Podgorica Historic, Safari and Winery tour – Skadar lake

The Podgorica Historic, Safari and Winery tour – Skadar Lake offers a well-rounded experience of Montenegro’s scenic beauty and cultural sights in just 7 hours. With a private guide, this tour takes you from the historic ruins of Zabljak Crnojevica to the tranquil waters of Skadar Lake, with plenty of stops for sightseeing, photo opportunities, and tasting local wines. The tour is especially suited for travelers eager to explore Montenegro’s outdoor landscapes, historical sites, and renowned wineries without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

While the 7-hour duration keeps the day manageable, it provides enough time to enjoy multiple highlights, including panoramic viewpoints and natural reserves. The experience is complemented by a private group setting, ensuring a personalized and relaxed atmosphere. Keep in mind that lunch is not included, but the tour can accommodate additional arrangements if desired.

Key Points

• Duration: 7 hours with pickup from Podgorica Municipality.
• Highlights include visiting Zabljak Crnojevica, Bisevina savanna with wild horses, and Skadar Lake viewpoints.
• Wine tasting occurs at the Mrkan winery, a small private and organic operation.
• The tour features panoramic drives, including Pavlova viewpoint and Macalov Brijeg.
• Includes bottled water, snacks, coffee/tea, and a tour guide.
• Not included: lunch, but options for organizing meals are available.

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Exploring Zabljak Crnojevica and the Old Montenegrin Castle

The journey begins with a visit to Zabljak Crnojevica, the oldest Montenegrin fort. Although now abandoned, this site is significant as the former seat of the Crnojevic ruling family. The guide explains its historical importance, giving travelers a glimpse into Montenegro’s past. The quiet ruins and surrounding scenery set the tone for a day immersed in history and nature.

This stop offers a chance to appreciate Montenegro’s early settlements and enjoy some photo opportunities. The atmosphere here is peaceful, and the views of the river and countryside make it a meaningful start to the adventure.

Wild Horses at Bisevina Savanna

Next, the tour takes you to Bisevina savanna, a vast natural area home to hundreds of wild horses. The landscape is open and expansive, perfect for observing these free-roaming animals in their natural environment. The scenery here emphasizes the wild, untouched beauty of Montenegro’s countryside.

This part of the trip is especially appealing for those interested in wildlife and outdoor landscapes. It’s a rare opportunity to see wild horses up close, which adds an authentic touch to the experience. The guide provides insights into the local ecosystem, enhancing the appreciation of this natural habitat.

Panoramic Views from Fort Besac and Pavlova Viewpoint

A highlight of the tour is the visit to Fort Besac, where a coffee or drink break accompanies panoramic vistas over Skadar Lake. The fort itself offers a commanding view, allowing visitors to take in the vast water body and surrounding mountains.

Later, the journey continues along a panoramic road around Skadar Lake, with a short stop at Macalov Brijeg viewpoint. This vantage point provides sweeping views of the lake, islands, and the Montenegrin landscape—perfect for photography and soaking in the scenery.

The Pavlova viewpoint is described as the top panoramic view in the country, offering an exceptional perspective of River Crnojevica and the lake. Its strategic location makes it a must-see for anyone wanting a comprehensive visual overview of the region.

Historic Village of River Crnojevica and Old Bridge

The tour then proceeds to River Crnojevica, one of Montenegro’s oldest settlements. Here, travelers walk around the village to see Old bridge and ethno restaurants, which showcase the local culture and craftsmanship. This peaceful spot blends history with local life and offers a relaxed atmosphere after the scenic viewpoints.

A short walk around the village allows visitors to appreciate Montenegro’s traditional architecture and quiet river setting. The River Crnojevica itself is a visual focal point, with the top view from Pavlova side the most striking perspective on the tour.

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Wine Tasting at the Mrkan Vineyard

A highlight for many is the visit to Mrkan vineyard, a small, private, and organic winery. Here, the tour features a wine tasting session showcasing some of Montenegro’s best wines. The winery emphasizes quality and craftsmanship, making this a memorable part of the day for wine enthusiasts.

Guests enjoy sampling wines in a cozy, intimate setting, gaining insight into local winemaking traditions. The tasting typically includes wine and food pairings, enhancing the overall experience of Montenegro’s culinary offerings.

End of the Day at Karuc Village and Skadar Lake Views

The final stop is Karuc, a village renowned for its tranquil setting and beautiful views over Skadar Lake. This peaceful area provides a perfect conclusion to the tour, offering a sense of calm and connection to nature. The stillness and scenic beauty make it a calming end to a busy day exploring Montenegro’s highlights.

The tour wraps up with transportation back to Podgorica Municipality, with the guide coordinating pickup and drop-off. The overall pacing allows travelers to absorb the scenery without feeling rushed.

Practicalities and What’s Included

The Podgorica Historic, Safari and Winery tour includes air-conditioned transportation, a knowledgeable English-speaking guide, bottled water, snacks, and coffee/tea. The wine and food tasting at Mrkan winery is also part of the experience.

While lunch is not included, the tour offers flexibility for guests to organize their own meals if desired. The private group setting ensures a tailored experience, with the guide available to answer questions and facilitate a smooth day.

Guests are advised to bring outdoor clothing suitable for walking and variable weather conditions. The tour departs from Podgorica Municipality, with pickup arranged by the guide the day before.

Final Thoughts on the Podgorica Day Trip

This tour offers a comprehensive snapshot of Montenegro’s natural beauty, history, and wine culture in a manageable 7-hour window. The combination of scenic viewpoints, wild horse sightings, and historic sites makes it appealing to those seeking both outdoor adventure and culture.

The small private winery adds a personal touch, with wine tasting rated highly by previous participants. The knowledgeable guide enhances the experience, making it both informative and comfortable.

However, travelers should be prepared for some driving and walking, and should consider organizing lunch if desired, as it is not included in the package. This tour provides a balanced and engaging way to explore Montenegro’s diverse landscape in just one day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lunch included in this tour?
No, lunch is not included, but options to organize meals are available if desired.

How long is the total tour duration?
The tour lasts 7 hours, with pickup and drop-off included.

What are the main highlights of the tour?
Highlights include Zabljak Crnojevica, Bisevina savanna with wild horses, Skadar Lake viewpoints, and wine tasting at Mrkan vineyard.

Is this tour suitable for families or individuals with limited mobility?
The tour involves some walking and outdoor stops; outdoor clothing is recommended. It is best suited for those comfortable with minimal physical activity.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What language is the tour guide in?
The guide speaks English, ensuring clear communication throughout the day.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby