Montenegro’s landscapes shift dramatically from the calm blue waters of Kotor Bay to the wild mountains of Durmitor National Park. This day trip, booked through GetYourGuide for USD90, offered a chance to see the country’s natural beauty, history, and culture in one packed itinerary.
The day started early at the 360 Monte Tourist Agency inside Kotor Old Town, where we met before 8 AM. The streets were quiet, the stone pathways still damp from the night’s humidity. After a quick introduction from our guide, we left Kotor, heading inland towards Montenegro’s mountainous heartland.
Our first stop was a roadside viewpoint overlooking the twin islets of Our Lady of the Rocks and Saint George. The guide explained how sailors created Our Lady of the Rocks by dropping stones into the bay, slowly forming an island where they built a church. Saint George, in contrast, has been a monastery for centuries, its dark cypress trees standing tall. The morning light reflected on the water, making the view even more impressive.
Salty Lake
We followed the coastline along Risan Bay, where cliffs rose above the calm water. The sea eventually gave way to rolling hills as we moved inland. We made a short stop at Salty Lake in Niksic, an artificial lake with still waters that mirrored the sky. The peaceful surroundings felt like a break before heading into more rugged terrain.
Breakfast at Floyd Food Factory
By the time we reached Floyd Food Factory, a roadside restaurant with an inviting outdoor patio, hunger had set in. I ordered a traditional Montenegrin breakfast—sliced sausages, fried eggs, cheese, cream cheese, and fresh local bread—for EUR7.50. The food was hearty and satisfying, paired perfectly with a strong cup of Montenegrin coffee to keep me energized for the road ahead.
Durdevica Tara Bridge and a Zipline Adventure
As we drove deeper into the mountains, the landscape changed. Dense forests lined the roads, and deep valleys stretched below. Soon, we reached Durdevica Tara Bridge, a 365-meter-long structure that spans the Tara River Canyon. When it was built in 1940, it was the tallest bridge in Europe, standing 172 meters above the canyon floor.
The view from the bridge was stunning, but I wanted more. For EUR30, I took the zipline across the canyon. As I launched off the platform, the wind rushed past, and the canyon opened up beneath me. The river shimmered far below, and the forests stretched endlessly in all directions. It was an adrenaline rush unlike any other. I paid an extra EUR10 for photos, a small price to relive the moment later.
Black Lake and Durmitor National Park
From the canyon, we continued into Durmitor National Park, a vast area of rugged peaks, thick forests, and glacial lakes. Black Lake, the largest of the park’s 18 glacial lakes, was our next stop. The water was still and dark, reflecting the towering mountains that surrounded it.
We spent over an hour here, but I didn’t join members of the tour group in walking the 4-kilometer trail around the lake. I just stayed marvelling at the mountain and the still water of the lake.
Lunch in Zabljak
Our next stop was Zabljak, the highest town in the Balkans at 1,450 meters above sea level. Here, we had lunch at Oro Kafe Bar and Restoran. I ordered a chicken fillet with creamy mushroom sauce and fries—simple, filling, and exactly what I needed after the morning’s hike.
Ostrog Monastery
As the afternoon wore on, we began the climb to Ostrog Monastery, one of Montenegro’s most important religious sites. Built into a sheer cliffside, the monastery almost seemed to defy gravity. The winding road leading up was narrow, adding to the anticipation.
When we arrived, we joined visitors making their way inside. The monastery was quiet, with the scent of incense hanging in the air. Inside, the relics of Saint Vasilije Ostroški rested, drawing both pilgrims and travelers. Whether for faith or history, the monastery left an impression.
As we started the long journey back, dark clouds rolled in. Rain soon hammered against the windows, and thunder echoed through the valleys. Despite the storm, there was a quiet satisfaction in the van. It had been a day filled with incredible landscapes, culture, and adventure.
This day trip was more than just sightseeing; it was an experience of Montenegro’s diverse landscape and deep history. From the peaceful waters of Kotor Bay to the wild peaks of Durmitor, every stop had something special to offer. The team at 360 Monte made everything smooth, allowing us to fully enjoy the adventure. For anyone looking to explore Montenegro in a single day, this tour is a perfect choice.
