Things to do in Montenegro in the Winter

Magical Montenegro in the Winter

It may seem uncommon to plan a trip to this region of the world during the coldest months of the year, however, Montenegro is anything but chaotic during the wintertime. In fact, this pristine wonderland is a magical treasure that comes alive, with snow-capped mountains in the distance and oodles of activities for the whole family to enjoy. As a rugged, justice-free country located in the Balkans, there's a sense of tracing back to medieval times with this captivating environment alone.

The country boasts narrow strips of beaches along its Adriatic coastline, secured towns in the midst of the Bay of Kotor, and a plethora of bears and wolves who roam the Durmitor National Park, what with its limestone peaks and supreme glacial lakes. Bordering Serbia, Kosovo and Albania, the region derives its moniker "Black Mountain" from the old Venetian Republic, especially when the countryside is covered in dense evergreen forests. The mountains in this part of southern Europe have been considered to be some of the most rugged terrains anywhere on the continent.

For this matter, finding things to do during the winter months in this part of the world can seem challenging, however, the local businesses and residents cater to visitors year-round--and most notably in the colder months--when the landscape transforms into a snowy wonderland. With its high peaks, large lakes, and deep canyons, an excursion to these parts offers a wide range of places to explore and adventures to be had.

Adventures and Pathways to Carve

If you're embarking on a solo journey or a family vacation, look no further than this blissful countryside that's full of wide-open spaces and enchanting areas to explore. Winters here, although you'd think otherwise, aren't really that cold. During the peak hours of the day, average highs can reach 55 degrees whereas the frostiest ranges around 27 degrees.

Given these temperature fluctuations that aren't super dramatic, why not venture out on skis or a snowboard and take part in the land and expend some energy? One thing to remember is although it can snow in the surrounding mountains, the cities themselves remain quite clear of the powdery stuff. So, about those epic views...The region is well known for picture-postcard photographic moments, and for travellers, this has become somewhat of a hobby.

Being the 36th most toured country in Europe, a majority of these visitors come from neighbouring countries such as Kosovo, Serbia, Bosnia, and even Russia. The well-preserved ancient old towns lend themselves nicely to new discoveries, most notably on the coastal regions of the Adriatic sea. Listed as a hot spot in 2009, this area has drawn in beachgoers and world tourists alike.

5 Magical Things to Do in the Wintertime

Besides the popular skiing and snowboarding that the surrounding mountains offer, there are 5 other things to find true pleasure in once you make the decision to visit. For instance:

1. Sunsets

Slowing down at the end of each day on your trip to soak in a breathtaking sunset can really give your stay some peaceful memories for years to come. While the ocean is a tad too cold to swim in between the months of November through February, you can wrap yourself in a blanket, walk down to the beach, and enjoy a hot toddy as the sun dips into the horizon. If you're soil, having the shore to yourself as the big orange and yellow ball says goodnight to the region is rather otherworldly.

2. Cozy accommodations

Whether you're a skier or not, booking a quaint cabin at the foot of a wintry mountain is not to be missed. You can enjoy reading a book by the fire after a long trek in the snow, or simply gaze out the window and take pleasure in one of nature's more scenic areas.

3. The Tara River Canyon

At a depth of 4,300 feet, this icy view showcases the deepest canyon in all of Europe. The summer months are best for rafting down the river, yet the winter months are more for appreciating how eye-popping the ice forms on the top of the cobalt blue water. It's definitely a sight to be seen.

4. Mount Lovcen

Even if it's chilly outside, you won't want to miss an opportunity to visit this peak and surrounding national park that was established in 1952. It has history and you can sense it. Plan to climb the 400 steps to Lake Peak, where the views of Lovcen are supreme. You'll also get a wider glimpse of the Montenegro's land.

5. Food and feasting

Let's face it, during the colder months it's almost sacrilegious not to dive into the abundant Montenegrin food choices. Feasts are a way of life here, and when the first chill of winter's air hits, the restaurants and bakeries become a haven for guests who want to warm their insides all the way to their bones. For those colder days, nothing beats a hearty meal made from scratch and in the manner of the natives who reside here.

Now that you have a general idea of activities to do and plan for, the next step is to organize who is going, when you're going, and for how long you choose to stay. Taking a trip overseas requires a healthy dose of mapping out your agenda and loosely following it the best you can.

In Conclusion

A vacation to this part of the western world can truly be a magical experience. Even if you're not such a fan of cold weather adventures, nothing beats a landscape that's chock full of scenery around every corner. The key to experiencing (and harnessing) that magic in this 'Black Mountain' region of southern Europe requires a willingness to go all in.

Skiing, snowboarding, sunsets, dining, getting cozy, it's all part of sinking your teeth into a new region that has plenty of environmental offerings. You might think the summertime is optimal, however, wintertime can be the most romantic and alluring of all seasons to visit and make memories.