country-montenegro Archives

The Most-Breathtaking Balkan Peninsula Cities

Posted on August 8, 2018February 27, 2021 Author: Susie Stauffer

A large swath of Europe’s landscape is occupied by the Balkan Peninsula, one of the continent’s oldest and largest settlements. Natural wonders and historic landmarks dot the territory, merging with unique culture, making it a popular destination with people from around the globe. From untainted beaches to towering mountains, luxurious resorts to ancient buildings, tempting dishes to homemade brews–the Balkans will draw you in, surprise you, excite you, and ante up abounding and unforgettable hospitality. From Albania to Macedonia and breathtaking Serbia, a journey across the Balkans offers a unique angle on Europe.

9. Bitola | Macedonia

Bitola is the second largest city in Macedonia yet the atmosphere feels so much more small-town than anything large. Sophisticated and charming, central Bitola is an easy place to get around, the food is fresh, uncomplicated, and tasty, and the locals have an easy, friendly way about them. Bitola has a handful of attractions to engage you easily for a few days. Sirok Sokak Street is the main artery, a lively backdrop of bars, restaurants, and shops lining the pedestrian-only, broad lane. Café culture is full-blown, creating endless opportunity for people-watching. Macedonian’s, along with the rest of the Balkans, love chatting over coffee, showcasing a social and relaxed way of life. Historical sites also abound, from fetching mosques to the imminent Clock Tower visible from all across the center of the city. The 15th century enclosed Bazaar, imposing Church of Sveti Dimitrij, and views from Bitola’s towering position at the base of Pelister Peak, the city is filled with appeal.

8. Belgrade | Serbia

Belgrade is Serbia’s most celebrated capital where layers of history, abundant cultural points, and a party almost each and every night has given the city an appealing reputation. Proud, outspoken, and adventurous, Belgrade is one of Europe’s most lively capitals, and though it’s more gritty than pretty, the rolling city hills showcase immense charm. Slowly, things are changing from good to better with plenty of gentrification happening citywide, seamlessly pairing with Hapsburg leftovers, art nouveau mastery, and socialist quarters, all dramatically contrasting with relics from the Ottoman empire. In Belgrade, the renowned Danube meets the Sava River where parkland unfolds alongside chaotic urban sprawl. A new world is evolving while keeping the old within its clutches. Quirky sidewalk kiosks, magnificent coffeehouses, and restaurants passed through generations flank Knez Mihailova, a vibrant pedestrian avenue lined by historic buildings leading to Kalemegdan Citadel, the city’s crown jewel.

7. Kotor | Montenegro

Magic seems to carve through every crevice of Kotor, Montenegro on the stunning Adriatic Coast. Enfolded in the Bay of Kotor’s south side, the city is enveloped by panoramic mountain scenery. Charm and authenticity are more than evident here, even with swaths of people spilling into the city during the later summer months, flocking to Kotor’s medieval and divine Old Town. Tucked between Kotor’s unpredictable bay and lofty mountains, the town of Kotor is ideally at one with its comely backdrop. History here began in the 9th century, evident in old buildings wedged together in one perfect assembly. At night, Kotor’s walls are spectacularly illuminated, seemingly protecting the treasures within–labyrinthine lanes of marble, small family-run shops, drool-worthy restaurants, and animated bars set around clandestine colonnades. Marina’s are crowded with the yachts of the super elite in warm weather but there’s no real downside–decent swimming conditions are lacking–any true history, romance, or architectural enthusiasts will have a hard time finding the heart to leave.

6. Split | Croatia

Croatia’s second biggest city, Split is one of the most profound of all European cities showcasing abounding ancient ruins. Traditionally one of the main ports for visiting the Dalmatian Islands, it’s become more of a destination than merely a gateway. Split has blossomed, and beautifully so, offering very much to fill the curious mind. Planning in the city has been fruitful with plenty of new, elegant hotels and trendy restaurants and with Krka National Park and the Mosor Mountains close by, the list of possible endeavors is plentiful. As the Riva (seafront) gets an old look updated by marble, the journey into Split is even more impressive and the atmosphere along the old walls immeasurable. Authentic Dalmatian life is at its best here, and always lively, it perfectly balances tradition with vicissitude. The UNESCO World Heritage Site Diocletian’s Palace is one of the most dramatic of Roman testaments and more than enough to wow even those who have “seen it all.”

