The mountains of Prokletije form the newest National Park of Montenegro, founded in 2009. The name “Prokletije” means Accursed Mountains, referring to their wild and challenging nature. They are difficult both to live here and to climb. This is a piece of real wild nature, and it is a fine choice if you want to enjoy nature and stay away from crowds. These mountains are part of the border between Montenegro and Albania, and from the Albanian side, this is a national park as well.
The best time to visit Prokletije is from May to September (or October, depending on the weather). In the winter months, many trails are closed and not accessible.
The highest mountain in Montenegro, Zla Kolata (2,534 meters high), is a part of Prokletije National Park.
There are three possible start locations for your adventures in Prokletije. First, you can stay in Plav, an interesting town, mostly known for its Lake Plav and several cultural attractions (for example, Kula Redžepagića). Another two possible start locations are Gusinje and Vusanje, both belonging to Gusinje municipality. They are closer to the main hiking trails and attractions of Prokletije, so they can be more convenient to stay in. The region of Gusinje is different from other parts of Montenegro. Mostly Albanians live here, mainly still engaged in farming. The rhythm of life is quite slow, and it is very quiet.
Please note that though you can get to Plav or Gusinje by bus, travelling in Prokletije having a car (or rent-a-car) will be generally much easier.
Don’t miss a chance to try local cuisine while staying in Plav or Gusinje.
Very close to Gusinje (about 1.5 km), you will find Ali Pasha Springs, the largest karst springs in Montenegro. The water here is cold all year long, so it is fine to get a refreshment. The springs are named after Ali Pasha, the governor of this territory in 19 century, who was also the leader of the Albanian troops. There are many legends about this place, like that some gold coins were hidden here, and if you are lucky, you can find them.
Near Vusanje, the river Skakavica meets the Vusanj stream, and they form the river Grlja. This river forms a fantastic canyon with a waterfall known as Grlja waterfall. In summer, there is usually not so much water here, though the canyon looks stunning! But at the end of spring, the flow here can be really strong.
Oko Skakavice (Grasshopper’s Eye in English, sometimes called the Blue Eye) is the real wonder of Prokletije National Park. It is a karst spring with a unique water colour. It is about 25 meters wide and quite deep. The water here is always cold, but some brave people swim here in summer. Forest surrounds this place from all sides. It is pleasant to sit here, relax, and enjoy the water colour.
There are two main valleys in Prokletije: Ropajana Valley and Grebaje Valley. They are not far from each other, so you can visit both. Grebaje Valley is the start of hiking trails to the peaks of Volušnica, Popadija, and Talijanka (this is often called the Three Peaks Trail).
Ropojana Valley goes till the border with Albania, and while walking through it, you’ll see breathtaking mountain views, waterfalls, etc. Near the Albanian border, there is a Ropojana Lake, which is seasonal and usually dry in summer. Anyway, the views are worth going to the border!