National Parks of Montenegro: Five Natural Wonders you Have to See
Montenegro, a small country on the Adriatic coast, may be lesser-known to some, but it is packed with some of the most breathtaking national parks in Europe. The country’s natural beauty is preserved across five national parks: Durmitor, Biogradska Gora, Lovćen, Skadar Lake, and Prokletije. Each park offers its own unique landscapes, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences. Three are located on the north: Durmitor, Biogradska Gora and Prokletije and two have central location: Skadar Lake National Park and Lovcen National Park.
Here’s what you can expect when visiting each of these national parks.
There are five national parks in Montenegro, each one more stunning then the other.
1. Durmitor National Park
Durmitor National Park is located in the northwest of Montenegro, in municipalty of Žabljak. The park covers an area of about 390 square kilometers and includes 48 peaks that rise above 2,000 meters. The most notable peak is Bobotov Kuk, which stands at 2,523 meters, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Durmitor National Park - Black Lake
Durmitor is known for its dense pine forests, deep river canyons, and 18 glacial lakes, with the Black Lake (Crno Jezero) being the most famous. The lake is just a short walk from Žabljak and is a popular spot for hiking, swimming, and picnicking. The park also encompasses the Tara River Canyon, the deepest canyon in Europe and the second deepest in the world, which is perfect for white-water rafting. In the winter, Durmitor transforms into a ski destination, attracting skiers and snowboarders to its slopes. Whether you’re visiting in summer or winter, Durmitor National Park offers a variety of outdoor activities, making it a year-round destination for nature lovers. If you want to visit Durmitor National Park, click here.
2. Biogradska Gora National Park
Biogradska Gora National Park is situated in the northern part of Montenegro, near the town of Kolašin. The park is one of the oldest in Europe, established in 1952, and it covers an area of about 54 square kilometers. It is famous for its primeval forest, one of only three remaining in Europe, which has been untouched for centuries. This forest is a paradise for botanists, with over 500 plant species, including some rare ones.
Biogradska Gora National Park - Biogradsko Lake
The centerpiece of Biogradska Gora is Biogradsko Lake, a calm, glacial lake surrounded by towering trees. The lake is easily accessible from the main road, and a walking trail circles the water, providing a relaxing 3-kilometer loop for visitors. This national park is a great destination for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts, as it is home to many species of birds, mammals, and insects. If you are interested in hiking, there are several trails leading through the ancient forest, offering beautiful views and a chance to experience the untouched beauty of nature. Kolašin, the closest town, is just a short drive away and provides accommodation options, restaurants, and other facilities for you. If you want to visit Biogradska Gora National Park, click here.
Biogradska Gora National park
3. Lovćen National Park
Lovćen National Park is located in the southwestern part of Montenegro, between the historical town of Cetinje and the coastal city of Kotor. The park spans over 62 square kilometers and is named after Mount Lovćen, which rises sharply from the Adriatic Sea, creating a dramatic backdrop. The park is accessible from both Cetinje, Montenegro's old royal capital, and Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its medieval architecture and scenic bay.
Lovcen National Park mausoleum. Fun fact: From Jezerski peak, where mausoleum is located, you can sometimes see across the Adriatic sea, all over to Italy.
The most famous feature of Lovćen National Park is the Mausoleum of Petar II Petrović-Njegoš, a beloved Montenegrin poet and ruler, located at the summit of Jezerski Vrh. Reaching the mausoleum involves climbing 461 steps, but the effort is rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views that extend all the way to the Bay of Kotor and beyond. The park is also known for its rich cultural heritage, with numerous old churches, traditional villages, and unique stone architecture scattered throughout the area. Hiking trails of varying difficulty levels crisscross the park, making it a great spot for both casual walkers and serious hikers. If you want to visit Lovćen National Park, click here.
Mausoleum of Peter II Petrović Njegoš in the Lovćen National Park (the biggest attraction of this national park).
4. Skadar Lake National Park
Skadar Lake National Park is located in the southeastern part of Montenegro, between the cities of Podgorica and Bar. Covering an area of about 400 square kilometers, Skadar Lake is the largest lake in the Balkans and serves as a natural border between Montenegro and Albania. The park is renowned for its diverse birdlife, making it a prime destination for birdwatchers. It is home to more than 270 species of birds, including the rare Dalmatian Curly pelican.
Virpazar, Rijeka Crnojevica, Karuc or Zabljak Crnojevica, small villages on the shore of the lake all serve as an entry point to the park. From here, you can take boat tours to explore the lake's many islands, old monasteries, and fishing villages. There are also opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and swimming. The nearby town of Podgorica, Montenegro’s capital, and the coastal town of Bar provide additional accommodation and dining options for everyone visiting. The park is easily accessible by car, making it a convenient destination if you want to visit this national park from different parts of the country. If you are looking for more information about Skadar Lake, read our blog post here.
Skadar Lake private tour starting in Rijeka Crnojevica or Karuc
Skadar lake private tour starting in Virpazar
If you want to visit Skadar Lake National Park, we have our pre-designed tours or we can tailor make one for you.
5. Prokletije National Park
Prokletije National Park, also known as the “Accursed Mountains,” is located in the northeast of Montenegro, near the towns of Plav and Gusinje. This park is part of the Dinaric Alps and shares a border with Albania and Kosovo. Covering an area of 166 square kilometers, Prokletije is the most rugged and least explored of Montenegro’s national parks, offering a sense of wilderness and isolation that is perfect for adventurers.
Prokletije National Park hiking
The park features some of the most dramatic landscapes in the Balkans, with sharp peaks, deep valleys, and glacial lakes. Maja e Kolatës, the park’s highest peak, rises to 2,528 meters and is a challenging climb for experienced hikers. Prokletije is also known for its rich biodiversity, with numerous endemic plant species and rare wildlife such as brown bears and eagles. The nearby towns of Plav and Gusinje serve as starting points for exploring the park, with several guesthouses and small hotels. The area is known for its traditional hospitality, and you can experience local culture by staying in family-run accommodations and enjoying homemade Montenegrin cuisine.
Prokletije National Park
Tips for visiting Montenegro’s national parks
Getting there
The parks are spread throughout the country, and while some can be reached by public transport, renting a car provides the most flexibility for exploring at your own pace. We always suggest booking a tour - so you get the best experience, without any hustle.
How many days to spend in the national parks of Montenegro?
We recommend spending at least a day in Skadar Lake, Biogradska Gora and Lovcen and two days for Durmitor and Prokletije - if you don`t plan on doing hikes. If you are looking to do an active holiday and hike the mountains, we recommend spending more days in the nature. Feel free to contact us so we can plan your trip!
When to visit
The best time to visit Montenegro’s national parks is during the late spring, summer, and early autumn. Winters can be quite harsh, especially in the mountainous areas, but they also offer opportunities for winter sports in places like Durmitor and Kolasin, which are also ski centers..
What to bring
Good hiking shoes, layered clothing, a map, and sufficient water are essential for most of the parks, particularly if you plan on hiking. It’s also a good idea to check weather conditions in advance, as they can change rapidly in the mountains. If you plan on doing difficult hikes, book a guide so you are sure that everything will go according to the plan.
Respect nature
Montenegro’s parks are home to many rare and protected species. We encourage you to follow Leave No Trace principles, staying on marked trails, and avoiding disturbing wildlife.
Montenegro’s national parks offer an incredible range of natural beauty, from pristine forests and glacial lakes to rugged mountains and big wetlands. Whether you're looking for a challenging hike, a peaceful retreat, or a chance to explore unique ecosystems,bid-watch or catch some wwaterfalls, Montenegro's national park have something for every nature lover.