Summary
Epic hiking and unbeatable beaches, yes. But also: chasing the donkey.
The old donkey paths around Matkovica Bridge in Montenegro are a historic network of trails that date back to the Ottoman era. These paths were once used by locals to transport goods and travel between villages in the region. Today, they are a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts who are looking to explore the rugged terrain around Trebesin and walk from the starting point of Matkovica Bridge.
The paths wind their way through the hills and mountains surrounding Trebesin, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Some of the most popular trails include the path from the village of Bijela to the village of Kamenari, the route from the village of Vrbanj to the village of Zlijebi, and the trail to the summit of Mount Orjen.
Along the way, hikers and bikers will see beautiful forests, rugged mountains, and charming villages. There are also several historic landmarks along the way, including ancient fortresses and churches.
One of the most interesting sections of the donkey paths is the trail that leads to Matkovica Bridge. This historic bridge is one of the most important landmarks in the region and is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.
What are the old market paths?
The area around Trebesin and Kameno in Montenegro is a popular destination for hiking enthusiasts. The stunning landscape and breathtaking views make it a great place to explore on foot.
The hiking trails in this area are well-marked and offer a range of difficulty levels, from easy walks to more challenging climbs. Along the way, you’ll see beautiful forests, stunning mountain peaks, and panoramic views of the Bay of Kotor.
One of the most popular hiking routes is the trail to the summit of Mount Trebesin. The trail is approximately 8 kilometers long and takes around 4 hours to complete. The summit of Mount Trebesin offers incredible views of the Bay of Kotor and the surrounding mountains.
Another popular hiking trail is the route from Kameno to the summit of Mount Orjen. This trail is approximately 16 kilometers long and takes around 6 hours to complete. The trail passes through beautiful forests and meadows, and the summit of Mount Orjen offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
In addition to hiking, the area around Trebesin and Kameno is also great for mountain biking and horseback riding. There are several companies that offer guided tours and equipment rentals for these activities.
The old market paths around Herceg Novi are a network of historic pedestrian walkways that wind their way through the town’s historic center. These paths are a great way to explore the town’s rich history and see some of its most interesting sights.
The old market paths date back to the medieval era, when Herceg Novi was an important trading center. The paths were originally used by merchants and traders to transport goods to and from the town’s busy markets. Today, they are a popular tourist attraction and a great way to see the town’s historic architecture and landmarks.
Some of the most popular sights along the old market paths include the Clock Tower, the Kanli Kula Fortress, and the Saint Michael Archangel Church. Along the way, you’ll also see beautiful stone houses, traditional Montenegrin courtyards, and charming cafes and restaurants.
One of the most interesting sections of the old market paths is the stairs leading up to the Kanli Kula Fortress. The stairs are narrow and winding, and they offer stunning views of the town and the Bay of Kotor.
Another popular section of the old market paths is the Promenade Pet Danica, a seaside promenade that offers beautiful views of the bay and the surrounding mountains. The promenade is lined with cafes and restaurants, making it a great place to stop for a drink or a meal.
Five fun facts?
- The donkey paths were once the main transportation routes for locals, and were used to carry goods and supplies to remote villages in the region.
- The paths are lined with wildflowers and other vegetation, making them a popular spot for nature lovers and hikers.
- Many of the donkey paths date back to the Ottoman era, and offer a glimpse into the rich cultural history of the region.
- The paths are often used in local festivals and celebrations, and are an important part of Montenegrin culture.
- Some of the paths offer stunning views of the Bay of Kotor and the surrounding mountains, making them a popular destination for photographers and sightseers.
Three good links?
Visit Montenegro – Hiking in Montenegro: https://www.visit-montenegro.com/hiking-in-montenegro/
Lonely Planet – Montenegro: https://www.lonelyplanet.com/montenegro/hiking
Montenegro Travel Blog – Exploring the Donkey Paths of Montenegro: https://montenegrotips.com/exploring-donkey-paths-montenegro/
Who can take us there?
Ask the host. And also ask our friend Iva, her number is in the guest information sheet.
There are several mountaineering clubs in Montenegro that offer guided hikes and other outdoor activities. Some of the most popular clubs include:
- Mountaineering Club Subra: Located in Herceg Novi, this club offers a range of hikes and other outdoor activities in the surrounding mountains.
- Mountaineering Club “Bijele Vode”: Based in Podgorica, this club organizes hikes and other outdoor activities in the northern part of Montenegro.
- Mountaineering Club “Durmitor”: Located in Zabljak, this club offers hikes and other outdoor activities in the stunning Durmitor National Park.
- Mountaineering Club “Komovi”: Based in Andrijevica, this club offers hikes and other outdoor activities in the beautiful Komovi Mountains.
- Mountaineering Club “Jezerski Vrhovi”: Located in Plav, this club offers hikes and other outdoor activities in the stunning Prokletije Mountains.
Each of these clubs has its own unique focus and offers different types of activities. Contacting them directly would be the best way to get more information and see if they offer the type of activity you are interested in.