A deep blue lake where a town found new life
Plužine is a town defined by a dramatic and beautiful paradox. Its story is not one of ancient stone and medieval castles, but of a monumental sacrifice and rebirth. The original town of Plužine lies beneath the surface of the stunning Lake Piva, a testament to a modern-era project that reshaped the landscape and the lives of its inhabitants.
In the 1970s, the construction of the Mratinje Dam created Lake Piva, a massive artificial reservoir with an impossibly deep turquoise color. The rising waters of the Piva River submerged the old town, forcing a community to rebuild on a higher ground overlooking the new lake. This event created a landscape of immense, breathtaking beauty, where steep, craggy mountains plunge into the tranquil, deep blue water, a fjord-like scene that has earned the region the nickname "Montenegrin Bavaria."
But perhaps the most remarkable part of this story is the relocation of the Piva Monastery. This magnificent 16th-century spiritual and cultural treasure was meticulously dismantled, stone by stone, and moved to a new, higher location to save it from the rising waters. This monumental feat of engineering and devotion, which took over a decade to complete, ensured that the monastery's invaluable frescoes and relics were preserved. Today, the monastery stands in its new home, a powerful symbol of resilience, faith, and the enduring spirit of the people of the Piva region.
Beyond its unique history, Plužine is a gateway to the stunning Piva Nature Park, a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The vast lake is perfect for boat tours, kayaking, and fishing, while the surrounding mountains offer breathtaking hiking and jeep safari routes. Here, you can feel the serenity of the water, the majesty of the peaks, and the quiet pride of a town that gave up its past to create a spectacular new future.
Expanded Tourist Information
Key Attractions
Lake Piva (Pivsko Jezero)
The centerpiece of the region and Montenegro’s largest artificial lake. Its distinctive deep turquoise color is a result of the pure, spring-fed water. It is a stunning setting for boat tours, where you can explore hidden coves and admire the dramatic canyon walls. Kayaking and fishing are also popular activities.
Piva Monastery
A 16th-century Serbian Orthodox monastery that was incredibly moved to its current location to avoid being flooded by the dam. The monastery is home to a magnificent collection of frescoes and a rich treasury of religious artifacts. Its unique story and beautiful art make it a must-visit site.
Piva Nature Park
The vast area surrounding Lake Piva is a designated nature park, offering a wide range of activities. From hiking and biking on trails with panoramic views to exploring the numerous "katuns" (traditional shepherd villages), the park is a playground for those who love the great outdoors.
Best Time to Visit
Optimal Months:
The best time to visit Plužine is during the summer months, from June to September. The weather is warm, making it ideal for all water activities on Lake Piva, and the mountain roads and hiking trails are fully accessible.
Getting There & Around
By Car
Plužine is best reached by car. The drive from Nikšić is particularly scenic, taking you through a beautiful mountain landscape. The Piva Canyon road, a series of tunnels and winding paths alongside the lake, is a spectacular journey and a destination in itself.
By Bus
There are bus connections from major cities like Podgorica and Nikšić, but they can be infrequent. It is advisable to check the schedule in advance.
Local Transport
The town itself is small and walkable. For exploring the wider Piva Nature Park and for reaching the Piva Monastery, having a car is highly recommended.