5. Ohrid | Republic of Macedonia

Ohrid is one of those must-see places, a traveling cliche but a truth nonetheless. If in Macedonia, it is the place to go. Sitting on the sidelines of dramatic Lake Ohrid, Europe’s deepest, oldest, and most endearing lakes, it’s one of the Balkans’ most prominent summer resorts. Glorious Ohrid is Macedonia’s crowning jewel, stunning historic churches lining a rolling hill in the ethereal Old Quarter topped by ancient St. Jovan Kaneo, and with close by Gali_ica National Park and the not-so-distant and fairly isolated beaches on the lake’s east side, there’s not much to complain about. Most of Macedonia seems to make their way to the lake between mid-July and mid-August. From that point, nightlife is utterly chaotic and prices skyrocket–best to visit outside of the festive season. May and June, or late summer and early Fall are excellent, and far more quiet, times to visit.

4. Plovdiv | Bulgaria

Plovdiv is an explorer’s utopia–smaller than Bulgaria’s capital city Sofia but just as interesting. Delve into the ancient Philippopolis amphitheater–this Roman relic is a 2nd century marvel, only stumbled upon in 1968. Plovdiv is considered one of the oldest cities in Europe to have been constantly inhabited–the enormity of this fact is hard to swallow until a walk through the gorgeous amphitheater. The center is entirely charming, with cloisters of houses each topped with unique roof lines and architectural details so pleasing to observe and with just the perfect amount of eye-catching steeples for a small town. Cobblestone streets wind through Plovdiv, diverting to beatnik cafes, high caliber museums, and art galleries, captivating until the sun sets and another kind of entertainment comes alive. The nightlife in Plovdiv is excellent with a good choice of lively bars and clubs catering to the university town that also boasts some of the best Bulgarian, Thracian, Byzantine, and Roman antiquities in Europe.

3. Prizren | Kosovo

Prizren is Kosovo’s cultural capital and a top choice to strike out and explore one of the world’s most newly formed nations. Under the Ottoman Empire, Kosovo was thriving, and today, architectural details remain from the Ottoman period. Scenic Prizren is a shining star with plenty of infectious post-independence elation and eagerness. In August, Dokufest sees the city come entirely alive and fill up with film-industry people from around the world. The international short film and documentary festival takes over the town with parties, exhibitions, and screenings. When on route from Albania to Pristina, the enchanting mosque and church-laden old town deserves a few hours of your time. The old town is one of the most impressively preserved in the Balkans, with a horde of buildings dating back to the 14th century. Check out an art exhibit in the old Pristzen hammam, explore the remains of the Serbian Quarter, see a panoramic view of Prizren from Roman-era city castle, and don’t miss the Shadervan, the city’s old stone piazza and social gathering point.

2. Bled | Slovenia

Lake Bled steals the show in Slovenia with seemingly glowing aquamarine water, waterfront homes nestled along the riverbanks, and a 17th century castle smack dab in the middle of it all on its very own island. Idyllic it is, scenic and relaxing, and on almost every postcard you’ll find in the country. Blue skies seem to crack open above the lake, shining down on calm waters and illuminating all that’s naturally perfect in the surrounding area. Walk the two-kilometer path encircling Lake Bled and you’ll what it means to take the “perfect walk.” If romance is in the cards, Lake Bled is a great choice but it’s also an exciting destination for canyoneering, cycling, hiking, and boating so bring your adventurous side along. As with any fantastic lake, Bled is swarming with tourists come summer–they come from far and wide. A fall or spring visit is just as picturesque and although the water temperature isn’t quite as soothing all of Lake Bled’s finest points stay strong.

1. Tirana | Albania

A possibly unforeseen addition to the list, Tirana makes the cut as a quirky and vibrant portal into Albania and a city with some of Europe’s most beautiful beaches. One of the most unusual capitals on the continent, Albania’s isolation from the rest of the globe for more than 50 years has created a city unlike any other. Spirited and dynamic, Tirana is Albania’s thumping heart, this diminutive part of the country has high aspirations that have coalesced into an animated scene of unabashed fun and bold consumerism. Since its communist period, Tirana has undergone an evolution of massive proportions, with a transformed city center and bold, vibrantly painted buildings, pedestrian-only boulevards, and public piazzas. Sweeping avenues are flanked with Ottoman empire relics and pieces of its communist and Italian past, from flagrant socialist murals to exquisite cupolas while traffic congests the streets in a stifling way, meeting headlong with pedestrians in a kind of controlled chaos that’s dazzling to watch.

