If you’re looking for the best places to swim in Montenegro, Lake Skadar should be at the top of your list. As someone who has spent years exploring this magnificent lake, I can confidently say there’s no better place for swimming in Montenegro. These locations are perfect for extending your time on the water after a boat tour or planning a refreshing day of exploration along the shores of Lake Skadar.
Whether you’re seeking secluded beaches, rugged rocky pools, or tranquil spring-fed waters, this guide will help you discover the best swimming spots in Lake Skadar, Montenegro’s largest and most biodiverse lake.
Enjoy swimming in Lake Skadar as a local. Let’s dive in (no pun intended)!
In this blog post:
Pješačac Beach: A hidden paradise for swimming in Lake Skadar
Pješačac Beach is one of the most beautiful places for swimming in Lake Skadar. This secluded spot is a rare gem with its sandy beach, offering a unique experience in Montenegro’s largest lake.
Why is Pješačac Beach perfect for swimming?
Pješačac stands out because of its soft, sandy shoreline – a rarity around Lake Skadar, where rocky beaches are more common. Only accessible on foot, this spot feels like a private paradise. It’s a peaceful zone, away from the busier areas. It is ideal for those who want a quiet and intimate swimming experience. The water here is crystal clear, calm, and inviting, perfect for relaxing under the Montenegrin sun.
The surrounding greenery creates a serene atmosphere, and the lack of tourist infrastructure adds to its untouched charm. If swimming in Montenegro’s most tranquil and scenic locations is your goal, Pješačac is a must-visit.
Local tips for visiting Pješačac Beach
Pješačac Beach is a hidden gem that can only be reached on foot (or by boat), which adds to its secluded and exclusive charm. Plan your visit for the most serene experience, early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the light is perfect for capturing stunning photos, and the atmosphere is peaceful for a quiet swim.
How to get to Pješačac Beach?
Step 1: Drive to Godinje
From Virpazar, take a car and drive to the nearby village of Godinje, which is approximately a 10-minute drive (around 5 km). The road is straightforward and offers scenic views of the lake and surrounding hills. Godinje is a charming, historic village known for its traditional stone houses and vineyards. It is a great starting point for your adventure.
Step 2: Park in Godinje
Once you arrive in Godinje, you’ll need to park your car. No designated parking lots exist, but you can find spots along the village roads. Be mindful of residents and ensure you’re not blocking driveways or pathways.
Step 3: Walk to Pješačac Beach
From Godinje, it’s a short walk to Pješačac Beach. The trail is easy to follow and takes you through beautiful natural surroundings and lake views. Along the way, you’ll enjoy the peaceful ambience of the countryside and the anticipation of reaching the secluded beach.
Murići Beach: Family-friendly swimming in Montenegro
If you’re travelling with family and looking for a comfortable, easy-to-reach spot for swimming in Montenegro, Murići Beach is an excellent choice. Located on the southern shore of Lake Skadar, this beach combines accessibility with breathtaking natural beauty.
What makes Murići Beach unique and great for swimming?
Murići Beach is an extensive, sandy shoreline with shallow waters, ideal for families with children or those who enjoy wading in warm, calm waters. The surrounding landscape is stunning, with the forest of old oak and chestnut trees in the background.
Murići Beach is best described as a wild and untouched beach without toilets, showers, and changing cabins. This is one of those beaches where the occasional donkey or goat lies next to you. It is also perfectly suitable for children due to the gentle entry into the water.
Local tips for visiting Murići Beach
For travellers seeking accessible swimming spots in Montenegro, Murići Beach is a must-visit destination. Plan your visit for the most serene experience, early morning or late afternoon when the temperatures are cooler – trust me, you’ll want to miss the midday heat.
Be prepared with water, snacks, and sunscreen to enjoy your time at this tranquil spot.
How to get to Murići Beach?
Murići Beach can be reached by road from either Virpazar or Bar, offering scenic routes to this tranquil lakeside destination. From Virpazar, the drive takes about an hour along a picturesque single-lane road that winds through charming villages like Godinje and Seoce.
If you are driving from Bar, you have two options: the longer route via Ostros or the shorter one that passes through Virpazar. Both routes provide stunning views of the surrounding landscapes, making the journey as enjoyable as the destination itself.
Jakočev Krš: A hidden gem for swimming near Virpazar
Nestled along the Orahovštica River, Jakočev Krš is a beloved swimming spot for locals seeking a refreshing escape. Just a short drive from Virpazar, this serene location offers a unique swimming experience surrounded by stunning mountain backdrops. Unlike the warmer waters of Murići and Pješačac, Jakočev Krš is known for its cool, invigorating waters, making it a perfect retreat on hot summer days.
