Kom Monastery Lake Skadar
A 600-year-old monastery perched above Lake Skadar, offering breathtaking views and a serene spiritual experience accessible by boat.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour light for photos
Kom Monastery Lake Skadar
Best Time
Golden hour light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 600-year-old monastery perched above Lake Skadar, offering breathtaking views and a serene spiritual experience accessible by boat.
"The best thing is probably the view, it's fantastic. "
Boat Tour Essential
Book a boat tour from Virpazar; it's the primary way to reach the monastery.
Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and legs out of respect for this working monastery.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kom Monastery Views
Lake Skadar
Breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Skadar from the monastery's elevated position. A truly mesmerizing sight.
Ancient Chapel & Frescoes
Monastery interior
Explore the historic chapel, approximately 600 years old, adorned with beautiful, well-preserved frescoes.
Serene Boat Ride
Lake Skadar
The journey to the monastery by boat offers a splendid and magical experience on the crystal-clear waters.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Boat Access is Key
Respectful Attire & Renovation Notes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Boat Tour Essential
Book a boat tour from Virpazar; it's the primary way to reach the monastery.
Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and legs out of respect for this working monastery.
Stairs to the Top
Be prepared for around 150 steps to reach the monastery from the boat landing.
Local Honey Purchase
Consider buying 1kg jars of delicious, self-produced honey.
Tips
from all over the internet
Boat Tour Essential
Book a boat tour from Virpazar; it's the primary way to reach the monastery.
Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and legs out of respect for this working monastery.
Stairs to the Top
Be prepared for around 150 steps to reach the monastery from the boat landing.
Local Honey Purchase
Consider buying 1kg jars of delicious, self-produced honey.
Negotiate Boat Prices
If arranging a private tour, be ready to negotiate prices with local boatmen.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking views and the serene, spiritual atmosphere of Kom Monastery. The boat journey across Lake Skadar is a highlight, offering a magical approach to this ancient site. While renovations are ongoing and there are many steps to climb, the historical significance and the stunning scenery make it a highly recommended destination.
"Great place if you’re into visiting historical and spiritual sites. This is apparently 600 years old, the chapel atleast. They’re currently doing some renovations. It’s very pretty and mesmerising.
The water is crystal clear as it lays on a fresh spring, very cold.
The best thing is probably the view, it’s fantastic.
Entry costs €5.
Around 150 steps to get up if arriving via boat.
If you’re lucky you might hear a bell below, it’s a friendly cow on the other side of the river."
Kacper Szczepanik
"Stunning little monastery, with great views. Free to visit, though you need to get there by boat. Nice gift shop and a few rooms to visit. Real monks too!"
Tim Husain
"Lord of steps to the top and some beautiful frescoes to see. We only had 30min here as part of a boat trip, but that was sufficient. There was a lot of restoration work going on around the site, so more may be available to see in the future. Lovely view from the top as well."
Sam Walker
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common and recommended way to reach Kom Monastery is by boat. Tours typically depart from Virpazar, a town on the shores of Lake Skadar. You can book a shared or private boat trip, which often includes a stop at the monastery.
Driving directly to Kom Monastery is not possible as it's situated on an island. You'll need to arrange boat transportation from a nearby town like Virpazar.
Virpazar is the most popular and convenient starting point for boat tours to Kom Monastery and other attractions on Lake Skadar.
The boat ride duration can vary depending on the tour, but a typical trip to Kom Monastery from Virpazar might take around 30 minutes each way, often as part of a longer tour.
Yes, local boatmen offer tours. If you're not on a pre-booked tour, you can often find them near official parking spots in towns like Virpazar. Be prepared to negotiate prices.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the monastery itself is often free, though some sources mention a small fee of around €5. The main cost is typically for the boat tour to get there.
As it's a working monastery, hours can be flexible. It's best to visit during daylight hours as part of a boat tour. Check with your tour operator for specific timings.
You don't typically book tickets for the monastery itself, but booking your boat tour in advance, especially during peak season, is highly recommended.
The best way to experience Kom Monastery is through a boat tour on Lake Skadar, which allows you to appreciate its unique location and the surrounding natural beauty.
Visitors are asked to dress modestly, covering shoulders and legs, out of respect for the religious site.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic views of Lake Skadar from the monastery grounds are spectacular. Don't miss capturing the ancient chapel and its frescoes.
Photography is generally allowed in most areas, but always be respectful of the religious nature of the site and any specific signs or requests from monks.
Late afternoon or early morning can offer beautiful light for photography, especially during the golden hour, enhancing the scenic views.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive lake views, while a standard zoom lens is versatile for interior shots and details.
The approach by boat offers a unique perspective, and the view from the top of the monastery looking out over the lake is a must-capture moment.
🍽️ 🍯 Food & Shopping
While there isn't a full restaurant, there's a small gift shop that sometimes sells local products like honey. It's advisable to bring your own snacks and water.
The gift shop is known for selling jars of self-produced, clear, perfect honey.
Yes, you can purchase honey, typically in 1kg jars. However, they do not offer shipping services, so you'll need to carry it with you.
Restaurants are generally found in the towns surrounding Lake Skadar, such as Virpazar, rather than directly at the monastery.
Besides the monastery's honey, the Lake Skadar region is known for fresh fish and local wines.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enchanting Boat Journey
When arranging your boat trip, especially if you opt for a private tour, remember that negotiation is common. Local boatmen are usually friendly and can tailor the trip to your interests. The duration can vary, with some tours offering a 3-hour loop that includes the monastery stop.
Kom Monastery: History and Spirituality
Visitors often remark on the mesmerizing quality of the site and the sense of peace it evokes. The chapel itself contains beautiful frescoes, offering a glimpse into the religious art of the past. While renovations are ongoing, this suggests a commitment to preserving the monastery for future generations.
The Iconic Views and Steps
Accessing these views involves a climb. Be prepared for approximately 150 steps from the boat landing up to the monastery. While this might seem like a challenge, the reward is well worth the effort.
Social
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