Podgorica Historic, Safari and Winery tour – Skadar lake

If you’re considering a day trip that combines a bit of Montenegro’s history, nature, and a good splash of local wine, this Podgorica Historic, Safari, and Winery tour might just be what you’re looking for. Designed as a private experience, it promises a well-rounded snapshot of the countryside, offering scenic views, cultural insights, and a taste of Montenegrin wine — all in about seven hours.

What immediately catches your eye is the diversity packed into this tour. You’re not just ticking off a few sites; you’re probably going to feel like you’ve dipped into several different facets of Montenegro’s soul. The other thing that stands out? The glowing reviews that highlight knowledgeable guides, stunning vistas, and memorable wine tastings.

That said, a potential consideration is the tour’s pace and the fact that it involves quite a few stops. If you’re someone who prefers a very relaxed, unhurried pace or has mobility issues, it’s worth noting. But overall, this tour seems best suited for curious travelers who want an engaging, varied day out with plenty of opportunities for photos, culture, and local flavors.

Key Points

• Diverse itinerary offers a balance of history, nature, and wine tasting.
• Private group experience ensures personalized attention and flexibility.
• Guided by knowledgeable English-speaking guides who share insights and stories.
• Spectacular views from several lookout points, particularly Pavlova viewpoint.
• Includes wine tasting at a small, organic Mrkan vineyard, a highlight for wine lovers.
• Duration of 7 hours makes it a full but manageable day trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Experience

This tour is a neat way to get a sense of Montenegro’s countryside without feeling overwhelmed. It starts with a drive out of Podgorica, heading towards Zabljak Crnojevica, an ancient fortress site. Although the castle itself is abandoned, its walls stand as a reminder of Montenegro’s medieval past and offer a unique photo backdrop. We loved the way the guide shared stories about the Crnojevic ruling family, adding depth to the site.

From there, the trip moves into the natural beauty of Bisevina savanna, home to hundreds of wild horses. This might be one of the most unexpected and memorable parts of the day. Watching these majestic animals roam freely in open grasslands really gives you that sense of connection with Montenegro’s wild side. The landscape here is vast and peaceful, perfect for some unhurried picture-taking and just soaking in the scenery.

Next, you’ll visit the historic village of Virpazar and Fort Besac. The fort offers sweeping views of Skadar Lake, which is rightly considered one of the scenic jewels of Montenegro. Sitting inside the fort, you can enjoy a coffee or drink while gazing at the lake below — a moment that many travelers find quietly magical. The views are panoramic and give you a great sense of this area’s quiet grandeur.

Following that, the tour continues along a scenic road hugging the edge of Skadar Lake, with a brief stop at Macalov Brijeg viewpoint. From here, you’ll get a breathtaking, wide-angle view of the lake’s shimmering waters and lush surroundings. It’s perfect for some memorable photos or just taking a breath of fresh air.

The highlight for many is the visit to the village of River Crnojevica, one of Montenegro’s oldest settlements. Here, you’ll walk around old streets, see the iconic Old Bridge, and explore local etno restaurants and cultural spots. The peaceful vibe of this place is truly enchanting. The guide points out the significance of the river and its historic connection to the region, enriching your visit.

From River Crnojevica, the tour takes you to Pavlova viewpoint, acknowledged as one of the top panoramic spots in the country. Looking out over the river and lake, you’ll realize why this landscape is so treasured. It’s a moment to pause, reflect, and capture some stunning photos.

The day wraps up with a visit to Mrkan winery, a small, private wine producer dedicated to organic methods. Here, you’ll indulge in wine tasting — an experience many reviews describe as exceptional. The wines are carefully crafted and showcase Montenegro’s potential as a wine country. The tasting session is intimate, and the guide is happy to share insights into the production process and what makes their wines special.

Finally, the tour concludes in the village of Karuc. It’s a quiet, peaceful spot with incredible views of Skadar Lake, perfect for ending on a relaxed note and letting the tranquility sink in.

