How to Get to Black Lake, Montenegro, & Best Things to Do
Black Lake is the most famous spot in Durmitor National Park and a highlight of any trip to Montenegro. Surrounded by dense pine forests and mountain peaks, it feels like something out of a fairytale.
This natural wonder is one of 18 glacial lakes in the park and holds UNESCO World Heritage status.
The lake’s mirror-like surface perfectly reflects the towering trees. And there’s an air of mystery here that grabs your imagination.
On my visit, at one point I heard strange snorting noises coming from the forest. My pulse quickened, and I picked up my hiking pace, just in case there was an animal lurking.
Don’t let that put you off though. Black Lake is an absolute must-see for first-time visitors to Montenegro.
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How to get to Black Lake (Crno Jezero), Montenegro
Montenegro’s Black Lake is part of Durmitor National Park. This giant nature paradise is located in the north of Montenegro.
Žabljak is the nearest town to Black Lake. From the centre of town, Black Lake is an easy, flat, walk of 3km.
To get to Žabljak you can use any of these options:
Bus
- Take a bus from Podgorica to Žabljak. This was the option I used and it took around 2.5 hours. Tickets cost from €10 one way.
- Take a bus from Kotor to Žabljak. Journey time is around 3 hours. Tickets cost from €16 one way. Timetables are available just before the summer season starts, around May.
- I travelled all around Montenegro, including Kotor, without a car.
Pro tip: buying a ticket in advance doesn’t guarantee a seat. Places are limited on the Žabljak – Kotor bus, so arrive at the bus station at least 30 minutes before departure.
Tour
If you don’t fancy navigating the bus system, you can book a tour. Montenegro offers reasonably priced excursions, and letting someone else handle the logistics is a great way to reduce travel stress.
Car
For the most convenient way to get to Black Lake, you might want to hire a car and drive to Žabljak. You can reach Žabljak in two hours from the capital of Montenegro, Podgorica.
There is no Uber in Montenegro so you might need to use taxis if you want to travel by car but not drive yourself.
You can even combine a trip to Montenegro with a trip by ferry to Dubrovnik.
Entrance fee for Black Lake
The entrance fee for Black Lake is €5. This covers a single day’s entry. You pay at the kiosk at the main entrance to Black Lake.
The fee for parking fee is from €3 per hour, if you’re driving.
How long to spend at Black Lake
The amount of time you spend at Black Lake depends on what you want to do. If you just want to grab a quick photo and a coffee, you could be done in half an hour.
However, I spent a couple of hours walking around the whole lake and enjoying the different point of views. I recommend you take your time to experience this natural beauty.
If you want to hike around Black Lake and boat or swim, you’ll need to add more time still.
Pro tip: download the Maps.me app before you set off, this was invaluable on my trip to Montenegro.
Black Lake things to do
Black Lake Montenegro swimming
The water in Black Lake is cold all year round but should be refreshing in the summer heat. Montenegro sees high temperatures from June to early September, making a dip especially tempting. If you’re feeling extra energetic, there’s even an annual triathlon at Black Lake.
Kayak hire and boat hire on Black Lake
Rent a kayak or a rowboat from €7 per hour and enjoy a unique perspective from the water.
Rowing across the lake is a peaceful experience and hopefully you won’t get wet.
Black Lake hiking
The entrance area and boat hire station are usually busy. Head away from there and start to walk around the lake you and you’ll soon find peace and quiet.
The 3.5km loop around the lake is mostly flat, but on my trip I found some sections were uneven and rocky. This is not a walk to do in flip flops.
Some parts of the trail wind behind the vast pine trees, creating beautiful frames for photos. In certain spots, the path rises slightly, giving you a better view of the entire lake. It’s an easy, scenic walk that’s well worth doing.
Extend the hike by walking to two more lakes nearby, Barno Jezero and Zminje Jezero. Once I got away from Black Lake there were very few people around.
I saw only a handful of people (and their dogs) at the other two lakes, enjoying the tranquillity.
The extended hiking route can take you along a reasonably easy pathway or you can walk through some dense undergrowth and muddy sections.
Of course, I chose the harder way, climbing over and under fallen branches, before realising there was a much easier path above.
If you enjoy hiking, don’t miss the Ladder of Kotor hike when you’re in Montenegro.
Pro tip: bring layers as the weather at Durmitor National Park can change very quickly.
Black Lake facilities
Café and restaurant
After you’ve strolled around Black Lake, you’ll find a café and restaurant near the entrance. They serve Montenegrin dishes and snacks. It’s a great spot to refuel while enjoying the spectacular views.
Toilets
Toilets can be found in the restaurant at the lake entrance.
Seating areas
There are some benches located around Black Lake, where you can sit and have a picnic.
Souvenirs
On the way into the park you’ll come across small kiosks selling souvenirs and local crafts.
Take a tour to Black Lake
A tour to Black Lake is a great way to see the area without the hassle of organising transport. Local guides will take you to the lake and share their knowledge about Durmitor National Park.
Most tours stop at scenic viewpoints along the way. You’ll get breathtaking mountain views and plenty of photo opportunities.
This tour also includes a visit to other highlights of Montenegro, the Tara Canyon and the Ostrog Monastery.
Black Lake is a popular destination so book in advance, especially in peak season.
Where to stay near Black Lake
There are great accommodation options near Black Lake, whether you’re on a budget or looking for a luxury hotel.
This basic but clean apartment is a great choice for budget travellers. It offers your own bathroom and cooking area and a convenient location in Žabljak. You’ll be close to shops, restaurants, and public transport.
Located around 2.1 km from Black Lake, Vila Idila offers mountain views from the private terrace. The apartment has a fully equipped kitchen and free Wi-Fi. Guests highly rate the location, cleanliness, and the tranquillity of the apartment.
Hotel Soa is a stylish hotel, rated 9 out of 10 on booking.com. With comfortable, modern rooms and excellent service this is a great option for couples. It has an on-site sauna, spa and restaurant and is just a short walk from Black Lake.
Once you’ve finished your trip to Black Lake, don’t forget to visit the gorgeous Bay of Kotor. It’s a must-see on any Montenegro itinerary.