If there’s one place in Montenegro that feels like it belongs in a fantasy movie, it’s Black Lake (Crno Jezero) in Žabljak — a spot where nature shows off in every possible season. Wrapped in layers of pine forest and guarded by the mighty peak of Međed, the lake is actually a duo: Veliko and Malo Lake, two brothers connected by a narrow passage that appears and disappears depending on the season.
A Touch of History & Legend
Black Lake has always been more than just a postcard. Back in the day, local shepherds believed the lake was bottomless because of its deep shades of turquoise and dark blue. There’s also an old legend that a giant bear (hence the name “Međed” for the mountain above) once guarded the forests around the lake — a reminder that Durmitor was always the wild heart of Montenegro.
Nature: A Wild, Living Museum
This place is a paradise for those who love a bit of wilderness. Flora: Ancient black pines, the rare Durmitor spruce, wild berries, mountain flowers, and endless shades of green that turn golden in autumn. Fauna: If you’re lucky, you might spot foxes, owls, woodpeckers, or even the elusive chamois high above. The waters are home to trout, and the surrounding forest is full of birdsong for most of the year.
How to Get There
Getting to Crno Jezero is pretty straightforward: From Žabljak town center, it’s only about a 30-minute walk through a forest trail that feels like a fairytale. If you’re driving, simply follow the signs toward the Durmitor National Park entrance — parking is available right before the walking path. From the entrance, a beautiful paved path circles the lake, making it perfect for strollers, families, and relaxed hikers.
What to Do Once You’re There
Walk the full loop around the lake (3.5 km). Rent a wooden boat in summer. Try local cuisine at nearby mountain restaurants. Hike deeper into Durmitor if you crave adventure.
Two Seasons, Two Different Worlds
Summer wraps Black Lake in shimmering emerald reflections and the gentle glide of wooden boats, while winter reshapes the entire landscape into a silent white kingdom where even time seems to slow down. Each season reveals a completely different personality — and both are unforgettable in their own way.
