Category Archives: Tadejin Blog

Moje petdnevno potovanje v čezmejni prostor med Črno goro in Srbijo se prične pri kanjonu reke Tare, ki velja s svojimi tudi do 1.300 m globine za najglobljega v Evropi. Rezervat reke Tare je pod zaščito Unesca in je resnično osupljiv. Imenujejo ga tudi solza Evrope. Obiskovalce s celega sveta navdušuje ponudba raftinga, zanimiva je tudi mogočna konstrukcija mostu, imenovanega Djurdjevica Tara, nekaj kilometrov stran od kraja Pljevlja.

Slavni most Djurdjevica Tara; Fotografija: Tadeja Leskovšek

Kraj Pljevlja, katerega simbol je lastovka, me sicer s svojimi industrijskimi objekti nekoliko preseneti, vendar očara vzdušje v starem mestnem jedru in čudovit park Vodice, ki velja za enega najlepših v Črni gori. Sprehod po parku je nadvse sproščujoč. Od tod se namenim do znane razgledne točke s pogledom na meandre reke Čehotine, v kateri se domačini poleti radi kopajo. Moja končna postaja tega dne je eko kamp Djogaška Vrela, kjer se dan v družbi gosi, kokoši in koz prevesi v večer in želodec prijazno zahvali gostiteljici, ki je pripravila slastno večerjo s postrvmi, domačim kruhom in zelenjavo z njenega vrta.

V novem jutru je prvi cilj soteska Djalovici pri Bijelem Polju. To je del države, ki je poznan po kraških pojavih in v bližnji prihodnosti bo na voljo sodobna infrastruktura za ljubitelje podzemnega sveta.

Vražji Firovi; Fotografija: Željko Madzgalj

Nadaljujem proti kraju Rožaje, od koder grem naravnost proti legendarnemu domu kulture oz. restavraciji s prenočišči Dermandoo, posebej poznanem po dobri hrani in ambientu. Ime je dobila po planini Dermando, za katero legenda pravi, da so na njej pokopani trije dobri ljudje, ki varujejo Rožaje pred vsemi zlimi pojavi.

Če se boste nahajali v Rožajah, boste zagotovo slišali za znanega lokalnega planinskega vodiča Semirja Kardovica. Nas je pospremil na Brahim Brijeg, od koder se lepo vidi planina Hajla, del gorskega masiva Prokletije, tudi nacionalnega parka. Uživam v lepotah narave okoli sebe – vse povsod je polno gorskega cvetja in aromatičnih nizkih borovcev.

Pogled na goro Hajla; Fotografija: Tadeja Leskovšek

Nov dan me povede čez mejo na srbsko stran, v kraj Tutin. Od tam pa preko vasi Draga na Mokro Goro v čudovito divjo naravo, ki je v zgodnjem jesenskem času odeta v pisane barve in polna gozdnega jagodičevja. Nadvse prijazno me na to goro povedejo člani planinskega društva Beleg. Vas Mokra Gora, ki se sicer nahaja nekoliko stran, je bila leta 2021 uvrščena v skupino najboljših turističnih vasi s strani Svetovne turistične organizacije pri Združenih narodih.

Mokra Gora; Fotografija: Ervin Hadžić

Naslednji dan se iz Tutina odpravim v smeri kraja Sjenica do planote Pešter, ki velja za eno največjih evropskih visoko-ležečo planot – nekako tako kot Tibet v Aziji. S svojim prostranstvom in veličino je nadvse fascinantna. Zaradi izjemne biotske raznovrstnosti, je Peštersko polje razglašeno za specialni naravni rezervat in vključeno v mednarodne mreže za zaščito rastlin, ptic in metuljev. Ob Pešterskem jezeru opazujem ptice, ki se tukaj počutijo varno. Vzpetina Trojan, ki se vzdiguje nad Pešterskim poljem, je povezana z ugibanji o obstoju bogumilskega mesta, saj so v njeni bližini odkrili stečke -bogumilske kamnite nagrobnike. Zanimiva je tudi legenda o Gutavici – krpici prekletega gozda, iz katerega si domačini ne upajo vzeti niti storža ali iglice, da jih ne bi doletela nesreča.

Konji v Djerekarah; Fotografija: Tadeja Leskovšek

Zadnji dan mojega potovanja po teh manj poznanih krajih starodavnega turškega Sanžaka se namenim v Prijepolje, prijetno mesto ob reki Drini. V Srbiji je Prijepolje poznano predvsem po čudoviti freski belega angela v samostanu Mileševa, kjer je na voljo tudi veliko prenočišč. Mene pa pot v družbi ljubiteljev narave združenja Jadovnik zanese na planino Jadovnik, kjer upravljajo krmilnico in opazovalnico za divjad in ptice. Do krmilnice radi pridejo medvedi, volkovi, lisice in jastrebi. Neokrnjena divja narava v tem delu Evrope je res navdih, ki obljublja možnosti razvoja kakovostnega trajnostnega turizma.

Beloglavega jastreba je pogosto mogoče ujeti v objektiv v tem prostoru; Fotografija: Vjekoslav Joksimović

Teden dni potepanja med mogočnimi planinami, prijetnimi starimi mesti in veličastnimi svetišči.

