In the hilly valley of the Vruća Rijeka, Bartula campsite lies on terraced land with a variety of tree species. A footpath leads from there to Stari Bar; paths through olive groves and canyons are also among the local discoveries. The route from the campsite to Stari Bar is 3.1 kilometres one way and takes up to about 1.5 hours. This time applies to the outward journey. Allow extra time for the return journey.
Hiking trails to Stari Bar and through olive groves
The Bartula–Stari Bar trail crosses streams with crystal-clear water; conditions at the streams can vary depending on the season. After the third bridge, the trail reaches the fortifications of Stari Bar. Along the way, there are views of coastal mountains and the sea above ancient olive trees. The route thus combines a specific walking time with a destination that is complemented along the way by bridges, streams and olive groves.
The hiking trail through Bunar Canyon, described as easy, passes over old bridges, by the Kajnak spring and past thousand-year-old olive groves. It also runs by Bartula Camp and a 2,500-year-old olive tree. A return route from Bartula can also include a visit to the Old Olive Tree. It stands in Mirovica, has been protected as a natural monument since 1963, and is more than 2,242 years old.
Canyon and water: different time requirements
The Vruća Rijeka Canyon offers another excursion option: it has more than 30 vertical drops, the highest reaching 24 metres. A canyoning tour takes five to seven hours and includes natural dams and pools. The duration depends on group conditions and water levels; conditions in the canyon also vary seasonally. Check local conditions before planning the excursion.
Swimming in the mountain stream of the Vruća Rijeka is possible after a walk of up to ten minutes from the campsite. The stream flows year-round, but water levels can be significantly lower in extremely dry summers. Swimming may still be possible; check local conditions. The short walk to the stream and the multi-hour canyoning tour take different amounts of time.
Campsite and getting there
Bartula campsite has space for about 25 tents; tents can be rented. Capacity and rental availability may change, so it is advisable to check both before travelling. Bartula My Olive Garden Camp is a tent-only campsite with parking. Check the status of the facilities before you arrive.
The final kilometre of the access road to the campsite is a steep, narrow asphalt road. Bar’s central bus and train stations are about six kilometres away. A taxi is an option; transfers can be arranged with the campsite. If you are travelling by bus or train, it is best to arrange any transfer with the campsite in advance.
More options in the Bar destination
In the Bar destination, Lake Skadar National Park has nine marked hiking trails that visitors can follow independently using a map. Maps are available at the visitor centres in Virpazar and Vranjina. The park also has five cycling routes and two mountain biking trails; cycling routes start in places including Virpazar. Birdwatching on Lake Skadar can be arranged from a boat or from the Stanaj viewpoint. Registration is required at least one day in advance.
Discover more destinations: Tomba, Dobra Voda, Miljevci, Gluhi Do, Pečurice, Šušanj, Dupilo, Virpazar.
To the main travel overview: Bar.
