10 Things to do in Bar, Montenegro

Ok, we’re sure you got all of the rowdy out of you at one of the many party hostels in Kotor, and that little bit of extra fist bumpin’ booty pumpin’ sweat out of you in Budva – the party capital of Montenegro. And now here you are in Bar with a weeks worth of rakija hangovers. Now’s your chance to sweat it all out with our top 10 things to do in Bar, Montenegro (some in top secret locations) that don’t involve going to a bar…

1. Bar Beach

Take a stroll along the main beach in town. Beginning at the Marina, head North and on your path you’ll see the famous King Nikola’s Palace. Formerly the royal palace of Montenegro and as of 1926 converted into a museum displaying multiple exhibits including the Montenegrin crown jewels. After you check out the exhibits keep on walkin’, cross some bridges, feed some ducks, and pat as many dogs as possible. Once you get to the other end you’ll have sweat out enough calories to make up for the double gelato you’ll devour at one of the many beach cafe’s you’ll pass on your way.

2. Sports Field

Along the far end of Bar Beach you won’t miss the large sports oval nestled perfectly between the shore and the mountains. If you are travelling in a group this is the perfect spot to kick around a ball or, our new favourite, play some Ultimate Frisbee! Don’t be afraid to make some new friends too…ask some locals or some fellow travellers to join the fun and challenge them to a sunset match!

3. Perazića Do

Perazića Do has the most beautiful pebble beach with crystal clear waters disappearing off into the Adriatic. But the best part about it is the enormous boulders scattered about – perfect for a day of bouldering to get your rocks off! Bring a matt and some chalk and climb, climb, climb to your hearts content. Once you can’t handle the heat no more just dive into the cool waters and allow all of your worries to float away…

4. Dead Goat Beach

A 45 minute hike over a mountain, through the countryside and along a cliff edge lies this secret cove beach. The best part? The only way to get to the shore is if you’re game enough to take the 10 metre plunge into the water! Perfect for a quick adrenaline rush followed by a relaxing dip in the ocean. After you explore the small cove and climb back up the cliff spend the afternoon listening to some tunes and enjoying your picnic lunch before hiking back with the mountain goats.

5. The Blue Lagoons

Take a hike through the famous terraces of Stari Bar scattered with thousand year old olive trees, running canyons, all the way to the flowing waters of the Blue Lagoons. Dip your feet in and tune out to the tranquil sounds of birds singing and water running. You’ll feel at one with nature again.

6. Old Olive Tree – Stara Maslina

Take a stroll through the neighbourhood streets as just outside of the little town of Stari Bar sits the oldest olive tree in all of Europe…some say the world! At over 2000 years old and 10 metres wide it has stood the test of time and out dates the written history of Bar. For just 1 Euro entry you can take a peek at the glorious roots of mother natures Montenegrin gem.

7. Mystical (Mr Cool) Lagoon

Because one lagoon is never enough! A 1 hour hike from from the top of the old town, tucked away in a canyon in the mountains, are the deep blue waters of the Mystical Lagoon. Equipped with its very own waterfall, it’s the perfect shaded spot to take a dip in the super chill voda before heading back down the mountain to the old town.

8. Old Town and the Fortress

If history and quaint little villages are your thing then this one’s for you! Bordered by the Old Town of Stari Bar are the famous fortress ruins. Spend half a day walking up the main street in town, explore the many stores with turkish coffee pots and Montenegrin nic nacs, stop for a taste of the local cuisine at one of the many konoba’s dotted up the lane before heading into the fortress ruins to explore. Plus your 2 Euro entry fee will directly help to restore the castle!

9. Mount Rumija

“Because in the end, you won’t remember the time you spent working in the office or mowing your lawn. Climb that goddam mountain!” – Jack Kerouac

Yeah, what he said! Get your lunch packed and your boots on, you’ve got a full day ahead! The landscape is ever changing and will take you through pine forests, rocky slopes and valleys scattered with wildflowers. Make sure you stop and check out the golden monastery right before you head up the final slope to the summit. Perched on top, at 5,230 ft high, you’ll see the famous metal church. Make sure you set off early – at an 8 hour turn around this hike is not for the faint hearted, but well worth it for the incredible views over the province of Bar, Skadar Lake, all the way to the mountains of Albania.

10. Give a Dog a Bone

Making your way through the old town you’re bound to meet some of the friendly local strays. Feel good about your day and help some of these guys in need. Give them some water and a can of food which you can purchase from the local market at the bottom of the lane. These balls of fluff just want some love so give them a pat and let them stretch their legs with you – they love showing off their stomping ground and make a very cuddly tour guide!

11. Bedem – A Bar at Last!

Hey, we’re not breaking any rules here…we did give you 10 activities that didn’t involve going to a bar, but after all of that exercise we think you are due for a well deserved bevvy! Get a brew and a bite at our favourite (Trip Advisor recommended) Konoba Bedem. Get a handle of the local draught Nikšićko or maybe sample their sweet pomegranate wine, and try some home made and national favourite rakija! Devour a plate full of cevapi or grilled eggplant and treat yourself at the end with with a delicious bowl of the gooey goodness that is trilece…EAT YOUR HEART OUT!

For the best access and directions to the secret spots and for a glorious time we highly recommend you stay at The Grove Montenegro hostel! For its beautiful location and set up, fun day trips, delicious food and even more delicious peeps you won’t regret your stay…you may just end up like us and never leave!

CHASING CHANE