Nestled in the heart of Montenegro’s breathtaking Durmitor National Park, lies an unforgettable experience where the beauty of nature comes alive by the gentle gallop of horses. Majestic mountains, lush forests, and crystal-clear streams provide a stunning backdrop for your horseback adventure, as you explore the mountain’s hidden gems and immerse yourself in its serene atmosphere. With every step, the rhythmic sound of hooves on the ground will soothe your soul, and the fresh mountain air will invigorate your senses.
Jahanje konja Durmitor, led by Ana Petrušić, provides an exceptional chance for people to experience the breathtaking beauty of Montenegro’s landscape through horseback riding, which was once the primary means of transportation and survival in the past but has been lost due to the emergence of modern technology and fast-paced lifestyles. As you embark on this journey, let’s delve into the essence of this unforgettable experience.
“Jahanje konja Durmitor caters to a diverse audience, inviting both seasoned riders and novices to embrace the synergy between man, horse, and nature,” explains Ana Petrušić. Our mission is to awaken a sense of adventure and curiosity in our audience, encouraging visitors to venture out into the great outdoors and experience the beauty and majesty of horses in their natural habitat.
Imagine yourself atop a noble steed, traversing the rugged terrain of Durmitor’s highlands. The experience of riding here is nothing short of enchanting. Whether you’re a family with young children, teenagers, younger or older people, Jahanje konja Durmitor ensures an adventure tailored to your comfort and skill level. For experienced riders, there are opportunities to participate in a more challenging and adventurous activity – a two-day camping tour at Zabojsko Lake. These tours are organized once or twice a year, usually in September, and provide visitors with an opportunity to explore the scenic beauty of the lake and its surroundings while camping in the wilderness.
The most popular trail leads through the breathtaking landscapes surrounding Riblje and Vražje lakes. Lasting approximately three hours, this journey begins just 2 kilometers from Žabljak’s center. Even for those without prior experience, the vast stretches of Durmitor’s plateau provide an idyllic setting for horseback riding. During this tour, you will traverse the entire area of Durmitor’s Jezerska Visoravan, arriving at the lakes with a brief pause to share stories of legends and beliefs surrounding the locale. “With the magnificent backdrop of Durmitor’s towering massif before us, the expanses of the Jezerska Visoravan prove to be an idyllic terrain for both experienced riders and novices alike. Prior experience is not necessary, as our horses are gentle and disciplined, and we teach basic positions, balance, and control on the go. For those who are more confident, we have a team of horses with slightly sharper characters, yet obedient and well-trained.” says Ana.
Guests need not worry about specialized gear. Long pants to prevent discomfort from the saddle and a water bottle for longer rides are all that is needed. Safety equipment, including helmets, is provided by the ranch.
“The best season for horseback riding? Right now, whenever that may be,” remarks Ana. Whether it’s the hustle and bustle of summer or the serene beauty of winter, each season offers a unique perspective of Durmitor’s splendor, and that is why their ranch remains open throughout the year. Guests have the option to reserve a private tour during peak season, which entails a higher cost than the regular tour, or to visit the ranch during the off-season. “An exceptional experience awaits those who embark on winter tours, with views of Durmitor blanketed in snow and ice. The sensation is different in May when the snow rapidly melts, submerging parts of the Jezerska Visoravan, prompting us to seek passages and cross mountain streams.” Ana explains excitedly.
Reserving your riding tour is a simple process, whether through phone (+38269937251; +38269844850; available also on Viber and Whatsapp) or email: montenegrohorse@gmail.com. You’re also invited to follow their Instagram page @montenegro_horse_riding and enjoy the stunning images that will leave you in awe. To make the most of your upcoming plans, it would be best to make your reservations at least a couple of days in advance. With prices starting at 20 euros per person per hour, Jahanje konja Durmitor ensures an accessible and unforgettable experience.
Ana’s face lights up when she speaks passionately about the horses: “Each of us associated with the ranch has our favorite horse, suggesting visitors to come and choose their own. Among the notable ones is Vila, a colorful mare with heterochromia, a rare pigment disorder, and last year, she gave birth to an albino foal, a rarity in Montenegro and its surroundings. Then there’s Gospodin, beloved by children for his calm and obedient nature.
Another favorite is Feti, the strongest among the mares, known for leading the pack and being exceptionally calm only when at the forefront. While I could go on listing many more, I advise you once again to visit and select the horse whose character resonates with you. Before each tour, we engage in a brief conversation with guests to ensure they’re paired with a horse we believe they’ll enjoy.”
Durmitor is steeped in legends, with tales of mythical creatures like the winged red horse that allegedly roams the shores of Vražje Lake during the full moon nights. These stories add an air of mystery and wonder to the horseback riding experience, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the region’s rich cultural tapestry. The only way to hear the tales of Jabučilo, the famous winged horse ridden by Vojvoda Momčilo, the protector of the Durmitor region, is by visiting and experiencing them yourself.
As tourism flourishes in Durmitor, horseback riding emerges as a sustainable and enriching activity. Ana emphasizes the importance of balancing tourism with the preservation of the region’s natural beauty, ensuring a harmonious coexistence between visitors and the local ecosystem. “Montenegro’s greatest potential for sustainable tourism lies in its northern villages and mountainous pastures, along with activities such as cycling, hiking, and, of course, riding, on the back of a horse” claims Ana. The expansion of activities like horseback riding aligns with the principles of sustainable tourism, ensuring that future generations can continue to explore and appreciate the beauty of Durmitor.
In the embrace of Durmitor’s mountains, where the untamed wilderness meets the gentle spirit of horses, lies an adventure waiting to be discovered. Jahanje konja Durmitor invites you to embark on a unique journey of exploration and connection, where every hoofbeat echoes the rhythm of nature. As you ride through the landscapes of Montenegro, may you find solace in the company of horses and the timeless beauty of Durmitor.
