The Enchanting Wilderness of Prokletije National Park
Discover the untamed beauty and diverse wildlife of Prokletije National Park, Montenegro's hidden gem for adventure and nature lovers.
Prokletije National Park, nestled in Montenegro's rugged landscape, offers a mesmerizing blend of towering peaks, deep valleys, and pristine rivers. Known as the 'Accursed Mountains,' this park is a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. The park's dramatic scenery and untouched beauty create an ideal backdrop for hiking, climbing, and exploring. The park is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, making it a paradise for wildlife watchers. Rare species such as the Balkan lynx and golden eagle can be spotted here, adding to the park's allure. The region's unique geological formations and crystal-clear glacial lakes are perfect for photography and provide a serene escape from bustling city life. In addition to its natural wonders, Prokletije National Park is rich in cultural heritage. Traditional mountain villages dot the landscape, where visitors can experience the local way of life and enjoy authentic Montenegrin cuisine. The friendly locals and their warm hospitality make a visit to Prokletije an unforgettable experience.
Local tips in Prokletije National Park
- Wear sturdy hiking boots as the trails can be steep and rocky.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited facilities within the park.
- Hire a local guide to explore the lesser-known trails and hidden spots.
- Visit during late spring or early autumn for the best weather conditions.
- Respect local customs and traditions when visiting mountain villages.
The Enchanting Wilderness of Prokletije National Park
Prokletije National Park, nestled in Montenegro's rugged landscape, offers a mesmerizing blend of towering peaks, deep valleys, and pristine rivers. Known as the 'Accursed Mountains,' this park is a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. The park's dramatic scenery and untouched beauty create an ideal backdrop for hiking, climbing, and exploring. The park is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, making it a paradise for wildlife watchers. Rare species such as the Balkan lynx and golden eagle can be spotted here, adding to the park's allure. The region's unique geological formations and crystal-clear glacial lakes are perfect for photography and provide a serene escape from bustling city life. In addition to its natural wonders, Prokletije National Park is rich in cultural heritage. Traditional mountain villages dot the landscape, where visitors can experience the local way of life and enjoy authentic Montenegrin cuisine. The friendly locals and their warm hospitality make a visit to Prokletije an unforgettable experience.
When is the best time to go to Prokletije National Park?
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Biogradska gora National Park
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Pavlova Strana Viewpoint
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Bjeshkët e Nemuna National Park
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Grlja Canyon
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Ancient Doclea Ruins
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Danilov most
Experience the breathtaking vistas and serene beauty at Danilov Most, a stunning bridge in Kolašin, Montenegro, where nature meets architecture.
Grebaje Valley
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Albanian Alps
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Panorama Lake Viewpoint with Cafe
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Mulliri i Vjetër i Valbonës
Experience the rich heritage and stunning landscapes of Mulliri i Vjetër in Valbonë, a must-visit site for every traveler in Albania.
Zla Kolata
Explore Zla Kolata, the breathtaking peak of Montenegro’s Prokletije Mountains, where adventure meets stunning natural beauty.
Гипфел Волушница
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Spomenik na Jasikovcu
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Elvedelta
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Gërla waterfall
Experience the breathtaking Gërla Waterfall in Vusanje, Montenegro, a serene nature preserve perfect for relaxation and outdoor adventures.
Unmissable attractions to see
Lipa cave
Explore Lipa Cave, Montenegro's captivating underground marvel featuring stunning formations and rich geological history.
Ali Pasha springs
Explore the enchanting Ali Pasha Springs in Gusinje, Montenegro – a serene park where nature and tranquility meet.
Oko Skakavice 'The Eye'
Discover Oko Skakavice, 'The Eye' - Montenegro's breathtaking scenic spot perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and those seeking serenity amidst stunning landscapes.
Reconciliation Tower
Discover the captivating history and cultural resilience at Reconciliation Tower, a must-visit museum in Albania.
Circular Viewpoint
Experience the stunning vistas of Lake Skadar at Circular Viewpoint, a breathtaking tourist attraction in Virpazar, Montenegro.
Gërla waterfall
Experience the serene beauty of Gërla Waterfall, a hidden gem in Montenegro's nature preserve, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Pecina Magara
Explore the stunning Pecina Magara, a natural cave in Montenegro, rich in geological wonders and archaeological significance, perfect for adventurous travelers.
Visitors Center , National Park Prokletije, Gusinje
Explore the wonders of National Park Prokletije at the Visitors Center, your gateway to Montenegro's breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
Qender Theth
Explore the stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Qender Theth, a hidden gem in the Albanian Alps.
Essential places to dine
Mijović
Discover authentic Montenegrin cuisine at Mijović in Mrke – where every meal tells a story.
