Lake Piva is the largest artificial lake in Montenegro and one of the most impressive hydroelectric reservoirs in the Balkans; it is located in the municipality of Plužine, in the northwest of the country.
Formation and Physical Characteristics
Formation: It was created by damming the Piva River canyon through the construction of the monumental Mratinje arch dam (standing an impressive 220 meters tall) between 1971 and 1975, to serve the needs of the "Piva" hydroelectric power plant.
Dimensions: The lake stretches for over 45 kilometers through the former narrow canyon, with water depths reaching up to 188 meters in some places.
Elevation: The lake's surface lies at an elevation of approximately 675 meters above sea level.
Distinctive Color: The lake water is exceptionally clear and boasts a characteristic, incredibly intense turquoise-blue and emerald hue, making it one of the most photogenic locations in Montenegro.
A Remarkable Fact – Relocation of the Piva Monastery
One of the world's most fascinating cultural-historical undertakings is linked to the creation of this lake:
With the flooding of the canyon, the old municipal center of Plužine and the renowned 16th-century Piva Monastery found themselves submerged beneath the water.
The monastery—stone by stone, along with over 1,200 square meters of priceless frescoes—was systematically dismantled and relocated to higher ground (Sinjac), three kilometers away. This undertaking spanned a full 12 years and was executed with perfect precision. The residents of the old town of Plužine were relocated to a newly built settlement right on the lakeshore, where Plužine is still located today.
Tourism and Activities
Boating and Swimming: During the summer months, the surface water warms up pleasantly, making the lake popular for swimming, boat cruises, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP).
Fishing: The lake is exceptionally rich in fish—primarily brown trout, rainbow trout, and chub—attracting avid anglers.
Adrenaline (Zipline): One of the longest zipline systems in the Balkans (approximately 1,450 meters long) is located above the lake in Plužine, offering incredible views of the turquoise water and rocky cliffs.
Access: Plužine and Piva Lake are easily accessible via the Nikšić – Plužine – Šćepan Polje main road (towards Bosnia and Herzegovina); the lake also serves as a natural gateway to Durmitor via the famous Sedlo Pass (part of the so-called "Durmitor Ring" route).