In-Depth Look at the Stops

Zabljak Crnojevica

Although the fortress here is abandoned, its presence speaks volumes about Montenegro’s medieval past. The guide’s stories help bring the ruins to life, making it more than just a photo stop. It’s about understanding the historical importance of this site and appreciating the landscape that surrounds it.

Bisevina savanna

This part of the journey stands out because of the wild horses. Watching these animals in their natural environment is a rare treat. The open grasslands feel expansive, and it’s a good reminder of Montenegro’s less-trodden, unspoiled natural corners.

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Virpazar & Fort Besac

The ancient fort offers a dramatic vantage point over Skadar Lake. The coffee inside the fort adds a cozy touch, and the panoramic view is worth the slight climb. It’s a good mix of history, scenery, and local life.

Pavlova viewpoint & Macalov Brijeg

The drive around Skadar Lake includes some of the best scenic outlooks, especially from Pavlova viewpoint. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to take your time, soak in the view, and maybe snap a few photos.

River Crnojevica & Old Village

This part of the tour emphasizes Montenegro’s cultural roots. Walking around the old village gives you a glimpse into traditional life and the historic importance of the river. The Old Bridge is a perfect photo spot and a symbol of the area’s connectivity.

Mrkan winery

This small vineyard’s organic approach means you enjoy wines that are crafted with care. The tasting experience is relaxed, informative, and a highlight for wine enthusiasts. The fact that it’s a private, family-run operation makes it feel more authentic.

Karuc Village

Ending the day in Karuc offers a peaceful retreat. The serene views of Skadar Lake and the quiet ambiance make it a fitting finale. It’s a spot to sit back, reflect on your day, and just enjoy the simple beauty.

What’s Included and What You Should Know

For roughly 7 hours, you get a well-rounded experience that covers history, scenery, and wine. The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, a knowledgeable English-speaking guide, bottled water and snacks, and wine tasting at Mrkan winery. Coffee or tea is also part of the experience, adding a comforting touch.

Notably, lunch is not included but can be arranged if you wish. This gives you flexibility — you might find yourself craving a local meal or just want to relax with a picnic. The tour is private, which means less rushing and more personalized attention.

The starting times vary, so you’ll want to check availability in advance, and the tour can be canceled up to 24 hours beforehand for a full refund, adding peace of mind if your plans change.

Practical Tips and Final Thoughts

What to bring: outdoor clothing is recommended, especially if you want to get a good look at the views or walk around the villages. Comfortable shoes are also a good idea, as some stops involve walking.

Price and value: While the cost isn’t specified here, considering the private group setting, multiple scenic stops, and wine tasting, it offers good value for a day packed with variety and expert guides. Many travelers find the experience worth it based on the reviews, especially for the knowledgeable guides and stunning vistas.

Who is this for? If you’re into exploring Montenegro’s scenic countryside, appreciate history and culture, and enjoy a good wine, this tour hits all those marks. It’s suitable for those who prefer a moderate pace, with enough time at each stop to appreciate the surroundings without feeling rushed.

Final Thoughts

This Podgorica Historic, Safari, and Winery tour strikes a fine balance between cultural insight, natural beauty, and enjoyable tasting experiences. The positive reviews underscore the importance of good guides and memorable views, making it clear that this is a well-organized and satisfying way to see Montenegro’s less accessible treasures.

While it’s a fairly full day, many find it perfectly manageable and deeply rewarding. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or wine enthusiast, there’s likely something here that will resonate with you.

If you’re after an immersive, flexible, and scenic adventure just outside Podgorica, this tour offers a thoughtfully curated taste of Montenegro’s diverse charm.

FAQ

Is lunch included in the tour? No, lunch is not included but can be organized if you prefer. It gives you the flexibility to choose where and when to eat.

How long is the tour? The experience lasts around 7 hours, making it a full but comfortable day trip.

Is the tour private? Yes, it’s designed for private groups, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility.

What’s the main highlight? Many travelers rave about the wine tasting at Mrkan winery and the panoramic views from Pavlova viewpoint.

Do I need to prepare anything? Just bring outdoor clothing suitable for walking and sightseeing. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Absolutely, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which keeps your plans flexible.

You can check availability for your dates here: