Rožaje Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Rožaje, Montenegro with our comprehensive travel guide featuring must-visit places, activities, and local culture.


Rožaje is a hidden gem tucked away in the North Montenegrin Mountains of Montenegro. This small town is a perfect destination for nature lovers, hikers, and anyone looking to step off the beaten path and explore a lesser-known corner of Europe. Our comprehensive travel guide will help you plan your trip to Rožaje, featuring must-visit places, activities, and suggestions for experiencing the local culture.

Introduction to Rožaje

Located in the northeastern part of Montenegro, Rožaje is a small town with a population of around 10,000 people. It is situated in a valley surrounded by the Prokletije and Bjelasica Mountains, offering stunning views in every direction. The town has a rich history and culture, shaped by the blend of Eastern and Western influences that characterize the Balkans.

List of Places to Visit in Rožaje

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Rožaje has several museums and historical sites that offer a glimpse into the town’s past. The most notable of these include:

  • Sericulture Museum - This museum showcases the traditional art of silk production, which has been an important industry in Rožaje for centuries. Visitors can learn about the history of sericulture, view various silk products, and even participate in workshops to learn how to make silk themselves.
  • Hadži-Murat Džudža Mosque - This historic mosque dates back to the 17th century and is one of the oldest in the region. Its impressive architecture and ornate decorations make it a must-visit for those interested in religious and cultural heritage.
  • Old Town of Rožaje - Take a stroll through Rožaje’s charming old town, where you can see traditional wooden houses, narrow streets, and old stone bridges. The town has undergone renovations in recent years to preserve its cultural heritage and make it more accessible to visitors.

Natural Attractions of Rožaje: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Rožaje is a nature lover’s paradise, with ample opportunities for outdoor adventures and breathtaking views. Here are some of the most popular natural attractions in the area:

  • Biogradska Gora National Park - Just a short drive from Rožaje, this national park boasts some of the most stunning scenery in all of Montenegro. Visitors can hike through dense forests, marvel at crystal-clear lakes, and spot diverse wildlife such as bears, wolves, and lynx.
  • Hajla Mountain - One of the highest peaks in the area, Hajla Mountain offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Its summit can be reached by either hiking or driving, so it’s accessible to all visitors.
  • Komovi Mountain Range - Known for its jagged peaks and dramatic landscapes, the Komovi Mountain Range is a popular destination for hiking and mountaineering. Trails range from easy to challenging, and there are options for both day hikes and multi-day treks.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Rožaje

Rožaje is a perfect destination for hikers and bikers looking to explore the great outdoors. Here are some of the best routes to check out:

  • Peaks of the Balkans Trail - This 192-kilometer trail spans three countries - Albania, Montenegro, and Kosovo. It takes around 13 days to complete, but portions of the trail can also be done as day hikes. The trail passes through some of the most scenic areas in the region, including Rožaje.
  • Bjelasica Mountain Trail - This circular trail takes hikers through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Montenegro, including forests, meadows, and glacial lakes. The entire trail takes between 4-5 days to complete, but it can also be broken up into shorter day hikes.

Best Things to Do in Rožaje: Activities and Tours

Rožaje offers a range of activities and tours to suit any interest. Here are some of the best things to do:

  • Rafting on the Tara River - The Tara River is one of the most beautiful and pristine rivers in Europe. Visitors can go rafting on its rapids for an adrenaline-packed adventure.
  • Sericulture Workshops - Learn about the traditional art of silk production and try your hand at making silk products.
  • Local Food Tasting - Rožaje is known for its delicious cuisine, which combines Montenegrin, Turkish, and Albanian influences. Take a food tour to sample traditional dishes such as sarma, cevapi, and burek.

