A mountain eye at 1,970 m — nature reserve of Prokletije National Park
Hridsko Lake, nestled between Veliki Hrid and Mali Hrid at an elevation of 1,970 metres, is a protected nature reserve within Prokletije National Park. Just 18 km from Plav, this small mountain lake with a maximum depth of around 5 metres is home to 245 species of algae, 78 of which were recorded in Montenegro for the very first time here. The lake is surrounded by mixed forests of endemic-relict munika and molika pines, and the mountain newt lives in its waters. Many visitors consider Hridsko Lake the most beautiful lake in Montenegro, and beyond its natural values, it is tied to a popular legend about fairies bathing in its waters.
Location
18 km from Plav
Elevation
1,970 m
Maximum depth
approx. 5 m
Algae species
245
Protection status
Nature reserve
Highlights
The lake itself is the central feature of the reserve, situated at 1,970 m above sea level between the mountain peaks of Veliki Hrid and Mali Hrid. With a maximum depth of around 5 metres, this small mountain lake captivates with its crystal-clear water and exceptional biological diversity. To date, 245 species of algae have been identified in it, 78 of which had never previously been recorded anywhere in Montenegro, giving it special scientific significance. Many visitors consider it the most beautiful lake in Montenegro.
The Hridsko Lake nature reserve encompasses not only the lake itself, but also the surrounding mixed forests of endemic-relict munika and molika pines — species that have survived since ancient geological periods and today hold the status of protected endemic species. These forests form a unique ecosystem that is rare across the Balkans. Walking through them is part of the hiking trail to the lake and offers direct contact with the untouched vegetation of Prokletije.
Hridsko Lake is one of the known habitats of the mountain newt, an amphibian that lives exclusively in cold, clean mountain waters. The presence of this sensitive species is a direct indicator of the quality and purity of the lake's water. Alongside the newt, the lake is home to numerous other aquatic organisms, making it a valuable location for observing mountain fauna and exploring the natural ecosystems of the high-alpine zone of Prokletije.
What to do
Ascent to the lake along trails through munika and molika pine forests to 1,970 m above sea level.
tap to closeExploring rare algae species and amphibians, including the mountain newt.
tap to closePhotographing the mountain lake surrounded by pine forests and rocky peaks.
tap to closeObserving mountain fauna in the pristine ecosystem of the Prokletije reserve.
tap to closeGallery
Plan Your Visit
Phone
+382 51 252 006Website
www.plavto.meAvailable throughout the entire day — it is not a fenced facility. Recommended entry from sunrise until noon.
Entry to Prokletije National Park is charged. Check current prices with the Tourist Organization of Plav or at the park entrance.
Parking is available at the trailhead. There is no parking fee.
The trail to the lake requires mountain fitness and appropriate footwear. It is not adapted for persons with disabilities or reduced mobility.
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