The most popular time to visit Durmitor National Park is between May and October when the weather is good, all hiking routes are open and the park brims with activity.
These summer months offer canoeing, jeep tours, white water rafting, horseriding, cycling, paragliding, zip lining and more. Most of the glacial lakes in Durmitor National Park are ideal for swimming between July and September.
The largest and most popular is Crno Jezero - or the Black Lake - which is a leisurely 40-minute walk from the centre of Žabljak. A cafe next to the lake offers welcome respite for hikers and swimmers.
March and April are also great months to visit. The mountains are still snow capped, and crisp, sunny days make for ideal walking conditions.
As this is technically in-between seasons, not all activities are available and the park is very serene as a result. It's an ideal time for landscape and wildlife photographers.
White water rafting is available pretty much all year round, with spring months offering a pacier experience in contrast to calm summer waters. The views alone make this activity worthwhile. Expect to pay around €45.
From December to March, Durmitor transforms into a ski resort, largely frequented by savvy Serbs and Bosnians seeking ski holidays at a fraction of the cost demanded by better-known Alpine countries.
There are a huge number of well-marked walking trails in Durmitor, but the most popular and accessible walking routes begin and end at the Black Lake.
In peak season, walkers and hikers are able to access most peaks and lakes from the Black Lake trail. One of the most difficult is the Ice Cave, taking approximately four to five hours.
For non-professional hikers, locals recommend Jablan Lake and Crvena Greda (Red Rock) - which also takes around four or five hours to hike.
'Lokvice Katun is approximately two hours from the Black Lake and from there, a lot of the better known peaks are reachable.
Bobotov Kuk - the highest peak in Durmitor National Park - is recommended for experienced climbers only. This trail is a 10-hour round trip from Žabljak.
For a slightly shorter (but full day) hike, try Planinica: an eight-hour round trip from Žabljak, with some of the best views across the entire park. Savin Kuk, Durmitor’s main ski resort, takes six hours (unless you cheat and take a ski-lift to the top).
Hiking is available with or without a guide but before you set off to climb any peaks, be sure to seek advice from your hotel on weather conditions, use a walking map (often not readily available, so bring your own) and carry appropriate hiking gear.