Week-Long Itinerary for Rožaje

Here’s a sample itinerary for a week-long trip to Rožaje:

Day 1 - Arrival in Rožaje, walk around the old town and visit the Hadži-Murat Džudža Mosque Day 2 - Hiking in Biogradska Gora National Park Day 3 - Sericulture workshop, learning how to make silk products Day 4 - Drive up to the summit of Hajla Mountain for panoramic views Day 5 - Hike on the Peaks of the Balkans Trail to Plav Lake Day 6 - Rafting on the Tara River Day 7 - Local food tasting and souvenir shopping

Food and Drink Scene of Rožaje

Must-Try Dishes

Rožaje’s cuisine is a fusion of Montenegrin, Turkish, and Albanian influences. Here are some dishes to try:

  • Sarma - Stuffed cabbage rolls filled with spiced meat and rice.
  • Cevapi - Grilled minced meat served with flatbread and onions.
  • Burek - A flaky pastry filled with meat or cheese.

Local Beverages

Montenegro is known for its strong alcoholic beverages. Here are some local drinks to try in Rožaje:

  • Rakija - A strong fruit brandy made from distilled fruit.
  • Vranac - A red wine made from a grape variety that is native to the Balkans.

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

Rožaje has a range of accommodation options to suit any budget. Here are some of the best:

  • Hotel Rožaje - A modern hotel located in the town center.
  • Hostel Hajla - A budget-friendly hostel located near the hiking trails.
  • Guesthouse Stanišić - A charming guesthouse located in the old town.

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

Rožaje has several shops and markets selling local products and souvenirs. Here are some ideas:

  • Silk products - Rožaje is known for its traditional sericulture industry, so buying silk products is a great way to support the local economy.
  • Cheese - Montenegro is famous for its cheese, especially the pungent Njeguški sir.
  • Honey - The region around Rožaje is home to many beekeepers, producing delicious honey.

Local Culture and Customs of Rožaje

Rožaje is a blend of different cultures and customs, reflecting the town’s position at the crossroads of the Balkans. Here are some aspects of local culture to be aware of:

  • Hospitality - Montenegrins are known for their warm and welcoming nature, so expect to be invited for coffee or rakija if you meet locals.
  • Religious Observance - Rožaje is a predominantly Muslim town, so visitors should be respectful of the local customs and dress appropriately when visiting mosques.
  • Gender Roles - Traditional gender roles are still present in Rožaje, with men and women often occupying different spaces in social situations.

Best Time to Visit Rožaje

The best time to visit Rožaje is during the summer months, between June and September, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, visitors who prefer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds can also visit in the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn.

Do’s and Don’ts of Rožaje

Do:

  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions.
  • Take off your shoes when entering mosques.
  • Try the local cuisine.

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing in public places.
  • Take photographs of people without their permission.
  • Drink alcohol in public places during Ramadan.

Safety and Health

Safety in Rožaje

Rožaje is a safe place to visit, with low levels of crime. However, visitors should take standard precautions such as not leaving valuables unattended and being aware of their surroundings.

Health in Rožaje

Visitors to Rožaje should ensure that they have comprehensive health insurance and are up-to-date on all routine vaccinations. Montenegro has a good healthcare system, but medical facilities in Rožaje may be limited.

Getting to Rožaje: Transportation Options and Logistics

Rožaje is a relatively isolated town, so getting there can be a bit of a challenge. However, several options are available:

Airports Near Rožaje

The nearest international airport is Podgorica Airport, located around 110 kilometers from Rožaje.

Bus Stations Near Rožaje

Rožaje has a bus station that connects it to several major cities in Montenegro, including Podgorica, Kotor, and Nikšić.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car and drive to Rožaje from neighboring countries such as Serbia or Kosovo.

How to Get Around in Rožaje

The town center is small enough to navigate on foot, but visitors who want to explore the surrounding areas should consider renting a car or hiring a driver. Taxis and buses are also available.

Where to Go Next from Rožaje: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Rožaje is a great base for exploring the rest of Montenegro and the surrounding region. Here are some nearby destinations worth checking out:

  • Plav - A town with a stunning lake and excellent hiking trails.
  • Durmitor National Park - Home to some of the most dramatic landscapes in Montenegro, including the deepest canyon in Europe.
  • Prizren, Kosovo - A beautiful historic town with Ottoman-era architecture and a lively cafe culture.

Conclusion

Rožaje may not be on many travelers’ radars, but it is a hidden gem that offers stunning views, a rich cultural heritage, and tons of outdoor activities. With this guide as your companion, you can plan the perfect trip to this off-the-beaten-path destination.