Konoba VIDIKOVAC
Experience authentic Montenegrin cuisine at Konoba VIDIKOVAC – where tradition meets breathtaking views.
Eko Katun ROSI - Old Tower
Discover the authentic flavors and rich culture of Montenegro at Eko Katun ROSI - Old Tower, where history meets hospitality.
Rosi Hotel
Experience authentic Montenegrin hospitality at Rosi Hotel in Gusinje - where comfort meets delicious local cuisine.
Caffe & Restuarant TIMM
Experience authentic Montenegrin cuisine at Caffe & Restaurant TIMM in Plav – where flavor meets hospitality amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Restaurant-Guest House, Grlja, Ujevara Vuthaj
Experience authentic Montenegrin cuisine at Restaurant-Guest House Grlja in picturesque Vusanje.
Restorant Bar Suka Mkushit
Savor authentic Albanian cuisine amidst stunning landscapes at Restorant Bar Suka Mkushit in Gropat e Selcës.
Restorant Hartini, Ujevara Vuthaj
Discover authentic Montenegrin flavors at Restorant Hartini in Vusanje – where every meal is a celebration of local culinary heritage.
Eko-katun Grebaje
Experience authentic Montenegrin cuisine in a serene mountain setting at Eko-katun Grebaje.
Nacionalni Restoran
Discover authentic Montenegrin cuisine at Nacionalni Restoran amidst the stunning landscapes of Ekološka Staza.
Restoran Korita
Experience authentic Montenegrin flavors at Restoran Korita - where every meal is a celebration of local culinary traditions.
Konoba Međuriječje
Discover authentic Montenegrin barbecue at Konoba Međuriječje on E65 – where flavor meets tradition in every bite.
Restaurant Pocinak
Discover authentic Montenegrin flavors at Restaurant Pocinak in Bare—affordable dining with a welcoming atmosphere.
Samelova Koliba Prokletije
Discover the essence of Montenegro at Samelova Koliba Prokletije - where traditional cuisine meets breathtaking mountain views.
Caffe 'Misk' - Plav
Experience authentic Montenegrin flavors at Caffe 'Misk', your cozy dining retreat in the heart of Plav.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Grebaje Valley
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Ropojana valley
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Idea
Discover local flavors and specialties at Idea Supermarket in Plav, your one-stop shop for authentic Montenegrin products.
VOLI
Explore the vibrant tastes of Montenegro at VOLI, your go-to grocery store in Plav for fresh local produce and international delights.
Nacionalni park Prokletije
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Nacionalni park Prokletije, a true gem of Montenegro's natural heritage.
Shepherd's Rest Mountain Coffee and Tea House
Experience the beauty of Vusanje at Shepherd's Rest Mountain Coffee and Tea House, a perfect blend of nature, coffee, and tranquility.
MULTIVERSE D.O.O
Discover the charm of Gusinje at MULTIVERSE D.O.O, where local products meet professional services in a welcoming atmosphere.
D.O.O Glavice
Explore D.O.O Glavice, a well-stocked supermarket in Plav offering local products, daily essentials, and a friendly shopping experience for tourists.
Visitors Center , National Park Prokletije, Gusinje
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Montenegro's Prokletije National Park at the Visitors Center, your gateway to adventure in nature's paradise.
SUVENIR
Discover authentic Montenegrin souvenirs at SUVENIR, your go-to gift shop in the heart of Bogetići.
Vision bakery
Discover the sweet and savory delights of Vision Bakery in Gusinje, where traditional Montenegrin flavors come to life in every bite.
Piljara GAGA
Explore Piljara GAGA in Plav for unique home goods and authentic Montenegrin crafts amidst stunning natural beauty.
HausMajstor Montenegro
Explore HausMajstor Montenegro, a vibrant shopping mall in Plav, where local culture meets modern retail experiences in the heart of Montenegro.
Minimarket Prodavnica br.1
Discover local flavors and essentials at Minimarket Prodavnica br.1 in Gusinje, Montenegro – a convenient stop for travelers seeking authentic experiences.
Mendi
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Caffe & Restuarant TIMM
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Restorant Hartini, Ujevara Vuthaj
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Caffe 'Misk' - Plav
Experience the essence of Montenegrin cuisine at Caffe 'Misk' in Plav, where local flavors meet stunning mountain views.
Restaurant Krojet
Experience the authentic flavors of Montenegro at Restaurant Krojet, where local cuisine meets breathtaking scenery in Vusanje.
Elan Lounge bar
Experience the charm of Elan Lounge Bar in Plav, where relaxation meets great drinks in a cozy atmosphere.
Gorštak Pub
Discover the charm of Gorštak Pub in Kolašin, Montenegro, where delicious local cuisine meets a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Pub RABATON
Discover the authentic flavors and vibrant atmosphere of Pub Rabaton in Gusinje, Montenegro, the perfect spot for relaxation and local cuisine.
