Discover the longest canyon in the Bar hinterland – Vruća Rijeka

Canyons are a rarity in coastal towns, but the hinterland of Bar boasts five impressive canyons: Rikavac, Međureč, Vruća Rijeka, Nikezić’s Stream, and Perin Stream. Each canyon has its own unique features.

The longest canyon in the Bar area, Vruća Rijeka, dries up during the summer months, and it is currently without water. Canyoning enthusiasts eagerly await the first autumn rains to fully enjoy the Vruća Rijeka experience.

Even while dry, tourists and adrenaline seekers take advantage of their stay in Bar, Montenegro, by exploring the narrow passages along the slopes of Mount Rumija via the Vruća Rijeka canyon, which stretches approximately seven kilometers.

“The canyoning tour begins in the village of Veliki Mikulići, situated at an altitude of about 700 meters, and ends near the Old Town of Bar, in the settlement of Bartula, which is approximately 100 meters above sea level,” explains Darko Pepđonović, a licensed canyoning guide, in an interview with Primorski Portal.

Vruća Rijeka canyon has more than 30 vertical drops, with the highest reaching 24 meters. For Darko and his colleague, fellow licensed canyoning guide Božo Pejović, traversing Vruća Rijeka is more enjoyable and exciting when water is present.

Nevertheless, the jewel of Montenegrin canyons, Vruća Rijeka, remains irresistible even in the summer months.

“The canyoning experience takes between five and seven hours to complete, depending on the size and physical condition of the group. Along with the height of the cliffs, Vruća Rijeka features several natural dams and pools, which are among the canyon’s most beautiful highlights,” the guides state.

They emphasize that the Vruća Rijeka canyon is most attractive during April, May, and June, as well as after the first autumn rains in October and November.

The water in the canyon is relatively warm for a mountain river, as the entire flow faces south and receives ample sunlight. The water temperature ranges from 12°C at the beginning to 20°C in the lower section. Perhaps this is why it is called Vruća Rijeka, which means „Hot River.“

Mountain rivers have sculpted these canyons over thousands of years, engaging in a relentless struggle between water and stone.

The five canyons in the Bar hinterland are natural attractions that draw not only regional tourists but also visitors from Europe, America, Asia, and Australia. The canyoning season in this area lasts for more than 150 days each year.

Translation: Teodora Breškić