A Genuinely Engaging Montenegro Adventure: From Old Roads to Majestic Views
This tour offering Montenegro’s Njegusi, Lovcen, and Kotor’s cable car experience promises more than just pretty sights. It’s a journey through history, tradition, and breathtaking natural beauty, all wrapped into about four and a half hours. I’ve seen enough to say that this experience combines a touch of adventure with authentic local flavor—something that truly makes it stand out among Montenegro’s many excursions.
What I love most about it is the chance to drive along a serpentine road from the era of the Kingdom of Montenegro—an old route that turns into a scenic adventure full of switchbacks and stories. The second highlight is the visit to Njegusi, a village where traditional Montenegrin cuisine isn’t just a meal but a culture. The one thing to consider is the duration; while the tour is packed with memorable stops, the busy schedule might leave some wanting a bit more time at each site.
This experience offers a balanced mix of history, nature, and local life, with expert guides like those from Tours-Montenegro ensuring you don’t miss the gems along the way. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a comprehensive taste of Montenegro, with plenty of photo opportunities and authentic experiences to take home.
Key Points / Takeaways
- Spectacular views from the Lovcen Mausoleum and cable car: Expect panoramic vistas that make every moment worth capturing.
- Journey through a historic serpentine road: A scenic drive featuring the legendary M-shaped moat and 25 switchbacks.
- Authentic Montenegrin cuisine in Njegusi: Taste prosciutto, cheese, wine, and brandy in a village that’s as much about tradition as the scenery.
- Climb the Mausoleum of Petar II Petrović Njegoš: 441 steps lead to a monument crafted from a 50-ton granite block, with breathtaking views at the top.
- Short but sweet cable car ride: 11 minutes from 65m to 1350m gives you spectacular views of Kotor Bay, Tivat, Perast, and Herceg Novi.
- Expert guides and smooth transportation: Knowledgeable guides from Tours-Montenegro add context, making the journey informative and relaxing.
Discovering the Montenegro Experience: An In-Depth Review
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Njegusi.
Introduction: A Day of Scenic Splendor and Cultural Discovery
If you’re exploring Montenegro, this tour offers a compact, well-rounded snapshot of the country’s diverse appeal. The package includes a scenic drive along an old, winding road from the time of the Kingdom of Montenegro, a visit to a traditional village, a climb to the mausoleum of Montenegro’s most revered ruler, and a breathtaking cable car ride above Kotor Bay.
What sets this experience apart is not just the variety but the authenticity. You’ll feel like you’re traveling back in time as you navigate the serpentine road, then transition to enjoying local flavors in Njegusi, a village still rooted in age-old customs. The visit to Petar II Petrović Njegoš’s mausoleum is a highlight — a striking monument built from one massive piece of granite, with a statue by the renowned sculptor Ivan Metrovi.
And the cable car? An 11-minute ascent that offers sweeping views of the Bay of Kotor, one of the most photogenic spots in the country. This combination of history, scenery, and local culture makes the tour both memorable and rewarding.
The Old Serpentine Road: A Route Steeped in Legend and Beauty
The journey begins with a drive along an ancient road dating from the Kingdom of Montenegro. This is no ordinary bus trip; it’s a ride along a twisting, 25-switchback road that’s often called the “serpentine.” It’s quite a sight, especially if you’re a fan of scenic drives. The story behind this road is as charming as the views—designed by engineer Josip Slade-Ilovi, it features an M-shaped moat meant to symbolize his secret love for a Montenegrin princess.
The road offers some of the best views of Boka Kotorska, with spectacular vistas of mountains plunging into the fjord-like bay. One reviewer notes, “The serpentine road has incredible views, and the story of the designer’s secret love adds a touch of romantic intrigue.” The drive itself is a highlight, not just for the scenery but also for the opportunity to feel the history of this rugged landscape.
Exploring Njegusi: A Taste of Montenegrin Tradition
After the thrill of the drive, the tour stops in Njegusi, a village famous for its traditional cuisine and authentic atmosphere. You’ll get about half an hour to wander, take photos, and enjoy a tasting of prosciutto, cheese, olives, and local wine or brandy. This isn’t a quick snack; it’s a genuine taste of Montenegro’s culinary roots.
Njegusi is historically significant because it was the seat of the clan that ruled Montenegro for generations. The villagers take pride in their heritage, and you’ll notice that local products are the real deal—nothing mass-produced here. One visitor raved about the food tasting, saying, “It’s a fantastic chance to sample local cheese and wine while soaking up village life.”
