
03 van Niksic naar Zabljak in het Durmitor Nationaal Park

This route was brought to you by:
RouteXpert Leonor Orban - Sr. RouteXpert
Last edit: 29-08-2024
During the ride you will discover a number of highlights of Montenegro. You visit the canyons of Nevidio and Piva, and drive through the southernmost part of Durmitor NP. Along the way you can also visit the Piva Monastery, which, in addition to its beautiful historical frescoes, is also known for a special move.
And of course the roads are spectacular again. You better keep your camera at hand, because around every turn you will discover an even more beautiful landscape.
Despite the fact that there are few restaurants along the route, the route does receive 5 stars. This is thanks to a combination of beautiful, quiet winding roads and breathtaking scenery.
Animation
Verdict
Duration
8h 14m
Mode of travel
Car or motorcycle
Distance
148.11 km
Countries


Lake Piva
We start the day at the charming hotel Koliba Bogetići, just south of Niksic. A hearty breakfast is not an unnecessary luxury here. Niksic itself is a typical Montenegrin town with a relaxed atmosphere and a rich history. Before you leave, it is wise to do some shopping for a picnic here. There are few places along the route where you can stop for an extensive lunch. The local market offers a range of fresh products: cheese, dried ham, fresh bread and fruit. Fill your bags, because the journey ahead requires energy.
Leaving Niksic behind, you are soon greeted by wonderfully winding roads. The first few kilometres you drive through densely forested areas. Every now and then you drive out of the forests and have a magnificent view of rolling hills. Slowly you climb up and also above the tree line. The rough landscape is impressive. Eventually you are at an altitude of about 1500 metres. A few hairpin bends later you are again among lush greenery, at Restoran Moje Selo. Take a moment for a break, because there are not many options along the way. Fortunately, stopping here is no punishment.
After a nice break, the route continues north where you cross the Bukovica River. This fast-flowing, crystal-clear river meanders through the landscape and is a true source of life for the surrounding nature. As you drive along its banks, you can see the shadow of the mountains reflected in the water. This river is a perfect place for a short break to stretch your legs and enjoy the soothing sound of the rippling water.
The road takes you further to the Nevidio Canyon, Montenegro's most mysterious gorge. The name says it all: "Nevidio" means "unseen". This gorge was impenetrable to humans for a long time and was only fully explored in 1965. With steep rock walls that are sometimes barely a meter apart, it is a paradise for adventurers. Even from the road you can catch a glimpse of the impressive depths of the gorge, through which the waters of the Komarnica River squeeze at a dizzying speed. Here you feel small compared to the forces of nature.
After Nevidio Canyon, you head to a hidden gem: Lake Oko. This small, perfectly round lake, also called the "Eye of the Mountain", is an oasis of tranquility due to its emerald green color. It is an ideal place to stop for a while and enjoy the serene surroundings. Park your bike and walk around the lake. The mystical atmosphere and the mirror-like surface of the water give you a chance to catch your breath before continuing to the next destination.
20 kilometers further you will come to the Pivski Monastery. Built in the 16th century, this monastery is one of Montenegro's most important cultural monuments. It is hidden among the mountains and exudes a serene tranquility. The frescoes inside the church are remarkably well preserved and tell stories from the Bible and local history. Even if you are not a history buff, the tranquility of this place will certainly inspire you. A short walk through the monastery gardens will give you a glimpse into the life of the monks who still live here in silence.
Then, just when you think nature can’t get any more impressive, you reach the Piva Canyon. With a depth of over 1,000 meters and the turquoise color of the Piva River, this is one of the most beautiful gorges in Europe. The road winds along the edge of the canyon, offering breathtaking views at every turn. This is the moment when you’re glad you’re on a bike: the freedom of riding, the wind in your face, and the sense of adventure coursing through your veins. This stretch of the route is pure joy for any biker, with challenging turns and views that will remain etched in your memory.
From the canyon it is not far to the end point... And yet... those kilometers are slow kilometers. Fortunately, on this part of the route you will come across two nice places to take a break: Milogora and Eko-Selo Durmitor. Both restaurants / bars are located close to each other and offer a nice terrace to take a break.
The last part of the route is a beautiful part through a rough landscape, the Durmitor National Park. You start a steep climb to an altitude of 1900 meters, where you will visit two beautiful mountain passes on the way. The kilometers will certainly also go slowly because you will often stop for photos.
After this unforgettable journey, you will arrive in the heart of Durmitor National Park, in the town of Zabljak. Here the route ends at Casa di Pino Eco Lodge Apartments, an ideal place to end your adventure. Durmitor is known for its mountain peaks, glacial lakes and vast forests. It is a place where you can reminisce about the day’s impressions, perhaps while enjoying a local beer or a hearty Montenegrin dinner.

