Black Lake

What is this place

Crno Jezero (Black Lake) is a glacial lake on Mt Durmitor, 3 km from Žabljak, at 1416 m elevation. It sits below Mt Međed and is the area’s signature natural landmark.

Key features

• Two basins – Veliko Jezero and Malo Jezero – linked by a narrow strait, forming one lake system.
• Total area 0.515 km², maximum length 1155 m – the largest of Durmitor’s 18 glacial lakes.
• Veliko Jezero: 0.338 km², max depth 24.5 m, up to 855×615 m – wider and shallower.
• Malo Jezero: 0.177 km², max depth 49.1 m, up to 605×~400 m – smaller in area, deeper and more voluminous.
• Fed by mountain streams, notably Mlinski potok; many inflows are seasonal snowmelt.

What to see

• A ~3.5 km loop trail around both basins.
• Clear contrast in color and depth between Veliko Jezero and Malo Jezero.
• Views of Durmitor’s cirque slopes and Mt Međed above the water.

History

The lake basins were carved by Durmitor’s glaciers; a natural sill and seasonal levels maintain the two-basin layout. Over time the shoreline path became Žabljak’s classic stroll for locals and visitors.

In the 20th–21st centuries, easy access from town and the short loop cemented the lake’s role as the area’s prime recreation spot.

Practical information

Location: Durmitor massif, Žabljak municipality, Montenegro; ~3 km from Žabljak centre.

Getting there: on foot from town via waymarked paths; local road access to the forest trailhead, then walking only.

Access: lakeside trail generally open year-round when conditions allow; basic facilities near the start.

Visiting hours: any time; winter access depends on snow and ice.

Visit duration: 1–2 hours for the 3.5 km loop with photo stops.

Best time: late spring to autumn; summers bring lower water and wider shores, spring has higher levels.

Notes: roots and slick sections after rain; wear grippy footwear and carry wind/sun protection.