Karanfili; fotografija: Igor Stojović

Nacionalni park Prokletije / Bjeshkët e Nemuna se razprostira čez tri države: Črno goro, Kosovo in Albanijo. Gre za manj poznano gorsko destinacijo, ki je ohranila svojo prvinskost zlasti zato, ker se nahaja na nekoč strogo varovani meji med nekdanjo Jugoslavijo in Albanijo.

V obeh jezikih govorimo o t.i. “prekletih” planinah. Zakaj? O tem kroži več legend. Meni se je najbolj vtisnila tista o treh sinovih, ki so se zaljubili v prečudovito vilo. V bitki za njeno naklonjenost so vsak na svoj način dočakali svoj žalostni konec. Njihova mati, ki je izvedela za usodno vilo, jo je poiskala in preklela njeno lepoto.

Lepota je vseeno ostala v pokrajini, ki jo razkrivajo nekoliko surove gore, prostrane livade s katuni, kjer poleti domačini prebivajo s svojimi čredami, navdihujoča jezera, kot tudi neverjetno prijazni in skromni ljudje.

Plavsko jezero; fotografija: Tadeja Leskovšek

Med jezeri velja posebej omeniti Plavsko jezero, priljubljeno med plavalci. Gre za največje črnogorsko ledeniško jezero, ki je obenem tudi pretočno, saj se v njem voda v celoti zamenja v štirih dneh. Priljubljeno je tudi za ribolov – že več let zapored v začetku julija tu poteka evropsko prvenstvo v muharjenju. Okopati se je tu mogoče zlasti v poletnih mesecih. Hridsko jezero, na drugi strani, pa kiti legenda, da kopanje v njem prinaša večno lepoto.

Plavsko jezero; fotografija: Arben Lila

Na tem majhnem čezmejnem prostoru sobivajo pravoslavni, katoliški kristjani in muslimani. V Juniku na Kosovu nas tako prijazni skrbniki popeljejo po prelepi Sufijski mošeji Alijjei – Halvetije Xhaferije, kjer je mogoče tudi prenočiti. Nedaleč stran pa lahko občudujemo veličasten samostan Visoki Dečani, največjo UNESCO-vo kulturno dediščino človeštva na tem koncu sveta. V bližini samostana smo se ustavili še pri naravnem izviru mineralne vode.

Samostan Visoki Dečani

Večina obiskovalcev pri tem spregleda očarljivo mesto Deçan / Dečani , kjer je mogoče v okoliških vaseh Insiq, Junik in Drenoc spoznati arhitekturno posebnost teh krajev: kulo. Več lepo prenovljenih kul pripoveduje zgodbo o tem, kako so po tradiciji v pritličju bivale živali, v prvem nadstropju ženske z otroki, v gornjem nadstropju pa so modrovali moški člani skupnosti. Kule so dandanes preurejene v prijetne penzione in hostle, v katerih vam postrežejo z lokalnimi dobrotami, zlasti sirom, medom in rakijo. 

Kulla v vasi Drenoc, Kosovo; fotografija: Tadeja Leskovšek

Prav posebno pozornost pa zasluži Kula Redžepagića v Plavu v Črni gori, ki je kulturni spomenik in velja za eno najbolj fotografiranih zgodovinskih zgradb v državi.

Kula Redžepagića v Plavu, fotografija: Igor Stojović

Nekajdnevno raziskovanje v okolici Plava je lepo obogatiti tudi z obiskom Gusinj in Rožaj. Oba kraja sta iztočnica za kulinarično razvajanje in pohodniške podvige. Zlasti planina Hajla slovi po cvetočih livadah.

Spet na drugi strani meje nas Gjakova / Gjakovë preseneti s svojim živahnim, ustvarjalnim vzdušjem. Staro mestno jedro je posejano s privlačnimi kavarnami, vinskimi kletmi in restavracijami. Poletne večere že nekaj let bogati festival stand-up komedije. Tudi sicer so domačini poznani kot največji duhoviteži na Kosovu. Vzdušje v Prizrenu prav tako ne razočara. Prizrenski mednarodni festival dokumentarnega in kratkega filma “DokuFest” je postal prava uspešnica.

Teden dni potepanja po Nacionalnem parku Prokletije / Bjeshkët e Nemuna in njegovi slikoviti okolici je vsekakor ostane v spominu kot nepozabna izkušnja v pristnem stiku z domačini in veličastni naravi.

Sufijska mošeja v Juniku; fotografija: Tadeja Leskovšek

Written by Tadeja L. Colnar

1. Rock-hewn Churches

Lalibela is one of Ethiopia’s most iconic destinations. The UNESCO enlisted rock-cut monolithic churches of king Lalibela have been built over 800 years ago. There are 11 churches located within this amazing cultural heritage complex.
Back in the early 4th Century, several Ethiopian ethnic groups were among the first ones that adopted Christianity. The four kings of Zagwe dynasty left some remarkable traces in ancient Ethiopia. The most famous of them was king Lalibela.

2. Festivals

Festivals in Lalibela are immersive, wholeheartedly embraced by locals, rich in tradition, picturesque and vividly distinctive. In short, they are a must experience.

