Kolašin Travel Guide

Discover the beautiful North Montenegrin Mountains with this complete travel guide to Kolašin, including the best places to visit, hikes, food and drink, culture, safety tips, and more.


Introduction to Kolašin

Located in the heart of North Montenegrin Mountains, Kolašin is a picturesque mountain town that attracts visitors year-round. Renowned for its winter sports, it also boasts beautiful hiking trails, rich cultural offerings, and a friendly locals, making it the perfect destination for travelers looking for adventure and nature.

List of Places to Visit in Kolašin

Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or simply soaking up the local culture, Kolašin has it all. Here are some of the top places to visit in this charming town:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Ethnographic Museum - Discover the fascinating history and traditions of Kolašin’s people through their costumes, jewelry, and household objects.
  • Moraca Monastery - A stunning 13th century Orthodox monastery just outside of Kolašin, famous for its frescoes and stunning mountain views.
  • Biogradska Gora National Park - A vast wilderness preserve filled with ancient trees, crystal clear lakes, and waterfalls.

Natural Attractions of Kolašin: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Bjelasica Mountain Range - A paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, the Bjelasica mountain range is popular for skiing, hiking, or simply soaking up the stunning views.
  • Kolasin 1450 Ski Resort - Enjoy skiing or snowboarding down some of the Balkans’ best slopes, with 24 km of pistes, 13 ski lifts, and a snow park.
  • Tara River Canyon - One of the deepest river canyons in the world, located just a short drive from Kolašin, offering rafting, kayaking, and hiking opportunities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kolašin

Kolašin is an outstanding destination for mountain biking and hiking with a number of various trails for different levels of experience.

  • Katunska Nahija Route - Follow a four-day trek through the heart of the Bjelasica Mountains and stay overnight in traditional mountanious cottages.
  • Bjelasica Traverse - A magnificent multiday trekking from village Kraljska Sutjeska to the top of highest peak (Crna Glava) with stunning view over untouched nature.
  • Kolašin Roundabout Route - Choose an uncomparable day hike ranging from the panoramic peaks to the forest lakes scattered along the Bjelasica Mountains.

Best Things to Do in Kolašin: Activities and Tours

Filling your itinerary won’t be difficult with all the amazing outdoor activities and unique cultural experiences Kolašin has to offer:

  • Black Peak Tours - Discover the most thrilling adventure-filled tour of Montenegro with walks, hikes and camping offered throughout Kolašin and over Bjelasica mountains with local expert guides.
  • Traditional Cheese-Making Workshop - Learn the art of making famous mountain cheese in koza (goat) or krava (cow) farms on the outskirts of Kolašin.
  • Tivat Bay Sunset Cruise - Book a evening boat tour from Kolašin to visit the stunning town of Tivat and enjoy a romantic sunset.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kolašin

A week in Kolašin can be an excursion-packed adventure. Here is a sample itinerary to get you started:

Day Activity
1 Arrival in Kolašin
2 Kolasin 1450 Ski Resort
3 Tara River Canyon Rafting
4 Ethnographic Museum and Moraca Monastery
5 Biogradska Gora National Park Hike
6 Katunska Nahija Route Trek
7 Traditional Cheese-Making Workshop

Food and Drink Scene of Kolašin

You cannot leave Kolašin without indulging in its delicious cuisine, which echoes local traditions and the natural environment. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kacamak - A traditional Montenegrin dish made from potatoes, cheese and cream.
  • Kajmak - A creamy dairy product with a taste somewhere between butter and cream cheese.
  • Roast Lamb - A grilled delicacy of tender lamb served with vegetables and sides.
  • Kačamak - Cicvarica - A typical Montenegrin breakfast consisting of fried polenta served with kajmak and milk would be served for a perfect start of the day.

Local Beverages

  • Rakija - A common Balkan liquor that is essentially fruit brandy, made from plums, grapes, apples or pears.
  • Vranac - An indigenous Montenegrin red wine made from a unique grape variety that grows best in the fertile plains south of Lake Skadar.
  • Niksicko Pivo - A light yet popular local beer in Montenegro, and a perfect drink after a long hike in the mountains.

Where to Stay in Kolašin: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Kolašin has lodging options for all budgets and preferences. Below are some recommendations:

  • Bianca Resort & Spa - A 4-star resort with great indoor and outdoor facilities, scenic views, and a spa.
  • Hostel Highlander - A charming mountain lodge situated in the heart of Kolašin, offering cozy rooms and a lounge for travelers on a budget.
  • Eco Lodge Dolina Sekulina - A romantic accommodation in an old wooden house with stunning views and homemade breakfast.

What to Buy in Kolašin: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Take some of Kolašin’s charm home with you by purchasing some typical Montenegrin handicrafts, local foods, and unique souvenirs:

  • Traditional Woolen Socks - Warm and comfortable, these socks crafted by local artisans are perfect for winter hikes.
  • Mountain Cheese - Take a bite of traditional Kolašin flavor home with cheese made by local producers, which you can find at the local markets or in dairy shops.
  • Handmade Ceramics - Beautiful pottery pieces crafted by local artisans add color to your shelves.

