Cycling Montenegro’s canyons and coastlines
Active adventures in Montenegro
Begin your journey across Montenegro at the Tara Canyon, one of the deepest gorges in Europe. Cycle along its trails, try rafting in the water or head up into the hills. Next, travel Durmitor National Park’s 50 plus peaks. Come in winter for skiing, or out of season for hiking and cycling. It’s a short step to manmade Lake Piva’s turquoise waters, where you can explore monasteries and Montenegrin villages. Take a break from your hiking/cycling in the vineyards of Virpazar, gateway town to Lake Skadar National Park. End your trip in the waterfront restaurants around Kotor Bay.
Key information
| Destinations | Bay of Kotor, Lake Skadar National Park, Durmitor National Park, Lake Piva, Virpazar, Tara Canyon |
|---|---|
| Activity | Active, Nature & Wildlife |
| Physical Level | Moderate |
 Season |
June - October |
Suggested itinerary
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.
Where to stay
Classic
Apartments Lake View
Only 200 yards from Lake Skadar, this accommodation provides guests with independent air-conditioned apartments complete with fully equipped kitchen, dining area and balcony with lake views.
Classic
Hotel Marija
Within the city walls of Kotor Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, Hotel Marija is a traditional baroque building with a unique oakwood interior and warm, comfortable guestrooms. Only 100 yards from Kotor Bay's marina, this hotel is perfectly situated to explore the many restaurants and attractions of the lively city centre.
Superior
Hotel Vardar
Located in the main square of the UNESCO listed old town of Kotor, Hotel Vardar offers guests elegant rooms, a small gym, wellness centre complete with sauna and Turkish bath, and an outdoor terrace.
Deluxe
HUMA Kotor Bay
Located on the seafront of the historic town of Dobrota, in the heart of Kotor Bay, HUMA Kotor Bay provides guests a private beach area, stylish modern rooms, restaurant, beach club and an outdoor pool.
Book this itinerary
This route booked with one of our specialist tour operators would cost from €790pp. Pricing varies by accommodation class, and can be tailored to suit your budget.
Pricing is typically inclusive of hotels, transfers, meals, and all guided excursions and activities.
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