Solo Journey Through Montenegro's Durmitor National Park

First Day Back: A Journey Through Time and Taste

The crisp morning air greeted me as I stepped off the plane in Podgorica. It felt good to be back in Montenegro, even if Heidelberg has been my home for so many years now. This solo adventure to Durmitor National Park is more than just a trip; it's a homecoming, a chance to reconnect with the land of my birth and delve deeper into its rich history and culture. As a librarian specializing in Balkan history and folklore, I've read countless stories about this region, but there's nothing quite like experiencing it firsthand. I was a little worried that I forgot to pack my portable phone charger and sunscreen, but I made a mental note to purchase them later.


My first stop was the Podgorica Viewpoint, nestled in the hills of Gornji Kokoti. The drive up was scenic, with winding roads offering glimpses of the city below. When I arrived, the view was simply breathtaking. Podgorica stretched out before me, a tapestry of urban life set against a backdrop of rolling green hills and distant mountains. It was the perfect spot to take a moment, breathe in the fresh air, and feel the connection to my homeland.


Discover breathtaking views of Podgorica and its stunning landscapes at the scenic Podgorica Viewpoint, a must-visit attraction in Montenegro.

Sometimes, the most profound journeys are those that lead us back to where we began.

From the viewpoint, I made my way to the Ancient Doclea Ruins, a site that whispers tales of Roman emperors and Illyrian tribes. As I wandered through the remnants of temples, forums, and bathhouses, I couldn't help but imagine what life must have been like in this once-thriving city. Doclea, or Duklja as we call it in Montenegrin, was once the capital of the Roman province of Praevalitana. The Illyrians, who were later Romanized, built the city in the 1st century AD. The ruins offered a tangible link to Montenegro's past, a reminder that history is not just something we read about in books, but something that lives on in the stones beneath our feet. I spent hours exploring the necropoli, imagining the lives of those buried there, their stories now fragments of a distant past.


Discover the Ancient Doclea Ruins in Montenegro, where history comes alive amidst stunning landscapes and remarkable Roman architecture.


After a morning immersed in history, my stomach started to rumble, reminding me that it was time for breakfast. I headed to Nacionalni restoran Crno jezero, eager to sample some traditional Montenegrin cuisine. While I couldn't find a specific menu, I knew I wanted to try something hearty and local. I opted for kacamak, a traditional dish made from cornmeal, potatoes, and cheese. It was the perfect fuel for a day of exploring.


Experience authentic Montenegrin cuisine at Nacionalni restoran Crno jezero, nestled in the scenic beauty of Pitomine.


For lunch, I ventured to Izvor, a restaurant recommended for its authentic Montenegrin dishes. The menu was filled with tempting options, but I decided on grilled meat, a staple of Balkan cuisine. Each bite was a burst of flavor, a testament to the freshness of the local ingredients and the skill of the chef. I was so happy to be able to enjoy a traditional meal in my home country.


Discover authentic Montenegrin flavors at Izvor in Žabljak - where tradition meets taste amidst stunning natural beauty.


In the afternoon, I made a stop at Wine & Glory, a local wine shop in Podgorica. As someone who appreciates a good glass of wine, I was eager to discover what Montenegro had to offer. The shop was a treasure trove of local and international wines, each bottle telling a story of the region's terroir and winemaking traditions. I picked up a bottle of Vranac, a robust red wine that is a Montenegrin specialty, to enjoy later in Durmitor. Glovo delivers alcohol from Wine & Glory, so I was able to get my shopping done without having to leave home.


Explore the rich flavors of Montenegro at Wine & Glory, your destination for exquisite local and international wines in Žabljak.


As evening approached, I found myself at Restaurant Or'O for dinner. After reviewing the menu, I decided on Durmitor lamb cutlets, wanting to delve into the local cuisine. The lamb was cooked to perfection, tender and flavorful, and the atmosphere of the restaurant was warm and inviting. It was the perfect way to end my first day back in Montenegro.


Discover exquisite Montenegrin flavors at Restaurant Or'O in Žabljak - your gateway to culinary delights amidst stunning mountain vistas.


Before returning to my accommodation, I took a leisurely stroll through the city center, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Podgorica at night. The cafes were buzzing with locals enjoying their evening coffee, and the streets were alive with music and laughter. There were no specific local events today, but the city itself was an event, a celebration of Montenegrin life and culture.


Looking ahead to tomorrow, I'm excited to begin my journey to Durmitor National Park. My itinerary includes visits to the Durmitor View Point and Crno Jezero (Black Lake), two of the park's most iconic landmarks. I'm also planning to dine at Zlatni Bor for breakfast, Ukus Durmitora for lunch, and Durmitorsko Sijelo for dinner, eager to continue my culinary exploration of the region. A visit to Pub Kino Durmitor is also on the cards, for a relaxing drink.


As I reflect on my first day back in Montenegro, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude and excitement. This solo journey is already proving to be a profound experience, a chance to reconnect with my roots, discover the hidden gems of my homeland, and share the wonders of Montenegro with my blog readers. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings as I venture into the heart of Durmitor National Park.


It's a journey that reminds me of the simple truth that sometimes, the greatest adventures are those that lead us back to where we began, allowing us to see the world, and ourselves, with new eyes. I am so glad I decided to embark on this journey, and I am looking forward to sharing more of my experiences with you all.


And I am also excited to try some new restaurants tomorrow!