Exploring Bar
Bar, Montenegro, might not be the first place that comes to mind when planning a trip to this stunning country, but for us, it became an unexpected favourite. With its rugged mountain backdrop, peaceful coastline, and laid-back atmosphere, it offered a side of Montenegro that felt undiscovered and authentic.
Unlike the busier tourist hubs, Bar gave us space to slow down—to soak in panoramic views, discover wild swimming spots, and explore at our own pace. Whether it was enjoying fresh figs from our host’s garden, wandering through the quiet streets of Stari Bar, or taking a spontaneous detour to a secluded lakeside café, this part of Montenegro surprised us in the best way.
Here’s why Bar deserves a spot on your Montenegro itinerary—and how it became one of our favourite places to experience as a family.
Our Accommodation: A Tranquil Retreat
We stayed 20 minutes outside of Bar town on a family estate surrounded by mountains and forests. The panoramic views were nothing short of breathtaking, and waking up with a coffee to this peaceful scenery each day was an absolute dream…We didn’t want to leave.
To make our stay even more memorable, we were greeted by our host with fresh figs and a bottle of local wine—Montenegrin hospitality at its finest! Despite being part of a family estate with a few other houses, the tranquillity and privacy were unmatched.
read our Montenegro Travel Guide for a detailed seasonal breakdown.
Exploring Lake Skadar: A Day of Adventures
Using our accommodation as a base, we ventured to Lake Skadar, a must-visit destination around 1-2 hours away away. This massive freshwater lake is surrounded by dramatic landscapes and dotted with charming villages.
Our Lake Skadar Highlights:
- National Museum and Winery: We started our day with a visit to the National Museum, followed by a stop at a local winery. The wine was exceptional, and of course, we couldn’t leave without grabbing a couple of bottles to enjoy later.
- Hidden Beach Discovery: When we couldn’t catch a boat at Virpazar in the morning, we decided to explore the winding roads north of the lake. This spontaneous journey led us to a secluded beach and café, where we the kids had a paddle and a quiet moment away from the crowds.
- Lake Skadar Boat Tour: Later that afternoon, we returned to Virpazar and managed to book a private hour-long boat tour. It was just us, the kids, and the serene beauty of the lake. Gliding through the calm waters surrounded by lush greenery was a highlight of our trip. Something about late afternoon on a lake in summer really made it.
Things To Do in Bar Montenegro
Wild Swimming and Hidden Gems
The next day, we decided to stay closer to our accommodation, taking things slow and soaking in the natural beauty around us.
- Bearable Café and Wild Swimming Spot: On a whim, we stumbled across Bearable Café, a charming open-air spot where we enjoyed coffee and snacks. From there, we discovered a wild swimming spot that felt like our own private oasis. For two hours, we swam and relaxed, completely undisturbed—a rare and treasured moment of solitude.
Dont worry here is the exact locations for the cafe and then the map above shows the secret swimming spot.
Read our Artcile: Best Spot for Wild Water Swimming In Montenegro
Exploring Bar Town
While Bar town itself was more functional for us—mainly a place to stock up on groceries and essentials—it still had its charm. We wandered around, explored its streets, the beach and appreciated its laid-back vibe. That said, we much preferred the solitude of our accommodation and the natural beauty surrounding it.
Why Bar Should Be on Your Radar
Bar offers a quieter, more authentic Montenegrin experience compared to the busier coastal towns. Whether you’re exploring the hidden corners of Lake Skadar, relaxing in nature, or enjoying the warm hospitality of the locals, Bar is a destination that invites you to slow down and truly connect with your surroundings, as a family we sure did slow down plus i think the kids were that chilled they actually slept in.
Tips for Exploring Bar
- Rent a Car: To fully enjoy Bar and its surroundings, a car is essential. It allows you to discover hidden gems like wild swimming spots and less-touristy beaches.
- Embrace the Spontaneity: Some of our best experiences came from taking a turn down an unknown road or following a local’s advice.
- Pack for Relaxation: Whether it’s a good book or swimwear, be prepared to slow down and enjoy the tranquillity.
Final Thoughts
Bar is a destination that might not top every traveller’s list, but it’s one that left a lasting impression on us. From the panoramic views at our accommodation to the wild swimming adventures and peaceful moments at Lake Skadar, Bar offered exactly what we were looking for—an escape into nature and a chance to truly unwind. It made me immidietly look for house prices in Bar off the beaten track.
If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience in Montenegro, we can’t recommend Bar enough.
Have you visited Bar? Share your favourite spots in the comments below!
Want to visit Kotor? Read our guide: Exploring Kotor Montenegro with Kids
