Cycling Montenegro’s canyons and coastlines

Explore the depths of the Tara Canyon

Day 1–2 in Tara Canyon

Found on the northern edge Durmitor National Park, the Tara Canyon cuts deep into the landscape, with its deepest point being only 200m less than the Grand Canyon.

The Tara River flows through the base of the canyon and you can explore the waters by rafting or kayaking. Cycle along the river or admire the views from the top of Mount Curevac. The impressive bridge across the valley is also worth visiting.

Go cycling, skiing and hiking in Durmitor National Park

Day 3 in Durmitor National Park

Home to more than 50 peaks, mountain rivers and underground streams, the dramatic Durmitor National Park is Montenegro’s adventure playground.

In winter, the mountains offer ample skiing opportunities while or head out of season for hiking, kayaking and rafting. The are attracts a lot of visitors meaning hiking trails are well sign-posted and you can make your way to the peak of the countries highest peak, Bobotov Kuk.

The Tara River runs through the park with an impressive bridge that's worth a visit as well as being a popular area for rafting.

Enjoy the deep blue water of Lake Piva

Day 4 in Lake Piva

Lake Piva was created in 1975 after the Piva River was blocked by the construction of the hydroelectric Mratinje Dam, flooding Piva Canyon.

The 180m deep lake is tremendously beautiful, but take the time to explore the nearby Piva Monastery – rebuilt brick-by-brick in 1982 after a further reservoir meant it had to be moved.

You can spend time fishing, swimming or cruising on the lake, while the you can hike in the surrounding forest.

Cycle to Ostrog Monastery and sample wine in Virpazar

Day 5 in Virpazar

From Lake Piva you can cycle to the dramatic Ostrog Monastery, a Serbian Orthadox church, which is embedded high in the large rock Ostroška Gred. From here travel towards the capital city Podgorica, before transferring to the village of Virpazar.

Considered the main gateway to Lake Skadar National Park, the tiny village of Virpazar was once an important trading port. Look for the imposing fortress built by Turkish invaders on the hill towering over the town. Modern-day Virpazar is a great place to sample Montenegrin wine, with several vineyards and tasting rooms around the town.

See pelicans at Lake Skadar

Day 6 in Lake Skadar National Park

Skadar is the Balkans largest lake, with two-thirds sitting in Montenegro and the rest in Albania.

A popular area for those seeking outdoor adventures, the surrounding national park is the perfect place to escape the heat of the city, with awe-inspiring mountains, island monasteries and pretty villages such as Virpazar.

The area is known for it's bird habitats and and you can look out for rare Dalmatian pelicans on the lake’s water – the world’s heaviest flying bird.

Cycle the Bay of Kotor’s medieval coast

Day 7–8 in Bay of Kotor

Montenegro is a country full of beautiful views, but the Bay of Kotor’s waterfront might just be the best.

Spend a couple of days meandering through its towns, from the restored palaces of Perast to Kotor’s Venetian old town with sites including the three city gates, town square and clock tower, but the highlight is the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon. Nowhere combines ancient history and stunning scenery better.

An UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Bay of Kotor's winding coastline offers ample opportunities for hikers and bikers, with quiet roads generally devoid of traffic. Head up to the observation deck at Tivat for panoramic views of the bay and hike the 1300 steps to the Kotor Fortress.