Rijeka Crnojevića
With its stunning surroundings, Rijeka Crnojevića will impress you at first glance. Tucked away on the scenic shores of Lake Skadar, this charming little town is easily accessible from Podgorica, Cetinje, or Virpazar.
If you're coming from Podgorica, just take the main road toward Cetinje. After about 16 kilometers, look for the left turn – there are signs to guide you.
As you leave the main road and start descending through the winding, rugged Montenegrin landscape, you'll pass a mix of sharp rocky terrain, lush vegetation, terraced farmland, and the occasional stone house. The views open up toward the depths of Lake Skadar, and before you know it, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into the middle of an epic movie scene — and you’re the main character.
Stop at Pavlova Strana, just before you reach Rijeka Crnojevića, and take a moment to soak in the peace and the breathtaking view in front of you.
Let it be your appetizer – a perfect introduction to everything that’s waiting for you just down the road.

No matter which direction you're coming from, the landscapes of Lake Skadar will surprise you with their beauty just the same.
But before you arrive, take a moment to learn a bit about the town’s rich history.
The story of Rijeka Crnojevića begins with Ivan Crnojević, ruler of Zeta (1465–1490), who, to escape the advancing Ottoman army, built a fortress and monastery on the nearby hill of Obod. The church was dedicated to Saint Nicholas, and Ivan moved his capital there from the fortress of Žabljak. The monastery also became the seat of the Metropolitanate of Zeta.
Once you’re in town, be sure to visit the cellar of a long-destroyed building tied to the legacy of the Obod Printing House. This is where the first Cyrillic book, the Oktoih Prvoglasnik, was printed in 1494 – a milestone in the cultural history of the region.
Rijeka Crnojevića boasts some exceptional architectural landmarks, one of which is the stone Danilo Bridge, built by Prince Danilo in 1853 in memory of his father, Stanko Petrović. Alongside the bridge, on the left bank of the river, he constructed a one-story house known as "Mostina," which has been preserved to this day. The bridge served as a connection between the town and the town of Rijeka and was part of the old caravan route Rijeka Crnojevića – Virpazar.
King Nikola I Petrović later built the winter palace Ljeskovac along the river and constructed the large "Novi Most" (New Bridge), which connects Rijeka Crnojevića with Virpazar.
As you stroll through the town, you’ll notice some local restaurants. Be sure to try the Njeguši and Lake Skadar specialties. Taste the local krap fish, Drušić rakija, or some fine wine... And don’t worry, all the stories about Montenegro’s most famous harbor of the 19th and 20th centuries, the oldest preserved house of Saint Peter, and the town’s rich and turbulent history will surely be shared by the hospitable locals.
After indulging in all those delicious local flavors, it’s only fair to burn off a few calories, right?
Take a walk to the Obod Cave, hop on a boat ride, paddle a kayak, or bike through the stunning landscape.
Make sure to visit nearby gems like Karuč, Drušići, or Dodoši – each place offers its own unique charm and unforgettable views.
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