Vila gorska
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and stunning views at Vila Gorska, the perfect bar to unwind in Krčevo, Montenegro.
1060. meet, eat, hike & tour
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Bar 36
Discover Bar 36 in Verusha, Montenegro – a vibrant bar offering local drinks and a lively atmosphere perfect for tourists seeking relaxation and adventure.
Le Baron Lounge Bar
Discover the charm of Le Baron Lounge Bar in Plav, Montenegro, where relaxation meets vibrant local culture amidst stunning landscapes.
Caffe Bar Roma( Murino)
Experience the vibrant local culture and unwind at Caffe Bar Roma in Murino, Montenegro, where great drinks and friendly faces await.
LjetnjaPrica
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Cafe Bar TABLJA
Experience the best of Montenegro at Cafe Bar TABLJA in Spuž, where local beer meets a cozy atmosphere for the perfect unwind.
Café Urban
Discover the cozy charm of Café Urban in Plav, Montenegro – your perfect retreat for drinks, snacks, and relaxation.
Local Phrases about Prokletije National Park
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- HelloZdravo
[Zdra-vo] - GoodbyeDoviđenja
[Do-vi-đe-nya] - YesDa
[Da] - NoNe
[Ne] - Please/You're welcomeMolim
[Mo-lim] - Thank youHvala
[Hva-la] - Excuse me/SorryIzvinite
[Iz-vi-ni-te] - How are you?Kako si?
[Ka-ko si?] - Fine. And you?Dobro. A ti?
[Do-bro. A ti?] - Do you speak English?Da li govorite engleski?
[Da li go-vo-ri-te en-gle-ski?] - I don't understandNe razumem
[Ne ra-zu-mem]
- HelloZdravo
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- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMolio bih meni, molim
[Mo-lio bih me-ni, mo-lim] - I don't eat meatNe jedem meso
[Ne je-dem me-so] - Cheers!Živeli!
[Ži-ve-li] - I would like to pay, pleaseŽeleo bih da platim, molim
[Že-le-o bih da pla-tim, mo-lim]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMolio bih meni, molim
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- Help!Pomoć!
[Po-moć!] - Go away!Otiđi!
[O-ti-đi!] - Call the Police!Pozovite policiju!
[Po-zo-vi-te po-li-ci-ju!] - Call a doctor!Pozovite doktora!
[Po-zo-vi-te dok-to-ra!] - I'm lostIzgubio/la sam se
[Iz-gu-bio/la sam se] - I'm illBolestan/sna sam
[Bo-le-stan/sna sam]
- Help!Pomoć!
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- I'd like to buy...Želeo bih da kupim...
[Že-le-o bih da ku-pim...] - I'm just lookingSamo gledam
[Sa-mo gle-dam] - How much is it?Koliko košta?
[Ko-li-ko ko-šta?] - That's too expensiveTo je previše skupo
[To je pre-vi-še sku-po] - Can you lower the price?Možete li spustiti cenu?
[Mo-že-te li spu-sti-ti ce-nu?]
- I'd like to buy...Želeo bih da kupim...
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- What time is it?Koliko je sati?
[Ko-li-ko je sa-ti?] - It's one o'clockJedan je sat
[Je-dan je sat] - Half past (10)Polovina deset
[Po-lo-vi-na de-set] - MorningJutro
[Ju-tro] - AfternoonPopodne
[Po-po-dne] - EveningVeče
[Ve-če] - YesterdayJuče
[Ju-če] - TodayDanas
[Da-nas] - TomorrowSutra
[Su-tra] - 1Jedan
[Je-dan] - 2Dva
[Dva] - 3Tri
[Tri] - 4Četiri
[Če-ti-ri] - 5Pet
[Pet] - 6Šest
[Šest] - 7Sedam
[Se-dam] - 8Osam
[O-sam] - 9Devet
[De-vet] - 10Deset
[De-set]
- What time is it?Koliko je sati?
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- Where's a/the...?Gde je...
[Gde je...] - What's the address?Koja je adresa?
[Ko-ja je a-drre-sa?] - Can you show me (on the map)?Možete li mi pokazati (na mapi)?
[Mo-že-te li mi po-ka-za-ti (na ma-pi)?] - When's the next (bus)?Kada je sledeći (autobus)?
[Ka-da je sle-de-ći (au-to-bus)?] - A ticket (to ....)Jednu kartu (do ...)
[Je-dnu kar-tu (do ...)]
- Where's a/the...?Gde je...
