Volušnica and Talijanka – Panoramic Loop
- 06:00
- 9.2 km
- 1070 m
Volušnica (1,879 m) is one of the most beautiful peaks in Montenegro’s Prokletije range. Thanks to its easy access from the Grebaje Valley and outstanding views of the Karanfili ridge, it is one of the most popular hiking destinations in the area. The ascent is an ideal choice if you’re looking for a rewarding mountain experience without a full-day trek.
The hike to Volušnica starts in the Grebaje Valley, about 6 km from the town of Gusinje. Entry to Prokletije National Park is subject to a fee, which is collected directly in the valley.
The trail to Volušnica begins in a beech forest and climbs gradually in the shade, gaining around 450 vertical meters.
Once you leave the forest, views open up over the mountain pastures and the grassy slopes of the ridge.
Just above the treeline there is a trail junction, with a branch leading left directly to the summit. A small stream flows just above the junction. Sheep often graze nearby, so it’s safer to filter the water before drinking.
The path then continues uphill across grassy slopes, occasionally winding between trees or passing small rocky outcrops. After another roughly 200 vertical meters, it leads straight to the summit of Volušnica.
The trail is clear and well worn, with no exposed sections, and can be managed by less experienced hikers with decent fitness.
The summit of Volušnica offers one of the most iconic viewpoints in the whole Prokletije range. Right in front of you rise the jagged peaks of the Karanfili, dropping steeply into the green Grebaje Valley below. Among them you can also pick out the pyramid-shaped summit of Očnjak. Close to Volušnica, you’ll also see the peaks of Talijanka and Popadija, which you can add to extend the hike. The summit itself is broad, grassy, and ideal for a snack, a rest, or taking photos.
From Volušnica, return along the same route via the junction and through the forest back to the Grebaje Valley.
This hike also works well as a half-day outing and is suitable for older children or less experienced mountain hikers, as long as they have a reasonable level of fitness.
By car
Driving is the most practical option. You can go all the way to the end of the valley, where there is plenty of space to park. In the valley, you’ll pay the entrance fee for Prokletije National Park.
By bus
Take a bus to the town of Berane, from where buses run frequently to Gusinje, a town about 7 km from the start of the hike in Vusanje.
You can try looking up timetables here, but take them with a grain of salt:
Streams in the meadows above the forest. Sheep often graze nearby, so it’s a good idea to filter the water before drinking. In late summer and autumn, they may run dry.