General info
Skadar Lake, one of Montenegro’s five national parks, is the largest lake in the Balkans, covering an area of 380 square kilometers. It is renowned for its rich biodiversity and stunning natural beauty, home to around 45 species of fish and over 280 species of birds, making it one of the region’s most important wildlife areas. The lake serves as a crucial stopover for migratory birds traveling between Europe and Africa. Among its most famous inhabitants are the rare Dalmatian pelican, a symbol of the lake, and the pygmy cormorant. Thanks to its exceptional climate, fertile soil, and favorable terrain, both autochthonous and international grape varieties grow successfully in the Skadar Lake area.
St. Stefan Island is one of Montenegro’s most photographed landmarks. Originally a 15th‑century fortified fishing village, the island is now connected to the mainland by a narrow causeway and is celebrated for its historic charm and picturesque setting. Today, it is home to the luxury Aman Sveti Stefan resort, which has welcomed guests from around the world and was a favorite destination of international movie stars and members of royal families.
Šipčanik Wine Cellar is one of the most unique wine cellars in Montenegro, located in a former military airbase in the heart of the vineyard, more than 30 meters underground. The cellar is designed as a 356-meter-long tunnel, with a constant temperature of 17–19°C and natural humidity of around 80%, providing ideal conditions for wine aging. Today, over 2 million liters of wine are stored here in oak barrels, along with an impressive archive of more than 18,000 bottles. Now, Šipčanik is a distinctive wine destination where visitors can enjoy local wines, traditional cuisine, and a unique atmosphere that combines history with contemporary winemaking. Guests are welcomed by professional guides and sommeliers who introduce the rich flavors and aromas of Montenegro.
Tour overview
9:00h – Meet your driver in front of your hotel in Budva and begin the journey to Virpazar, a small and peaceful lakeside town known for its fish restaurants and numerous family-run wine cellars in the surrounding area.
Upon arrival, a 1.5-hour boat tour will be arranged. On the way to Karuč, you will pass through water lilies and reeds, see traditional fishing villages, enjoy birdwatching, and explore the wild beauty of the lake.
After lunch at a lakeside restaurant, where guests will have the opportunity to try the lake’s famous carp fish, the tour continues to Šipčanik Wine Cellar for a tasting of local wines.
(Wine tasting duration: 1h)
After the wine tasting, we depart for Budva.
What is included
- Transportation
- Guiding services
- NP Skadar Lake ticket
- Boat tour
- Lunch
- Wine tasting and appetizers
Tour Highlights
- Skadar Lake Boat tour – Admire panoramic lake scenery and enjoy birdwatching and the lake’s water lilies
- Wine tasting and appetizers – Taste local wines and regional specialties at Šipčanik Wine Cellar.
- Enjoy the panorama of St. Stefan Island – Admire the historic charm of the island and its picturesque coastline.











