Montenegro

Montenegro with its beautiful coastline and pristine nature is a newly discovered  and exciting travel destination. It offers clear waters and beaches that are among the most spectacular in Europe.The Bay of Boka Kotorska  and the town of Kotor were declared UNESCO natural and cultural world heritage sites.
This destiantion is special because it combines ocean, mountains and wellness. During our hikes you will enjoy superb views over the ocean, the bays and Lake Scutari. We will be using historical K&K military paths, visiting forts and monasteries, and enjoying traditional food.
The coastal mountains offer hikes at an intermediate level that can be completed in 3-6 hours. Local transport by minivan is arranged. May / June and September / October are the preferred times to hike the coastline. During the summer months we explore the inland with peaks as high as 2500 metres (8200 feet).

Itinery:

Day 1: 
Flight to Montenegro (arrival at Tivat or Podgorica)
Transfer to Hotel
Welcome drink with your guides and presentation of the activities planned

Day 2:
Hiking Monastir Ogradenica
After breakfast we will be transferred by minvan to our starting point at Petrovac. A leisurly hike of ~ 2 hrs along the coastal mountains will lead us to the monastery of Ogradenica. The way back starts with fascinating vistas over the coast and the well-known landmark of Montenegro, the fancy island Sveti Stefan. Traditional food will be served on a terrace overlooking Sveti Stefan.
Duration: 4 hrs, transfer: 10 min

Day 3:
Hiking the Nationalpark Lovcen
Today we will visit the Nationalpark Lovcen. Our hike will lead us through a mountainous forest until we reach a mausoleum at the peak height of 1657 m (5436 ft). We will visit the mausoleum, which was built in honour of the poet Njegos.
During our descent we will stop at the oldest tavern of the region and enjoy a traditional lunch (cured ham, cheese, homemade bread and wine).
Duration: 4 hrs, transfer: 1 hr

Day 4:
Hiking Lake Scutari
Today we will cross the coastal mountains on our way to Lake Scutari. Our starting point is Tudemili from where we will ascend to Bijela Skala (903m/ 2963ft). From the peak we will enjoy panoramic views over the ocean, Lake Scutari with its small islands, and neighbouring Albania. After our descent, the minivan will meet us in a small village and transfer us to a cosy restaurant at the lake. Here we will have the chance to taste locally produced smoked carp and other specialties from the region.
Duration: 5 hrs, transfer 1 hr

Day 5:
Hiking the beautiful bays
Our next destination is the UNESCO heritage site Boka Bay. Starting at the pittoresque village of Perast, a long and winding path will lead us to a fort protectiong the bay (743m /2438 ft, 2hrs). The views over Kotor, the coastal mountains and the wide bay are spectacular.
Using historical K&K paths our hike follows the steeply declining coast line above the small village of Risan, where we will meet our minivan. After a short ride we will have dinner at the harbour restaurant in Perast.
Duration: 5 hrs, transfer 35 min

Day 6:
Hiking through olive groves
Our final trip will bring us to Lustica peninsula. After a refreshing walk through olive groves we will reach the beach from where the K&K prison island of Mamula can be seen.
The highlight of our last hike will be the visit of an organic farm, where we will indulge in homemade ham, cheese, meat dishes, bread, olive oil and wine.
Duration: 2 hrs, transfer: 45 min

Day 7:
This day is to your own disposition. Enjoy a leisurly breakfast with views over the ocean and the many amenities of your hotel. You can relax and have a swim at the unspoilt beaches or visit the romantic historical centre of Budva.
We will conclude our week with a social dinner at our favourite harbour restaurant.

Day 8:
Transfer to airport and return flight

Included:
local transfer
you will be accompanied by licenced and experienced guides from Austria
lunch is provided
7 x half board (double room accommodation, breakfast and dinner)
photo CD with impressions of the week
 

Formalities:
a valid passport is required

Equipment:
hiking boots, long hiking pants, rain gear, wind breaker, a set of change for hiking, 20l- backpack, water bottle, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, camera, hiking poles

Additional information:
Currency: EURO (although Montenegro is not yet member of the EU)
almost complete mobile phone coverage

Hotel:
We recommend the Hotel Rivijera Petrovac
or a hotel of your choice Montenegro

Costs:
~ € 1000.- 

Dates:
May – June
September - October