Kotor Cable Car (Njegusi, Lovcen and Kotor Cable car)

Discover the Beauty of Montenegro: A Detailed Review of the Kotor Cable Car, Njegusi, and Lovcen Tour

This tour offers a compelling blend of history, nature, and authentic Montenegrin culture—all wrapped up in a 4.5-hour adventure that’s perfect for curious travelers craving more than just beaches. From winding old roads that whisper stories of bygone eras, to tasting local prosciutto and cheese, and finally taking in soul-stirring views from Lovcen and the legendary cable car ride, you’ll come away with a hearty appreciation for Montenegro’s diverse charms.

One of our favorite aspects is how the tour balances culture with stunning scenery. The stops at Njegusi and Lovcen offer genuine insights and authentic experiences that go beyond typical sightseeing. However, it’s worth noting that the tour involves quite a bit of driving and walking (including 441 steps at the mausoleum)—so it’s best suited for travelers with a reasonable level of mobility and a sense of adventure.

If you love history, scenic drives, and tasting local flavors, this experience provides excellent value and plenty of authentic moments. It’s ideal for those who want a well-paced, informative day that combines nature, culture, and a little bit of thrill from the cable car ride.

Key Points

• Historic Drive: The serpentine road from Kotor to Trojica offers spectacular views and a touch of Montenegro’s past engineering feats.
• Authentic Cuisine: In Njegusi, enjoy local prosciutto, cheese, olives, wine, or brandy—really tasting Montenegro’s flavors.
• Cultural Spotlight: The mausoleum of Petar II Petrović Njego is a highlight—both architecturally and historically, with a statue carved from a single 50-ton granite block.
• Stunning Views: From the top of Lovcen and the cable car, you’ll witness panoramic scenes of Boka Kotora, Kotor, Tivat, and beyond.
• Well-Organized Itinerary: Stops are thoughtfully spaced with enough free time to explore, relax, or take photographs.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Tour guides are praised for their insightfulness and friendliness, making the experience engaging and informative.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The journey begins with pickup options from Herceg Novi, Tivat, Kotor, or Budva—making it quite flexible depending on where you’re staying. The transportation is via air-conditioned private vehicles, which means you can relax in comfort during the roughly one-hour drive from your pickup point to the first stop. This setup is ideal for small private groups who want a personalized experience, and the driver/guide is generally multilingual, speaking English and Russian, adding to the overall ease.

The Serpentine Road and Photo Stop

The drive along the old road from Kotor to Trojica is a highlight in itself. Referred to as the serpentine road, it features 25 switchbacks and offers jaw-dropping views of the Bay of Kotor. This route, originally designed during the era of the Kingdom of Montenegro, is a marvel of engineering and offers lots of photo opportunities. One reviewer mentioned it’s a “storybook drive” with a sense of adventure that’s not to be missed.

This road isn’t just scenic; it’s steeped in local lore. The story of the M-shaped moat and the legend of the young engineer Josip Slade-Ilovi** add a dash of romanticism and humor. The story about the M-shaped road symbolizing a secret love story adds a layer of charm, making it more than just a scenic drive.

Njegusi Village: Authentic Montenegrin Culture

Next, you’ll stop at Njegusi, a village renowned for preserving traditional Montenegrin culture. Here, you’ll get the chance to sample local products like prosciutto, cheese, olives, and wine or brandy. This is a real treat for food lovers, as the tasting is often praised for being generous and authentic.

The village itself is worth a quick exploration. Historically, Njegusi was an important place, governed by a system of bishops, prince-bishops, and serdars—positions that were passed down in local clans. Walking through Njegusi gives you a sense of how traditional Montenegrin life has persisted for generations.

Visiting Petar II Petrović Njego’s Mausoleum

A major highlight is the visit to the Mausoleum of Petar II Petrović Njego, a towering monument that combines religious, cultural, and artistic significance. You will climb 441 steps to reach the mausoleum, and those who make it to the top are rewarded with a spectacular 6-sided chapel and a view that spans 70% of Montenegro’s mountainous terrain.