Local Culture and Customs of Kolašin

Kolašin is a unique blend of cultures and traditions, which locals hold dear. Visitors should be aware of the following customs:

  • Hospitality - Montenegrins are known for their hospitality, so don’t be surprised if you are invited for coffee or dinner.
  • Eye Contact - Eye contact during a conversation indicates interest and respect. So, maintain eye contact while talking to locals.
  • Attire - Dress modestly while visiting churches, monasteries, and other religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Kolašin

Kolašin is a year-round destination with a variety of seasonal activities and climates:

  • Winter (December-February) - Ideal for winter sports or indoor activities in the mountain resorts, with chilly but sunny days.
  • Spring (March-May) - A wonderful time for hiking and exploring the nature with blossoming forests and beautiful weather.
  • Summer (June-August) - Perfect weather for outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and swimming in the nearby lakes.
  • Autumn (September-November) - Forests and mountains become alive with colors in the fall, and ideal for more laid-back activities, such tasting delicious local wine and food.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kolašin

Some things to keep in mind when visiting Kolašin:

Do:

  • Learn the basic Montenegrin words - Knowing a few phrases will help you communicate better with locals and make your trip more enjoyable.
  • Be respectful - Respect local traditions, customs, and beliefs, and always ask for permission to take pictures.
  • Bring suitable clothing - Bring warm clothing, comfortable shoes for hiking, and swimming gear for water activities.

Don’t:

  • Littering - Keep the natural beauty of Kolašin intact by disposing of trash appropriately and following Leave No Trace principles.
  • Over-the-top tipping - Tipping is not common in Montenegro, so leave a modest amount if you feel the service was exceptional.
  • Drink tap water - Purchase bottled water to avoid any health issues.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kolašin

Kolašin is generally safe for tourists and visitors. Nonetheless, it’s wise to take a few precautions:

  • Driving carefully - The roads in and around Kolašin can be challenging, especially bumpy mountain roads.
  • Watch out for pickpockets - Keep your valuables safe, especially in crowded places and public transport.
  • Stay updated with local weather - Be aware of local weather conditions, especially in the winter months.

Health in Kolašin

Ensure you have travel insurance before traveling to Kolašin, and consider the following health tips:

  • Avoid tap water - Drink bottled water and avoid drinking tap water.
  • Carry medication - Bring a sufficient supply of any prescription medication you need during your stay.
  • Wear sunscreen - You might not notice the sun while skiing or hiking, but it is still there and tends to be stronger at high altitudes.

Getting to Kolašin: Transportation Options and Logistics

Kolašin is easily accessible by different modes of transportation. Here are the most convenient options:

  • Flying - The closest airport is Podgorica Airport, which is around 90 kilometers from Kolašin. Tivat Airport is a bit further than Podgorica Airport.
  • Bus - Buses run regularly from Podgorica to Kolašin, and the journey usually takes around 2 hours.
  • Car rental - Car rental companies are available in Montenegro and driving to Kolašin from other destinations is recommended for panoramic sights.

Airports Near Kolašin

  • Podgorica Airport - Montenegro’s capital city airport serves several flight from European cities.
  • Tivat Airport - Tivat airport is located around an hour and 45 minutes drive away from Kolašin. It serves charters and scheduled flights from all over Europe.

Bus Stations Near Kolašin

  • Podgorica bus station - Located in the center of Podgorica, it’s the main bus hub for local and international routes.
  • Kolašin bus Station - Situated in the center of Kolašin, with frequent buses to other main Montenegrin destinations, such as Budva and Plav.

Other Options

  • Renting a Car - Rent a car at airports near Kolašin for more flexibility to explore the nearby mountains and lakes.

How to Get Around in Kolašin

Getting around Kolašin is easy with various modes of transportation.

  • Walking - Many attractions and accommodations in Kolašin are within walking distance from each other.
  • Local Taxis - Taxis are widely available in Kolašin and are reasonably priced for local transportation.
  • Rental Cars - Rent a car in Kolašin to travel to nearby attractions and destinations beyond town.

Where to Go Next from Kolašin: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Kolašin is an excellent gateway to explore Montenegro’s amazing destinations.

  • Durmitor National Park - Discover the impressive natural beauty of this beautiful park, ski and snowboard resort located 93 km from Kolašin.
  • Budva - Renowned for its beautiful beaches and ancient town walls, Budva is approximately two hours away by car.
  • Lake Skadar - One of the most beautiful places in Montenegro easily accessible from Kolašin with round trip excursions and sightseeing tours departing from the city center.

Conclusion

Kolašin is a hidden gem in Montenegro that has a little bit of everything for every kind of traveler. From hiking to skiing, and cultural tours to traditional food, there is no shortage of activities and sights in Kolašin. With its hospitable locals and natural beauty, it’s no wonder that Kolašin is quickly becoming a favorite destination among travelers.

Main town square in Kolašin Main town square in Kolašin