Montenegro Self Drive 3 - Montenegro Panorama

From Durmitor you travel east into one of Montenegro’s quietest and most traditional corners, staying the night in Plav, a town nestled beside a beautiful mountain lake at the foot of the Prokletije Mountains. This region feels wonderfully remote, dotted with wooden towers, ancient mosques and farming villages where life follows long-established rhythms. It’s an atmospheric stop that contrasts beautifully with the peaks of Durmitor and the forested landscapes that follow.

Your route then curves north-west to Kolašin for a three-night stay, giving you time to explore the deep forests, fast rivers and green valleys of the Bjelasica Mountains and the Biogradska Gora National Park — one of Europe’s last remaining primeval forests. Here you can walk beside mirror-still lakes, visit monasteries, or simply enjoy the peace, fresh air and traditional cuisine for which this region is known. Another place to explore is the Kolasin 1600 mountain resort, maybe on horseback or on mountain bikes.

From the mountains you descend through changing landscapes to the vast waters of Lake Skadar, where you spend two nights. We recommend taking the old road down rather than the new highway and possibly making a short visit to the capital, Podgorica, along the way. Lake Skadar is one of the continent’s most important wildlife habitats — home to rare birds, island monasteries, waterlilies and a wonderfully slowed-down atmosphere. Boat trips, tiny lakeside villages and sunset viewpoints offer a welcome sense of serenity after days spent exploring the mountains.

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 (including the 13kms of Velika Plaža) 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.

The holiday finishes with three nights in Kotor, a glorious finale where towering limestone mountains plunge directly into the Adriatic. Inside its mighty city walls you’ll find winding alleys, sunlit squares, medieval churches and excellent restaurants. You can challenge yourself to climb the "staircase" up to the fortress above, take a boat trip across the bay, or simply enjoy the views from waterside cafés. 

** alternative location, stay along the Bay of Kotor instead - e.g. in Perast at Hotel Conte.

As you fly out of Tivat, you’re only moments from the airport on your final day — a perfectly easy end to a remarkably varied journey.