3. Lalibela Artisans

The legend says that all Lalibela churches were built by king Lalibela himself with the help of angels. An alternative interpretation by historians and scientists would be that it took anywhere between 10 to 40 thousand people to build 11 churches in 23 years.

These hand-crafting skills are still in the genes of Lalibelian people. Pottery makers, weavers, leather goods producers are spotted all around the place.

Leather products by Tadesse                                 Crafts by St. Lalibela Association

Handicrafts by Desta Association

4. Lalibela Painters

King Lalibela is also recognized for paintings which adorn some of the churches. Nowadays, Lalibela has an emerging art scene, waiting to be explored. We met numerous local painters who inspire with love and passion for their art.

 Art by Hailemariam Tadesse

Art by Smachew Mesfin

Art by Tizazu

5. Peace

A place with over 800 years of continuous spiritual ceremonies is almost impossible to find anywhere else in the world. Somehow, it seems that Lalibela is impregnated with peace, also reflected in local people.

Our trusted guide Endayene Ayalew

6. People

Though, this might change with further tourism development, we were particularly charmed by people of Lalibelia. Drivers, guides, hotel owners, receptionists, waitresses, artisans, people on the streets, young and old, most of them radiating unique calmness, kindness and warmth.

7. Great Hikes

Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy hikes to surrounding mountains, reaching over 3,000 m.a.s.l.. One of our favourites was the hike to Asheten Mariam church high in the mountains above Lalibela where king Lalibela’s prayers to locate the rock-hewn churches from his vision had been heard. 

8. Amazing Vistas

Nature paints each season in its own colours. After a rainy period, in September and October, the landscape turns green, while in the beginning of the year earthy brown colors dominate. Mainly uninhabited valleys look magnificent from nearby hills, witnessing spectacular performances of the sun and clouds.

9. Honey

Ethiopia is known to be the biggest producer of honey in Africa and Lalibela is its honey capital. The land of “honey-eaters” which is the meaning of the word Lalibela, offers delicious varieties of honey in all tastes and colours, from near-white through yellow, gold, amber, dark brown, either liquid or creamed. Delicious!

10. Coffee Ceremonies and Great Organic Food

We tried several simple street coffee shops, decorated with grass on the floor and incensed with a pleasant odour of burning wood. Their coffee was without any exception always tasty.

We were also lucky to enjoy local cuisine at Honey Land Hotel, made from fresh ingredients, served with care.

Lalibela is one of those rare places in the world where tourism is still truly authentic, where moments are savoured and where inner peace is a value!

Good to know:

There are several morning flights to Lalibela from Addis Ababa, operated by Ethiopian Airlines. Lalibela and Gondar are also well connected. Special discount can be obtained, if your international flight is operated by Ethiopian Airlines.

End of September is a good time for visiting Lalibela. After the rainy season, the landscape turns green. October is one of the peak seasons. Lalibela is also very popular among Ethiopians for Christmas celebrations in January.

Foreign visitors’ entrance fee of 50$ to Lalibela churches is valid for 5 days. To comprehend the amazing story behind the churches, it is highly recommendable to explore them with local guides. 

Cliffs of Moher are Ireland’s number one natural tourist sight, attracting more than 1.5 million visitors annually. Reaching the maximum height of 214 meters below the O’Brien’s Tower, they are truly a beautiful natural spectacle.

We were recommended to reserve half a day for exploring several walking trails on the cliffs which was fun.
On our way back we popped into a visitor centre where we were positively surprised by a dynamic and interactive exhibition, offering plenty of information for adults and children alike.

Nature conservation is a big topic there. Local conservators brought it to a very high level. Together with tourism service providers they are committed to making the area a premier worldwide destination for responsible tourism. They are effectively managing and communicating information about waste recycling, energy and water usage per visitor, promoting and educating about “leave no trace” ethics. Even the toilets are showcasing eco facts!

However, traveling to western Ireland only for a couple of hours of cliffs’ experience sounded a bit limiting to us. We were looking for a more authentic experience which would allow us to get beneath the surface of the destination.

And here comes the Burren! Together with the Burren, Cliffs of Moher were awarded UNESCO recognized Global Geopark status seven years ago. As they say, it’s about people, place, learning and livelihood.

The Burren Smokehouse was the place where we tasted delicious cold smoked organic Irish salmon with seaweed and a honey-glazed variation with whiskey and fennel. Mouth-watering!

The Burren Perfumery makes perfumes inspired by the local landscape. And there are many more inspirational stories in the Burren, such as: the Moher stone, the Doolin Chocolate Shop, Linnalla Ice-Cream, several exhibitions and thematic events etc.

Our beautiful planet is full of amazing natural sites. Memorable authentic travel is only possible when people and places go hand in hand together, treating each other with respect. This proves to be the critical link between authentic and responsible tourism.

7 Half-Day Trips from Podgorica

Though a small country, Montenegro has been blessed with cultural richness and immense natural beauty. Its capital Podgorica is rarely chosen as a primary tourist destination, however its central location can be a good base for exploring the country.

Whether you’re visiting on your own or with family and friends, here are my picks for 7 half-day trips. You can either take them in the morning, or in the afternoon and still be back early enough to attend your meetings or experience the buzzing nightlife of the Podgorica city. No ranking here, each of these trips has a charm of its own.

