Kotor Cable Car (Njegusi, Lovcen and Kotor Cable car)

The Kotor Cable Car, Njegusi, and Lovcen Tour offers a balanced mix of scenic drives, culture, and breathtaking vistas, all within 4.5 hours. Starting from Kotor, this tour includes a ride on an old road from the time of the Kingdom of Montenegro, visits to the traditional village of Njegusi, and a climb to the impressive Mausoleum of Petar II Petrovi-Njego. A highlight is the 11-minute cable car ride, which takes you from 65 meters to 1350 meters above sea level, offering sweeping views of Kotor Bay, Tivat, Perast, and Herceg Novi.

This experience suits those who want a compact yet immersive day that combines history, local flavor, and natural beauty. The tour is private, with air-conditioned transport and guides speaking English or Russian, ensuring comfort and clear narration. A notable advantage is the inclusion of local food tasting in Njegusi and the entry ticket to Lovcen National Park, making it a well-rounded outing.

Key Points

• 4.5-hour duration with a full itinerary of scenic drives, cultural sites, and a cable car ride
• Includes entrance to Lovcen National Park and the Mausoleum of Petar II Petrovi-Njego
• Visit Njegusi village for authentic Montenegrin prosciutto, cheese, wine, and brandy tasting
• Experience a thrilling 11-minute cable car ride with views of Kotor Bay and surrounding towns
• Stops at key locations: Njegusi, Lovcen, Kotor, Tivat, Herceg Novi, and Budva (additional charge)
• Private transportation with an English or Russian-speaking guide enhances the experience

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From Old Roads to Serpentine Views

The tour begins with a drive along an ancient road from the time of the Kingdom of Montenegro, famously called the serpentine road. With 25 switchbacks and an M-shaped moat, this route offers multiple vantage points for photos and a taste of historical engineering. The story behind the road’s design links to Josip Slade-ilovi, a Trogir-based engineer who supposedly used the letter M in his plans as a romantic symbol.

Travelers will notice the road’s adventurous spirit and enjoy stunning views of the Bay of Kotor during this drive. The winding path from Kotor to Trojica provides memorable scenery, making the journey as enjoyable as the destinations themselves.

Discovering Njegusi Village and Its Local Flavors

At Njegusi, the tour pauses for free time and food tasting. This village is steeped in Montenegrin tradition, historically ruled by a bishop, prince-bishop, and serdar, with leadership passing down within local clans. Today, Njegusi remains known for its authentic cuisine, especially prosciutto, cheese, olives, and local wine or brandy.

Tourists can browse and purchase local products, gaining insight into traditional Montenegrin life. The village’s importance is rooted in its cultural heritage, making this stop a highlight for lovers of history and flavor alike.

The Majestic Mausoleum of Petar II Petrovi-Njego

After Njegusi, the journey continues to the Mausoleum of Petar II Petrovi-Njego, a revered Montenegrin ruler, poet, and philosopher. The mausoleum involves climbing 441 steps to reach the six-sided chapel, where the statue of Njego stands as a granite sculpture crafted by Ivan Metrovi.

The statue, originally weighing 50 tons and measuring 4 meters tall, is carved from a single granite block. The mausoleum’s ceiling features a gold mosaic of 200,000 gold pieces, weighing 18 kg, creating a shimmering tribute to Montenegro’s leader. From the mausoleum’s vantage point, visitors enjoy a bird’s eye view covering 70% of Montenegro’s mountainous and rocky terrain.

The Spectacular View from Lovcen National Park

At the mausoleum, the tour offers a panoramic view of Montenegro’s rugged landscape. This spot reveals vast mountain ranges and rocky landscapes, giving insight into the country’s varied geography. The view of Boka Kotorksa from this vantage point highlights the area’s scenic beauty.

The entry fee to Lovcen National Park is included, allowing travelers to explore the natural environment further or simply enjoy the serene atmosphere. The park’s unique climate and untouched nature provide a perfect backdrop for photos and reflection.

