Discover the lake
Rijeka Crnojevića: Village, River and Viewpoints
Rijeka Crnojevića is a village of about 300 people wrapped around a bend in the river that carries its name. It was once the lake's busiest trading port; today it is the quietest and most beautiful way onto the water.
- Location
- North-west Lake Skadar
- River
- Crnojevića
- Population
- About 300
- From Podgorica
- ~25 minutes
- From Cetinje
- ~20 minutes
- Best known for
- River canyon & Pavlova Strana
- Tour season
- April to October
A short history
In the 19th century this was the port where goods from Cetinje met boats bound for Skadar and the Adriatic: a customs house, a market, warehouses and the long stone bridge that still arches over the river, built in the time of Prince Danilo. When roads replaced boats the traffic left, and the village settled into the quiet you find now.
The river and the canyon
From the village the Crnojevića winds roughly 15 kilometres through a green canyon before it reaches the open lake. Reed walls close in, water lilies carpet the surface in summer, herons lift off ahead of the boat. This is the stretch that makes Rijeka Crnojevića worth the drive — boats from Virpazar never see it.
Pavlova Strana
Minutes above the village on the Cetinje road, the Pavlova Strana viewpoint looks straight down on the river's horseshoe bend. It is free, it takes five minutes, and it is the most photographed view on the lake. See it from above, then travel through it by boat.
Where to eat and how to get there
Our own Restaurant Savina Luka sits at the water where the boats are moored, run by the Ražnatović family for more than twenty years: fresh lake fish, a terrace over the river and free private parking. By car it is about 25 minutes from Podgorica, 20 from Cetinje and 50 from Kotor or Budva. There is no bus or train to the village, so come by car or ask us about a transfer.
Plan your day on the water
Private boat tours from Restaurant Savina Luka in Rijeka Crnojevića — your group only, free private parking, swim stop included in season.
Frequently asked questions
Why do boat tours start at Rijeka Crnojevića?
Because the 15 km of river canyon between the village and the open lake is the most scenic and wildlife-rich part of the whole lake.
What is Pavlova Strana?
The roadside viewpoint above the village overlooking the river's horseshoe bend. Free, and a few minutes by car.
How do you get there?
By car or transfer: 25 minutes from Podgorica, 20 from Cetinje, about 50 from the coast.