Destinations

8 Things to see and do in Kotor

Posted on March 16, 2018February 27, 2021 Author: Lindsay MacNevin

It has been rated as one of Lonely Planet’s top destinations to visit in 2016, and this tiny town of Kotor delivers big on things to see and do. Although many who visit here, do so for just one day, we encourage you to take your time exploring the town as you never know what’s around the next corner. From palaces to cathedrals to incredible restaurants, Kotor offers a unique and unforgettable adventure. Make sure not to miss out on these 8 things to see and do in this town.

8. Hike to the top of the Fortress

If you only visit for a short time and have time for just one thing, hiking to the top of the Fortress should be on the top of your list. Start from inside the Old Town and look for the signs that lead to the trail. The very top of the fortress sits 280m above sea level. Make sure, we repeat, make sure you have your camera with you on this hike as the views of Kotor and the bay of Boka Kotorska will blow you away.

The climb is said to have more than 1,000 stairs and you will more than likely be sharing the route with others, but the view from the top is well worth it. Kotor Bay will stretch out before you, in all its glory, framed by fjords and church steeples. Take a snack up with you, sit atop ancient ruins and relish at the moment, that you can never possibly begin to capture on camera.

7. Visit the Maritime Museum

The Maritime Museum is situated in the baroque palace Grgurin and preserves the fame of Boka and Boka nay, a must visit for anyone interested in anything maritime related. Kotor’s proud history as a naval power is celebrated in this three-story museum which features a collection of photographs, paintings, uniforms, antique furniture, decorated weapons and models of ships.

There is a free audio guide that will help explain the collection for visitors. Opened to the public in 1900, this museum has seen its fair share of wars, earthquakes, and restoration. See it at its best today.

6. Visit the Sveti Tripun Cathedral

In the very center of the Old Town sits one of the oldest cathedrals in the territory of Europe and a must visit when in Kotor. The cathedral was built in 1166, in the place where are the beginning of the IX century there had been a smaller church dedicated to the same saint. Earthquakes have caused this cathedral to be renovated over the years and today it stands as a beautiful church, restored to look as much as it did when it was first built.

Visitors who go inside will be privy to fabulous decoration, including a stone ornament above the main altar that tells the story of Sveti Tripun’s life. In the cathedral also lies the relics of Sveti Tripun in the coffin made of silver. Throughout the cathedral, there are various gothic sculptures, marble altars, and a silver golden rake. Step back in time and wander through this gorgeous cathedral.

5. Spend a night at Palazzo Radormiri Hotel

This historic hotel is the perfect place to spend your nights while you explore the town of Kotor and surrounding areas. What was once a noble ship owner’s family house has been turned into a beautiful hotel. In 1979 a devastating earthquake destroyed all but the walls of this residence and with the help of an architect the family restored the ruin and rebuilt the villa to create an intimate boutique hotel.

Things to enjoy while staying here include the balcony on the main façade, said to be one of the most beautiful in the area, the seafront garden, relaxing courtyards and swimming pool. Rooms are beautifully decorated, service is impeccable and the amenities are plentiful. Do yourself a favor and make sure to spend at least one night here.

4. Take the Hop-on/Hop-off Tour

Kotor has an awesome open top hop-on/hop-off tour bus. It doesn’t drive through the walled city but it does drive all the way down the road to the next largest town of Perast. This is a great opportunity for visitors to learn more about the history and take in the incredible landscape. Make sure you get off at Risan and explore the small excavation site which charges a meager admission price to pay for the work they are doing.

Discover the remains of a Roman house that dates back to the 2^nd century A.D, with a guide that leads you through it. Perast is the last stop on the tour bus and make sure you stop and get off to walk around this pedestrian only town. Is here where you will find Baroque palaces, a slew of beautiful churches, Orthodox structures and a total of nine defensive towers!

3. Visit Our Lady of the Rocks

Hop on a boat and ride out to the man-made island Our Lady of the Rocks. How this man-made island came to be is interesting. According to legend, the islet was made over the centuries by local seamen who were said to keep an ancient oath after finding the icon of Madonna and Child on the rock in the sea in 1452. After each successful voyage they took, they laid a rock in the Bay and eventually over time the islet began to emerge from the sea.

The first known church was built in 1452 and taken over the Roman Catholics who in 1632 built the church that now stands presently on this islet. The interior of the church is simply spectacular and is not to be missed. Lavishly decorated with works by Tripo Kokolja, 68 painting in total, as well as from other Italian artists. Adjoining the church is a charming museum and it well worth the meager admission price. Go with a local guide to get the real authentic experience.

2. Dine at Galion

If you really want to treat yourself in Kotor make sure to head to the sophisticated seafood restaurant, Galion, located just five minutes walk from Old Town along the coast. The restaurant is set in an old stone building complete with a glass-and-steel terrace extension that overlooks the bay and gives sensational views of Kotor’s medieval walls.

Funky modern furniture, chilled-out music and a superior menu featuring such items as homemade gnocchi and octopus salad are what you will find here. Enjoy the friendly service, charming atmosphere and excellent wine, all for an excellent price.

1. Explore Old Town

It is by far the most famous part of Kotor, where history, culture, and tradition are preserved. A slew of monuments including churches, palaces, and cathedrals, all done in medieval architecture are found here. Combine those with narrow cobbled streets, town squares, markets, ancient walls and more. The walls that surround this Old Town may just be the most impressive feature, standing at 20m high, 10m wide and running 5km long.

Over a thousand years old, these walls are completely preserved and downright impressive. Old Town is also loaded with a number of stylish gates and stairs that provide the perfect photo opp. Wander through the streets and discover the friendly locals, boutique shops and a charming atmosphere that will make you want to stay even longer.

Destinations,Inspiration,Trends

10 Emerging Travel Destinations You Need to Visit NOW

Posted on July 17, 2017February 27, 2021 Author: Rachel Despres

Italy. Australia. Thailand. These popular destinations are on most everyone’s travel bucket list, and for good reason. They’re rich with history, vibrant culture and sensational food. And while the language, landscape and customs may be different in each country, they share one thing in common: tourist crowds.

Some people may not mind sharing their vacation with hordes of strangers, but for those who prefer to visit places that are off the typical tourist’s radar, here are 10 incredible locations you should consider traveling to now before the secret’s out and the crowds start rolling in.

10. Nepal

Since a devastating 7.8-magnitude earthquake shook the country in 2015, Nepal’s tourism industry has suffered tremendously. In the two years since, the people have been doing all they can to repair infrastructure and treasured monuments to draw travelers back to the area.

Home to Mount Everest, Nepal is most commonly visited by those who dare to climb the Earth’s tallest mountain. But this South Asian country, which is landlocked between Tibet and India, has plenty to offer for adventurers of all kinds—including trekking, wildlife safaris, rafting, paragliding and bungee jumping, among others. If your preference is to visit urban areas, the country’s capital city, Kathmandu, is overflowing with bustling markets and historic temples to explore.

9. Myanmar

For many decades, it wasn’t possible to visit Myanmar (formerly Burma) due to the military dictatorship that ruled the country. And even though it’s now welcoming of tourists, Myanmar is often overlooked in favor of more popular neighboring countries like Thailand and Vietnam. But that will most certainly change in the near future.

Known as the “Golden Land,” Myanmar is home to the historic region of Bagan, a vast landscape dotted with over 2,000 temples and pagodas built between the 9th and 13th centuries. This magnificent landscape can be explored on foot or by bike, but a hot air balloon ride offers the view of a lifetime.

8. Mongolia

With over 250 sunny days per year, Mongolia is aptly known as the “Land of the Eternal Blue Sky.” It is also one of the least densely populated countries in the world, which makes visiting feel like a truly off-the-beaten-path experience. An adventure lover’s paradise, Mongolia offers pristine landscapes that extend as far as the eye can see, perfect for trekking mountains, horseback riding and searching for dinosaur fossils in the Gobi desert. You can also camp anywhere for free (yes, really).

In fact, half of the country’s population still lives nomadic lifestyles, endlessly traveling and setting up their gers (white felt tents) wherever they stop. But this number is shrinking, as many are abandoning the pastoral lifestyle for work within the cities. So if you wish to experience Mongolia at its most authentic, be sure to get there sooner than later.

