Shkoder to Virpazar and Stari Bar: Private day trip

First mentioned as ‘Vir’ in 1242, the Turks capitalized on the strategic location, erecting the still-standing Besac castle on the hill overlooking the village. After the Turks were expelled in the 18th century, the town became the most important trading post in the country, even adding ‘pazar’ (marketplace) to its name. The sleepy village is famous for being the site of the country’s first uprising against Axis invaders during WWII, an event memorialized by a massive stone monument. The town is arranged as a circle, centered around the wide, tree-shaded square. Most days vendors are selling local products, such as wines and brandy, while Fridays sees a full-fledged market. A short walk brings visitors to the 15th century Besac Castle, which was also used as a police station and Italian stronghold. A climb to the top of the citadel rewards visitors with a view of the town, surrounding flood-plains, and wonderful natural scenery.

Making the hike up to the 11th century ruins of Old Bar rewards visitors with dramatic mountain views and a first-hand look into Montenegro’s tumultuous past. After changing hands for centuries, the Ottomans occupying the fortress, and town it guarded, were besieged during the by Montenegrin-Ottoman war in 1887. After heavy bombardment, the fortress finally surrendered when Montenegrin forces destroyed the town’s aqueduct, effectively cutting off the town’s water supply. Following an earthquake in 1979 that again destroyed the aqueduct, the town was abandoned and the new town of Bar founded on the coast. Today visitors can roam the ruins at their leisure. While the old Ottoman clock is the most visible standing structure, visitors shouldn’t miss the Turkish baths, which have unique glass tiles in the ceiling to let in light.