8 non-touristy places worthy of checking out if you plan on visiting Montenegro this summer

If you were to fire up any search engine right now and look for things to do in Montenegro, chances are you’d stumble upon countless articles suggesting the same or similar attractions to explore in this enchanting country.

To cater to adventurous souls eager to venture beyond the beaten path, we’ve curated a list of hidden gems that deserve your attention. While the Bay of Kotor and Skadar Lake undoubtedly charm visitors, there’s so much more to discover in Montenegro.

Nestled in the mountains, concealed within forests, or quietly tucked away behind popular destinations, these spots remain largely unexplored by the masses. Join us as we uncover the overlooked wonders of Montenegro, waiting to be explored and savored by the intrepid traveler.

Lake Biograd – a pearl in the north of Montenegro

Nestled within the heart of Biogradska Gora National Park lies a pristine gem embraced by wilderness. Here, amidst the unspoiled nature, lies one of Montenegro’s most treasured natural wonders, Lake Biograd.
Formed by the intricate dance of melting snow and rainwater within the crater of the National Park’s southwestern reaches, Lake Biograd emerges as a sanctuary of unparalleled purity.

Spanning 0.5 square kilometers with depths plunging up to 12 meters, this tranquil lake serves as a haven for diverse flora and fauna. Situated at an elevation of 1094 meters, not far from Kolašin, it stands as a testament to the unspoiled beauty of Montenegro’s landscapes.

Biogradska gora National Park, Photo: Miomir Magdevski, CC BY-SA 4.0

Impressive canyon of the Morača River

Ranked as the country’s second-largest canyon, the Morača River Canyon is a veritable paradise for canyon enthusiasts and nature aficionados alike.

Despite its tranquil waters, this canyon, stretching 1000 meters deep, is renowned for its formidable challenges, earning a reputation as one of the most arduous and perilous to drive through.

Undoubtedly, the Morača River Canyon boasts major attractions, including captivating lookout points and the presence of cable bridges that bestow a distinctive charm upon the landscape.

Cable bridge, Moraca Canyon, Photo: Volodymyr Shevchuk, Dreamstime

Lipa cave – a natural phenomenon

The Lipa Cave stands out as one of Montenegro’s most alluring natural wonders, offering visitors an unforgettable journey into the underground realm. Situated near Cetinje, the capital of Montenegrin culture and history, the cave has welcomed visitors since 2015.

During the scorching summer months, the Lipa Cave provides a refreshing respite, with temperatures hovering around 10 degrees Celsius. Even on rainy days, the cave exudes a mystical ambiance, inviting exploration.

Lipa cave, Photo: Lipa cave Montenegro, CC BY-SA 2.0 DEED

Niagara Falls on the Cijevna River

In addition to its pristine waters and stunning canyon, the Cijevna River‘s crowning jewel is undoubtedly its cascading waterfalls, affectionately dubbed the Montenegrin Niagara Falls. Just a brief 10-minute drive from Podgorica‘s city center, nestled in Rakića Kuće village, these falls have captivated both locals and random passengers year-round.

While the falls reach their pinnacle of splendor during the spring months of March and April, many locals favor them during the summer season. As temperatures rise, they transform into a favored spot for swimming and seeking respite from the heat, adding to their allure as a beloved destination.

Cijevna waterfalls (Niagara falls), Podgorica, Photo: Miomir Magdevski, CC BY-SA 4.0

Tivat Saltern – a beautiful nature reserve

The Tivat Saltern, formerly a bustling hub for salt production sustaining hundreds of families for generations, fell into neglect over time. However, its fortunes have since changed, as it has undergone a remarkable transformation into a Special Nature Reserve, beckoning visitors to explore its renewed splendor.

Spanning an impressive 140 hectares, the area stands out as a distinctive locale in Montenegro. This reserve serves not only as a haven for diverse flora and fauna but also as a sanctuary for numerous bird species, offering visitors a tranquil retreat amidst nature’s embrace.

Tivat Saline, Photo: mikelo001, Despositphotos

Komovi – the most impressive mountain massif

In the southeastern corner of Montenegro, near the border with Albania, lies a breathtaking mountain range waiting to be discovered by nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike. The Komovi Mountains, a hidden gem of unparalleled beauty, offer a mesmerizing blend of alpine vistas, unspoiled wilderness, and abundant biodiversity.

A haven for mountaineers, climbers, and photographers seeking to immerse themselves in Montenegro’s natural splendor, the Komovi Mountains promise an unforgettable experience amidst their majestic peaks and pristine landscapes.

Komovi, Photo: jahmaica Depositphotos

Nevidio Canyon – an exciting mountaineering challenge

In the northern reaches of Montenegro, close to the town of Šavnik, lies one of the region’s most spectacular natural marvels—the Nevidio Canyon. Nestled within the bounds of Durmitor National Park, this awe-inspiring canyon spans an impressive 3.5 kilometers.

Discovered as recently as 1965, Nevidio Canyon, aptly named “unseen,” captivates visitors with its unique blend of towering cliffs, crystalline waters, narrow passages, cascading waterfalls, and a myriad of other natural wonders sculpted over millennia.

Nevidio canyon, Photo: Montengro travel

Hridsko Lake – a lake of happiness

In the northwest region of the stunning Prokletije, near the Montenegrin-Albanian border, rests a hidden gem within a lush forest of ancient conifer trees—an emerald-green lake that awaits your discovery. Just a one-hour drive from Plav, this tranquil oasis beckons adventurers seeking serenity amidst nature’s embrace.

Local folklore enshrines the belief that bathing in Hridsko Lake with pure intentions bestows upon one an abundance of good fortune, robust health, and harmonious unions, offering a tempting invitation to those willing to take the plunge.

Hrid lake, Photo: Jahmaica, Depositphotos

As Montenegro’s diverse landscapes unfold before our eyes, one cannot help but marvel at the wonders this small yet enchanting country holds. From the hidden emerald-green lakes near Prokletije to the awe-inspiring Nevidio Canyon in the north, and the pristine Lipa Cave near Cetinje, each destination offers a unique glimpse into the country’s rich natural heritage.

Whether you’re seeking adventure in the rugged Komovi Mountains or tranquility by the Tivat Saltern, Montenegro’s landscapes promise an unforgettable journey.