7. Canada

The United States’ northern neighbor turns 150 this year, and to celebrate the country is offering free admission to all of its near 50 national parks. This incentive, along with a favorable US dollar, has drawn international travelers to many of Canada’s most popular areas, including the mountainous coast of British Columbia in the west and the laid-back vibe and wildlife of the Maritimes in the east, a region that consists of Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. This sudden spotlight on the country’s beauty has skyrocketed it to the top of many people’s bucket lists; so don’t delay your visit if you wish to experience the land as if it were your own private paradise.

6. Montenegro

This small country, which gained independence from Serbia in 2006, has attracted the famous and wealthy for many years. But the rest of the population is only just starting to catch on to the pristine beaches and the historic medieval villages it boasts. The adventurous can explore the dense forests and beautiful waterfalls of Durmitor National Park or raft along the river in the Tara River Canyon. And with over 250 days of sunshine each year, it’s a sailor’s heaven. Needless to say, this paradise likely won’t stay under the radar for much longer!

5. Madagascar

After breaking off from India 88 million years ago, Madagascar became a secluded island paradise home to countless plant and animal species that cannot be found anywhere else on Earth. Its landscape is diverse, ranging from dense jungle to desert to incredible coastline. Visit Parc National de Ranomafana for its relaxing natural hot springs or head to Camp Bandro at Lac Alaotra for a day of lemur spotting. But such untouched beauty won’t last forever, as some of the landscape is already transforming into the tourist resorts. Visit now to experience the country at its most natural.

4. Serbia

Western Europe gets all the attention. Consisting of countries such as France, Spain, Switzerland and Portugal, it’s no wonder. But those who’ve already visited such places, or others who simply want to experience a different side of the continent, are now looking to Eastern Europe for their next adventure.

Serbia is just one of the emerging countries in this region. Its capital, Belgrade, boasts not one, but two riverfronts, as it’s located where the Danube and Sava rivers meet. The pedestrian-friendly streets make it easy to take in the elaborate nineteenth-century buildings of the old town, and its nightlife is among the best in Europe. This gem of a city certainly won’t stay hidden for long!

3. Patagonia

Mountains, abundant wildlife and a sprawling coastline are just a few of reasons drawing people to Patagonia, a region that is shared between Chile and Argentina. You can trek across glaciers in Los Glaciares National Park or travel to Península Valdes, a UNESCO heritage site that is home to Magellanic penguins and a stunning location to go whale watching. You can also drive inland and visit an authentic Estancia (ranch) in Argentina to learn about the country’s history and culture from the locals. Head there soon to enjoy Patagonia’s unspoiled land; this adventure lover’s paradise won’t be kept secret for long!

2. Colombia

Long associated with drug cartels and corruption, Colombia has transformed from a nation in crisis to a budding new South American travel destination. Urban explorers should travel to Bogota, the country’s capital, which has seen a recent boom in unique hotel and restaurant offerings. Or visit Cartagena on the Caribbean coast, one of the best-preserved colonial cities on the continent.

Or, if you’re feeling especially adventurous, trek the six-day hike to the lost city of Ciudad Perdida, located atop the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountain range. Only just discovered in 1976, the city’s construction dates back some 650 before Peru’s famous Machu Picchu.

1. Sri Lanka

India is a popular travel destination at the moment, but it can be quite challenging to navigate. For a similar experience, tourists are now turning to Sri Lanka, which is just as rich with history, culture and customs, but without the complications. The country is home to vast amounts of wildlife; visit Yala National Park to spot elephants, leopards, sloth bears and buffalo roaming in the wild.

Or see the country’s spectacular landscape by train. Board the Yal Devi Express for an unforgettable journey from Colombo to Jaffna. You can also surf some waves in Arugam Bay, with a beach of golden sand located in the south east of the island. You can truly choose your own adventure in Sri Lanka, but get there soon before others catch on to its abundant beauty!

Destinations

7 Reasons Why Montenegro is the Bell of the Mediterranean

Posted on August 19, 2015February 27, 2021 Author: Brea Elford

Montenegro: a Balkan country so small, most people have no idea where it is. Located between Albania and Croatia, this small but mighty country is quickly becoming a must-see on all European routes. For such a tiny country (you could drive from one end to the other in three hours) there is so much to see and do, a week isn’t nearly enough time. Anyone who spends time here understands why it is so special; the spectacular natural landscape alone is enough to cement Montenegro’s celebrity status, but this country offers so much more. It is jam packed with historic and important landmarks, and the towns have so much Baltic character they seem to come straight out of a story book. On top of that, the culture is intoxicating and the people are so welcoming- this country definitely won’t stay hidden for long!

