Montenegro, a country of unparalleled natural beauty, is home to an incredible diversity of landscapes, from towering mountains to pristine lakes and ancient forests. For nature lovers and cycling enthusiasts, this small Balkan gem offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore its rich biodiversity on two wheels.

At the heart of this experience are Montenegro’s five national parks, each offering unique environments and challenges for cyclists.

Montenegro’s National Parks: A Cyclists’ Paradise

Montenegro’s national parks are a testament to the country’s commitment to preserving its natural heritage and one of the main reasons why Montenegro was officially declared an ecological country back in 1991. These protected areas not only showcase Montenegro’s rich biodiversity but also provide the perfect setting for cycling adventures.

From the rugged peaks of Durmitor to the serene waters of Lake Skadar, each park offers something special for those looking to combine their love for cycling with the exploration of nature.

Durmitor National Park

Nestled in the northwest part of Montenegro, Durmitor National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its dramatic mountain ranges, glacial lakes, and deep canyons. Durmitor National Park is the largest among Montenegro’s five protected parks, characterized by its vast mountain massif. Declared a national park in 1952, Durmitor has been recognised as a UNESCO World Natural and Cultural Heritage location since 1980.

The park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a range of cycling routes that take you through some of its most breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re cycling along the Tara River Canyon, the deepest canyon in Europe, or around the serene scenic forest trails, Durmitor promises an unforgettable experience.

Durmitor National Park is perfect for mountain biking, but there are several parts of this beautiful area with asphalt roads where you can experience road cycling or e-bike cycling. One of the most popular trails in the Durmitor Area is the Durmitor Ring. The Durmitor Ring is a scenic circular route that encircles Durmitor Mountain, considered one of the most breathtaking roads in Montenegro. Spanning 73 kilometres, this panoramic tour includes the routes from Zabljak to Mala Crna Gora, Nedajno, Trsa, Pisce, and back to Zabljak. It’s a true haven for those who crave adrenaline and adventure.

Our Mountains to Coast Tour starts in this spectacular landscape, so feel free to check it out here.

Biogradska Gora National Park

Designated as a national park in 1952, it holds the distinction of being Montenegro’s first national park. The park’s centrepiece is the Biogradska Gora primaeval forest, one of the last remaining rainforests in Europe, alongside Perucica in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Bialowieza Forest in Poland. This pristine forest is a strictly protected reserve, home to trees that are over 500 years old and can reach heights of up to 50 meters. To safeguard this natural wonder, the 1978 Law on National Parks prohibits logging and any activities that could harm the Biogradska Gora reserve.

The park is a botanical treasure, boasting 26 plant communities and around 2,000 species and subspecies. Its rich biodiversity extends to the animal kingdom as well, with 200 species of birds, 80 species of butterflies, 350 species of insects, and numerous typical mammals. Bjelasica Mountain, as a unified biogeographical and ecological area, provides a unique habitat for many endemic species that thrive within the park.

Mountain bikers can enjoy the peaceful ambience of the ancient forest as they ride through trails that wind around the lake or uphill alongside the stunning katuns (summer houses for livestock and peasants taking care of their animals) on the Bjelasica mountain, offering a glimpse into a world that has remained largely unchanged for centuries.

We have a secret to share with you! A new trans-Montenegro-mountain-bike tour is in the making and it will be launched very soon. Stay tuned for this amazing offer.

Lovćen National Park

Lovćen National Park is a place where nature and history intersect. The park is known for its stunning panoramic views, especially from the peak of Mount Lovćen, where the Mausoleum of Njegoš stands as a tribute to Montenegro’s most beloved ruler. The ride up to Lovćen is a challenge, but the reward is a breathtaking view that stretches from the Bay of Kotor to the Adriatic Sea.

Lovćen National Park is one of Montenegro’s five national parks, collectively covering 7.7% of the country’s territory. Straddling the municipalities of Cetinje and Budva, Lovćen has held its national park status since 1952. Spanning 6,400 hectares and situated at an altitude of 939 meters, the park encompasses the central and highest areas of the majestic Mount Lovćen.

Mount Lovćen is deeply intertwined with Montenegrin history and culture. Its significance is underscored by its mention in the national anthem, symbolising the mountain’s noble status as a true emblem of Montenegro and a reflection of the country’s national identity.

Within Lovćen National Park, you’ll find the picturesque villages of Njeguši and Ivanova Korita, both popular tourist destinations. Njeguši is particularly renowned for its Njeguški pršut, sausage, and cheese, with their distinctive flavours shaped by the unique blend of mountain and sea air. Recently, Njeguški Prosciutto has been officially recognised as a national Montenegrin product, further solidifying its cultural importance.