Skadar Lake and Rijeka Crnojevica

Skadar lake is an ancient tectonic lake. Numerous scientific studies have revealed that several European freshwater animal species originate from there. Skadar lake is also one of the largest bird reserves in Europe and, among other birds, pelicans can be spotted there.

Skadar Lake; Photo by Nino M. Markovic

Skadar Lake boat trips, lasting from 2 to 6 hours, are bringing a new dimension to out-of-town getaways. Silent boats, sliding over the beautiful lake, covered with waterlilies and other aquatic plants, are circling tiny islands, called Gorice, Mala & Velika Čakovica, Andrijska Mountain and Grmožur, the latter also known as the Montenegrin Alcatraz. Yet another trip will take you to the magnificent Kom Monastery, built between 1415 and 1427. In hot summer days you might want to combine a boat trip with a short hike to the waterfalls in nearby Poseljani and jump into fresh waters. Birdwatchers will enjoy Dodosi, delta of the river Morača and above all, Manastirska Tapija, an ornithological reserve.

Biodiversity protection is of vital relevance to the lake and we recommend a trusted nature-sensitive boat operator Skadar Lake Boat ‘Milica’.

An alternative heritage & culinary colored trip can be experienced by visiting another town on the shores of the lake: Rijeka Crnojevica – hiking or biking to a couple of traditional villages and tasting an authentic meal either at ‘gumno’ or ‘konoba’. The ‘wine route’, as well as, the ‘cheese road’ call for unique experiences. Check out Your Montenegro Agency website.

Rijeka Crnojevica; Photo: Nino M. Markovic

Donkey Farm Martinici

Donkeys have a special place in Montenegrin rural heritage. However, modern agricultural technology replaced them. Darko Saveljic, the ‘founding father’ of the farm, is a passionate nature lover who saved several indigenous female donkeys (jennets) from maltreatment and abandonment by opening his farm. Martinici Donkey Farm is probably one of the most nature-friendly donkey farms in the world.

Donkey Farm Martinici; Photo by Tadeja L. Colnar

Only a 20-30 min drive from Podgorica brings you to a great place for children (and adults) to see these animals, learn about beneficial effects of donkey milk, enjoy the countryside and get inspired for nature protection. Donkeys are also great ‘therapists’. Children will certainly enjoy touching and combing them and designing funny hairstyles from their hair. Free hippo-therapy can be individually arranged for children with symptoms of autism.

The farm is open every Sunday 10.00-13.00, entrance fee is 1 kg of donkey feed, such as: apples, carrots and similar. Group visits can also be arranged.

Panoramic Route ‘Krug oko Korita’

Stellar natural spots with amazing vistas over the river Cijevna, Podgorica and Albanian Alps are to be experienced on the designated circular path ‘Krug oko Korita’. By walking only a section of this panoramic route for about 1.5-2 hours, you reach spectacular Falcon’s Throat (Grlo Sokolovo). Kucka Korita, the starting point of this hiking tour, are located 38 km from Podgorica. Maps are available on the Tourism Board Podgorica web site or at the visitors’ centers.

Viewpoint ‘Falcon’s Throat’ (Grlo Sokolovo) on Krug Oko Korita; Photo by Nino M. Markovic

Lipa Cave

Lipa cave, located 35 km east of Podgorica, near the historic capital Cetinje, is the youngest member in the family of renowned world show caves, and the most impressive cave, open to visitors, in Montenegro. It is known that King Nikola held receptions there and Njegoš spoke of its beauty. A system of 2.5 km of passages and halls is available to visitors. Theater lighting designers have created illuminations that have a rich influence on the scene of the cave.

Lipa Cave; Photo by Tadeja L. Colnar

Families and casual visitors can enjoy a walk along the 400 m of cave corridors, admiring cave ornaments, underground lakes and majestic hallways created by nature. Adventurers and adrenaline seekers might prefer a 30 m descent from the ceiling on a rope and explore hidden corners of the cave with a professional guide. These adventures are only available, if arranged in advance. The cave is open to visitors from April till December.

River Cijevna and ‘Niagara Falls’

Taken with a pinch of famous Montenegrin humor, these ‘Niagara falls’ are much smaller than their northern American namesakes. Nevertheless, the five rivers of Podgorica are certainly an important natural asset, enriching the experience of the city. ‘Niagara falls’ on the river Cijevna are a cool out-of-the-city spot, popular among locals and less known to the visitors. On hot summer days, you can cool yourself off by jumping into calm waters. It only takes a 10 minute drive from Podgorica to Tuzi to get to the Niagara falls.

Niagara Falls on Cijevna River; Photo by Nino M. Markovic

Roman Settlement Duklja

In the northern outskirts of the city, you can visit one of the best preserved ancient historical sites in Podgorica: the Roman settlement Duklja, built in the 1st century. There’s not much tourist infrastructure on the site. It is rarely crowded so you can usually explore the old ruins on your own.

Roman Settlement Duklja; Photo by Nino M. Markovic

While being in the area you might want to visit Zenta Winery, located above the shores of Zeta river in Rogami. What began as an experimental vineyard has grown into one of the most renowned wine brands in the country. A cozy tasting room with old ceiling beams is a great place to end the day, but arrange your visit in advance.

