Every year, the quaint town of Virpazar, nestled on the shores of the picturesque Skadar Lake, comes alive thanks to the Wine and Bleak Festival, which attracts tourists from around the world with its charm and hospitality. This festival is not just an event; it’s a true celebration of local culture and cuisine, where every corner is filled with stories and flavors.
Culinary Diversity
The stars of the festival are, of course, the bleak and the wine. Bleak, a small fish found only in the waters of Skadar Lake, is served here in a variety of ways, from dried to smoked. And the wines? They deserve special attention: each variety tells its own unique story, from light and fresh whites to deep and rich reds, which perfectly complement the local appetizers.
Enjoying Music and Dance
The festival is incomplete without music and dance. The stage comes alive with the sounds of folk melodies, and professional dancers in national costumes perform complex steps of Montenegrin folk dances, inviting everyone to join in. The energy of the dances is captivating, and many guests, swept up by the atmosphere, happily join in the dance.
Atmosphere and Hospitality
In addition to culinary and musical delights, the festival is known for its warm welcome. Long rows of tables, laden with local delicacies, are open to all. Here you can try homemade olives, prosciutto, honey, various syrups, and of course figs. Vendors are happy to talk about their products, sharing the secrets of their preparation.
Unique Experiences Every Year
Each festival is unique: this year, the winery Pejanović won the winemakers’ contest, a place we remember from our visit last year. Their wines, which were awarded gold medals, were truly magnificent, and the tasting became a highlight of our stay.
Festival guests came from different corners of the world, emphasizing its significance and popularity.
And of course, we could not miss the opportunity to take a boat ride on the beautiful Skadar Lake. The one-hour trip cost 50 euros per boat, and it was necessary to pay an additional 5 euros per person for entry to the national park. We did not encounter the curly pelicans, but we did see cormorants, herons, and egrets.
Conclusion
Leaving the festival, we carry not only bags full of the tastiest products and exquisite wines but also hearts full of joy and warm memories of Virpazar. We look forward to next year, eager to dive back into this atmosphere of celebration and tradition.