Cycling here is as much about the journey as it is about the destination. For cyclists, Lovćen National Park offers some of the most scenic and challenging routes in Montenegro. The Serpentine of Kotor route provides breathtaking views of Kotor Bay, with a loop from Kotor covering 83 kilometres and 2,019 metres of elevation gain. Another popular option is the loop from Tabacina, offering a shorter but equally stunning ride at 50 kilometres and 1,265 metres of elevation gain. Check our tour passing the Serpentine Road here.

The road from Cetinje to Lovćen Mountain is perfect for cycling while starting from Kotor allows you to ascend the historic serpentine road leading up to the park entrance. This epic road is also a section of our Eurovelo 8 Odyssey, and you can check it out here.

The journey to the Njegoš Mausoleum is particularly rewarding, with panoramic views that, on clear days, stretch as far as Italy. While the descent is exhilarating, the climb from Cetinje is more manageable. Don’t forget to stay hydrated, and be sure to explore the park further.

Check out more of our products, cycling through the National Parks of Montenegro.

Lake Skadar National Park

Lake Skadar, the largest lake in the Balkans, is a paradise for bird watchers and cyclists alike. The park is renowned for its wetlands, home to a rich variety of bird species, including the rare Dalmatian pelican. The lake exudes a mystical charm, with ancient villages and monasteries scattered along its shores. The shallow blue waters mirror the vibrant colours of surrounding vegetation, especially during the summer heat.

Spanning about 44 km in length, 14 km in width, and averaging 6 meters in depth, the lake is fed by the Moraca River and numerous karst springs. Two-thirds of the lake lies within Montenegro, while the remaining third extends into Albania. In 1983, the Montenegrin portion of the lake and its surroundings were declared a National Park. The northern and eastern shores, where the lake is at its shallowest, are marked by expansive marshlands that bloom in spring with white and yellow lilies, reed groves, and dense willow clusters.

The western shore, by contrast, is more isolated, featuring rocky islets, jagged bays, and several island-bound monasteries that serve as the lake’s main cultural landmarks.

Cycling through Lake Skadar National Park offers a unique experience, with routes that take you through charming villages, past vineyards and olive groves, and along the tranquil shores of the lake.

You can join one of our day tours and enjoy this stunning lake on an e-bike. Check it out here.

If you prefer to have a multiday cycling holiday, one of our tours is perfectly blending the beauties of Albania and Montenegro, to explore this unique jewel such as Skadar Lake. Check it out here.

Prokletije National Park

For the more adventurous cyclist, Prokletije National Park, also known as the “Accursed Mountains,” offers a rugged and remote terrain that is both challenging and rewarding.

Prokletije National Park, established in 2009, is Montenegro’s youngest national park, enriching the country’s natural heritage alongside the other four national parks. Situated in the northeastern part of Montenegro, the park derives its unique name from the Prokletije mountain range, which translates to “accursed mountains.” While numerous myths and legends surround the name – some even claiming the mountains were released from Hell by the Devil – the more plausible explanation is that the name reflects the area’s rugged and inaccessible terrain, characterised by wild, rough, and dangerous paths.

Spanning 16,630 hectares, the park features numerous peaks that exceed 2,000 meters in altitude. Notably, Montenegro’s highest peak, Zla Kolata, stands within Prokletije at 2,534 meters, surpassing Durmitor’s Bobotov Kuk by just 11 meters.

The park’s jagged peaks and deep valleys provide a dramatic backdrop for cycling, with routes that cater to experienced riders looking for a true adventure. Prokletije is less explored than Montenegro’s other national parks, making it a perfect destination for those seeking solitude and untouched nature.

Take a look at our best matching tour here or explore the area and check the cycling possibilities at this link.

Explore Montenegro’s National Parks with 3E Travel

At 3E Travel, we specialise in crafting cycling tours that showcase the very best of Montenegro’s nature, including national parks. Our tours are designed to take you deep into these natural wonders, whether you prefer the guidance of an experienced leader or the independence of a self-guided journey.

We offer customisable itineraries tailored to match your interests and fitness levels, ensuring that your cycling holiday is both – enjoyable and unforgettable. Check our tailor-made offer here.

In case you only have time for a short day adventure, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Check it out here.

What is the Best Time for Cycling Holidays in Montenegro?

Autumn is undoubtedly the best time to embark on a cycling adventure in Montenegro. The weather is mild, with cooler temperatures making for comfortable riding conditions. The landscape comes alive with vibrant fall colours, creating a picturesque backdrop for your journey.

Additionally, the national parks are less crowded during this season, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquillity of nature.