In Front of the Cellars in Zenta Winery; Photo by Bernadette

An alternative way of approaching Duklja is an insightful 4-5-hour bike tour from the center of Podgorica, following the river Moraca to Duklja. The biking tour continues on the banks of Zeta river all the way to Danilovgrad. Montagna Agency provides you with bikes, accompanying vehicle and guides.

Free Climbing at Smokovac

If you feel like getting some air under your feet, limestone rock formations at Smokovac are the place to go. Smokovac, located 5 km Northeast of Podgorica, is a hot spot for free climbers of all levels of experience from absolute beginners to professionals. 

Smokovac Free Climbing; Photo by Mico Cerovic

Climbers are supported by a guide, using safety ropes, and provided with climbing equipment. For more information contact Montagna Agency.

***
Our home away from home has been Hotel and Restaurant Laguna, renowned for authentic cuisine that can be rarely experienced in Podgorica. Try delicious ‘priganice’ for breakfast or carp fish, eel, ‘rastan’ (green cabbage stew) or ‘japraci’ (traditional rolled green cabbage stuffed with meat and rice) for lunch or dinner. Be prepared for generous portions!

On our trips, we devoted special attention to local heritage and nature protection, thanks to our trusted and responsible tourist guide Nino M. Markovic from Montenegro Tour Guide.

                                                  Written by Tadeja L. Colnar
                                                             

Prepared within the EU-funded project ‘Laguna Heritage Tourism Cluster’ (LHTC), led by the Institute for Strategic Studies and Prognosis (ISSP).

While working on the Upper Egypt Local Development Project…

Journey to the Heart of Dandara

Ancient Egyptian sights have been attracting visitors from all over the world for centuries. However, true and sustainable treasures of this land are revealed in authentic encounters with its people in places out of sight.​

A two hour drive from the famous Luxor brought us to a less known gem among Ancient Egyptian temples, the Temple Complex in Dandara. First temples there date back to 2250 BC, but most of them were built in 360–343 BC. They are devoted to the Goddess Hathor who personifies the principles of joy, celebration, love, and motherhood. She is associated with the Greek Goddess Aphrodite and the Roman Goddess Venus. Historians say that more festivals were honoring her than any other Egyptian deity.

The Sacred Temple of Hathor

One of the major festivals took place every summer when the Goddess Hathor went on a journey from Dandara to Edfu to meet with Horus. The people of Ancient Egypt celebrated their reunion, symbolizing all that is good in life, abundance, creativity and wholeness.

Interior of the Temple

Worshiping Hathor was popular both among the poor working class of Egypt, as well as the ruling elite. As the bringer of life and comforter in death, Hathor embodied the heavenly Nile as she brought the best kind of gifts from the gods to the people of earth*. She was also a goddess of poetry and dance. No wonder that Qena and Dandara are known to be the cradle of storytelling in Egypt.

Upon arriving at the temple’s entry, we were welcomed by poetic confessions of joy and pain by some local musicians. Having experienced this performance, I am only imagining how magical a storytelling festival, organized in Qena, must have been even to the visitors not familiar with the Arabic poetry.

Simple life can be experienced in Dandara village with children running around, traders of snacks, offering their products around the corner, and old men with donkeys, carrying their grandchildren.

Donkeys are a very important mode of transportation

A small community of women has been trained and provided with seed capital to sustain jewelry making. Their necklaces, bracelets and rings are shown in local exhibitions, however meeting these women is as rewarding as appreciating their products.

The ladies behind Dandara jewelry

Back home these beautiful turquoise artisanal pieces will remain a tangible memory of my day spent with them.

My favorite Dandara jewelry seems to be inspired by Hathor, known to be ‘the Lady of Turquoise Country’

Pottery makers kindly introduced us into their production process. A simple pottery kiln is positioned in the first line of the village, overlooking the Nile. Yes, the amazing river of life deserves special attention for it significantly fills the area with an unusual sense of peace. Numerous birds, overflying its shores, speak of abundant supply for life to all species.

The River of Life

Dandara has given me the gift of authenticity, the one whose colors and fragrances stay with you for a long long time. It is the people, who uncover the character of places and there is a certain camaraderie in such encounters which transcend our cultures.

A Moment to Remember

*Sources: J. J. Mark: Hathor, 2009; and D. B. Redford: Oxford Guide to Egyptian Mythology, 2003.

Piva Lake Pearls

Embraced by mountains and enchanted by legends, Piva lake area in Northwestern Monenegro is often neglected, but well worth visiting. Piva pearls are attractive on their own and they are also a good place to make home base for exploring Durmitor and Tara.

Piva Lake; Photo: Žiga Jenko

Welcome to the Silence

We escaped the crowds and distractions of civilization by taking a half an hour boat trip from Plužine to a little lakeshore camp with appealing name ‘Ajmo u tišinu’. Talking about the trend of ‘silence tourism’, here we truly experienced it. A marked trail through the woods led us to a lookout point with a beautiful view of the lake, resembling a big star.

Do You See the Star? Photo: Žiga Jenko

Later on, in the shade of oak and hornbeam trees, we enjoyed coffee and a crackling fire while our hosts prepared lunch. Trout from Piva lake, grilled together with zucchini, peppers, tomato, and onions with home-made bread and cheese – a meal to remember!

