Black Lake Crno Jezero Žabljak
A breathtaking glacial lake in Durmitor National Park, Montenegro, famed for its stunning reflections and serene mountain setting.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Calm reflections, fewer crowds
Black Lake Crno Jezero Žabljak
Best Time
Calm reflections, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking glacial lake in Durmitor National Park, Montenegro, famed for its stunning reflections and serene mountain setting.
"Nestled in the heart of Durmitor National Park, the lake feels like a scene from a fairytale."
🎯 Park Entrance Fee
Expect a €5 entrance fee for Durmitor National Park.
🚗 Parking Fees
Parking near the lake can cost around 9 euros for 3 hours.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Black Lake
Durmitor National Park
A breathtaking glacial lake with stunning reflections, surrounded by pine forests and dramatic mountains.
Lake Loop Trail
Around Black Lake
An easy, peaceful 3.5 km walk offering diverse views of the lake and surrounding peaks.
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Mountain Vistas
Surrounding Durmitor Mountains
Hike to peaks like Medjed for panoramic views of the park and its glacial lakes.
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Planning Your Visit
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Insider Tips
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🎯 Park Entrance Fee
Expect a €5 entrance fee for Durmitor National Park.
🚗 Parking Fees
Parking near the lake can cost around 9 euros for 3 hours.
🚶♀️ Easy Lake Walk
The 3.5 km trail around the lake is peaceful and well-maintained.
🛶 Boat Rentals
Rent a boat to experience the lake from a different perspective.
Tips
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🎯 Park Entrance Fee
Expect a €5 entrance fee for Durmitor National Park.
🚗 Parking Fees
Parking near the lake can cost around 9 euros for 3 hours.
🚶♀️ Easy Lake Walk
The 3.5 km trail around the lake is peaceful and well-maintained.
🛶 Boat Rentals
Rent a boat to experience the lake from a different perspective.
📸 Capture Reflections
Go early or late for the best mirror-like water reflections.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Black Lake for its breathtaking natural beauty, describing it as a fairytale-like glacial lake with stunning reflections. The easy walking trail and serene atmosphere are highlights, though some note the parking and entrance fees.
"The lake is beautiful, we were there after snow - it looks stunning! The lake is surrounded by a forest and you can walk around. 5 minutes walking from parking (1.5 e/h), very recommended."
Julia Arditi
"Great experience, awesome view and a must visit attraction of Durmitor park. There are two parking spaces when you enter the lake area, I parked in the second one in the left road which is narrower and parking was free as of 26th of October 2025. During autumn and winter the lake is separated in two because of a shallow narrow pass between them and the locals recommend to visit the lake in late spring when the weather is more stable and the the lake is at its max level due to snow melt."
Christian
"Black Lake in Montenegro is one of the most breathtaking natural wonders I’ve ever visited. Nestled in the heart of Durmitor National Park, the lake feels like a scene from a fairytale – surrounded by dense pine forests and framed by majestic mountain peaks. The water is crystal clear, with a magical shift in colors depending on the light and time of day, ranging from deep emerald to shimmering turquoise.
The walking trail around the lake is well-maintained and offers plenty of peaceful spots to sit and take in the view. It’s an easy hike that lets you appreciate the changing perspectives of the lake and the surrounding mountains. In the summer, the air is fresh and cool, making it a perfect escape from the heat, while in the winter, the snowy landscape makes the area look absolutely enchanting."
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What People Like
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Black Lake is located about 3 km from Žabljak. You can reach it by car, with parking available nearby, or enjoy a pleasant 10-minute walk from the parking area. +1
While renting a car offers the most flexibility for exploring Durmitor National Park, some travelers suggest local buses might reach certain points. Walking from Žabljak is also an option if you enjoy longer strolls.
Roads leading to Žabljak and the national park are generally well-maintained, but can be winding. During winter, snow can impact driving conditions, so check local advisories.
