Things to Do in Žabljak

Žabljak sits at 1,456 meters above sea level, making it Montenegro's highest town and the gateway to Durmitor National Park. This small mountain settlement of around 1,700 people transforms dramatically with the seasons - from a snow-covered winter sports hub to a hiking and rafting base in summer. The town itself is fairly modest, with practical mountain architecture and a handful of restaurants and guesthouses, but it's the surrounding landscape that draws people here. Durmitor's dramatic peaks, glacial lakes, and the famous Tara River canyon create some of the Balkans' most spectacular scenery. You'll find Žabljak has that authentic mountain town feel where locals still know each other and tourism hasn't completely transformed the character of the place.

Žabljak's dining scene centers on hearty mountain fare - think grilled meats, local cheeses, and warming stews that make sense after a day hiking. Several family-run restaurants around the main square serve traditional Montenegrin dishes, with kajmak (local cream cheese) and smoked ham being specialties. Don't expect sophisticated cuisine, but the portions are generous and prices reasonable - most meals run 8-15 euros. Many guesthouses also offer half-board arrangements that can be convenient if you're planning early starts for hiking.

Summer (June through September) brings the best hiking weather and warmest temperatures, though even then you'll want layers for elevation changes. July and August see the most crowds but also the most reliable weather and longest days. Winter transforms Žabljak into a small ski resort, with decent snow from December through March, though facilities are fairly basic. Spring and fall can be beautiful for photography, with fewer visitors, but weather becomes unpredictable and some higher elevation hikes may be impossible due to snow.