Bike tour – Downhill from Njegos Mausoleum to Kotor bay

Exploring Montenegro’s Breathtaking Scenery on a Downhill Bike Tour from Njegos Mausoleum to Kotor Bay

Imagine cycling from a mountain summit at 1600 meters all the way down to the shimmering waters of Kotor Bay—sounds like a dream, right? Well, this bike tour from Njegos Mausoleum to Kotor Bay offers just that, combining adventure, culture, and some of the most spectacular scenery Montenegro has to offer. It’s a perfect mix for those who love outdoor activities with a touch of history and awe-inspiring views.

What we love about this experience is the chance to combine a scenic drive with an active descent, the visit to the iconic Njegos Mausoleum, and the view of Kotor Bay, often called the world’s only southern fjord. Plus, the guide’s friendly, knowledgeable approach makes the whole day smooth and enjoyable.

That said, a key consideration is the physical requirement—this tour involves some cycling on a busy, mountain road used by vehicles, so it’s best suited for confident, reasonably fit riders. It’s less ideal for children under 12, pregnant women, or anyone with mobility issues. Perfect for adventure lovers and nature enthusiasts, this trip packs a lot of value into five hours of beautiful Montenegro.

Key Points

• Stunning panoramic views of Kotor Bay and the surrounding mountains
• Visit to Njegos Mausoleum, a remarkable architectural site atop Lovcen
• Downhill cycling on a historic mountain road, combining adrenaline and scenery
• Guided tour with included transport, snacks, and entrance fees
• Optional zipline for thrill-seekers
• Suitable for confident riders, not ideal for young children or those with certain health conditions

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Downhill Bike Tour

This tour provides a well-rounded mix of culture, adventure, and natural beauty, starting with a scenic drive that sets the tone for the day. The journey begins in Kotor or Tivat, where you’ll meet your guide and hop into a vehicle for a 1.5-hour transfer along a 35 km serpentine road, built in the 19th century by the Austrians. The road winds through 25 sharp curves, offering spectacular views of Kotor Bay with every turn.

The Drive Up to Njegos Mausoleum

The drive itself merits attention: it’s a thrilling ride through a mountain landscape, with plenty of photo stops for panoramic shots. We loved the way the road clings to the mountain side, providing both a scenic and slightly exhilarating experience. The guide, who is friendly and informative, will give you snippets of history and insights about the area.

Once at the bottom of the mountain, you’ll hike up 461 stairs to reach the Njegos Mausoleum—an architectural marvel with a stunning view of the bay and surrounding peaks. Many reviewers highlight the spectacular vista from the mausoleum, which offers a perfect backdrop for photos and reflection. Inside, there’s a statue of Njegos and his tomb, adding a sense of history and reverence to the visit.

The Cycling Begins

After the mausoleum visit, you’ll head to a local restaurant, where bikes and helmets are prepared for the descent. The initial 10 kilometers are a mix of downhill and gentle inclines, offering a taste of what’s to come. The highlight here is reaching Krstac Pass, a vantage point where the full sweep of Kotor Bay is visible—many describe it as “like holding the bay in your hand.”

For adrenaline junkies, there’s an optional zipline stretch of 400 meters, which adds a fun and daring element to the trip. Several reviews mention it as a “must-try” for thrill-seekers, providing a different perspective of the landscape.

The Downhill Ride to Kotor

The main event is a smooth 25 km downhill that takes you all the way to Kotor, a UNESCO-protected town. The road is shared with cars, so caution is advised, but the beautiful scenery makes it a worthwhile challenge. Along the way, you’ll pause for photos and to soak in the views of Tivat Bay and Kotor, often described as “simply breathtaking.”

Many riders appreciated the guidance and support from the guide, ensuring safety and making stops for photos and hydration. Several reviews note that the downhill is “easy and enjoyable,” with a relaxed pace that allows for plenty of sightseeing.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Itinerary in Detail

Start at Trg od Oruja in Kotor or Tivat, where the guide waits with bikes and gear. After a quick briefing, you hop into a vehicle for the scenic drive to the mausoleum. Expect a 1.30-hour ride with multiple photo stops and historical insights.

