Kolašin sits in a valley surrounded by the Bjelasica and Sinjajevina mountain ranges, making it Montenegro’s premier ski destination in winter and a fantastic year-round base for mountain lovers. The town itself is small and relaxed — more of a village really — but what it lacks in size it makes up for in access to some of Montenegro’s most dramatic landscapes. Whether you’re here to hit the slopes in winter, hike through alpine meadows in summer, or simply escape the coastal crowds, having a car gives you the freedom to explore properly. The drive from the coast or Podgorica airport is an adventure in itself, winding through mountain passes with views that genuinely take your breath away.
Why Hire a Car in Kolašin?
Let’s be straightforward about this — Kolašin is not a place you can comfortably explore without a car. The ski centres are a few kilometres out of town, the trailheads for hiking are scattered across the mountains, and attractions like the Tara Canyon and Biogradska Gora National Park require wheels. The public bus service from Podgorica exists but is infrequent and not practical for a proper mountain adventure. With your own car, you can be skiing at Kolašin 1450 in the morning, having lunch by the Tara River in the afternoon, and watching the sunset from a viewpoint over the canyon. In summer, the area becomes a hikers’ paradise, with marked trails ranging from gentle valley walks to challenging mountain ascents. The flexibility of a hire car means you can tailor each day to the weather and your mood.
What to See Around Kolašin
The ski centres are the obvious draw in winter — Kolašin 1450 has become increasingly popular with beginners and intermediates, while the newer Kolašin 1600 offers more challenging terrain and spectacular glacier views. Even if you’re not skiing, the cable car ride up to 1600 gives you access to incredible mountain scenery. In summer, head to the Tara Canyon — the drive alone is worth it, but getting out on the water for rafting or just sitting at one of the riverside cafés is wonderful. Biogradska Gora, one of the last three primeval forests in Europe, is about 20 minutes away and has excellent hiking trails around its glacial lake. The town itself is pleasant enough for an evening wander, with some good restaurants serving hearty mountain food — try the lamb and potato stew (kačamak) or fresh trout.
Driving Tips for Kolašin
The road from Podgorica to Kolašin (the E65/E80 via Nikšić) is generally in good condition, but it’s a proper mountain road with curves, tunnels, and occasional landslip sections. Take your time — the drive takes about 1.5 to 2 hours depending on conditions. In winter, this road can be snowy and icy, and you may need snow chains or a 4WD vehicle to get through safely. The ski centres are reached via roads that branch off the main route — Kolašin 1450 is about 9 km from town, Kolašin 1600 about 15 km, and these smaller roads can be more challenging in bad weather. The road to Tara Canyon (continuing north from Kolašin) is an engineering marvel in places — the switchbacks are dramatic, so let slower vehicles pass and don’t try to rush the hairpins.
Booking Tips for Kolašin
Book your Kolašin car hire well in advance if you’re visiting during the ski season (December to March) — availability can be limited and prices increase significantly. Consider whether you need a 4WD, especially if you’re visiting in winter or want to explore some of the more remote mountain roads. Some hire companies may restrict certain vehicles from mountain roads during winter months, so check the terms carefully. If you’re arriving at Tivat or Podgorica airport, factor in the drive time — it’s longer than it might look on a map because of the mountain roads. Summer bookings are generally easier to secure and often cheaper, but still worth arranging ahead for the best rates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does Kolašin have good ski facilities?
Yes, Kolašin has two ski centres — Kolašin 1450 and Kolašin 1600 — with modern lifts and slopes for all levels.
How far is Kolašin from Podgorica airport?
Kolašin is about 80 km from Podgorica airport, roughly a 1.5-hour drive through the mountains.
Can I visit Tara Canyon from Kolašin?
Absolutely. The drive from Kolašin to Tara Canyon takes about 45 minutes through spectacular mountain scenery.