Ulcinj: Lake as and abandoned city Sva Half-Day Trip

Exploring Montenegro’s Hidden Gems: Lake Sas and the Abandoned City Svac

If you’re looking for a peaceful escape from bustling tourist spots, this Ulcinj: Lake Sas and Abandoned City Svac Half-Day Trip offers a calm, authentic glimpse into Montenegro’s natural and historical treasures. Although I haven’t experienced it firsthand, this tour promises a balanced blend of tranquil scenery and intriguing ruins that appeal to travelers eager for genuine, off-the-beaten-path adventures.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the stunning reflections and clarity of Lake Sas offer a visual treat, perfect for nature lovers. Second, the mysterious remains of the old city Svac provide a tangible sense of history and folklore. One potential consideration? The tour is relatively short at six hours, so it’s ideal if you’re after a light, relaxed outing rather than a deep dive into Montenegro’s extensive sights.

This experience is best suited for those who appreciate quiet natural beauty, historical ruins, and stunning viewpoints without the hassle of long travel days. It’s also perfect for travelers with limited time who want a meaningful taste of Montenegro’s lesser-known sites.

Key Points

• Beautiful Lake Sas: Known for its exceptional clarity, calmness, and birdlife.
• Historic Svac Ruins: An evocative “dead city” with stories tied to Montenegro’s past.
• Spectacular Viewpoints: Panoramic sights from Stegvas overlook the landscape.
• Private Group Experience: Intimate, personalized tours with a knowledgeable guide.
• All-inclusive Price: Entry fees covered, with hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Year-round Activity: Suitable to visit anytime, weather permitting.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Look at Montenegro’s Quiet Corners

This half-day trip is crafted to bring travelers close to Montenegro’s subtle charms, away from the more crowded coastal resorts. Starting from Ulcinj, you’ll board a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle that takes you to Lake Sas, a true hidden treasure just outside the city. The drive itself is pleasant, offering glimpses of Montenegro’s lush greenery and traditional villages, setting the tone for a relaxing adventure.

Lake Sas: A Mirror of Serenity

We love the way this tour emphasizes the beauty of Lake Sas. The lake’s high water clarity means you’ll see reflections of the surrounding trees and sky, making it feel like a living postcard. The calmness of the water is a significant draw for birdwatchers and those craving peaceful scenery. Many visitors mention the rich birdlife and the lake’s suitability for fishing, adding a dynamic natural component to your visit.

The tour description notes that the lake is accessible year-round, making it a dependable choice no matter the season. The environment is tranquil enough for a leisurely walk along the shore, or simply to sit and soak in the views — perfect for camera buffs or anyone seeking a quiet moment in nature.

The Ruins of Svac: A Touch of Montenegro’s Past

Next, you’ll explore the abandoned city of Svac, which holds a melancholy charm. Built by the daughter of Simeunova Kosara in honor of her love for Vladimir, these ruins tell stories of old Montenegro’s romantic and turbulent history. Though the city’s churches have fallen into ruins, they evoke vivid images of past life and devotion.

Travelers often find the ruins evocative, with some describing them as a tangible connection to Montenegro’s layered past. The site’s atmosphere is peaceful but tinged with mystery, offering a rare chance to walk among remnants of a once-thriving settlement. Be prepared for uneven terrain and some steep areas if you wish to explore closely — sturdy shoes are a must.

Panoramic Views from Stegvas

The tour’s highlight is the viewpoint from Stegvas, where you can take in sweeping vistas of the surrounding landscape. From this vantage point, the views encompass the lake, the mountains, and the distant coast, providing a perfect backdrop for photos or simply absorbing the scenery. Travelers often mention the “amazing sightseeing” from here, making it clear that this is a moment to pause and appreciate Montenegro’s natural beauty.

More Great Tours Nearby

What To Expect and Practical Tips

The tour lasts about six hours, which is a comfortable length for those who want a taste of Montenegro without a full-day commitment. The private group setting ensures personalized attention, and the inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off makes logistics simple.

Transportation is by A/C vehicle, ensuring a comfortable ride through Montenegro’s picturesque countryside. Entry fees to the ruins and other sites are covered, so you won’t have to worry about extra costs — a good value given the exclusivity of this experience.

Depending on the time of year, the weather can influence your experience. Pack comfortable shoes for walking, especially around the uneven terrain of the ruins and viewpoints. Since large bags aren’t allowed, a small backpack with essentials like water, a hat, sunscreen, and a camera will suffice.

The tour operates in multiple languages — German, English, Serbian, and Albanian — with a live guide providing insights along the way. This enriches the experience, especially if you enjoy stories and context about the sites visited.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for nature lovers who enjoy tranquil lakes and birdwatching. History enthusiasts will appreciate the evocative ruins of Svac, while those eager for scenic viewpoints will relish the vistas from Stegvas. It’s also a good choice for travelers looking for a private, flexible experience that skips the crowds and dives into Montenegro’s quieter corners.

However, if you’re after an activity packed with multiple attractions or a deeper historical tour, this might feel a bit light. The tour’s six-hour duration is perfect for a relaxed, refreshing day out but not for those seeking an intense sightseeing schedule.

The Sum Up

This Ulcinj: Lake Sas and Svac Half-Day Trip offers a genuine taste of Montenegro’s calmer sides — a peaceful lake with crystal-clear waters, haunting ruins filled with stories, and panoramic views that make your camera happy. For travelers who love authentic natural scenery combined with a whisper of history, the experience provides excellent value given the inclusive price and private setting.

It’s especially suited for those with limited time but who want a meaningful connection to Montenegro’s unseen, authentic heritage. The ease of logistics, knowledgeable guides, and the calm pace make it a memorable, stress-free outing.

Whether you’re snapping photos, soaking in the scenery, or pondering Montenegro’s past, this tour provides a quiet but rewarding glimpse into a side of the country many visitors overlook. It’s a perfect option for travelers seeking serenity, scenic beauty, and stories in equal measure.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
While most age groups will find it enjoyable, the uneven terrain at the Svac ruins might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues. Sturdy shoes are recommended.

How long is the drive from Ulcinj?
The itinerary doesn’t specify exact driving times, but as the tour is about six hours total, expect a comfortable, scenic ride to and from the sites.

Can I participate if I don’t speak German or Serbian?
Yes. The tour has live guides in English and Albanian, ensuring clear communication regardless of your language preference.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are essential, along with a small bag for water, sunglasses, and camera gear. Since large luggage isn’t allowed, plan accordingly.

Is the tour available year-round?
Yes, the tour operates throughout the year, making it a flexible option regardless of season.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, so consider bringing a snack or water for the day.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

This tour balances natural beauty with historical intrigue, wrapped in a comfortable, private setting — perfect for those who want to experience Montenegro’s quieter, authentic side.

You can check availability for your dates here: