Adventures In Montenegro

Saturday 13th September 

Today we depart for Montenegro and the start of our exciting adventure. Upon arrival into Dubrovnik, we’ll meet our local guide and journey to Montenegro and our hotel situated in the quaint town of Žabljak. A ski resort in the winter, the fresh mountain air and beautiful surrounds of Žabljak await. Once we’ve checked in to our hotel enjoy the rest of your afternoon at leisure – relax in the hotel, or explore Žabljak’s surroundings to get a feel for this Balkan town situated in the centre of the picturesque Durmitor mountain region. 

We’ll meet back up in the evening and enjoy our first dinner together as a group. 

Dinner included. Overnight in Žabljak. 

Sunday 14th September 

After breakfast, we’ll set off on a leisurely walk to the Black Lake (Crno Jezero), the most famous glacial lake in the Durmitor National Park. Located at an altitude of 1416m, surrounded by dense forest and situated in the shadow of the towering peaks of Mali and Velike Medjed (Small and Big Bear), the lake is known as one of the most beautiful in Montenegro. The circular trail is around 3.5km and offers stunning reflections of the surrounding mountains in the lake’s crystal-clear waters. We’ll follow a scenic path through lush pine forests, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere and learning about the local flora and fauna. There will be plenty of opportunities for relaxation by the lake and, for the brave, maybe even an open water dip! 

We’ll return to our hotel for some free time in the afternoon. Feel free to relax in the hotel after an invigorating morning or discover even more of what this delightful town has to offer. 

Walking time approx: 2-3hrs

Ascent/Descent 150m/150m

Breakfast included. Overnight in Žabljak. 

Monday 15th September 

This morning, we will take to the water for the first time with a rafting trip on the Tara River.  Arriving in the Tara Canyon, the deepest canyon in Europe, we will meet our professional rafting guides who will provide us with all our safety equipment and instruction. We’ll then embark on an exciting rafting adventure, navigating through emerald-green waters and passing by breathtaking waterfalls and rocky cliffs. This section of the Tara River offers a mix of gentle rapids as well as calm stretches, suitable for beginner rafters. 

We’ll have a picnic lunch after our rafting experience before heading back for our final evening in Žabljak. 

Rafting time approx: 2.5hrs

Breakfast and lunch included. Overnight in Žabljak. 

Tuesday 16th September 

Today we say goodbye to the mountainous landscapes of the Durmitor National Park and head to the coastal town of Tivat. On the way, we’ll stop at a traditional Montenegrin household for a unique pita-making workshop. Learn the secrets of making handcrafted pita, a traditional Balkan pastry, and enjoy a delicious tasting session paired with prosciutto, cheese, fresh salad, and home made bread. Finish with a cup of Turkish coffee paired with sweet pumpkin pie. After lunch, we continue to Tivat, located in the beautiful Boka Bay. Upon arrival, enjoy a short orientation tour of Tivat with your local guide, exploring the lively waterfront of Porto Montenegro, known for its luxury yachts and vibrant cafes. 

The evening is free for you to explore Tivat at your own pace, or relax at one of the seaside restaurants. 

Breakfast and lunch included. Overnight in Tivat.

Wednesday 17th September 

One of the most beautiful bays in the world, the Bay of Boka is our adventure playground for today. Taking to the sea in kayaks we’ll paddle the pristine coastline, surrounded by towering mountains. We’ll visit hidden coves and coastal villages with the opportunity, for those who would like, to swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic. We’ll have plenty of breaks for relaxation and refreshment and to enjoy this idyllic coastline. 

Kayaking time approx: 3hrs

Breakfast included. Overnight in Tivat.

Thursday 18th September 

After breakfast, a short bus ride takes us to the historic town of Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We’ll embark on a scenic walk up to the Kotor Walls, which offer spectacular panoramic views of Kotor Bay and the surrounding mountains. These magnificent defensive walls surround the city with a winding stone pathway that leads to the ancient San Giovanni Fortress. 

The ascent is moderately challenging, but we’ll take it steady, and the breathtaking vistas, wind in your hair and sense of accomplishment once you reach the top, will make it all worthwhile. After reaching the fortress, we’ll descend back to the old town, where you’ll have free time to explore Kotor’s medieval streets, vibrant squares, and charming cafes in your pairs or small groups. 

Walking time approx: 2-3hrs

Ascent/Descent 300m/300m

Breakfast included. Overnight in Tivat.

Friday 19th September  

For our final full day in Montenegro, we’ll first travel to the historic town of Budva. At 2500 years old, this unique town is one of the oldest urban settlements on the Adriatic coast and is one of the most popular places to visit when in Montenegro. Enjoy the intricate ancient Mediterranean architecture whilst wandering the small narrow alleys lined with cosy cafes, delightful restaurants and welcoming people who create an authentic atmosphere. This really is the best way to get a sense of the history Montenegro has to offer! 

We’ll then continue towards Sveti Stefan, and one of the most iconic viewpoints on the Montenegrin coast. From here a short ride takes us to the start of our walk along the Jegorova Staza (Jegor’s Trail), a historic pathway that will lead us to the Praskvica Monastery.  Jegorova Staza is named after Jegor Stroganov, a Russian monk, who commissioned the construction of this picturesque path in the 18th and the 19th century. Legend surrounds Jegor Stroganov, who is said to have spent his last days at the monastery, carving the stone path as an act of love and devotion. The trail is beautifully paved with stone steps and winding paths, offering breathtaking views of the Adriatic coastline and lush Mediterranean vegetation. Our walk will take us around one and a half hours and we’ll enjoy the gentle sea breeze that carries the fragrant scent of the wild herbs in the locality. 

Arriving at Praskvica Monastery, we explore this historic and spiritual site nestled in the hills above Sveti Stefan. Dating back to the 14th century the monastery is named after the fragrant peach-scented springs (praskva) that flourish nearby. The complex consists of two churches – St. Nicholas Church and St. Sava’s Church – both adorned with frescoes and surrounded by ancient olive trees. 

After visiting Praskvica Monastery, we’ll return to Tivat. In the evening, we’ll gather for a group dinner, celebrating the conclusion of this unforgettable Montenegrin adventure. 

Walking time approx: 1hr

Descent 100m

Breakfast and dinner included. Overnight in Tivat. 

Saturday 20th September 

After breakfast, we’ll transfer to Dubrovnik Airport to begin our journey home. 

Breakfast included. 

A reasonable level of fitness is needed to really enjoy and get the most from this holiday. Although the activities are suitable for beginners, some of the walking routes will be uneven and the potentialy warmer temperatures in Montenegro could make the effort required greater than usual. To take part in the water based activities you must also be able to swim a minimum of 25 metres.