Žabljak – the mountain hub of Durmitor at 1,450 m a.s.l.

Žabljak, just 20 km from our Eco Camp KLJAJEVIĆA LUKA, is the heart of the Durmitor region and the highest urban settlement in the Balkans. The municipality spans about 445 km² of rugged terrain where glacial basins, dense conifer forests and striking peaks create a true alpine landscape. Here—where the “most beautiful harshness of nature” lives—snow often lingers for up to six months, and winter depths can exceed 2 metres.

Why visit Žabljak

  • Natural highlights: glacial lakes (start with Black Lake), canyons, pastures and panoramic viewpoints.
  • Durmitor’s highest peak: Bobotov Kuk (2,523 m) — a rewarding hike with sweeping mountain vistas.
  • Active all year: hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, orienteering, paragliding, lakeside walks, plus winter activities and skiing.
  • Tara Canyon adventures: rafting, zip-line over the Tara, kayaking, canyoning and guided kayak support.

Black Lake – the family favourite

At 1,442 m a.s.l. and only 2.5 km from the town centre, Black Lake consists of two connected basins — Veliko (Big) and Malo (Small). In summer the water warms to around 20 °C, while in winter it freezes under a thick ice sheet. The well-marked loop trail delivers unforgettable photo spots. See more on our Black Lake page.

Climate & season

Below roughly 1,200 m the climate is sub-mountain; above that it’s distinctly alpine. Summer snowfields persist on Durmitor (e.g., the Debeli namet in Velika Kalica, 200–300 m long), so ski training is possible even when Montenegro’s coast hits 40 °C. Spring and autumn are ideal for hiking; winter delights snow lovers.

Culture, legends & heritage

Žabljak is steeped in folklore of fairies, dragons and devils; local epics link Durmitor to Vojvoda Momčilo, his winged horse Jabučilo and the legendary Marko Kraljević. According to tradition, the town’s name comes from the frogs at the Otoke site whose croaking heralds spring. Older names include Varezina Voda and Anovi (Hanovi).

Key facts

  • Elevation: 1,450 m — the highest urban settlement in Southeast Europe.
  • Relief: lowest point 512 m (confluence of the Sušica and Tara) to highest 2,523 m (Bobotov Kuk).
  • Population: ~4,900 (latest census). Traditional livelihoods include agriculture, livestock, forestry and primary wood processing; today, tourism drives development.

Suggested day plan

  1. Morning: climb to a viewpoint or walk the Black Lake loop.
  2. Afternoon: zip-line over the Tara or rafting (family-friendly and adrenaline options).
  3. Evening: return to Eco Camp KLJAJEVIĆA LUKA for an à la carte dinner, rest and planning for tomorrow.

Practical tips

  • Gear: layered clothing, sun/wind protection, hiking footwear.
  • Respect park rules and marked trails; for river or high-exposure activities, use licensed guides.
  • Book activities in advance (rafting, zip-line, kayaking) due to seasonal demand.

Žabljak is your mountain base for experiencing Durmitor — from lakes and peaks to the Tara Canyon. Combine your stay with rafting, a zip-line flight and relaxing evenings at Eco Camp KLJAJEVIĆA LUKA.

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