OSTROG MONASTERY - SKADAR LAKE CRUISE
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OSTROG MONASTERY - SKADAR LAKE CRUISE
After breakfast, the road takes you through Cetinje or Sutomore, Podgorica to Nikšić, and then on a steep winding road to one of the largest and most important shrines in Europe, where believers of all religions come from all over the world.
Touring the Ostrog monastery will make you feel inspired that day.
In the harsh, rocky environment of the Ostroška Greda rock, between Danilovgrad and Nikšić, high above the Bjelopavlić plain and the Zeta River, shines Ostrog Monastery. Even though the foundation of this monastery was laid by hermits, its true founder is considered to be Saint Basil of Ostrog (Vasilije Jovanović), Bishop of Zahumlje and Herzegovina, who in the second half of the 17th century arrived here from Tvrdoš Monastery (Trebinje). The monastery complex includes the lower and upper monasteries. The position of the upper monastery is impressive, with two churches in caves, constructed inside the steep rock: one was constructed in 1665 and painted in 1667, whereas the other (the date of its construction is not known), which has also been painted, is home to the relics of Saint Basil. The belief in the wonderous power of his relics made this place one of the most visited sanctuaries not only in Montenegro and the region, but in Europe.
Return via Podgorica, to Virpazar - a town with three bridges, from where we depart by boat for a trip on the lake.
Lake Skadar is one of those places that leave you breathless. Lake Skadar is the largest lake in the Balkans. Since 1983, the lake has been a National Park. It is home to more than 52 fish species (carp, bleak, eel…) and 280 bird species, the largest wetland bird reservation in Europe, and the last habitat of the pelican, with many blooming white and yellow water lilies. The many island lakes are home to old fortresses and medieval monasteries, and the fishing villages are hidden in protected coves. These are typical winegrowing villages where every household grows the Vranac grape variety and makes the famous Crmnica wine. Grmožur Fortress is also known as ”Montenegrin Alcatraz”. Today, it is home to cormorants and pelicans.
Swimming and lunch are possible at a fairytale place - the beach, which can only be reached by boat.
In the evening, return to the hotel and have free time to walk around the city.
