On March 9, 2025, our group Starlight embarked on an exciting hike in the Šušanj region, with an ascent to the summit of Mount Petilje. This day gave us unforgettable impressions of the picturesque landscapes and a deeper appreciation of the natural beauty of Montenegro.
Šušanj Region
Šušanj is a suburb of Bar, located in southern Montenegro. This area is famous for its clean beaches, olive groves, and peaceful atmosphere, making it an attractive place for relaxation away from the city bustle. Besides the coastal beauty, Šušanj is surrounded by hills and mountains, offering excellent opportunities for hiking and climbing.
Mountain Peaks in the Šušanj Area
Several remarkable peaks are located in the vicinity of Šušanj, including Petilje, Grbavac, and Sto.
Mount Petilje
Mount Petilje rises 712 meters above sea level and is one of the most popular hiking destinations in the area. The trail to the summit winds through dense forests and open spaces, offering travelers diverse scenery and the opportunity to admire the local flora and fauna.
From the summit, hikers are rewarded with a panoramic view of the Adriatic coast and the surrounding mountains, making the ascent especially rewarding. At the top of the mountain, there is a cross, although its significance remains unknown to us.
Mount Grbavac
Grbavac is another significant peak in this region, with an elevation of approximately 680 meters. The trail to Grbavac is considered more challenging, but it also offers magnificent views and the chance to test oneself on a steeper and more difficult ascent.
Mount Sto
Sto, standing at 852 meters, is one of the highest peaks in the area. Climbing Sto requires good physical preparation and mountaineering experience, but it rewards hikers with breathtaking views and a strong sense of achievement.
Our Ascent to Petilje
Our hike began early in the morning from Šušanj. We decided to explore a new, unmarked trail that circled the mountain from the left, while the marked route traditionally loops around Petilje from the right.
The trail passed through varied landscapes, from shady forests to open meadows. As we ascended, we enjoyed the stunning views of the coastline and surrounding mountains. After several hours of climbing, we reached the summit, where we took a break to admire the panoramic views and capture some memorable photos.
We were lucky to witness the spring bloom of many plant species:
- In the coastal zone, we saw yellow asphodel (Asphodeline lutea) and sculptural spurge (Euphorbia myrsinites).
- In the mountains, we encountered snowdrops (Galanthus), winter aconite (Eranthis hyemalis), violets, crocuses, primroses, and squills (Scilla).
We also studied ink galls on oak trees, adding an unexpected botanical discovery to our adventure.
This hike left us with vivid impressions and a strong desire to continue exploring the mountain trails of Montenegro.
