Black Lake - Zabljak

Today wasn't going to be particularly eventful. I had to catch the bus at 10 a.m., and after a four-hour journey, I finally arrived in Žabljak. I had a lot planned for my time here, with lots of hiking, so I didn't want to do too much on my first day. I figured it would be best to take it easy and save my energy for the adventures ahead. The guys who run the hostel, however, seemed to consider that blasphemous.

They strongly suggested that I walk to Black Lake, which was located near the hostel. I say "suggested," but they didn't exactly give me much of an option. Luckily, it was only about a 45-minute walk. And it was absolutely worth it. Black Lake was incredible. Huge pine trees surrounded the water, while enormous Montenegrin mountains towered in the background. The scenery looked more like something you'd expect to see in Canada than the Balkans.

The lake itself was around 2.5 km to walk around, making for a really nice and relaxing afternoon stroll. I eventually found a spot to swim, cooled off in the water and then continued around the lake, taking in the scenery.

After finishing the walk, I headed back into town to stock up on supplies for the big hike coming tomorrow. Bobotov Kuk. That was going to be the real challenge, and after four hours on a bus and a decent walk around Black Lake, I figured some rest was probably necessary.

Tomorrow would be a big one.Read more