Lake Skadar is one of Montenegro’s top attractions, and a visit to Virpazar is an essential addition to your itinerary. This quaint village acts as the gateway to the country’s largest lake, offering travelers a peaceful retreat amidst stunning natural landscapes. Virpazar enchants visitors with its historic stone bridges, traditional architecture, and relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal destination to experience the authentic charm of Montenegro’s countryside.
Beyond the lake, Virpazar’s mix of nature, culture, and outdoor activities creates a unique travel experience. Whether you’re drawn to its scenic trails, local cafes, or cultural heritage, this small village holds plenty of opportunities to explore and enjoy. Read on to discover three of the best activities to experience in Virpazar:
- Take a Boat Trip on Lake Skadar
- Walk Around the Small Town
- Check Out the Viewpoints
- How to Get to Virpazar
1
Take a Boat Trip on Lake Skadar
There are various ways to explore the lake, such as kayaking, fishing, and boat cruising. Of these, boat cruising is by far the most popular. All boat tours start in Virpazar, making it the perfect base for your adventure.
During the boat tour, you’ll cruise through the lake’s narrow canals, offering unique views of the surrounding landscape. Prices vary depending on the company, but generally, a two-hour group boat trip costs around 20 euros per person (29$ CAD), while a three-hour trip costs about 25 euros per person (37$ CAD). During the high season, it’s advisable to book online in advance to secure your spot. In the off-season, you can book online or directly in Virpazar, allowing you to compare options in person.
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2
Walk Around the Small Town
The streets around Virpazar’s Stone Bridge are truly charming, with quaint hotels, restaurants, and boat shops that bring life to this tiny town. I loved walking through the area, where traditional Montenegrin buildings with rustic stone walls, red-tiled roofs, and cobblestone paths create a timeless appeal. The surrounding water adds to the serene and peaceful atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for an afternoon walk.
Since the village is small, it won’t take long to explore on foot, so I recommend stopping at a local restaurant or café to fully soak in the ambiance.
3
Check Out the Viewpoints
There are two viewpoints within walking distance from Virpazar that offer stunning views of Lake Skadar. I visited both, and while they provided a good workout, they were well worth the effort. If you’re not up for the hike, I recommend renting a car or taking a taxi.
Circular Viewpoint (the picture): This was by far the best of the two viewpoints, though it was also the most challenging. The hike from Virpazar to Circular Viewpoint takes about an hour on foot, with the path constantly zigzagging uphill. To reach the viewpoint, you’ll need to walk alongside the road with cars passing by. While the path isn’t ideal, the breathtaking view at the end makes it worth the effort. If you prefer to drive, the trip takes just 10 minutes by car. Even on a cloudy day, the view was impressive.
Besac Fortress: Access to this medieval fortress is free, and while the viewpoint is lower than the Circular Viewpoint, it still offers a lovely view of Lake Skadar and the surrounding mountains. The hike from Virpazar to Besac Fortress takes about 15 minutes on foot, or just 2 minutes by car. Similar to the hike to Circular Viewpoint, you’ll have to walk alongside the road with cars passing by. About 5 minutes into the walk, you can take a shortcut through the woods to reach the fortress faster. It’s not marked on Google Maps, but you’ll know what I’m talking about when you see it.
4
How to Get to Virpazar
Virpazar is easily accessible from major cities in Montenegro, such as Podgorica and Bar. From Podgorica, you can take a direct train, which is one of the most popular and scenic routes. The train journey takes about 30 minutes and costs only a few euros, offering picturesque views along the way. Buses are also available from Podgorica, taking around 40 minutes to reach Virpazar. If you’re coming from Bar, you can also catch a train that runs between Bar and Podgorica, with a stop in Virpazar. The journey from Bar takes approximately 20 minutes by train, making it a quick and convenient option.
You can purchase your tickets either directly at the train or bus station or online through transportation apps like Ohio. Booking online in advance is recommended to secure your seat and check the latest schedules.
For those who prefer driving, renting a car offers flexibility to explore the region at your own pace. The road to Virpazar is well-maintained and provides scenic views of Montenegro’s landscapes. Parking in Virpazar is generally available but may be limited during peak tourist seasons, so arriving early is recommended.
What’s Next?
Now that you know the best activities in Virpazar, it’s time to plan your trip! Here are some articles that could be helpful :
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