The Northern Star (To Durmitor and Back)

Two days motorcycle trip to the north of Montenegro - Durmitor National Park

This itinerary is perfect for those with limited time who still want to see the crown jewel of northern Montenegro — Durmitor National Park. Every year, hundreds of thousands of travelers from around the world visit Montenegro in search of its most breathtaking destination: Durmitor.

The route is suitable for all riders, but please note that some sections require extra caution due to road conditions and elevation changes.

For a hassle-free experience and to make the most of your trip, consider booking a private tour with one of our expert guides.

Google maps: Part 1 | Part 2

Day 1: Tivat - Piva Lake - Durmitor National Park - Zabljak

To avoid the coastal heat, you’ll leave Tivat in the morning and take the short ferry ride across the bay. Once we cross the channel, the road begins to climb into the mountains of Montenegro. Early on, we’ll stop at a panoramic viewpoint offering one of the best views of the Bay of Kotor — a dramatic, fjord-like landscape that’s perfect for photos and a quick break.

As you continue north, you’ll enjoy a calm and scenic ride through Montenegro’s diverse terrain. In the next hour, the road winds gently toward the Dinaric Alps, giving you time to take in the changing scenery. Our first major stop is in the town of Plužine, a peaceful mountain village where you can grab a coffee or a full meal. If you’ve rented a motorcycle from us, we’ll gladly share some of our favorite local restaurants. The cooler temperatures here offer a welcome break from the coastal heat, especially in summer.

From Plužine, you ride on to the stunning Durmitor National Park. The first highlight is the emerald-blue Piva Lake — the largest artificial lake in the Balkans. Stop here for photos before crossing the bridge. Shortly after, look out for a tunnel through the rock, followed by a sharp left turn. This marks the start of the most scenic part of the route — a beautiful, uninterrupted ride into the heart of Durmitor.

Soon, you’ll reach the high-altitude plains of the park. Keep an eye out for grazing sheep and wild mountain scenery as you ascend toward Sedlo Pass, the main viewpoint of Durmitor. It’s a must-stop location, but don’t linger too long — the wind can be strong, even in summer. From here, the ride continues to Žabljak.

Žabljak is the highest town in the Balkans and a perfect place for an overnight stay. Temperatures drop in the evening, so it’s a great spot to rest and park your motorcycle. While there, try traditional Montenegrin food and, if time allows, take a short walk to Crno Jezero (Black Lake) — one of the most beautiful and accessible spots in Durmitor National Park.

  • Pivsko Jezero
  • Durmitor National Park Views

Day 2: Zabljak - Tara Bridge - Niksic - Kotor Serpentine - Tivat

The next morning, we’ll head toward the iconic Tara Bridge, one of Montenegro’s most photographed landmarks. After enjoying the views, you’ll return to Žabljak and continue the ride south toward Šavnik. Just past the town, the road begins to climb with a series of winding serpentines — a fun and dynamic stretch for riders.

Soon, you’ll arrive in Nikšić, where you’ll take a scenic back road along the shores of Slano Jezero (Salty Lake). From there, the route takes you through peaceful countryside roads before connecting to the newly opened panoramic highway that leads into Lovćen National Park.

You can choose to spend some time exploring Lovćen’s natural beauty or head straight back to the coast, descending via the legendary Kotor Serpentine — a road known for its dramatic switchbacks and breathtaking views of the Bay of Kotor.

After completing the serpentine descent, enjoy a relaxed ride through the charming coastal villages around the bay before arriving back in Tivat, where your two-day adventure comes to an end.

Self-Guided Experience:

If booked with our motorcycle rental, this route can be upgraded to a self-guided experience for an additional fee — offering a hassle-free journey with a fully planned itinerary, including hotels, points of interest, recommended restaurants, and activities beyond riding hours. Feel free to contact us for more details.