Montenegro’s Winter Crown

MONTENEGRO’S

Winter Crown

Not more than a few hours North of Montenegro’s incredible Mediterranean coastline, you could be forgiven for believing you had travelled thousands of miles to a separate country entirely! As you make your winding way up from the coast you will notice an incredible change taking place before your eyes. The pebbled beaches and sun-soaked Adriatic vistas fall behind you as the wild and rugged landscapes of central and northern Montenegro seem to appear as if from a dream. It is this spectacular transition from Mediterranean paradise to rough and rugged beauty that makes this eclectic nation one of the most unique landscapes in the world.

As you head north these landscapes become more and more mountainous, until you reach an area of the country described by the director of Montenegro’s national parks, Aleksandar Bulatović as “The wealth and jewel of our citizens” - Durmitor National Park. Renowned as one of Europe’s most beautiful natural destinations, Durmitor comprises 390km2 of spectacular cliff faces, daring summits, deep river canyons and views that simply cannot be done justice through a camera lens. It is quite simply otherworldly. Over the spring, summer and autumn months, Durmitor is a favourite among outdoor enthusiasts and adventurous thrill seekers, who flock in their thousands to summit the 48 peaks, fly across the ravine on zip wires and brave the icy cold waters of the Tara river on one of the areas many white water rafting adventures. However, it is over the winter months that Durmitor’s true, enchanting nature is revealed. As snow falls and the lush green disappears beneath a soft coat of spectacular white, the park takes on an image of unearthly beauty, to rival even the most spectacular of Europe’s natural destinations.

The national park also boasts an amazing host of local wildlife, including European wildcats, grey wolves and, if you’re very lucky you may even catch a glimpse of one of the areas’ elusive brown bears! With such incredible biodiversity and breathtaking natural vistas, in 1980 the park was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and benefits greatly from the protection and international attention the accolade brings.

Within the park, one of the most impressive features has to be the Tara River Canyon. This spectacular, icy blue river winds through the park and at it’s deepest, flows through a canyon with 1,300 metre walls, making it the world’s second deepest river canyon after the Grand Canyon in the USA! If visiting over summer and autumn, this is a great place to enjoy white water rafting. However, over the winter months, the freezing cold water makes this a dangerous endeavour, so make sure to check that there are companies willing to do this to avoid disappointment!

PLAN YOUR WINTER VISIT

This stunning protected landscape offers a wealth of opportunity to enjoy nature and the great outdoors and with many accommodation options, it’s the perfect place for a weekend winter getaway!

Information on available activities and the local area can be found online or by visiting the visitor centre in the park’s administration building where you can spend time viewing their fascinating exhibits and discovering more about the history and culture of the area.

One of Durmitor’s most desirable winter destinations is the charming town of Žabljak. Over the summer, Žabljak is teeming with tourists, come to hike the park’s trails and make the most of the great weather in the great outdoors. However, as the snow begins to fall, these sun seekers are steadily replaced by Montenegrins and tourists alike who flood to the town to enjoy the very best ski slopes in the country! During the ski season, the town is brimming with life and energy and sporting some of the area’s best bars and restaurants, becomes a haven for those looking for a little post ski excitement!

If skiing isn’t your thing or you’re looking to spend some time in the park itself, then winter is one of the very best times to head out on some of the less challenging hiking and walking routes. Walking beneath the canopy of snow-capped trees with the gentle sounds of running water is a truly magical experience, made all the better by the minimal number of tourists sharing the trails! However, make sure to wrap up warm and be aware that many of the more difficult routes will not be open during the winter months.

So, whether you’re an avid outdoorsman, a thrill-seeking ski enthusiast or just looking for something a little different from your usual trips, the spectacular winter crown of Montenegro, Durmitor National Park is a must see location!