Foto: The lake of Biogradska Gora National Park (bron: Ronald van der Veer)
Montenegro - I set off toward Biogradska Gora National Park. On the way, I drive through the Tara Gorge. At 1,300 meters deep, the Tara Gorge is the deepest gorge in Europe. At an arched bridge over the gorge, I stop briefly. From a terrace, I have a beautiful view over the Tara valley. I see people zipping across the gorge on a zipline to the other side. That’s definitely not for me. I walk over the bridge to the other side. I’m surprised by the poor condition of the bridge. I see concrete rot everywhere. I’d give the bridge at most ten more years. Above the Tara River itself, I have a stunning view over the valley and the clear river below me. Marco explains that the bridge is 150 meters high and 360 meters long. The bridge was built just before World War II. During the war, it was bombed to stop the advance of the Germans. An impressive sight. I continue my route along the Tara River. On both sides, I see high mountain ranges. The road winds along the riverbanks. Around noon, I arrive at Biogradska Gora National Park. At Biogradska Gora lake, I get out. Bosco and Nicola are waiting for me here. I say goodbye to Gašo and Marco. Nicola takes over my luggage. He is surprised that my baggage consists of only a plastic bag. I explain that my main luggage is still in Italy. He’s fine with that and leaves. Bosco shows me the route for the next three days on the map. Meanwhile, I have a beautiful view over the lake. Many local families come here for recreation. I invite Bosco for a cola at a nearby restaurant. This also gives me the opportunity to use the restroom. Bosco walks with me around the lake. From all sides, I have views of the beautiful water. Over wooden boardwalks, I admire the stunning nature. When Bosco stops, I am at the start of the hiking trail to Goleš. Here I say goodbye to him. He mentions that the route is only four kilometers but continuously uphill. He makes a steep gesture. As soon as I step onto the path, the trail indeed goes sharply upwards. I estimate the first section climbs at a 45-degree angle. Due to recent rain, some parts are quite slippery. Again, I miss my hiking boots. Without too much trouble, I climb higher and higher. I’m amazed how fast I gain altitude. Between the trees, I see the lake far below. I keep climbing. The ascent seems endless. After more than two hours of climbing, I reach the top, having gained over 500 meters. I follow signs to the eco-lodge Goleš. I see some houses in the distance. I think this must be the lodge—and I’m right. From a distance, people point me which way to go. Ranco, the owner, comes to meet me. He welcomes me with many Serbian words. Using a mix of gestures and words, we still manage to have quite a conversation. With a beer in my hand, I look out over the beautiful valley. Ranco talks non-stop. Sometimes I understand him, but often not. I think this is mutual.
Durmitor National Park
Montenegro - Gašo, the owner of the campsite, drives me to the starting point. Paco, a local boy, is my guide for the day. He leads me through Durmitor National Park. Durmitor is a unique natural area with mountain peaks, deep gorges, and vast meadows. The park is ...
Kotor on the Adriatic Sea
Montenegro - After walking for about 45 minutes, I spot a restaurant and realize I’ve already reached Krstac. I must have missed a turn, resulting in a small detour. It’s frustrating that the initial paths were so poorly marked. I decide to be more attentive in ...
The Njego Mausoleum in Loven National Park
Montenegro - Above Cetinje, dark clouds hang and thunder sounds in the distance. It’s not a question of if it will rain, but when. To be safe, I look for a simple poncho in the shops. If that fails, I’ll settle for a sturdy umbrella. Then Vlado drives me to the ...
The old medieval town of Budva
Montenegro - As we approach the coast, Vlado points out the beaches. Many beaches are private property belonging to hotels and resorts. Around Budva, this is no exception. I see numerous tourists walking toward the beach and the old town. Vlado parks close to the ...
The Upper Monastery of Ostrog
Montenegro - After a two-hour drive, I arrive at the Ostrog Monastery. This Serbian Orthodox monastery, dating back to the 12th century, is built into a cliff face. Before visiting the monastery, I order a sandwich on a terrace—I’ve hardly eaten today. Then I ...