Take In Beautiful Glacial Lake Views At This Southern European National Park

Europe is home to an abundance of majestic landscapes. There are miles and miles of mountain ranges, winding rivers, and expansive forests throughout the continent. There's certainly no shortage of places to explore, making Europe a must-visit destination for nature lovers. The hard part is narrowing down which specific location you'll visit because each European national park has its own unique perks and experiences. We're here to make that decision easier for you by suggesting a national park with wondrous views and fun activities. That park is Durmitor National Park located in Montenegro.

Montenegro is known for its natural beauty, and Durmitor National Park lives up to the expectation of that great beauty. You'll find fascinating wildlife, including some rare plants and animals, as well as an abundance of hiking trails and lakes and streams for kayaking and canoeing. Make a day trip or camp for a couple of nights — whatever you do, you'll find yourself in awe of the sights around you.

Outdoor activities

Durmitor National Park is home to 48 mountain peaks and over 100 miles of hiking trails. It makes for the perfect escape from city life and the daily grind. You can hike for an hour or two on trails like the Black Lake and Zminje Lake Combo trail, or take an entire day on ones like the Zabljak Knob trail. If you want to climb the park's highest mountain, trek up the 6.1 mile Bobotov Kuk trail. You'll find breathtaking views along the way, not just at the peak.

If you're visiting in the summer months and want to take a dip, you've got 18 lakes to choose from, including the park's largest, Crno Jezero. You can rent a kayak or canoe and spend an afternoon paddling about. If you want something a little bit more thrilling, get your heart rate going with whitewater rafting or zip lining on the Tara River.

Peak months and where to stay

Peak season takes place May through October. It'll be busier, but it's worth it amid all the activities you can engage in. If you're an avid skier though, the winter months are ideal for you. You can head to Žabljak Ski Resort to hit the slopes. Regardless of the season, the entrance fee to Durmitor National Park is three euros.

You can camp in the park near Crno Jezero for three to five euros per day. If you're looking for something a little bit comfier, you can stay in the nearby town of Žabljak. Casa Di Pino is a great lodge to stay in. They have a spa, a lounge, and more, making it an ideal place to relax after a full day in the park. Hotel Soa is another gem in the area. In addition to a spa and comfy accommodations, they can help you build itineraries.

Next time you're looking to reconnect with nature on your next European vacation, Durmitor National Park in Montenegro could be just the spot for you.