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Relaxing at the Kotor Cable Car Station

After the historical and cultural exploration, the group moves towards the Kotor cable car, where free time of approximately an hour allows for relaxing, sightseeing, or enjoying a coffee at the top. The cable car ride itself lasts 11 minutes, during which travelers ascend from 65 meters to 1350 meters, passing over steep terrain.

From the cable car, you get fabulous views of Kotor Bay, Kotor Old Town, Tivat, Perast, and Herceg Novi. This short but exhilarating ride is a definite highlight, providing plenty of photo opportunities and a feeling of elevation.

The Route and Stops in Detail

The tour’s itinerary includes several stops designed to balance travel, sightseeing, and leisure:
– Pickup options are available from Herceg Novi, Tivat, Kotor, and Budva.
– A one-hour drive takes travelers from the starting point to the serpentine route.
– A brief photo stop at Kotor Serpentine offers a perfect photo moment.
– The Njegusi stop lasts 30 minutes, with time for tasting local foods.
– Visits to Loven include an hour of walking and exploration.
– The Kotor cable car segment lasts approximately 15 minutes, with free time at the top.
– The return journey includes additional stops before drop-offs at the original pickup points.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour provides private transportation, a guided experience in English or Russian, and cable car tickets. The entry to the mausoleum and Lovcen National Park are covered, along with local snacks and food tasting in Njegusi.

Excluded are drinks and additional snacks purchased during the tour or meals at restaurants. Tipping the guides is also not included but appreciated.

Practical Tips for Tour Participants

The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or individuals over 95 years old due to the physical demands of climbing at the mausoleum and the walking involved.

Since the tour involves a fair amount of walking and climbing stairs, comfortable footwear is recommended. The timing and pacing are designed to ensure a relaxed experience, but travelers should be prepared for some physical activity.

Kotor Cable Car, Njegusi, and Lovcen: A Well-Balanced Montenegro Experience

This tour delivers a compact but comprehensive encounter with Montenegro’s natural beauty, history, and culture. The combination of a driving adventure along historic roads, a taste of local cuisine, and a stunning cable car ride makes it appealing for visitors seeking variety within a limited timeframe.

The private group setting and inclusion of entrance fees add value, making it a hassle-free way to see some of Montenegro’s key highlights. The scenic views from the mausoleum and cable car are especially memorable, providing ample opportunity for photos and reflection.

While the duration is relatively short, the carefully curated stops ensure a meaningful look into Montenegro’s soul. This tour is ideal for those who want an efficient, guided experience with plenty of photo opportunities, cultural insights, and natural scenery.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the cable car ride?
The cable car ride lasts 11 minutes, ascending from 65 meters to 1350 meters.

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes private transportation, an English or Russian-speaking guide, cable car tickets, entrance to Lovcen Mausoleum, and local food tasting.

Are there any physical requirements?
Yes, the tour involves climbing 441 steps at the mausoleum and some walking, so it may not be suitable for people with mobility issues or over 95 years old.

What stops are part of the itinerary?
Stops include Njegusi village, Lovcen National Park, the Mausoleum of Petar II Petrovi-Njego, and the Kotor cable car station.

Can I choose my pickup location?
Yes, pickups are available from Herceg Novi, Tivat, Kotor, and Budva (additional charge for Budva and Herceg Novi).

Is there free time at the top of the cable car?
Yes, after the ride, there is about an hour of free time to enjoy the views, take photos, or relax with coffee.

What is the maximum altitude reached during the tour?
The cable car takes you to 1350 meters above sea level, offering panoramic vistas.

Is there any opportunity to buy souvenirs or local products?
Yes, at Njegusi, visitors can buy local prosciutto, cheese, olives, and wine.

What should I wear on this tour?
Comfortable footwear is recommended for walking and climbing stairs, along with layered clothing suitable for both indoor and outdoor settings.

Can I cancel this tour easily?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for your plans.

Are drinks and snacks included?
Snacks and food tastings are included in the tour, but additional drinks or snacks purchased during the stops are not covered.

This Kotor Cable Car, Njegusi, and Lovcen Tour offers a rewarding mix of scenic beauty, cultural depth, and historical significance — perfect for travelers eager to explore Montenegro’s diverse attractions efficiently.

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