The Nevidio canyon

Pivski monastery
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Changes may nevertheless have occurred due to changed circumstances, road diversions or seasonal closures. We therefore recommend checking each route before use.
Preferably use the route track in your navigation system. More information about the use of MyRoute-app can be found on the website under 'Community' or 'Academy'.

Montenegro
About this region
Montenegro ( (listen); Montenegrin: Црна Гора, lit. 'Black Mountain', pronounced [tsr̩̂ːnaː ɡǒra]) is a country in Southeastern Europe. It is located on the Adriatic Sea and is a part of the Balkans, sharing borders with Serbia to the northeast, Bosnia and Herzegovina to the north and west, Kosovo to the east, Albania to the southeast, and the Adriatic Sea and Croatia to the southwest. Podgorica, the capital and largest city, covers 10.4% of Montenegro's territory of 13,812 square kilometres (5,333 sq mi), and is home to roughly 30% of its total population of 621,000.During the Early Medieval period, three principalities were located on the territory of modern-day Montenegro: Duklja, roughly corresponding to the southern half; Travunia, the west; and Rascia proper, the north. The Principality of Zeta emerged in the 14th and 15th centuries. From the late 14th century to the late 18th century, large parts of southern Montenegro were ruled by the Venetian Republic and incorporated into Venetian Albania. The name Montenegro was first used to refer to the country in the late 15th century. After falling under Ottoman rule, Montenegro regained its independence in 1696 under the rule of the House of Petrović-Njegoš, first as a theocracy and later as a secular principality. Montenegro's independence was recognized by the Great Powers at the Congress of Berlin in 1878. In 1910, the country became a kingdom.
After World War I, the kingdom became part of Yugoslavia. Following the breakup of Yugoslavia, the republics of Serbia and Montenegro together proclaimed a federation. Following an independence referendum held in May 2006, Montenegro declared its independence and the confederation peacefully dissolved.Montenegro has an upper middle-income economy and ranks 48th in the Human Development Index. It is a member of the United Nations, NATO, the World Trade Organization, the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe, the Council of Europe, and the Central European Free Trade Agreement. Montenegro is also a founding member of the Union for the Mediterranean, and is currently in the process of joining the European Union.
Read more on Wikipedia
After World War I, the kingdom became part of Yugoslavia. Following the breakup of Yugoslavia, the republics of Serbia and Montenegro together proclaimed a federation. Following an independence referendum held in May 2006, Montenegro declared its independence and the confederation peacefully dissolved.Montenegro has an upper middle-income economy and ranks 48th in the Human Development Index. It is a member of the United Nations, NATO, the World Trade Organization, the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe, the Council of Europe, and the Central European Free Trade Agreement. Montenegro is also a founding member of the Union for the Mediterranean, and is currently in the process of joining the European Union.
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Six-day tour of Montenegro
Join us on a stunning 6-day motorcycle tour through Montenegro, a hidden gem for bikers who enjoy diverse landscapes, historical sights and vibrant culture. This carefully curated route collection takes you through an impressive range of natural areas and breathtaking locations, from tranquil Lake Shkodër and the coastline at Sveti Stefan to the dramatic Bay of Kotor. Each day brings new perspectives on this lesser-known, yet incredibly rich Balkan country.
The tour is 95% paved. In Eastern Europe there is always the chance that you will encounter unpaved roads. Usually these are compact gravel roads that you can easily drive over.
Along the way you will pass through impressive places such as the deep Tara canyon, the national parks of Durmitor and Biogradska Gora, the iconic monastery of Ostrog, and the vibrant city of Podgorica. The journey includes winding mountain roads, scenic coastal paths and various elevation changes that will take you through the most beautiful of Montenegro.
Montenegro may not be the first country that comes to mind for a motorcycle holiday, but it offers some of Europe’s most amazing scenery, combined with the warmth and hospitality of its people. With its rich culture, remarkable history and excellent local food, Montenegro is a fantastic destination for adventurous riders. Enjoy the tranquility of unspoilt nature, sample hearty Montenegrin cuisine and create unforgettable memories as you ride through one of the Balkans’ best-kept secrets.
The tour is 95% paved. In Eastern Europe there is always the chance that you will encounter unpaved roads. Usually these are compact gravel roads that you can easily drive over.
Along the way you will pass through impressive places such as the deep Tara canyon, the national parks of Durmitor and Biogradska Gora, the iconic monastery of Ostrog, and the vibrant city of Podgorica. The journey includes winding mountain roads, scenic coastal paths and various elevation changes that will take you through the most beautiful of Montenegro.
Montenegro may not be the first country that comes to mind for a motorcycle holiday, but it offers some of Europe’s most amazing scenery, combined with the warmth and hospitality of its people. With its rich culture, remarkable history and excellent local food, Montenegro is a fantastic destination for adventurous riders. Enjoy the tranquility of unspoilt nature, sample hearty Montenegrin cuisine and create unforgettable memories as you ride through one of the Balkans’ best-kept secrets.
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1140.54 km
50h 5m