Reasons why guests rent apartments in Žabljak
The town of Žabljak is located in the northwest of Montenegro, in the heart of a national park, and it is the highest urban settlement in Southeastern Europe. It lies at the foot of Mount Durmitor and is surrounded by 23 mountain peaks over 2200 meters high, 18 mountain lakes, and the Tara River Canyon—the deepest in Europe. Over time, Žabljak has developed into the center of winter sports in Montenegro, while during the summer months, the Tara River and the surrounding nature attract guests looking to spend warm days outdoors. Accommodation in Žabljak offers the possibility of a nature retreat, active holidays, and a chance to experience unique skills, which is indeed the main reason for visiting. Below is an overview of popular stay motivations:
- Eco and rural tourism – Developed on the mountain outskirts, where families staying in local households can let children interact with animals and experience activities not available in urban environments. Yards often include play equipment such as slides, trampolines, seesaws, and swings. Eco-tourism also includes staying in cabins made from natural materials like wood and stone. Just 3 km from the center of Žabljak is the ethno-village Smrčevo brdo, 10 km away is Zminica, and the already mentioned Šljeme is 5 km from Žabljak.
- Sport fishing – Sport fishing takes place on the right bank of the Great Black Lake. It is allowed on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 2 PM to 7 PM, and on Sundays from 8 AM to 7 PM. A daily permit is required and can be obtained from the ranger at the Black Lake.
- Horseback riding – A simple tour covers the lake plateau and is suitable for beginners and children, guided by instructors. It costs €25 for a one-hour ride. A three-hour tour is more extensive, priced at €75, and includes Vražje and Riblje lakes, crossing the lake plateau.
- Skiing – The standout ski resort here is Savin Kuk, which features ski lifts and three ski tows, one of which is child-friendly. The resort offers 4.6 km of ski trails and has a capacity for 3000 skiers. It includes three blue trails, one red, one black, and a baby slope.
- Cross-country skiing – A marked trail exists within the town and does not require a ski pass. The trail is easily accessible, starting at the Sports Center in Žabljak (about 800 m from the town center), looping through a groomed forest belt and ending at the Health Center in the town center. Skis can be rented at the Sports Center.
- Snowshoe walking – Ideal for those who prefer walking over more extreme activities. Snowshoes prevent snow from accumulating like it would with regular footwear. Snowshoes can be rented in Žabljak for €4. There is a marked trail for this activity leading from the Black Lake to the Savin Kuk Ski Center.
- Mountaineering – Durmitor is known for its sedimentary rocks, sharp peaks, and ridges. It is suitable for alpine training both in summer and winter. Key alpine destinations include Bezimeni vrh (2487 m), Šljeme (2455 m), Đevojka (Soa) (2440 m), Minin bogaz (2387 m), and Međed (2288 m), all with marked routes and spectacular viewpoints.
- Hiking – Durmitor boasts 48 peaks over 2000 meters, with breathtaking mountain landscapes adding to the hiking appeal. There are 22 hiking trails in the Durmitor massif. The longest and most challenging climb is to Bobotov kuk (2525 meters), which takes approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes.
- Cycling – Durmitor offers excellent trails for downhill biking, the most extreme form of mountain cycling. Every year, in late August or early September, Durmitor Downhill Adventure races are held on Štuoc. The 2 km trail has a 300-meter elevation drop, diverse terrain through forest, over roots, jumps, rocky slopes, and woodland paths.
- Rafting and kayaking – These are popular summer activities from July 1st to mid-September, when the water level of the Tara River is optimal. Water levels are a key factor for kayaking as well. Recommended routes include:
Bistrica – Kulina – Splavište (or campsite) (20 km, 3–4 hours, difficulty level III–V)
Splavište (or campsite) – Radovan luka (25 km, 4–5 hours, difficulty level I–III)
Radovan luka – Brštanovica (25 km, 5–6 hours, difficulty level I–III)
Splavište (or campsite) – Radovan luka (25 km, 4–5 hours, difficulty level I–III)
Radovan luka – Brštanovica (25 km, 5–6 hours, difficulty level I–III)
- Canyoning – Canyoning is possible in the Komarnica River canyon and the Nevidio canyon near Žabljak.
Events and festivals – Just like the activities, events are held throughout both the winter and summer months. So if you are staying in Žabljak during these times, here are some notable happenings:
- Golden Eagle of Durmitor – One of the most prestigious winter competitions in Montenegro, attracting top alpine skiers. Held annually in late February or early March.
- Green Montenegro International Film Festival – Held every August, gathering prominent figures from the worlds of film and environmentalism. It's a key platform for promoting Montenegro's ecological values and driving environmental initiatives.
- Holiday Bazaar – Runs from January to February and includes Christmas and New Year’s Bazaars. Held at the town square, the event features and promotes local culinary specialties.
Visiting religious sites – Notable monasteries in the Tara Valley include:
- Monastery of St. George in Dobrilovina
- Monastery of the Assumption of the Virgin in Dovolja
- Monastery of St. Archangel Michael in Đurđevića Tara
Types of accommodation in Žabljak
Accommodation in Žabljak stands out for its variety, depending on the level of amenities and the type of holiday experience you wish to provide for yourself and your family. The offer includes hotels, Žabljak apartments, as well as cabins and houses in ethno villages.
