Back From the Balkans: Two Epic Weeks Hiking in Montenegro

I just got back from two unforgettable weeks in Montenegro, and I’m still buzzing with mountain air, fresh bread, and that soul-deep satisfaction only a good hike can bring.

If you’ve never been to this tiny Balkan gem, let me say this: go! Montenegro is like Europe’s best-kept secret, filled with dramatic peaks, turquoise lakes, welcoming locals, and trails that feel like they were made just for you. It’s wild in the best way possible, and whether you’re a seasoned trekker or someone looking to try something new, Montenegro has something that'll stay with you long after you’ve kicked off your boots.

Why Montenegro?

I’ll admit, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. I’d seen a few jaw-dropping photos of the Bay of Kotor and Durmitor National Park, but once I arrived, it blew my expectations out of the water. It’s compact (you can drive across it in a day), but packed with dramatic mountain ranges, glacial lakes, quiet alpine villages, and an Adriatic coastline that rivals the Amalfi.

The best part? You don’t have to compete with crowds. On most trails, I felt like I had the mountains all to myself.

Trip Overview

I spent the first week in the north, basing myself near Žabljak to explore Durmitor National Park, and the second week hopping between Kotor, Lovćen, and Lake Skadar in the south. I mixed in a few rest days for wine tasting, lake swims, and wandering around ancient towns (highly recommend!).

The Best Hikes I Did

Let’s start with the big one. At 2,523m, Bobotov Kuk is Montenegro’s highest peak, and the hike is phenomenal. It’s challenging, with some scrambling near the top, but the panoramic views are outrageous. Think jagged limestone ridges, sweeping valleys, and deep blue lakes in every direction. I started early and didn’t see another soul until the summit.

Also in Durmitor, this is an easy, peaceful loop around a beautiful glacial lake near Žabljak. It’s perfect for a rest day stroll, especially in the late afternoon when the water reflects the surrounding pine forests and peaks like a mirror.

Closer to the coast, this one’s a must-do. It’s a switchback trail straight out of a medieval fantasy, climbing high above the Bay of Kotor. At the top, you get a panoramic view that made me gasp - ancient city walls, glittering sea, and misty mountains. If you're lucky, you'll have goats for company. (I did!)

This area surprised me the most with its wide open ridgelines, wildflowers, and the famous Njegoš Mausoleum perched dramatically at the top. The views stretch all the way to Albania on a clear day. I ended with a cheeky glass of local rakija in nearby Cetinje. You know, for cultural immersion.

A bit of a hidden gem! This trail winds through a dramatic limestone canyon with emerald-green water below. You walk along ancient army paths carved into the rock, cross wooden bridges, and end at a magical stone arch called "Kapija Želja" (Gate of Wishes). It felt like something out of a fairy tale.

Other Highlights

Local Hospitality: Montenegrins are warm, proud of their country, and incredibly generous. I was offered homemade cheese, wine, and more stories than I could ever write down.

Food & Drink: Think hearty mountain stews, grilled trout, fresh bread with kajmak (a kind of clotted cream), and strong Turkish coffee. Oh, and the wine? Surprisingly good. Try the Vranac reds!

Wild Swimming: Between glacial lakes, alpine rivers, and the Adriatic coast, there are endless opportunities to cool off. I swam in Black Lake, Lake Skadar, and even snuck in a sunset dip near Perast.

Cultural Moments: Don’t miss the old towns of Kotor, Perast, and Cetinje, which are steeped in history. The narrow alleyways, old churches, and sea-facing promenades are the perfect rest day vibe.

Final Thoughts

Montenegro is a hiker’s dream - untamed, uncrowded, and utterly breathtaking. What I loved most was the contrast: in one day, I went from rocky alpine terrain to medieval seaside towns, all without losing that feeling of being somewhere truly special.

If you're dreaming of your next adventure, one with soul, scenery, and a few surprises. Then be sure to put Montenegro at the top of your list. I already can’t wait to go back.

– Janie