Lake Skadar was the surprise of our trip.
We expected a pretty lake. What we found was an enormous but peaceful landscape of water, mountains, birds, and tiny villages that felt far removed from the busy world.
For families, it’s the perfect place to slow down.
Pavlova Strana: One of the Most Beautiful Viewpoints in Montenegro
If there is one place you absolutely shouldn’t miss around Lake Skadar, it’s Pavlova Strana.
The viewpoint overlooks a dramatic bend in the river, creating a shape that immediately reminded us of Horseshoe Bend in the United States. Yet somehow this felt even more special. Instead of desert cliffs, you’re surrounded by lush green mountains and untouched nature.
It is honestly one of the most beautiful viewpoints we have ever visited.
Tip: Try to arrive early in the morning. Not only will you avoid the crowds, but the narrow mountain road is much easier to navigate when there is less traffic.
Top tip: avoid the route through the middle of the mountain that Google Maps sometimes suggests. We followed it and quickly discovered it was not designed for two cars to pass each other comfortably. Let’s just say it wasn’t our most relaxing drive of the trip.
Boat Trip on Lake Skadar
The best way to experience Lake Skadar is from the water.
As your boat glides across the lake, you’ll pass water lilies, mountain landscapes, old fishing villages, and countless birds. Our toddler spent most of the trip excitedly pointing at boats, ducks, and anything that moved.
There are two main places to start your boat trip:
Virpazar
Virpazar is the most popular departure point and where we started our tour. The views over the open lake are spectacular, and many tours pass old fortress ruins such as Lesendro while offering excellent birdwatching opportunities.
Rijeka Crnojevića
If you’re looking for something a little quieter, Rijeka Crnojevića is often considered the more picturesque option. Here, boats cruise through narrow river channels surrounded by mountains, creating an almost fairytale-like atmosphere.
| Virpazar | Rijeka Crnojevića |
| More popular, open lake views, birdwatching, and historic ruins. | Quieter, more picturesque, and surrounded by mountains. |
We chose Virpazar because it was close to our accommodation, but if we return one day, we’d love to experience the Rijeka Crnojevića route as well.
Explore the Lakeside Villages
After your boat trip, take time to wander through the small lakeside towns. They’re not packed with attractions, but that’s exactly the charm. Stone houses, waterfront cafés, and a slower pace make them ideal for families.
Tip: if you can avoid going there with car and try to book a stay with parking. We were there in May and it was already crazy parkingwise in Virpazar.
Enjoy some pool time or lake swimming time
During summer months we heard it can be almost 40 degrees in these hills. So if you are going to Montenegro then, make sure you plan in some downtown as visiting in this heat can take a toll on the little ones.
We had a pool with an amazing view for our stay and combined exploring with some downtime but you can easily go and enjoy swimming at the lake. Search for “Murici beach” for a nice strip on the lake.
A Region of Wine & Slow Living
The warm climate around Lake Skadar is perfect for vineyards, and you’ll find many small family-run wineries in the area. Even if wine tasting isn’t your priority, the countryside itself is beautiful to explore.
We stayed in cermeniza and they offer a winetasting as well.
Stop at Niagara Falls Montenegro
If you arrive in Podgorica before heading towards Lake Skadar, consider making a short stop at Niagara Falls Montenegro. While it may not be as massive as its famous Canadian namesake, the waterfall is a beautiful hidden gem and a lovely place to stretch your legs after a flight.
The falls are located along the Cijevna River and are especially impressive during spring, when melting snow and seasonal rains create a powerful cascade of water. There is also a restaurant overlooking the falls, making it a nice spot for a coffee, lunch, or simply enjoying the scenery.
Tip: The waterfall can completely dry up during the summer months, especially after long periods without rain. We visited in May, and the falls were flowing beautifully, making it a worthwhile stop on our way to the Skadar Lake region.
Family Tips for Lake Skadar
- Choose a morning boat trip. The light is softer and temperatures are more comfortable.
- Bring sunscreen and hats. There’s limited shade on the lake.
- Take it slow. This region is best enjoyed without a rushed schedule.
- Pair Pavlova Strana with a boat trip. They complement each other perfectly.
The Feeling of Lake Skadar with kids
If Kotor is dramatic and Budva is lively, Lake Skadar with kids is peaceful. We remember how sitting by the water as the sun dropped behind the mountains, listening to birds and watching boats return to the village. It was one of the few places on our trip where everyone seemed to naturally slow down—including the kids. And sometimes, that’s exactly what a family trip needs.
Visiting the Bay of Kotor?
While Lake Skadar offers peace and nature, the Bay of Kotor is all about dramatic mountain scenery, charming old towns, and family-friendly activities. Wander through the medieval streets of Kotor Old Town, take the cable car up Lovćen Mountain, visit the famous cats of Kotor, or hop on a boat trip to Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks.
Read our complete guide to the top things to do in Kotor with kids for tips, activities, and practical information for visiting Montenegro’s most famous bay.
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