Public transport within Durmitor National Park is limited. While buses may connect to Žabljak, exploring further afield often requires a car or organized tours.
A car is highly recommended for seamless travel between Black Lake and other attractions like Zminje and Jablan lakes within Durmitor National Park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is an entrance fee for Durmitor National Park, which includes access to Black Lake. This fee is typically around €5 per person.
Parking near Black Lake is available but comes with a fee, often around 9 euros for a 3-hour period.
Durmitor National Park is generally open year-round. However, specific facilities or access points might have seasonal hours, so it's best to check locally.
Information on purchasing tickets online in advance is not widely available. It's usually best to pay the entrance fee upon arrival at the park's designated entry points.
Information regarding discounts for park entry is not readily available. It's advisable to inquire at the park entrance for any potential concessions.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
At Black Lake, you can enjoy walking the loop trail, rent a boat for a serene experience on the water, or simply relax and soak in the natural beauty. Swimming is also possible in warmer months.
Yes, the trail around Black Lake is considered easy and peaceful, approximately 3.5 km long, making it accessible for most visitors.
There are bars and food options available near Black Lake, though some visitors haven't tried them. It's a good spot to refuel after exploring.
For the best photography, aim for early morning or golden hour to capture the stunning reflections on the water and the dramatic mountain scenery.
Yes, swimming in Black Lake is possible, especially during the summer months. The water is clear and refreshing.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire perimeter of the lake offers stunning photo opportunities, especially where the mountains and forests are reflected in the water. Early morning and late afternoon light are ideal.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain scenery and lake. A polarizing filter can enhance the colors of the water and sky.
Drone regulations can vary. It's best to check with the Durmitor National Park authorities before flying a drone to ensure compliance with local rules.
While beautiful year-round, spring and autumn offer vibrant colors and fewer crowds. Winter transforms the landscape into a snowy wonderland, offering unique photographic opportunities.
Visit during calm weather conditions, ideally early morning or late evening when the water is still. Use a tripod for sharper images and consider a lower angle to emphasize the reflection.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during the day when the weather is pleasant and the park is vibrant. The relatively short walking distance from the parking to the lake makes it manageable for families with strollers. The stunning scenery will captivate both parents and children, making it a memorable outing.
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Lovers
Nature lovers will be enchanted by the park's rich biodiversity, pristine glacial lakes, and dramatic mountain landscapes. The scent of pine trees and the crisp mountain air create an immersive natural experience.
Remember to wear appropriate hiking shoes, carry water, and be prepared for changing weather conditions. 📸 Photographers
+1 Aim for the golden hours – sunrise and sunset – for the most dramatic light and vibrant colors. +1 A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the grandeur of the landscape, and a polarizing filter can enhance the water's clarity and the sky's saturation. Beyond the lake itself, the surrounding Durmitor National Park offers numerous photographic opportunities, from rugged peaks to charming mountain vistas.
Consider visiting in different seasons to capture the lake's transformation, from lush summer greens to enchanting winter snowscapes. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Durmitor National Park
Beyond Black Lake, visitors can embark on challenging treks to peaks like Bobotov Kuk, the highest point in Durmitor, offering unparalleled panoramic views.
Key activities within the park include hiking, mountaineering, rafting on the Tara River, and exploring traditional mountain villages. The park's infrastructure supports various levels of adventure, from leisurely strolls around lakes to multi-day expeditions. Remember to check weather conditions, especially if planning longer treks, as mountain weather can change rapidly.
The Magic of Glacial Lakes
The reflections on the lake's surface are legendary, mirroring the surrounding pine forests and the imposing Durmitor mountain peaks.
+1 The visual spectacle makes Black Lake a photographer's paradise and a deeply tranquil spot for visitors seeking connection with nature. While the lake is stunning year-round, its appearance changes dramatically with the seasons. In summer, the surrounding greenery is lush, and the water is inviting for a dip. In winter, the lake and its surroundings are often blanketed in snow, transforming it into a serene, icy landscape.
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