7. Sveti Stefan

Formerly a playground for the wealthy- Elizabeth Taylor and Kirk Douglas both frequented the Sveti Stefan resort. Sveti Stefan is usually the postcard picture for Montenegro. Originally an old town built on a small island right off shore, about six km from Budva, it is now an upscale hotel and is actually closed to the public (unless you are willing to pay about 1000$ a night for a room)! It is remarkably beautiful though, and provides travelers with great photo opportunities, both from the road above and the beach down below!

6. The Ostrog Monastery

A monastery of the Serbian Orthodox Church, this Montenegrin landmark, built in the 17th century, is an architectural marvel constructed right into a near vertical cliff side. The Ostrog monastery is the most popular pilgrimage in Montenegro, and often thought of as the Balkan version of Petra. It is an incredible landmark and usually included in day excursions around Montenegro. The winding road leading up to the monastery is perilous, but, if you can brave it, open your eyes because the view from the road is breathtaking.

5. Kotor

Kotor is a beautiful historic town, filled to the brim with charm and intrigue. Many people head straight for Budva when visiting Montenegro- the nightlife is bumping and the beaches are filled with sunbathing tourists, but that’s pretty much all Budva has to offer, which is why you should head to Kotor instead. Koto is a coastal town located near the end of the Bay of Kotor, which means it is quiet and intimate, while still having an energized, local atmosphere. Kotor is a UNESCO town, surrounded by a walled fortress. Climb to the top of the fortress (about 1500 steps) for incredible views of the bright blue bay and surrounding hillsides. The food in Kotor is delicious, and the history is present at every winding turn. This town is pure character, and choosing it as a base to explore the rest of the country is a satisfying decision.

4. Perast

Another small UNESCO town located on the Bay of Kotor, Perast has so much character and personality it almost doesn’t seem real. The town is home to less than 500 people and is car free, which means it is a peaceful and beautiful escape from the busier Kotor. The water is crystal clear for swimming, and the beaches are never really busy. Out in the water from Perast you can see two tiny islands, Our Lady of the Rock and St George- if you want you can rent a boat to visit the two. Perast is beautiful and unique, with old Balkan architecture and plenty of history, it is pretty close to paradise here!

3. Cetinje

Slightly more difficult to reach than the coastal Montenegrin towns, Cetinje is a wonderful, little historic town nestled in the hills of central Montenegro. As the Old Royal Capital of Montenegro, history and charm is not lacking here. Founded in the 15th century, wandering the streets takes you back in time; it was the center of Montenegrin life and culture for years, and because of its heritage it is considered today the honorary capital of Montenegro. From here you can easily explore Mount Lovcen, a natural landmark of Montenegro, or the surrounding farm plains and tiny villages that decorate them. There are many historical interest points, such as the Cetinje Monastery and Vlaska church, but time is best spent here absorbing the culture, walking the streets and admiring the historic town life.

2. Lovcen National Park

Mount Lovcen, a mountain and national park in southwestern Montenegro, is a stop on most visitors’ itineraries. Rising high above the clouds, people say on a clear day you can see nearly the entire country; it certainly seems that way as the skyline up top never ends. The mountain slopes are rocky but they can be hiked by climbers with experience. The beauty of Mount Lovcen though, is anyone can reach the peak, via car or bus! On the top of the mountain is the Mausoleum of Njegos, a tiny, historical building with a paved path leading out to the top. The views from here are incredible, so spend some time basking in the marvel of the park and the whole of Montenegro before heading back down!

1. Tara River Canyon

Tara River Canyon is the longest canyon in Montenegro and, at its deepest point, is the deepest river canyon in all of Europe. The Tara River is a place so perfectly sculpted it doesn’t seem real; the water is too blue, and the canyon walls too dramatic. The uniqueness of the river makes it the ideal place for white water rafting and kayaking; in fact, lots of tour companies offer day trips to the gorge and back. The designated rafting route along the river is about 11 miles long and usually takes about three hours- more if you stop for some swimming! The Tara River is a haven for adventurers, but it is so striking that those not wishing to raft will want to visit anyways!