What makes Jakočev Krš unique?
The Orahovštica River provides a crisp and cool swimming experience, a stark contrast to the warmer waters of Lake Skadar. This makes it an ideal spot for those who enjoy cold-water swimming or need a refreshing dip during Montenegro’s hot summers. The swimming area is framed by dramatic mountain landscapes, creating a picturesque and tranquil environment. Whether you’re swimming or simply relaxing by the riverbank, the natural beauty of Jakočev Krš is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Unlike more tourist-heavy spots, Jakočev Krš is a place where locals gather to swim and unwind. This gives it an authentic, off-the-beaten-path charm, perfect for travellers looking to experience Montenegro like a local.
Local tips for visiting Jakočev Krš
The river’s water is significantly colder than the lake, so be ready for a brisk and refreshing swim. If you’re not used to cold water, start with short dips to acclimate. There are no facilities directly at Jakočev Krš, so pack everything you’ll need, including water, snacks, sunscreen, and a towel.
The area is most enjoyable during daylight hours when the sun warms the surrounding rocks and enhances the beauty of the mountain scenery. As a natural and relatively untouched spot, leaving no trace is essential. Take all your trash with you and avoid disturbing the local wildlife.
How to get to Jakočev Krš
Jakočev Krš is located just a short drive from Virpazar, making it easily accessible by car. The drive takes you through scenic countryside roads, offering glimpses of the lush landscapes that define the Lake Skadar region. Once you’re near the river, look for signs or ask locals for guidance to the swimming area. The spot is well-known among residents, so they’ll be happy to point you in the right direction.
There are informal parking areas near the river where you can leave your car before walking a short distance to the swimming spot.
Poseljani Village and its springs: A historical oasis for swimming
Poseljani Village is a true hidden gem for swimming in Montenegro, offering stunning natural springs and a rich historical backdrop. This nearly abandoned village, known for its old mills, is a serene and refreshing place to swim.
Why you should not miss swimming in Poseljani Village’s springs?
The springs in Poseljani are fed by cool, pure water, creating small pools and streams perfect for swimming. The water here is incredibly refreshing, especially on a hot summer day, and the natural surroundings provide a peaceful retreat.
Poseljani’s historical charm adds to its appeal. The village was once home to 14 working mills, many still standing. Swimming here feels like stepping back in time, surrounded by stone bridges and the sounds of flowing water.
Local tips for Poseljani Village
Combine your swim with a walk through the village to explore its historical ruins. The springs are cooler than the lake, so bring a towel and a change of clothes to stay comfortable after your dip.
Note: In the peak of summer, when the heat is at its maximum, Poseljani Village and Jakočev Krš may experience water shortages; during such times, only Pješačac and Murići Beach remain reliable options for swimming and cooling off.
Responsible swimming: Protect Lake Skadar’s natural beauty
As you enjoy these incredible swimming spots, it’s essential to remember the responsibility we all share in preserving the lake’s environment. Here’s how you can help:
- Use eco-friendly sunscreen: Many conventional sunscreens contain chemicals that can harm aquatic ecosystems. Opt for biodegradable or reef-safe sunscreens to minimize your impact.
- Leave no trace: This is especially important in secluded spots like Pješačac and Murići Beach, Jakočev Krš and Poseljani Village. Carry out everything you bring, including food wrappers, bottles, and other waste.
- Respect wildlife: Lake Skadar is home to delicate ecosystems. Avoid disturbing nesting birds, plants, or other wildlife near swimming areas.
- Support local communities: Many lake residents depend on sustainable tourism. By dining at local restaurants, hiring local guides, or purchasing handmade goods, you directly contribute to their well-being.
Lake Skadar isn’t just a place to swim – it’s a place to escape, unwind, and connect with nature. From the icy refreshment of Jakočev Krš to the peaceful sands of Murići Beach and the hidden beauty of Pješačac, these spots offer something special for everyone. Each one has its vibe, whether you’re looking for a cool dip in a mountain river or a quiet beach to soak up the sun. These aren’t just swimming spots; they’re little pockets of paradise waiting to be explored.
So, grab your towel, pack some snacks, and head out to discover these hidden gems. Whether you’re diving into crystal-clear waters, lounging under the sun, or taking in the breathtaking views, Lake Skadar will leave you with memories you’ll want to relive over and over again. This is Montenegro at its best – raw, beautiful, and absolutely unforgettable.
Kingfisherly,
Milica Vujošević