‘Welcome to the Silence’ on the Banks of Piva Lake

Quest for Stecci

Quests in the Piva mountains are inspiring and fun. They brought us to the monumental medieval tombstones, called ‘stećci’. ‘Stećci’ are a very unique peace of cultural heritage of the cross border regions of Bosnia and Herzegovina, western Montenegro, western Serbia and central and southern Croatia. They have been recently inscribed on the UNESCO list of world cultural heritage sites.

Stećci are scattered on the meadows and in the mountains of Piva and often it seems as if they are a forgotten peace of human creation. This is exactly what makes them even more attractive. Looking for ‘stećci’ is certainly an amazing quest on its own.

The most comprehensive registration of ‘stećci’ in Piva region has been done in late 60s and 70s of the 20th century by a Bosnian researcher Šefik Bešlagić. At that time, 35 locations with altogether 787 ‘stećci’ have been evidenced.

An overture into quest for ‘stećci’ may be a visit to the guesthouse Zvono in Plužine. Their ‘in-house designer’, Vlatko Vuković, designed a map that takes you to amazing places. Following that map is a truly entertaining quest with many surprises on the way.

The next stop may be Etno-selo Izlazak close to a beautiful necropolis in Rudinice.

Medovina, the Mead

The town of Plužine is famous for tasty medovina, the mead, and Zvono’s specialities cooked in it. Legends say that the mead used to be the drink of the Gods and was considered to be the elixir of youth and immortality, the source of spiritual power and physical strength of ancient heroes.

The Mead at Zvono

Piva Monastery and Secluded Villages

An early morning stop at the remarkable Piva Monastery filled us with peace and reverence. The Monastery was built in 16th century at the spring of Piva river and although it was Christian religious center, its construction was approved by the Ottoman rulers. As a result, the church in the monastery contains a fresco depicting Savatije Sokolović (the Serbian Orthodox patriarch) and Sokollu Mehmed Pasha (Grand Vizier of the Ottoman Empire), which is an unusual rarity.

In 1982, The Piva Hydro Electric Project created a vast water reservoir. The water covered the old Plužine village, two thirds of the area’s agricultural land, and several natural hot and cold springs. Only the Piva Monastery was saved, as it was moved to a new location stone by stone together with 1,500 square meters of frescoes. Preserving this monastery was a huge undertaking for ex-Yugoslav historical conservationists.

Piva Monastery

We continued our journey to the nearby farm of Željko Mitrić, the renowned honey producer, for a delicious breakfast. His farm is overgrown with fragrant flowers and embraced by aromatic meadows. His special pear orchard contains an endemic variety of pears, called “mrkaljuša.” Some of the trees are over 100 years old. The “Mrkaljuša” is a small fruit that can be eaten fresh, but is primarily used for the production of high quality brandy and “pear water” made by a process of dipping the fresh fruit into water and aging the liquid. This bitter “pear water” is believed to be very healthy.

Hiking Durmitor Ring: Thrilling Legends and Amazing Vistas

A new day in the Piva region started with preparations for our hiking escapade in the Durmitor mountains. While approaching our starting point in the mountains, our legendary guide Mirko revealed the legend of Todor whose unfortunate love for Ružica caused the jealousy of fairies and eventually gave name to the mountain Prutaš (2.393 m.a.s.l.) – the highest peak on our hiking expedition whose rock formations resemble “fairies’ hair.”

Prutaš

Experienced local mountaineering guides share deep respect for the mountain, never underestimating its power and always admiring its breath-taking beauty. Beautiful vistas filled our spirits, but we certainly deserved a good breakfast at the top of Prutaš. For most of us, breakfast at the 2.393 m doesn’t happen very often in our lives.

On our way back to the valley we crossed the border between the regions of Piva and Drobnjak and heard about another legend of a wise old lady Baba Kruna who put an end to the endless fights about where the border should be placed. She performed a ritual with stones and said that she is standing with one foot on the Piva territory and with the other one on the Drobnjak soil. On that place people put a stone wall which still exists and is called Prespa.

Our next stop was Nedajno village, a hidden gem often neglected by tourists heading towards the regional tourist centre of Žabljak. This picturesque village has maintained its traditional appearance with houses with steep roofs and small entrances. Though we visited the village several times before, we never miss a legendary local dish, called ‘cicvara’, made of wheat, corn flour and ‘skorup’ cheese. Our host’s mother used to be the most famous shepherdess and cheese maker in the Piva region.

More Pearls to be Discovered…

We heard so much about Nevidio canyon. Tucked away and hidden in inaccessible terrain, the canyon had attracted attention and curiosity for decades. Endless strange and fantastic stories used to circulate about the last unconquered canyon in Europe. Finally, in August 1965 a band of poorly equipped adventurers from the Javorak Mounteneering and Skiing Club of Niksic successfully passed through the canyon and became the first to introduce the world to the canyon’s long hidden, wild and stunning beauty.

At the end of the Komarnica river valley at an altitude of 935 m.a.s.l. begins the canyon Nevidio or Nevidjbog as is called by locals (which means “God didn’t see” in Montenegrin). As it enters the canyon, the Komarnica river suddenly disappears through a strangely carved entrance and becomes invisible to human eye. Most of the canyon is in a perpetual shadow – due to the height of its vertical cliffs, sunlight does not reach the bottom. The canyon is a gem of rugged nature that has fascinated visitors since its discovery and this is where we are headed on our next trip to Piva region.

Crkvice: Embraced by Nature

Aromatic fragrances of the Mediterranean wild herbs are in the air as we are rising up the fragile stony stairs of an old Austro-Hungarian cinema in abandoned village of Crkvice on Orjen mountain in Montenegro. It’s amazing how nature takes over after human activities cease. Birds and other animals dwell in magnificent stony ruins.

Old horse stall in Crkvice

When I was working in Suriname I first heard of so called ‘secondary forest’. I remember my imagination soaring as I was observing how the jungle overgrew old cotton plantations.

Something similar happened here, on Orjen. Except that there are no annoying mosquitoes around and the area continues to be partially cultivated by some farmers that are still growing potatoes in tiny karst fields.

Blending history with pristine nature

Some 100 years ago, Crkvice, a vivid military settlement above Risan, has been established to protect and expand the Austro-Hungarian reign in the areas, predominantly ruled by the Turks. In its peak, Crkvice had up to 10,000 inhabitants, mainly families of Austro-Hungarian soldiers. They had all the luxury one could imagine: hotel, tennis court, bowling alley, football field with stands for 1,000 spectators, cinema, brothel, church, bakery, hospital, horse stalls, funicular to drag tree trunks from the woods etc. Altogether over 150 solid buildings were built in a relatively short period.

Path, leading to the water reservoir

The most outstanding are the ruins of the old bakery which used to be the largest bakery in the Balkans and the second largest in Europe. It provided bread for whole of Boka Kotor bay. Records show that over 24 tons were produced daily, using automated baking system and electricity created in a very sophisticated generator.

Nowadays, only stony ruins speak of the magnificence of Crkvice. Wildlife expanded, original vegetation regenerated along with old fruit trees, providing abundant food for birds and other animals.

Once the largest bakery in the Balkans, taken back by nature

Wildlife- and bird-watching in Crkvice is something unique

Our fellow traveller, Rok Rozman, ornithologist, immediately recognized some characteristic birds for Orjen and later on, along the walk, also some quite rare species. The region of Orjen is known for the biggest precipitation in Europe with the peak of it ranging from autumn to spring. Despite all, the region is surprisingly dry due to the karst surface. Limestone here reaches one of the deepest layers in the world, permitting these huge amounts of rain and snow simply vanish down into crevasses, caves and abysses only to get back to the surface, or even under the sea, in springs 1,500 meters lower in the Boka Kotor bay. This phenomenon leads to unique conditions that create very rare habitats and when combined with the forest-cowered ruins of one of the biggest settlements of its kind, you get an experience like no other.

Trying to spot birds in the bushes

Wildlife is abundant and especially birds are to be noticed at every step. Nuthatches, tree creepers and tits accompanied us at every step; we spotted many Mediterranean weathers, rock buntings and even black woodpecker. The place is also known to be incredible site for observing birds of prey in the nesting season as well as in migration. We saw a sparrow hawk, but golden eagle and short-toed eagle are to be expected and seen easily for someone, spending more time in Crkvice. The potential for birdwatching is simply amazing.

Non-governmental organisation Center for Protection and Research of Birds of Montenegro is raising awareness about exceptional richness of bird species in the area and about protection of their habitat.

Bullets near Crkvice

However, local hunters do not always respect hunting regulations and bullets can be noticed around. I trust that this will change in time with the increased awareness of local people and more and more nature lovers, visiting Boka Kotor bay, admiring its magnificent nature.

Ideas for hiking in the area

Crkvice is great for hiking as well. Though easily accessible by car – less than half an hour drive from Herceg Novi – the site is a very suitable starting point for several walking trails that lead to spectacular views and are getting very popular. Local mountaineering clubs Niskogorci and Subra are maintaining mountaineering trails on Orjen and do great job in promoting outdoor activities in the area.

I certainly don’t qualify for a professional birder. But birdwatching can be such fun! Especially, if not taken too seriously. Hours pass by listening to the sounds of nature, something that can rarely be experienced in our everyday lives. And as I had been trying my best to spot nuthatches and tree creepers, another joke from our Montenegrin guides came across. Days spent in laughter!

Upon my return home, I learned that these same enthusiasts from Niskogorci club introduced a new climbing route, called ‘nuthatch’ (brgljez), named after the only European bird that can climb head down. I just love this dedication and Montenegrin sense of humour!

New climbing route by Niskogorci

Special thanks to Nativa Institute and Rok Rozman!

Top 5 Highlights for Nature Lovers in the Boka Kotor Bay

The Old Town of Kotor, its fortifications and nearby villages have been widely publicized since Kotor made it to the list of Lonely Planet’s top picks to visit in 2016.