History of Prokletije National Park
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The Prokletije region has a rich history dating back to ancient times. Archaeological findings indicate that the area was inhabited by Illyrian tribes long before the arrival of the Romans. These early settlers were known for their resilience and ability to adapt to the rugged terrain. They built fortifications and settlements, some of which can still be traced today.
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The Roman Empire extended its reach into the Prokletije region around the 2nd century AD. The Romans recognized the strategic importance of the area and established a network of roads and forts. Evidence of Roman engineering, such as remnants of roads and fortifications, can still be found in the park. The influence of Roman culture and governance marked a significant era in the history of Prokletije.
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During the medieval period, the Prokletije region became a contested area among various local kingdoms and principalities. The rugged terrain served as a natural fortress for local chieftains and their followers. Fortresses, such as the remnants of the Kotor castle, were built to defend against invaders. This period was marked by frequent skirmishes and the rise and fall of various local rulers.
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The Ottoman Empire began to exert its influence over the Prokletije region in the 15th century. The Ottomans introduced new administrative practices and integrated the area into their extensive empire. The period under Ottoman rule was marked by the construction of roads, bridges, and other infrastructure projects that facilitated trade and movement. However, the local population often resisted Ottoman control, leading to periodic uprisings.
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In the 19th century, the Prokletije region played a crucial role in Montenegro's struggle for independence from the Ottoman Empire. The rugged mountains served as a refuge and strategic base for Montenegrin fighters. The famous Battle of Mojkovac in 1916, although not directly in Prokletije, saw Montenegrin forces display their resilience and tactical prowess, drawing inspiration from the challenging terrain of their homeland.
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During World War II, the Prokletije region became a significant center for the Yugoslav Partisan resistance movement against Axis forces. The dense forests and mountainous terrain provided ideal cover for guerrilla warfare. Numerous battles and skirmishes took place in the area, and the local population played a key role in supporting the Partisan fighters. The legacy of this resistance is still remembered and commemorated in the region.
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Prokletije National Park was officially established in 2009 to protect the unique natural and cultural heritage of the region. The park covers an area of approximately 16,630 hectares and is home to diverse flora and fauna, as well as numerous historical and archaeological sites. The establishment of the park marked a significant step in preserving the natural beauty and historical significance of Prokletije for future generations.
Prokletije National Park Essentials
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Prokletije National Park is located in the northern part of Montenegro, near the borders with Albania and Kosovo. The nearest international airports are Podgorica Airport (around 170 km away) and Tivat Airport (around 200 km away). From these airports, you can rent a car or take a bus to reach the park. The journey by car from Podgorica or Tivat usually takes around 3 to 4 hours. Public buses and minibuses (known as 'kombis') are available but may require transfers and longer travel times.
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Within Prokletije National Park, the best way to explore is by hiking or driving. The park has numerous well-marked trails for hiking enthusiasts. Renting a car is recommended if you wish to cover more ground and visit different parts of the park. Local taxis and guided tours are also available. Public transport options are limited, so planning your transportation in advance is advisable.
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The official currency in Montenegro is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops in the larger towns, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially when venturing into rural areas or smaller villages. ATMs are available in the nearby towns of Plav and Gusinje, but having sufficient cash before entering the park is recommended.
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Prokletije National Park is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is wise to take standard precautions such as avoiding isolated areas after dark and keeping an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but being vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always a good practice.
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In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The nearest medical facilities are located in the towns of Plav and Gusinje, which have clinics and pharmacies. For more serious health concerns, the hospitals in Podgorica offer comprehensive medical services. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor issues, carrying a basic first-aid kit can be useful.
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Fashion: Do wear comfortable and appropriate hiking gear, including sturdy shoes. Avoid wearing flashy or overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, especially if you visit religious sites or local villages. Cover your shoulders and knees when entering churches. Public Transport: Do be respectful of other passengers and local customs. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Dobar dan' (Good day). A handshake is common among men, while women may exchange kisses on the cheeks. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
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To experience Prokletije National Park like a local, consider visiting during the off-peak seasons (spring and autumn) for a more serene experience. Engage with local guides who can offer unique insights into the park's natural and cultural heritage. Don't miss the traditional Montenegrin dishes like 'kačamak' and 'cicvara' at local eateries. For a unique experience, take part in a traditional shepherd's day event, where you can learn about local pastoral life and cheese-making.
Trending Landmarks in Prokletije National Park
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Biogradska gora National Park
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Pavlova Strana Viewpoint
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Bjeshkët e Nemuna National Park
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Grlja Canyon
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Ancient Doclea Ruins
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Danilov most
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Grebaje Valley
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Albanian Alps
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Panorama Lake Viewpoint with Cafe
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Mulliri i Vjetër i Valbonës
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Zla Kolata
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Гипфел Волушница
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Spomenik na Jasikovcu
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Elvedelta
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Gërla waterfall
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