Montenegro Self Drive 1 - The Ultimate Tour

Enjoy your morning in Trebinje; we recommend a walk along the river to the ancient Arsalangic stone bridge. Afterwards, drive east into the mountains and cross into Montenegro, then head for Niksic; here you may like to take a small detour to visit the Ostrog Monastery. From Niksic continue north through yet another mountain pass to the small town Zabljak, the gateway to Durmitor National Park. Over the next three nights, explore this UNESCO-listed area of rugged peaks, deep gorges, and pristine glacial lakes. Stroll around the tranquil Black Lake, hike to panoramic viewpoints, or for the more adventurous, try the “hands-free” zip wire across the dramatic Tara Canyon. Quiet roads and traditional villages provide a real sense of Montenegrin tranquillity, while the local guesthouses offer an authentic mountain experience.

** there is so much to do here so we suggest having two full days to combine some independent exploration, such as a walk around the stunning Black Lake, with perhaps some organised activities, such as rafting on the Tara river or the incredible zip-wire ride across the deep gorge at Tara Most.

Drive east along the stunning Tara river valley, which stays within the gorge for some distance, and then continue through rural Montenegro where you will experience traditional agricultural scenery little changed in decades.

A few options, primarily depending upon whether you wish to spend more time at Lake Plav or just visit on a day circuit from Kolasin or concentrate your time in the Kolasin/Biogradsko area.

** PLAV: along the way you may also like to visit some of the little monasteries such as Dobrilovina and Djurdjevi Stupovi prior to arriving at the Prokletije National Park and Lake Plav - a lakeside town with stunning mountain backdrops, ideal for walking, canoeing, or simply soaking up the scenery; stay 1 or 2 nights.

** KOLASIN: travel south from Mojkavic to Kolasin, a scenic town surrounded by forests, rivers, and lakes. Over the next few days, enjoy gentle hikes, waterfalls, and rural landscapes. We suggest visits to Biogradsko National Park with its lakes and forest as well as the Kolasin 1600 mountain resort. If you only wished to stay in one place then you can still visit Plav via a full day's circular route using the Tresnjevik Pass.

Head towards Lake Skadar, the largest lake in southern Europe. We recommend taking the old road rather than the new highway and you may also like to visit the capital, Podgorica, en route. Two nights in the village of Virpazar allows time for boat excursions, exploration of the nearby traditional fishing villages and birdwatching in one of the region’s most important natural reserves. Winding country roads and authentic village stops provide a glimpse of rural Montenegrin life; there is also a beach a few kms along the southern lake shore.

A relatively short drive up the coast via Bar and a possible detour to the famous "island" of Sveti Stefan (now an exclusive luxury resort) to your next destination. Along the way you may also like to drive up to the Lovcen National Park combined with the ancient capital of Cetinje (this is also a possible route avoiding the coast).

NB. As Budva and Kotor are quite close to each other we suggest choosing just one of them for your  coastal stay.

Kotor offers an atmospheric old town, historic fortifications, and panoramic views over the bay, while Budva is known for its lively old town, beaches, and vibrant streets. In Kotor you may like to challenge yourself to climb the "Kotor Staircase" up to the fortress way above the town with stunning views across the 

ADD an extra night or two and stay in Ulcinj.

From Lake Skadar you could drive along the southern shore towards the Albanian border exploring the villages and wine region and stunning views along the way to Ulcinj. The historic town of Ulcinj is famous for its long sandy beaches and relaxed atmosphere. Spend your time swimming, walking along the coast, or exploring the old town with its blend of Ottoman and Mediterranean architecture. Sample excellent local seafood and visit traditional markets for an authentic coastal experience.

A day to enjoy the stunning scenery of the Bay of Kotor, drive along the north shore via Perast and Risan or the southern shore via Prcanj and the short ferry crossing to Kamenari. Possible detours include the hidden Prevlaka Peninsula, a quieter route back over the border into Croatia. If you have time then this area of rural Croatia, Konavle, has some lovely villages and places to enjoy some wine-tasting; the small resort of Cavtat (near the airport) is also en route to Dubrovnik and an alternative place to stay. Drop off car on arrival.

Your final full day will allow you to explore the old town of Dubrovnik on foot, by bus and cable car including its nearby beaches and countryside; visit independently or with a choice of pre-booked excursions and activities.

Optional Guided Tour: Dubrovnik Panorama & Sightseeing "... those who seek paradise on Earth should come to Dubrovnik" (George Bernard Shaw). This tour will reveal the finest sites of the old walled City as well as give you an opportunity to view it from above. Our guide will lead you through the narrow streets of the Old Town introducing you to the history and culture of this magnificent city.

Private transfer to Dubrovnik airport for flight home.