The wider area of the Boka Kotor Bay offers some pretty amazing experiences for nature lovers, too. We had a chance to work with environmentalists and authentic local tourism providers within a non-profit initiative, called BETSA (Birdwatching and Eco Tourism of South Adriatic) and this is what we recommend as top 5 highlights for nature lovers:

View from Orjen; Photo: Miljan Novaković

1. Tivat Salt Pans

Tivat Salt Pans, an ornithological reserve, enlisted on the Emerald and RAMSAR site, are a unique biodiversity gem. The most nature friendly ways of accessing the area are: by kayaks from Tivat, by bikes or walking a 3 km walking trail from Tivat Airport.

Tivat Salt Pans; Photo: CZIP

The natural and cultural heritage of Tivat Salt Pans is presented by young enthusiastic guides from the Center for Protection and Research of Birds (CZIP), a non-governmental organisation which is running an info point there. A variety of birds can be spotted during every season:  herons, several species of ducks, coots, snipes, woodcocks, cormorants, gulls, ibises and many more. In spring, the scenery is particularly impressive as most European species of water birds fly over the salt pans in large flocks.

Little Egret on Tivat Salt Pans; Photo: Borut Rubinić

We recommend visiting the reserve either early in the morning or later in the day, before the sunset. The lights are just amazing.

2. Exploring Mount Orjen

Vilino Guvno on Orjen; Photo: Željko Starčević

Orjen is the highest mountain range in the Mediterranean part of the Dinaric Alps. The area has been recently declared a regional park. First mountaineering trails and several fortifications date back to the 19th century, during the reign of the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy. Plateaus on Subra are majestic examples of karst micro-relief. ‘Subra amphitheatre’, for example, is a fabulous work of art by nature. Numerous speleological sites are scattered in the area.

Unique Bosnian Pine on Orjen (Pinus Heldreichii); Photo: Željko Starčević

The best way to start the exploration of the mountain is from the edge of Herceg Novi at ‘Matkovića most’, near the village Matkovići on the way from Herceg Novi to Trebinje.

A one hour hike on a stony walking trail leads to Kotobilj forest. This area, afforested back in the 30s of the 20th century, is an untouched oasis of mixed trees of Bosnian pine and cypress. There is a lot to see in the surroundings. A visit to the tiny churches of St. Peter and St. Paul, as well as, to the Church of St. Stephen is especially rewarding. It’s also nice to walk to the ‘Secret Hill’, dominating above the village of Kameno. It used to be a military fortress and nowadays, it offers an attractive blend of history and nature. From the top of this hill some of the best views over the bay can be observed along with flocks of migratory birds during spring and autumn migrations.

On the way back, a little village Trebesin is also worth visiting. The name of the village comes from the French expression of excitement: ‘tres bien’. A delicious authentic meal can be ordered in ‘konoba’ there.

3. Moonlight in Žlijebi Village

A small, almost completely abandoned Dinaric village of Žlijebi is noted for its unique stone houses with interlaced limestone roofs. Everything is built from stone in this village: poultry houses, paths, walls and even the church of St. Nikola. Nikola Sikimić, a local master of stone crafting, is one of a few left who can show you how to collect plates of limestone from the ground by hands so that they don’t break. With much care and love for this unique village he has renovated a beautiful complex of houses in traditional style that are now open to visitors.

Žlijebi Stone Houses; Photo: Tadeja L. Colnar

More than anything, simplicity and peace can be enjoyed in Žlijebi. And on a full-moon night the whole village glitters. Unforgettable!

4. Hiking Vrmac

Mount Vrmac is a peninsula, dividing Kotor Bay from Tivat Bay. On the Kotor side, it is part of the UNESCO world heritage, whereas on the side of Tivat, it is declared a regional park. Several marked walking trails that used to connect settlements and fortresses on Vrmac lead to spectacular views over the bays.

There are several options on how to hike to Vrmac. For those who prefer an easy walk, a 4-5 hour trail starts at the Austrian fortress, continues on the slopes of Vrmac to the highest peak of Sveti Ilija (St. Elijah, 785 m.a.s.l.). The views over the Kotor and Tivat Bay are stunning.

View from Vrmac; Photo: Klaudio Katelan

There is also a possibility of longer hikes, starting in the Old Town of Kotor, through Vrmac, to the village of Gornja Lastva. Local guides will help you with that. Pay special attention to the drumming sounds, made by woodpeckers, whose presence indicates highly preserved forests in this area.

Vrmac is attractive at all seasons – Camellia Festival is a spring overture to festivities in Boka. Camellias are a symbol of maritime tradition and interconnectedness with the rest of the world.
Summer is the time to enjoy Upper-Lastva Festival.
In the end of autumn/beginning of winter delicious chestnuts are the reason for another festival, called Chestnut Festival in Donji Stoliv. It’s amazing how many culinary delights can be made from this one ingredient.

5. Kotor Town Walls

Though this is one of the major attractions of Kotor, climbing the city walls just above the Old Town is a must. Rising at sunrise and avoiding crowds is certainly a good way of doing it. Nature lovers might enjoy this path a bit differently – at the very top, at the Fortress of Sveti Ivan (St John), an off-the-beaten path continues through ‘the window’ towards the village of Špiljari.

Fairy’s Doors; Photo: Klaudio Katelan

Perhaps a little ‘bar’ in the village is open and you will have the chance to taste the best pomegranate juice ever while sitting in traditional Montenegrin chairs, overlooking Vrmac, the Old Town and the sea.