Donje Stravče is a quiet mountain village with numerous meadows and cultivated fields. A road climbs from the village toward a pass and a viewpoint on the edge of the Jelova glava gorge. Open landscapes and hiking trails shape the stay. If you are looking for an apartment, you can first consider which of the routes described will define your stay: they differ considerably in length, marking and terrain.

Hike via Krušev do to Orline

The 14-kilometre Donje Stravče–Orline excursion passes through Krušev do, where the trail descends to 1,007 metres. The Lazović houses in Donje Stravče, at 1,149 metres, are given as the starting point. A hiking report dated 9 May 2021 describes the route as unmarked; it also mentions visible old village paths. Trail conditions can change, so check the route before setting out.

The report also describes a difficult rocky section near the summit of Orline, with sloping rocks and crevices formed by erosion after a fire. Check conditions before the hike. At the Priboj viewpoint near Milačići, the view opens into the Mala Rijeka gorge before the excursion continues to Donje Stravče. The route also offers views toward Treskavac and the Šila peaks; visibility depends on the weather.

A circular hike with an estimated duration

A circular hike that includes Donje Stravče is described as easy: about 12.5 kilometres, around 300 metres of elevation gain and approximately six hours. A shorter option bypasses Jelova glava. The two hikes therefore call for different planning considerations: the circular hike has a stated duration and elevation gain, while the unmarked route and rocky section are important reference points for the Orline excursion. Allow extra time for breaks in addition to the approximate six-hour duration.

Rural trails and mountain scenery

Another route toward Brskut follows a rural dirt road that leaves Donje Stravče via Milačići and Dubaja. Here, the surface is another factor to consider alongside the route. Trail and road surfaces can change; check the route before your hike.

The lakes in the wider area also add a distinctive note to the landscape. Nearby Gornje Stravče is home to Rikavačko jezero, where Žijovo and Prokletije meet. Bukumirsko jezero lies below Žijovo at 1,443 metres. The glacial lake is surrounded by grassy, hilly terrain.

The drive from Podgorica via Kuči is estimated to take approximately one hour and 15 minutes. The actual duration may vary depending on road conditions. The Korita circular route also starts in Podgorica: it leads into the Kuči mountain region as far as the edge of the Cijevna River gorge and is 65 kilometres long. It is Montenegro’s first fully marked panoramic trail. As a longer regional hiking option, it offers a different scale from the routes described around Donje Stravče.

Discover more destinations: Podgorica, Mitrovići, Golubovci, Tuzi, Vranjina, Berislavci.

Back to the main travel overview: Podgorica.