyone. Whether you’re a skier or one of life’s less adventurous tourists, you’ll find everything you’d expect from a premium four-star hotel in one of Europe’s most stunning skiing destinations. As well as easy access to Durmitor National Park and the region’s most popular pistes, the hotel offers an on-site restaurant, a cozy bar, and access to a range of specialized equipment for hiking, skiing, and other outdoor activities.
The rooms here are well-equipped and finished to an excellent standard. However, for a complete travel experience, consider booking an apartment with a fully stocked kitchenette.
Zlatni bor
from €60 to €130 /night
If a cozy home from home is at the top of your accommodation wishlist, book a room at Hotel Zlatni Bor. This rustic hotel located in the serene town of Žabljak, Montenegro – close to the breathtaking landscapes of Durmitor National Park. Known for its warm, homely atmosphere, the hotel provides guests with a warm and welcoming retreat in the heart of the Montenegrin mountains.
Choose from a variety of comfortable rooms and apartments, each of which is packed with the kind of fixtures and amenities you’d expect from a top three-star hotel. Set inside a gorgeous cabin-style building, the hotel serves fresh, local cuisine that includes a plethora of Montenegrin specialties.
This is the ideal base if you want to explore the area, with easy access and minimal walking/traveling time.
Investments in Žabljak
Žabljak is fast becoming a genuine competitor for many of Europe’s more established ski resorts – including those located in the Alps. Not only that, but it’s a great place to live and raise a family. For those reasons, the demand for real estate and the need for new infrastructure. There are several opportunities to invest in Žabljak, and we can help you find them.
Government Investments in Žabljak
Leading the investment revolution in Žabljak is the Montenegrin government. As a result, more and more private investors are looking to get involved, and you could be next. With us as your local investment partners, you can find the opportunities that are best suited to your portfolio. .
Invest in Žabljak’s Tourist Boom
From new restaurants to hotels and vacation rentals, the growing demand for leisure facilities and accommodation in Žabljak represents a fantastic opportunity to grow your investment portfolio. With our expert insights and extensive knowledge of the region, you can invest in Žabljak’s future while minimizing the risks involved.
Real Estate in Žabljak
This is a great time to buy a property in Žabljak. Whether you want to relocate to the Montenegrin city or buy a rental property that can earn you a passive income throughout the year, there are several opportunities to choose from – and we can help you find them.
We work with a range of contacts from the worlds of investments, property development, real estate, and leisure. These relationships help us to source the best opportunities before they become common knowledge. If you want to buy a property in Žabljak, get in touch to discuss your preferences and priorities.
Transfers and Taxis to and from Žabljak
If you’re traveling to Žabljak from abroad, there’s a very good chance that you’ll be flying, driving, or taking a train into the region via Podgorica. Whether you need a taxi from the station or a luxury car transfer from Podgorica Airport, we can ensure your travel plans are taken care of well in advance of your departure.
Taxis from Podgorica Airport to Žabljak
If you simply want to get to Žabljak as quickly as possible, grabbing a taxi outside the airport is the best option – but it’s not the most cost-effective one. The journey takes an average of two hours, but it can take considerably longer when road conditions are affected by winter conditions. You should expect to pay well in excess of €100 for a one-way trip, which doesn’t make sense when we can arrange a private transfer on your behalf for a similar price.
Private Transfers to Žabljak
Some routes go through scenic areas such as Nikšić or Kolasin, giving you a chance to enjoy beautiful Montenegrin landscapes on your way. And while these routes might increase the cost of your transfer, they enhance the overall Žabljak travel experience.
We can organize a luxury car to take you from Podgorica to Žabljak in style and comfort. Whether you’re traveling alone, as a couple, or in a group, we have options for every scenario. All you need to do to get started is reach out for an initial chat with one of our Žabljak travel experts.
Rent a Car in Žabljak
Car rental in Žabljak gives you the freedom to explore the region’s stunning natural landscapes at your own pace. Pick up a rental car in Podgorica or Tivat, and wind your way up the stunning mountains on the road to Žabljak. As well as being able to enjoy some beautiful rural drives, you’ll also have the freedom to see more of Montenegro.
Rent a car in Žabljak with the help of our travel experts. We will save you a huge amount of time and money by providing you with a list of the best car rental options at discounted prices.
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