The mausoleum’s statue, crafted by renowned sculptor Ivan Metrovi, is a striking piece—originally weighing 50 tons and carved from a single granite block. The statue stands 4 meters tall and has a gold mosaic ceiling embedded with 200,000 gold pieces. The craftsmanship is impressive and reflects the reverence Montenegrins have for their national hero. As one reviewer put it, “The statue is a masterpiece, and the view from the top makes the climb worthwhile.”

Loven National Park and Scenic Walks

After the mausoleum, the tour continues to Lovcen National Park, where you’re encouraged to walk and explore the natural beauty. This part is a relaxed transition from history to nature. The park’s pristine environment and panoramic vistas are among the most appreciated elements of the tour, providing a peaceful contrast to the earlier cultural stops.

The Cable Car Adventure

Finally, the highlight for many: the 11-minute cable car ride from Kotor to the top of Lovcen. It’s a quick but exhilarating ascent from 65 meters to 1350 meters above sea level, giving you an aerial perspective of the stunning Boka Bay. From the cable car, you’ll see towns like Kotor, Tivat, Perast, and Herceg Novi, all laid out like a model across the shimmering water.

Guests often describe this moment as breathtaking, with some noting it’s a “fabulous way to see Montenegro from a different vantage point.” The views are spectacular, and the experience is well worth the small extra cost. The cable car is fast, reliable, and offers incredible photo opportunities.

Flexibility and Timing

The tour is carefully structured with free time to explore each stop and absorb the scenery. The total duration is about 4.5 hours, making it ideal for day-trippers who want an immersive yet manageable outing. Pickup and drop-off are included, with options from multiple locations, adding to the convenience.

Practical Details and Value

Pricing and What’s Included

For the price, you get private transportation, an expert guide (in English or Russian), the cable car ride, tasting of local delicacies in Njegusi, entrance fees to Lovcen National Park and the mausoleum, and snacks throughout the day. This makes it genuinely good value, especially considering the personalized nature of private tours.

Considerations

While the tour is excellent for most travelers, it’s worth noting that it involves quite a bit of walking—particularly the climb to the mausoleum’s top. For those with mobility issues or a dislike of strenuous steps, this might be less suitable. Also, the tour isn’t tailored for wheelchair users or those over 95, so plan accordingly.

How It Compares

Compared to other similar experiences, this tour offers a more comprehensive package—covering cultural, historical, and natural highlights in just a few hours. The guided aspect ensures you gain context and stories behind the sights, enriching the experience beyond just seeing pretty views.

The Sum Up

This Montenegro tour is a thoughtfully curated adventure that showcases the country’s most captivating elements—history, breathtaking landscapes, and authentic local flavors—all within a manageable half-day outing. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who appreciate cultural depth combined with scenic beauty, and who prefer a private, relaxed experience over large group excursions.

The guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making every stop informative and enjoyable. The cable car ride offers a unique perspective of Montenegro’s mountainous terrain and coastal towns, making it a highlight worth the small extra cost. The visit to Njegusi and the mausoleum is more than just sightseeing; it’s a chance to connect with Montenegro’s soul and history.

If you’re after a tour that balances adventure, culture, and stunning vistas with good value, this experience is a solid choice. It appeals to those who enjoy meaningful stops, scenic drives, and a taste of local life—delivered in a well-organized and comfortable package.

FAQs

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts about 4.5 hours, including all stops, sightseeing, and transportation.

Where can I be picked up?
Pickups are available from Herceg Novi, Tivat, Kotor, and Budva. You should specify your location during booking.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally family-friendly, the climb to the mausoleum involves 441 steps, which might be strenuous for very young children or those with mobility issues.

What language options are available for guides?
Guides speak English and Russian, making it accessible for many travelers.

Does the tour include food and drinks?
You will get to taste local prosciutto, cheese, olives, and wine or brandy in Njegusi. Additional drinks and snacks are at your own expense.

Is the cable car ride included in the price?
Yes, the cable car ride is included, offering a quick and spectacular ascent to the viewpoints.

Are entrance fees covered?
Yes, entrance to Lovcen National Park and the mausoleum are included in the tour price.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility and peace of mind.

In summary, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of Montenegro’s natural beauty, history, and culture with thoughtful stops and a dash of adventure. It’s ideal for curious travelers who want a meaningful, scenic, and culturally rich experience without overloading their day.