The Majestic Mausoleum of Petar II Petrović Njegoš
A pilgrimage of sorts, visiting the mausoleum is a key part of this tour. Climbing 441 steps leads you to a six-sided monument dedicated to Montenegro’s greatest ruler, poet, and philosopher. Made from a single granite block weighing 50 tons, the statue of Njegoš was sculpted by Ivan Metrovi and measures 4 meters tall.
The mausoleum’s interior is equally impressive—its ceiling covered with 200,000 gold pieces creating an 18 kg mosaic. The view from the mausoleum is astounding—at 1,350 meters above sea level, you’ll see over 70% of Montenegro’s mountainous terrain. It’s a moment of awe, especially when you realize the monument’s cultural significance and the artistry involved. One reviewer shared, “The view from the mausoleum is breathtaking; it’s worth every step of the climb.”
The Kotor Cable Car: A Soaring Perspective
Once you’ve absorbed the history and culture, the next treat is the cable car ride. A short but exhilarating 15-minute ascent takes you from 65 meters to 1,350 meters. During the 11-minute ride, you’ll enjoy panoramic views that stretch across Kotor Bay, including the towns of Kotor, Tivat, Perast, and Herceg Novi.
It’s a fantastic way to see the landscape from above and snap some photos you’ll cherish. Many travelers describe the view as “simply unforgettable,” especially as the bay’s fjord-like beauty unfolds beneath you. The cable car operates in good weather, and the experience offers a perfect blend of excitement and tranquility.
Practical Details and What to Expect
The tour begins with pickup options from Herceg Novi, Tivat, Kotor, or Budva—convenient if you’re staying in any of these towns. The entire day is organized with private transportation, so you avoid the hassle of multiple transfers or crowded buses. The driver/guide, available in English, Russian, or Serbian, adds a layer of local insight that elevates the experience.
The itinerary includes several stops: a quick photo break at the Kotor Serpentine, the Njegusi village visit with food tasting, a walk in Lovcen National Park, and time at the mausoleum before ascending via cable car. The schedule allows about an hour at the mausoleum and another at the cable car, giving you enough time to appreciate each site without feeling rushed.
Pricing includes all entrance fees and a snack package, making it good value considering the variety of sights. Additional costs like drinks or extra meals are not included, so budget accordingly.
Who Will Enjoy This Tour?
This experience suits curious travelers wanting a balanced mix of history, nature, and local flavor. It’s ideal if you’re comfortable with walking and climbing stairs, especially at the mausoleum. The private group setting ensures a relaxed pace and personal attention from guides like those from Tours-Montenegro.
If you’re interested in authentic Montenegrin culture, stunning vistas, and a touch of adventure, this tour checks all the boxes. It’s also perfect for those who want a comprehensive day without the hassle of organizing multiple trips themselves.
Price and Logistics: Is It Worth It?
Given the inclusions—private transport, guided commentary, entrance fees, food tastings, and the cable car—the cost is reasonable. It provides a seamless experience that covers significant highlights in a compact timeframe. The only potential drawback is the busy schedule, which might limit time at each stop, but for many, the value of seeing so many diverse sites outweighs that.
Be sure to check availability, especially for your preferred start time, as the tour lasts around 4.5 hours. Book in advance to ensure a spot, particularly during the busy season.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 4.5 hours, so it’s a half-day adventure packed with highlights.
What pickup locations are available?
You can be picked up from Herceg Novi, Tivat, Kotor, or Budva, depending on your accommodation.
Is the tour suitable for everyone?
It’s best for those comfortable with walking and climbing stairs; it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or people over 95 years old.
What’s included in the price?
Transportation, a guided tour in English or Russian, cable car tickets, entrance to the mausoleum, and food tastings in Njegusi are included.
Are drinks and extra snacks available?
Additional beverages or snacks beyond the tasting are not included. You might want to bring some extra water or a small snack.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, a camera for photos, and perhaps a hat or sunscreen for sunny days.
Is there a recommended time of year to take this tour?
While the tour is operational year-round, clear weather will give the best views, especially from the cable car and mausoleum.
Final Thoughts
This Montenegro tour offers a well-rounded experience combining scenic drives, cultural visits, and incredible panoramic vistas. It’s a great option if you want to see iconic sites like Lovcen’s mausoleum and enjoy a cable car ride—all in a manageable half-day. The knowledgeable guides and authentic local tastings add genuine value, making it more than just sightseeing.
It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate history, stunning landscapes, and a taste of traditional Montenegrin life. If you’re seeking a memorable, hassle-free way to explore some of Montenegro’s most famous highlights, this tour is definitely worth considering.