12-day tour of Montenegro | From the Bay of Kotor to Durmitor, the Tara Gorge and Lake Skadar

Day 1: Departure for Tivat or Dubrovnik

Your journey begins in Montenegro or Croatia, depending on where you land. Fortunately, both countries make for a wonderful start to your trip. Once you’ve collected your hire car, head to one of our Caractère hotels, where you’ll be staying for four nights.

Day 2: Herceg Novi

This picturesque old town has been the ‘Gateway to the Bay of Kotor’ for centuries. Spend your day strolling through the charming alleyways, admiring the richly decorated churches and visiting the central square with its beautiful clock tower. In one of the four fortresses of the old town, you can enjoy theatre performances, concerts and festivals during the summer months. And whilst you’re in the area, why not pay a visit to Savina Monastery, where you can sample some fantastic local wines.

Day 3: Prevoj Orjen Sedlo

Nature and hiking enthusiasts should certainly not miss Prevoj Orjen Sedlo. It is Montenegro’s highest mountain pass, the ideal spot for walks and cycle rides. The many trails, rarely used by motorists, wind through the countryside and past stunning mountain peaks and crystal-clear lakes.

Day 4: Kabao – monastery hiking trails

Hopefully you’re not suffering from sore muscles from yesterday, because today you’ll be lacing up your walking boots once again to tackle the Montenegrin mountains. On the agenda today: the Kabao Mountains. Throughout these mountains, you’ll find several hiking trails where you can see and visit countless monasteries. We’d be happy to help you plan the perfect route for you. Be sure to take a break at Kamenski Kabao, a viewpoint with a stunning view of the sea. Fancy a second adventure today? Then you could pay a visit to Dubrovnik; it’s just an hour’s drive from Herceg Novi.

Day 5: The Tara Gorge and Durmitor National Park

From Herceg Novi, you continue your journey to the beautiful Durmitor National Park. Deep river gorges, such as that of the Piva, flow down from the mountains. The most spectacular is that of the wild Tara, the second deepest canyon in the world. Here you’ll go on a rafting trip like never before. After a tiring day, you’ll stay for three nights in Zabljak.

Day 6: Durmitor National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

The spectacular 39,000-hectare Durmitor National Park consists of impressive mountain ranges with as many as 60 peaks over 2,000 metres. Around the crystal-clear mountain lakes, you can enjoy the exceptionally rich flora and fauna. Here you can spot deer, roe deer, brown bears, wolves and lynx, among others – in short, a paradise for animal lovers.

Day 7: The Ostrog Monastery

On day 7, you’ll reach the spectacularly situated Ostrog Monastery, Montenegro’s holiest site, via a mountain road. The monastery seems to have been carved right into the rocks. After visiting this impressive site, you’ll return one last time to your hotel in Zabljak. There, you’ll enjoy a delicious dinner and a restful night’s sleep for the final time before heading south towards the coast.

Day 8: Lake Skadar and Bar

Via Cetinje and Rijeka Crnojevića, you reach Lake Skadar, the largest bird sanctuary in Europe. This is the last remaining habitat of the pelican on the Old Continent. Be sure to take a boat trip, or visit one of the many monasteries, churches or forts in this area. Later that day, you’ll check into one of our Caractère hotels, where you’ll stay for four nights on the Montenegrin Riviera.

Day 9: Cetinje and Lovćen National Park

Cetinje is the former capital of Montenegro. A hundred years ago, you could admire numerous noble residences and King Nikola Petrovic’s palace here. Now, however, it is a museum well worth a visit. Surrounding the town lies Lovćen National Park, which is home to one of the most important monuments, the mausoleum of Njegoš, and offers stunning panoramic views.

Day 10: Sveti Stefan and the Bay of Kotor, a World Heritage Site

Kotor Bay is one of the 10 most beautiful bays in the world. With its Venetian bell towers and palaces, as well as its taverns and terraces, Kotor exudes a special charm. A visit to Perast and its two small islands is the highlight of this trip. A stroll along the exclusive hotel island of Sveti Stefan is certainly well worth it.

Day 11: Podgorica

Podgorica, the capital of Montenegro, is situated in a wine-growing region and boasts some of the most famous wineries. It is a capital that travellers often overlook, but the city is livelier than you might think! Here you can see how the real Montenegrins live – people who love going out, art and coffee. In Podgorica, you’ll also find a mix of historic buildings and modern architecture, and of course delicious local wines that you simply must try.

Day 12: Back home

Unfortunately, your trip has come to an end and, after returning your hire car, you’ll fly back home with a suitcase full of wonderful memories.

Frequently asked questions about this Montenegro tour

What is the best time of year for a complete tour of Montenegro?

The period from May to September is ideal. During these months, the mountain passes in the north (such as Durmitor) are snow-free and accessible, whilst temperatures on the coast and around Lake Skadar are perfect for boat trips and al fresco dining.

Is Montenegro safe and easy to travel around in a hire car?

Yes, Montenegro is very safe for travellers. The roads are generally good, but bear in mind that mountain routes can be narrow and winding with spectacular precipices. A hire car is the best way to explore remote areas such as the Tara Gorge and the Orjen Pass at your own pace.

Why should I visit Podgorica during my tour?

Although the coast and the mountains are the main attractions, Podgorica offers an authentic glimpse into the daily life of Montenegrins. Moreover, the country’s largest vineyards are located around the capital, making a visit a must for wine lovers.