- Apartments – Žabljak offers a wide selection of apartments for those who prefer more affordable accommodation. Prices vary depending on the dates and the capacity. The average price per night for two people is €45.
- Houses – Houses are suitable for accommodating larger groups, such as families. They can be found both in the town of Žabljak and its surrounding areas.
- Cabins and bungalows – In and around the town, particularly in rural households, you can find accommodation units that enhance your nature experience—these are precisely the types listed here. Locations include Šljeme, Smrčevo Brdo, and Tepačko Polje, where the average price of such accommodation units is €65.
- Hotels – If you are looking for a more luxurious stay, Žabljak certainly offers suitable options. Some of the most well-known are: Hotel Zlatni Bor, Hotel Pavlović, Hotel Polar Star, and Ski Hotel. The average price per night for two people is €100.
Average accommodation prices in Žabljak
In recent years, Žabljak apartments have become the most commonly chosen and consistently available accommodation option in the town, so we will now present the pricing for this type of lodging. Prices range from €45 for two people up to €120 for stays accommodating up to eight guests.
Average apartment prices based on apartment type and number of guests:
Average apartment prices based on apartment type and number of guests:
- Studio (for two people): average price €45
- One-bedroom apartments (for two to four people): range from €50 to €80
- Larger apartments: from €100 and up
- Cabins and cottages: offered at an average nightly price of €90
Price variations are common during seasonal periods such as winter (December–February) and summer (June–September). Therefore, it is recommended to secure your accommodation at least one month in advance.
Where in Žabljak to rent accommodation?
As the town itself is known for its natural surroundings, it could be said that Žabljak accommodation is best rented near the Durmitor National Park, and the surrounding areas we listed above are becoming increasingly popular. Additionally, the Savin Kuk Ski Center quickly reaches full capacity during the winter season. Below, we list some advantages of renting accommodation in various locations:
- Town center – If you prefer to be close to shops, cafés, and restaurants, then central Žabljak apartments are likely the best fit for you. Just like in other locations, staying here is especially practical if you don’t have your own transportation, as everything is within walking distance. It is also a good starting point for walks to the Black Lake and for joining organized tours.
- Near the Black Lake – The Black Lake is the most famous attraction in the Žabljak area, and staying in a cottage or apartment near the lake offers a unique experience. You can spend your leisure hours immersed in nature and enjoy peaceful walks along the trails.
- Savin Kuk – For those visiting during the winter season, accommodation near the Savin Kuk ski resort is recommended. The offer includes apartments, cabins, and small hotels that allow quick access to the ski slopes.
Overnight stay in Žabljak - Renting accommodation for a night
Overnight stay in Žabljak is easiest to find by selecting Žabljak as your destination on the Bookaweb platform. Then, choose the date for which you need accommodation, and the site will display all available lodging options.
A more detailed search is also available, allowing you to filter by specific criteria (price range, amenities, additional features). If you are booking accommodation during the high season, it is recommended to reserve at least two months in advance.
A more detailed search is also available, allowing you to filter by specific criteria (price range, amenities, additional features). If you are booking accommodation during the high season, it is recommended to reserve at least two months in advance.
Where to stay in Belgrade with kids?
Traveling with children may require more organization, so you can take that into account when booking Žabljak accommodation. Here, we will focus on the parts of town or features provided by the surrounding areas:
- Town center – In the very heart of Žabljak, right next to the monument to fallen fighters, there is a well-maintained, fenced children’s playground. Surrounded by greenery, it offers various play structures: swings, seesaws, and slides. Hotel Žabljak also includes a special corner for children—a playroom equipped with everything that will capture their attention.
- Surrounding areas – Ethno accommodation offers you and your child the opportunity to connect with the beauty and uniqueness of rural household life. Children will have the chance to spend their vacation time in nature, playing with animals and learning about rural tasks and daily farm life.
Accommodation near the best nightlife spots in Žabljak
Although a small town, Žabljak offers several options for nightlife. Likewise, Žabljak accommodation will help you navigate easily and save you the hassle of getting around. Below, we present some of the most visited venues:
- Nightclub City – Located in the town center, on Narodnih Heroja bb street. This is a dedicated nightclub, open until the early morning hours. If you visit, you’ll enjoy carefully curated DJ sets.
- Pub Kino Durmitor – Situated on Durmitorskih Ratnika Square, open from 8 AM until 2 AM. During the day, you can relax with a coffee and soft music, while weekends are reserved for popular hits from the local music scene.
Best restaurants near accommodation in Žabljak
When it comes to gastronomic offerings in Žabljak, you can expect a wide variety. Žabljak accommodation ensures easy access to all of the following venues:
- Restaurant Oro – Located on Njegoševa Street, open daily from 8:00 AM to 1:00 AM. Here, you can enjoy a refreshing tea, try new wine flavors, and indulge in some house specialties. The menu includes all types of meat, soups, and desserts. The average cost for this kind of experience is €10–20 per person.
- Tavern Nostalgija – Found on Vuka Karadžića Street, open from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM. The average meal costs €15–20 per person, and the menu features fish specialties combined with vegetable.
- Konoba Luna – Open from 6:00 AM to midnight, located at Njegoševa 9. The average meal here costs €10–15 per person, offering grilled dishes as well as traditional local food such as stews and goulash.
