Durmitor & Northern Mountains

Durmitor and the Northern Mountains offer a complete change of pace and climate from the coast, making it an essential stop for nature-loving families. Centered around the town of Žabljak—the highest town in the Balkans—this region features dramatic limestone peaks, glacial lakes known as "mountain eyes," and deep pine forests. Even in the height of summer, temperatures here remain pleasant and nights are cool enough for light jackets, providing a welcome respite for children struggling with the seaside heat. The landscape is vast and open, allowing kids to run freely in green meadows filled with wildflowers.

The crown jewel for families is the Black Lake (Crno Jezero), located just a short walk from Žabljak's center. A flat, shaded path circles the lake, dotted with benches and picnic spots, making it accessible even for off-road strollers. Nearby, the Tara River Canyon, the deepest in Europe, offers spectacular sights. The majestic Đurđevića Tara Bridge is a thrill to walk across, and families with older children can try the zip lines running parallel to it. For a truly memorable experience, book a family rafting tour on the Tara River; summer water levels are typically low and gentle, turning the river into a fun, splashing turquoise highway suitable for kids as young as four or five.

Accommodation in the north often consists of cozy A-frame wooden cabins or "etno selo" (ethno villages) where families can experience traditional mountain living. Food here is hearty and organic—don't miss the kačamak (a cheesy cornmeal porridge) and fresh sour milk, which provide plenty of energy for hiking. Besides Durmitor, the nearby Biogradska Gora National Park offers one of Europe's last three primeval forests, with an extremely accessible lake walk that feels like stepping into a fairy tale. Whether it's spotting squirrels, picking wild berries, or riding the chairlift to Savin Kuk for panoramic views, the north reconnects families with nature in its purest form.