At Lovcen National Park, a guided tour of the mausoleum lasts about 2 hours, including the hike up the stairs, time for photos, and a moment of reflection at Njegos’s tomb. This site is considered a masterpiece of architecture, and many visitors comment on the stunning views from this elevated position.

Post-visit, you’ll settle into a local restaurant for a quick coffee or drink—perfect for recharging before the cycling begins. The initial downhill stretch of 10 km from the restaurant to Krstac Pass offers a gentler ride, allowing you to enjoy the scenery and get comfortable on your bike.

From Krstac, you can opt for the zipline, adding a dash of adventure before the long descent. The final 25 km downhill to Kotor is the highlight, offering sweeping views, photo opportunities, and a feeling of accomplishment.

End back at Trg od Oruja, where you can relax, share photos, and reflect on the day.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers great value, with all necessary gear, transport, and entrance fees covered. You’ll get use of a quality bicycle and helmet, a guide’s expertise, and refreshments like coffee, tea, snacks, and bottled water. Entrance tickets to both the park and Njegos Mausoleum are included, saving you time and hassle.

If you’re interested in the zipline, it costs €15 per person, and it’s worth considering if you’re after an adrenaline boost. Lunch isn’t included but can be arranged upon request, giving you flexibility to choose a local spot or a picnic.

Practical Tips for Participants

Transportation: The tour starts with a scenic drive up the mountain, so be prepared for a winding, potentially bumpy ride. Drivers and guides are experienced and friendly, making this part comfortable.

Physical readiness: Confidence on a bike and a moderate level of fitness will enhance your experience. The ride involves some uphill sections and shared road conditions, so good balance and control are helpful.

What to bring: Wear comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes suitable for biking and walking. Sun protection, a hat, and sunglasses are recommended, especially during the hike and downhill ride.

Health considerations: The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, children under 12, or those with mobility, heart, or respiratory issues. It’s also not recommended for individuals over 65 or with vertigo.

Booking and cancellations: You can reserve your spot now and pay later, with full refunds available if canceled more than 24 hours in advance, making it flexible to fit into your Montenegro itinerary.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This bike tour is perfect for active travelers who want to combine scenic sightseeing with a bit of adventure. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy cycling, stunning vistas, and cultural stops like the Njegos Mausoleum. The included guide and support make it accessible for most confident riders, but not recommended for complete beginners or people with certain health restrictions.

If you’re craving a memorable outdoor experience that offers both physical activity and incredible views, this downhill ride from Lovcen’s peak to Kotor Bay ticks all the boxes.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not recommended for children under 12 due to the physical demands and shared mountain road conditions.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes, closed-toe shoes suitable for biking and walking, and sun protection are advised.

Can I try the zipline?
Yes, the 400-meter zipline is available at €15 per person and is perfect for those seeking an adrenaline rush.

How long is the cycling part?
The downhill cycling covers approximately 35 km, with about 10 km before Krstac Pass and 25 km down to Kotor.

What is included in the price?
Use of bicycles and helmets, transport from Kotor/Tivat to the mausoleum, a guide, tickets for the park and mausoleum, snacks, and drinks.

Is this tour physically demanding?
It requires a moderate level of fitness and confidence on a bike, but the terrain is mostly downhill with some gentle uphill sections.

What if I want lunch?
Lunch isn’t included but can be organized upon request at a local restaurant.

Are there any safety concerns?
The road is shared with vehicles, so riding cautiously is essential. The guide supports safe riding and scenic stops.

To sum it up, this downhill bike tour offers a fantastic way to experience Montenegro’s natural beauty, culture, and history in a single day. It’s suited for travelers craving adventure, stunning views, and a sense of accomplishment. Perfect for active-minded visitors who want to make the most of their time in this gorgeous part of the world.

You can check availability for your dates here: