Things to Do in Biogradska Gora National Park, Crna Gora / Црна Гора

Biogradska Gora National Park, located in Montenegro's Bjelasica mountain range, is one of Europe's last three remaining primeval forests and Montenegro's oldest national park, established in 1952. The park encompasses 5,650 hectares of pristine wilderness, centered around the stunning glacial Biogradsko Lake, which sits at 1,094 meters above sea level and is surrounded by towering peaks reaching over 2,000 meters. This UNESCO-protected area contains trees that are over 500 years old, with some specimens reaching heights of 45 meters and diameters of 1.5 meters. The park offers an extraordinary glimpse into untouched European wilderness, featuring six glacial lakes, dense forests of beech, fir, and spruce, and diverse wildlife including brown bears, wolves, and over 150 bird species. The crown jewel is Biogradsko Lake, often called the 'mountain eye' for its crystal-clear waters that perfectly mirror the surrounding ancient forest and dramatic mountain peaks. With well-maintained hiking trails, traditional mountain huts, and opportunities for camping under some of Europe's most pristine night skies, Biogradska Gora provides an authentic wilderness experience just two hours from Montenegro's coast.

Top Things to Do in Biogradska Gora National Park

Hiking Around Biogradsko Lake

Take the easy 3.5-kilometer circular trail around Biogradsko Lake, which takes about 1.5 hours and offers stunning views of the pristine glacial lake surrounded by ancient forest. The well-maintained wooden boardwalks and paths provide excellent photo opportunities of the mirror-like lake reflecting 500-year-old trees and surrounding peaks. This accessible hike is perfect for families and offers interpretive signs about the park's unique ecosystem.

Booking Tip: No booking required, just pay the park entrance fee of €3 per person. Best visited early morning (7-9 AM) or late afternoon for optimal lighting and fewer crowds. Bring waterproof shoes as boardwalks can be slippery when wet.

Mountain Peak Hiking

Challenge yourself with hikes to peaks like Crna Glava (2,139m) or Zekova Glava (2,117m), offering panoramic views of the Bjelasica range and glimpses of the Adriatic Sea on clear days. These demanding full-day hikes (6-8 hours) traverse diverse ecosystems from ancient forest to alpine meadows. The trails are well-marked but require good fitness levels and proper mountain equipment.

Booking Tip: Consider hiring a local guide for €40-60 per day, especially for first-time visitors or challenging weather conditions. Best attempted June-September when trails are snow-free. Check weather conditions at the visitor center before departure.

Wildlife Watching and Photography

Explore the park's diverse wildlife through early morning or evening wildlife watching sessions, with opportunities to spot brown bears, wolves, wild boar, and over 150 bird species. The park's pristine ecosystem supports one of Europe's most intact forest wildlife communities. Photography hides and observation points are strategically located throughout the park for optimal viewing opportunities.

Booking Tip: Best wildlife viewing is during dawn (5-7 AM) and dusk (6-8 PM) hours. Consider renting binoculars at the visitor center for €5 per day. Wildlife guides available for €50-80 per half-day session during peak season (June-September).

Camping in Ancient Forest

Experience sleeping under Europe's oldest trees at designated camping areas within the park, offering a unique opportunity to spend the night surrounded by 500-year-old forest giants. The park provides basic facilities including toilets, water sources, and fire pits in designated areas. Night sounds of the ancient forest and incredibly clear starry skies create an unforgettable wilderness experience.

Booking Tip: Camping permits cost €5 per person per night and must be obtained at the visitor center. Reserve in advance during July-August peak season. Bring warm sleeping gear as temperatures can drop significantly at night even in summer.

Traditional Mountain Hut Experience

Stay in authentic mountain katuns (traditional shepherd huts) and experience centuries-old Montenegrin mountain culture while enjoying homemade cheese, kajmak, and other traditional dairy products. These working pastoral settlements offer insights into sustainable mountain living and traditional livestock practices. Visitors can participate in daily activities like cheese-making and learn about the transhumance lifestyle.

Booking Tip: Katun stays cost €20-35 per person including meals and accommodation in shared rooms. Book through the park visitor center or local tourism offices. Best experienced June-September when shepherds are present with their flocks.

Getting There

Biogradska Gora National Park is located in northern Montenegro, approximately 17 kilometers from Kolašin town. The most convenient approach is by car via the main road connecting Podgorica (83 km, 1.5 hours) and Kolašin, with clear signage directing visitors to the park entrance. Public buses run regularly between Podgorica, Kolašin, and other major Montenegrin cities, with local taxis available from Kolašin to the park entrance for about €15-20. The nearest airport is Podgorica Airport, about 100 kilometers away, with car rental services available. During winter months (November-April), check road conditions as mountain access may require winter tires or chains.

Getting Around

Within Biogradska Gora National Park, transportation is primarily on foot via well-maintained hiking trails and wooden boardwalks. The park's compact size makes most attractions accessible through walking, with the main Biogradsko Lake circuit taking only 1.5 hours. For longer hikes to mountain peaks or remote katuns, trails are clearly marked with standard European hiking signs. Park rangers are stationed at key points and can provide directions and current trail conditions. No motorized vehicles are permitted within the park boundaries beyond the visitor center area, preserving the pristine wilderness character.

Where to Stay

Kolašin town hotels

Park camping areas

Mountain katuns (shepherd huts)

Bjelasica ski resort accommodations

Eco-lodges near park entrance

Guesthouses in nearby villages

Food & Dining

Dining options within Biogradska Gora focus on traditional Montenegrin mountain cuisine, with the park's restaurant near the visitor center serving local specialties like lamb, trout, and homemade bread. Mountain katuns offer authentic experiences with fresh dairy products, including the famous Bijelasica cheese, kajmak, and yogurt made from sheep and cow milk. For more diverse dining options, the nearby town of Kolašin features several restaurants serving both traditional and international cuisine, with many establishments specializing in locally-sourced ingredients including wild game, mountain herbs, and organic vegetables. Pack picnic supplies for day hikes, as dining options within the park are limited to the main restaurant and seasonal katun offerings.

When to Visit

The optimal time to visit Biogradska Gora National Park is from June through September, when all trails are accessible, weather is most stable, and mountain katuns are operational with traditional activities. July and August offer the warmest weather and longest daylight hours, perfect for challenging peak hikes and camping, though these months also see the highest visitor numbers. Spring (May-June) brings wildflower blooms and fewer crowds, while early autumn (September-October) offers spectacular fall foliage and comfortable hiking temperatures. Winter visits are possible but limited to lower elevation areas around Biogradsko Lake, with snow typically covering higher trails from November through April.

Insider Tips

Visit the park's museum and visitor center first to understand the ecosystem's unique history and pick up detailed trail maps with current conditions

Bring layers of clothing even in summer, as temperatures can vary dramatically between lake level and mountain peaks, with sudden weather changes common in mountain environments

Purchase traditional Bijelasica cheese and other dairy products directly from katuns for authentic flavors and to support local pastoral communities - these products are not available outside the region

Things to Do in Biogradska Gora National Park