We love mountains in the winter for the snow, and during the summer as a escape from the heat. But they are perhaps at their most beautiful in the autumn 🙂 Pleasant sunshine, soothing colors, leaves rustling underfoot… Pure magic.
It's time to discover Bjelasica. Easily accessible, rich in forests, and home to six stunning lakes. Let's explore them!
Biogradsko Lake (Biogradsko jezero)
The most famous lake on Bjelasica belongs to Biogradska Gora National Park, one of Europe's last three primeval forests.
In the heart of the rainforest, beneath centuries-old canopies, lies Biogradsko Lake. It is 1,100 meters long and 410 meters wide. Its depth fluctuates and raises concerns (all glacial lakes face the risk of disappearing). During high water levels, it can reach up to 12 meters deep, whereas in periods of drought—which happens to be in autumn—its depth drops by half. Despite this, everyone agrees that Biogradsko Lake is at its most beautiful in autumn due to the incredible surrounding nature.
Through the forest along the lake, there is an excellent hiking trail equipped with signposts and educational boards about the flora and fauna. At the Visitor Center, you can find all necessary information regarding accommodation, visiting the botanical garden, renting boats and bicycles, purchasing daily sport fishing permits, or hiring a tour guide. There is also a restaurant, a souvenir shop, and a children's playground.
- Entrance fee: €4 per person (tickets can also be purchased online).
Pešića Lake (Pešića jezero)
Have you visited the Kolašin 1600 ski center without stopping by Pešića Lake? Autumn is the perfect time to make up for that missed opportunity. 🙂
The second-largest lake on Bjelasica—Pešića Lake—is by no means second to the famous Biogradsko Lake in terms of beauty. Although spring welcomes visitors to the lake in its full splendor, the autumn colors of the surrounding landscape give its beauty a unique charm.
Nearby are Katun Vranjak, the source of the Biogradska River, and Kamena River—attractions well worth visiting on your return journey.
Situated at 1,838 meters above sea level, it comes as no surprise that numerous legends surround Pešića Lake. The most famous is the tale of a winged horse that appeared only at night, a magnificent sight enjoyed solely by forest fairies. If a human tried to witness it, they would be punished. Local legend says this happened to a man named Pešić, who drowned in the lake during the night.
UrsulovaÄŤko Lake (UrsulovaÄŤko jezero)
One of the most inaccessible lakes in Montenegro is located beneath Bjelasica's highest peak, Crna Glava (Black Head). As is often the case, what is harder to reach captivates with incredible beauty.
Its name comes from the area of Bjelasica in which it is situated—Ursulovac.
Locals also refer to it as Kurikućko Lake, as it lies near the Kurikući katun, where the trail to the lake begins. However, visiting with a guided group is recommended. The Berane Tourist Organization frequently organizes hiking tours to Ursulovačko Lake.
Around the lake, you will notice unusual, "prostrate" pine trees. This is dwarf mountain pine (krivulj)—a special, protected tree species. The rest of the landscape consists of beech forests, making this gem of Bjelasica look magical throughout the autumn season.
Big and Small Šiško Lake (Veliko i Malo Šiško jezero)
Unlike Ursulovačko, Šiško Lake is gentle and easily accessible. It is located in an area known as Šiška, named after the nearby mountain from which the lake takes its name.
It is surrounded by beautiful traditional shepherd settlements (katuns) and woodland, with tree canopies bathed in vibrant colors during autumn. Not far from Big Šiško Lake lies Small Šiško Lake (Malo Šiško jezero). During low water periods, it turns into a marshland and is primarily used for watering livestock.
Ĺ evarinsko Lake (Ĺ evarinsko jezero)
The least explored corner of Bjelasica belongs to the mysterious Ševarinsko Lake. Located near Šiško Lake, both can easily be visited in a single day.
Most of its surface is covered by lake grass (ševar), after which it was named.
Besides being mysterious, this lake is slowly and quietly disappearing. What a loss! Sitting at 1,700 meters above sea level, it looks like a true oasis of peace and quiet. Hurry to discover it before it's gone!
