Mountains of Montenegro
Throughout my week travelling from northern to southern Montenegro, I was never far from the mountains. True to its name - Montenegro translates to "Black Mountain" - the country is defined by dramatic peaks, especially in Durmitor National Park, where nearly 50 summits rise above 2,000 metres. Situated in north-western Montenegro, the park is part of the Dinaric Alps and home to 18 glacial lakes, notably Snake Lake, Piva Lake and Crno Jezero.
The highest peak, Bobotov Kuk (2,523 metres), offers a rewarding, but challenging hike. The trek starts at Sedlo Pass - the highest point of the Durmitor Ring Road - and takes between five and six hours. Expect some scrambling and loose material underfoot, but you'll be rewarded with panoramic views from the summit.
Durmitor Hiking Trails
Durmitor features around 25 marked hiking routes, ranging from easy to demanding trails. Waymarkers are straightforward - red circles with white centres highlight the way, and signposts indicate distance and difficulty at major trailheads.
Some recommended trails include:
- Black Lake
- Crvena Greda
- Ice Cave, or Ledena Pecina
- Planinica
- Bobotov Kuk trail
- Via Dinarica trail
- Skrka Lakes Valley
- Mount Obla Glava
- Mount Prutaš
With prolonged periods of elevation gain and descent to the mountain peaks, hiking poles, and of course a trusted pair of sturdy hiking shoes are recommended. Trails pass through both forested and open areas, so carry enough water, snacks and sun protection before you set off.
Where to Hike in Durmitor National Park?
I've chosen to focus on two trails in Durmitor National Park, both of which are featured in our Montenegro on Foot itinerary and vary in difficulty.
Black Lake Circular Walk
The Black Lake, or Crno Jezero as it’s known locally, is ten minutes away from the entrance of Durmitor National Park and is within walking distance from the town of Žabljak or the nearby village of Pitomine. It's an easy to moderate trail that winds through alpine meadows and a pine forest, descending to the lake shore.
Crno Jezero is the largest of Durmitor's 18 glacier lakes, and actually comprises two lakes - Veliko Jezero (great lake) and Malo Jezero (small lake). When water levels in the lake are high, the lakes are joined, however in summer when water recedes, a small bank divides them, providing a handy shortcut should you wish to take it.
Black Lake hike distance: 4.7 kilometres
Black Lake hike duration: An hour & 20 minutes
Crvena Greda Circular Walk
If you hike from Zabljak to the Black Lake, it's more than likely that you'll see the peak of Crvena Greda - and when you summit Crvena Greda, you’ll enjoy views of the lake below. If you can, I’d recommend doing both hikes in Durmitor for both perspectives.
The Crvena Greda route winds through spruce forest, where glimpses of Bobotov Kuk peek through the treetops. Skirting a narrow path, those brave enough to peer over the edge are rewarded with views of Jablan Lake far below. The ascent continues with a few switchbacks and a bit of scrambling, before the sweeping panorama of the Durmitor Massif unfolds from the heights of Crvena Greda. On the sharp descent, the mountain’s overhang looms above, and your sense of accomplishment begins to set in.
Crvena Greda hike distance: 14 kilometres
Crvena Greda hike duration: 5 hours
Durmitor National Park's Nature
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Durmitor is protected for its remarkable biodiversity and dramatic scenery. The park is home to:
- 130+ bird species
- 300 animal species
- 1,600+ plant species
To protect the park’s diverse flora and fauna, the entrance fee to the park is €5 per person, with multi-day national park tickets available - highly recommended if you plan to explore more extensively. Three days is a great amount of time, though I could have easily spent my entire trip here.
Birds of Durmitor National Park
Birdwatching is popular here. I spotted and heard species such as:
- Cuckoo
- Eurasian blackcap
- Black redstart
- Common chaffinch
- Crested tit
- Common chiffchaff
- Dunnock
- Black woodpecker
Flora & Fauna of Durmitor National Park
While hiking Crvena Greda, I came across beautiful alpine plants including gentian, spurge, alpine forget-me-not, mountain buttercup, and spring vetchling. We even encountered a pair of chamois, grazing peacefully on the hillside.
Durmitor National Park's Climate & When to Visit
The best time to hike in Durmitor is from late spring to early autumn (typically May to October), once the snow has melted from the trails. I visited from late May into early June, and the weather was delightful.
That said, the mountainous climate is unpredictable - weather conditions can change, so it’s wise to pack baselayers and a raincoat. On our third day, we went rafting in bright sunshine, only to be caught in a torrential downpour by afternoon - scrapping our planned cycle ride and prompting a visit to Ostrog Monastery, located 1.5 hours away from the national park.
In winter, Durmitor transforms into a winter sports destination for skiing and snowshoeing.
The Best Place to Stay in Durmitor National Park: Žabljak
The gateway to Durmitor National Park is Žabljak. This charming mountain village has all the essentials - two supermarkets, several restaurants, bakeries and accommodation options available ranging from hotels to cabins - charming mountain huts with steep angled roofs.
How to Reach Durmitor National Park, Montenegro
Durmitor is in northern Montenegro and lies close to the Bosnia and Herzegovina border. From Podgorica, the capital of Montenegro, you can reach Žabljak by bus in around 2.5 to three hours, with several departures a day. Alternatively, car hire offers greater flexibility.
The Durmitor Ring, a scenic 73-kilometre circular route, is one of the most beautiful drives in Montenegro, and is aptly called 'panoramic route 2'. It passes through Pošćenska Dolina Valley and by the Tara River Canyon, Europe’s deepest canyon (1,333 metres), second in the world only to the Grand Canyon. While a car is the best way to explore the area, Walks Worldwide can arrange transfers to trailheads and key attractions if you'd like to explore further afield - contact us to discuss your holiday plans.
What else can I visit or do from Zabljak?
For adrenaline lovers, white-water rafting in the Tara River Canyon is a must. The crystal-blue water and surrounding cliffs make it unforgettable. You can also zipline across Tara Canyon. Prefer something less intense? Park near the Tara River Bridge and take in the jaw-dropping view into the canyon.
Other activities include e-bike hire, 4x4 jeep tours, or for the adventurous, a guided Via Ferrata climb across rugged limestone crags for an exhilarating perspective.
Natural highlights include the Ice Cave (Ledena Pećina) and Nevidio Canyon.
Is Durmitor National Park worth it?
Absolutely. If you love the outdoors, mountain skylines, stunning sunsets, and well-marked trails, Durmitor is for you. It’s a perfect next stop if you’ve already explored Croatia and are seeking a destination that’s slightly off the beaten path - but still accessible.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker, nature lover, or simply someone who appreciates untouched landscapes, Durmitor National Park is a gem worth discovering.
All images are my own.
View all of our walking holidays in Montenegro. If you're interested in hiking in Durmitor National Park, I recommend our Montenegro on Foot itinerary. To find out more or to book your next hiking trip away, contact our team of avid hikers.
