If you're looking for one of the best hikes in Montenegro, head to the southeast, where the wild Accursed Mountains rise. This area is home to Prokletije National Park, a protected region full of dramatic ridgelines, glacial valleys, and clear alpine springs. The best way to explore the park is to rent a car. Public transport in this region is limited, and a car allows you to reach trailheads, valleys, and hidden viewpoints on your own time. In this blog, you will find everything you need to plan a mountain escape and explore Prokletije.
Prokletije National Park is located in the far south of Montenegro, near the borders with Albania and Kosovo. The park covers 166 square kilometres and was officially declared a national park in 2009. It protects the Montenegrin side of the Accursed Mountains, a subrange of the Dinaric Alps. These peaks are some of the most rugged in Europe.
The highest mountain in the entire range is Maja Jezerce (2,694 metres), in Albania. On the Montenegrin side, the highest peak is Zla Kolata (2,534 metres). Other tall summits, deep forests, and sharp ridges surround these peaks. A glacial mass was discovered here in 2009, making it one of the southernmost glaciers in Europe. The landscape is wild and remote, but marked trails and better tourism facilities are now making visits easier. The main access towns are Plav, Gusinje, and Vusanje, but most hikers base themselves in Grebaje Valley. From here, you can begin many of the best treks in the park. The official entrance fee is 3 EUR per person per day, and it’s paid at one of the local visitor centres.
You can visit the park all year, but the best time for trekking in Prokletije National Park is between late June and late September. Snow can linger into June, especially on higher trails, so always check conditions before hiking. July, August, and early September have the most stable weather.
Temperatures are mild, often 10 to 15 degrees cooler than Montenegro's coastal areas. This makes Prokletije a summer getaway if you're coming from the heat of the beaches. Even during summer, the weather in the mountains can change quickly, so always bring layers, rain protection, and sun cream. Autumn has beautiful colours, especially in the lower valleys, while spring brings green landscapes and flowing springs. Winter travel is possible, but only for those with alpine experience and proper gear. Trails are dangerous when there are there snow and ice.
Many of Prokletije's most beautiful hiking routes begin inside its valleys. These natural corridors are entry points to the high peaks and scenic areas worth exploring. Before heading into the more challenging trails, take time to discover these valleys, springs, and lookouts.
Grebaje Valley is the most popular starting point for trekking in Prokletije National Park. It is located near Gusinje and can be reached by a short but narrow road. Once you arrive, you'll be surrounded by tall cliffs and high ridgelines. This valley is where many of the best-marked trails begin. The famous Volusnica Loop and Talijanka Peak trails both start here.
You can stay overnight in small bungalows or guesthouses inside the valley. You’ll also see trail signs, maps, and helpful local staff. This valley is not just for hikers. It’s also great for easy walks, nature photography, and getting used to the altitude before tackling more challenging hikes. Grebaje is easy to reach and has parking near the entrance if you have a car.
Ropojana Valley is ideal if you want a peaceful experience without steep climbs. This wide glacial valley stretches towards the border with Albania. It's less crowded and suitable for a relaxed day outdoors. You’ll pass through meadows, pine groves, and rock walls that seem to rise from nowhere. One highlight here is the Eye of the Lake, a perfectly round, deep-blue spring. The valley can be explored by car, bike, or on foot. While not as steep as other parts of the park, Ropojana feels like a natural amphitheatre of stone and forest. It’s a great place to stop for a break before continuing to other hiking zones in the park.
Just 1.5 km from the centre of Gusinje, you’ll find Ali Pasha’s Springs, one of the scenic stops in Prokletije. These springs have crystal-clear water that flows straight from underground. The area has small pools, grassy picnic spots, and views of nearby peaks. You can come here to relax after long hikes. Because it is close to Vusanje village, Ali Pasha’s Springs is a good addition to a valley tour or even a lunch stop. The water is always fresh, and in warm weather, the area feels like a small oasis.
Trekking in Prokletije National Park is one of the top outdoor activities in Montenegro. From short trails through peaceful valleys to full-day climbs with wide views, there’s a path for every type of traveller. Each trail shows a different side of the landscape, and some even cross into Albania for a true border adventure. Most routes begin in Grebaje Valley, where signs and starting points are easy to follow.
This is one of the best hikes in Montenegro for its views and accessible path. The loop begins in Grebaje Valley and climbs to a high ridge with full views of the Karanfil mountains. You’ll walk along the border with Albania, and although you cross briefly, no permit is needed if you return the same day. The trail is about 10 kilometres long with 1000 metres of elevation gain. It moves through forests, grassy slopes, and rocky ridges. It’s a good choice for hikers with some experience, but you don’t need special gear or guides if the weather is clear.
These peaks are some of the most dramatic points in the national park. The path starts in the same area as the Volusnica hike but follows a tougher line across steep ridges and rocky terrain. You’ll be walking near the Albania border again, but this route is longer and more exposed. The Karanfil mountains are known for sharp shapes and cliff walls. It’s one of the best routes for experienced trekkers who want a physical and visual reward at the top. This trail is not suited for beginners or those afraid of heights.
This is an excellent choice if you prefer an easy nature walk. You start on the same dirt road where the more challenging trails begin, but stay on flat ground instead of climbing. You’ll walk through green meadows and pine forests, with tall cliffs rising on both sides. It’s calm and relaxing, good for an evening walk or a warm-up for more challenging hikes. You can also enjoy this trail in bad weather because it is at a lower altitude.
This famous long-distance route passes through Prokletije into three different countries: Montenegro, Albania, and Kosovo. The whole trail is 192 kilometres long and takes many days to complete, but you can also do short sections. The part inside Prokletije gives some of the most beautiful views, with open valleys, high passes, and quiet trails. You’ll need to plan carefully if you want to hike the full route, including places to sleep and food stops.
Maja Jezerce is the highest peak in the Accursed Mountains range, at 2,694 metres. This hike starts from the Albanian side, but some people staying in Montenegro cross the border to climb it. The trail is steep, with scree slopes and narrow paths. It’s only for very fit and experienced hikers, and you should never do it alone. The top offers wide views across all the Dinaric Alps.
Exploring Prokletije is not just about mountain views. You can also see the rich natural life of this remote region. The forests, valleys, and high pastures support a variety of animals and plants. As you walk through the trails, stay alert to spot wildlife and understand local nature customs. You’ll enjoy the park more when you respect its quiet, protected environment.
Prokletije National Park is one of the most biodiverse areas in the Balkans. Some rare animals live here, including the brown bear, grey wolf, and Eurasian lynx, though they usually avoid people. These animals are protected and should never be disturbed. You’re more likely to see chamois, small mountain deer that move in groups across steep slopes. Other animals, such as red foxes and roe deer, are common in the meadows near forests. Bring binoculars if you want to watch animals from a distance. Sunrise and sunset are the best times for spotting movement.
Camping is allowed in some places, but there are strict rules inside the national park. Wild camping is not permitted within Prokletije’s borders. If you plan to stay overnight, choose official campsites or small bungalows near Grebaje Valley. Some travellers also rent guesthouses in nearby towns like Gusinje or Plav. Outside the park, wild camping is sometimes allowed in rural areas, but you must ask permission from residents or check with tourism officials. Always clean up after yourself, and never start fires unless in a designated area.
From summer to autumn, the forests of Prokletije are full of mushrooms, and many locals enjoy going out to forage. But inside the park, you must get official permission before picking anything. Not all mushrooms are safe, so do not eat anything you find unless you are with a guide. Edible types are often found under trees or in damp grassy spots. Foraging can be a fun way to connect with the land, but always follow the rules and avoid taking more than you need.
The best way to explore Prokletije is by driving. Public transport does not reach deep into the park, and having your own car means you can stop at villages, valleys, and trailheads without rushing. Most travellers land at Podgorica Airport, which is the closest major airport to the park. The drive to the Grebaje Valley area of Prokletije takes about 3 hours and covers around 131 kilometres
The most common driving route is through the Bar-Boljare Motorway (A1) and continues on Mateševo–Andrijevica road (M9). The roads are in good condition, and the journey offers scenic views as you head north and east through the Montenegrin mountains. Once you exit the A1 at Mateševo, you will follow the M9 road through Andrijevica and Gusinje.
Be ready for narrow rural roads in the last hour of your journey. Signs may be limited, but navigation apps work well in this area. Drive slowly through small villages and carefully follow road rules. You’ll pass local landmarks, small churches, and natural springs before finally entering the national park zone.
Prokletije National Park is one of the most beautiful, wild, and untouched places for hikers in the Balkans. The sharp ridgelines, peaceful valleys, and hidden trails create the perfect setting for a mountain escape. You can enjoy easy walks, long treks, or even cross into Albania and Kosovo on international trails. To fully enjoy your adventure, rent a car in Montenegro with Final Rentals. You can book online, choose from various options, and pick up your vehicle at Podgorica Airport. The booking process is fast, and you will get instant confirmation with no hidden fees.
