New Via Ferrata Trail Opens in Lovćen National Park for Adventurers

A new recreational trail, the Via Ferrata Štirovnik, has opened in Lovćen National Park, thanks to the dedication of the members of the Alpinistic Club “Slobodni penjači – Cetinje,” led by Rajko Popović and his sons Dejan and Vuk. This unique attraction offers hiking enthusiasts and adventure seekers a chance to experience the thrill of climbing in a safe environment.

The term “via ferrata,” which translates from Italian as “iron road,” refers to a secured climbing route equipped with steel cables, iron pegs, and footholds. This design allows even those without previous climbing experience to enjoy the beauty of alpine landscapes. Popović, who is both the president and founder of the club, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “Those using the ‘iron road’ can be completely assured of their safety throughout the ascent.”

Safety and Accessibility for All

The Via Ferrata Štirovnik is named after the mountain peak on which it is located. Popović described this area as the primary training ground for their climbing adventures, stating that the new installation enhances the already rich offerings of Lovćen. “This route will once again spread the good reputation of Lovćen in the region, providing a fresh opportunity for adventure lovers to explore the national park,” he stated.

Situated on the eastern cliffs of Štirovnik, the via ferrata is the only vertical rock of its height within Lovćen. Most rock formations in the area are crumbly and of lesser incline. The route was carefully selected to navigate the most compact section of rock between existing climbing paths like “Kamikaza,” “Lovćenski ljepotan,” and “Jama pred vrh.” Popović noted, “We resolved a complex overhanging section using ladders made of cables and iron bars.”

Via ferratas have gained popularity worldwide as part of the active tourism scene, appealing particularly to foreign visitors. The Via Ferrata Piva, another site in Montenegro, has already drawn significant interest, ranking as the third notable attraction in the region, following the Piva Hydroelectric Plant and the Piva River.

A Sustainable Approach to Adventure

For those ready to embrace the challenge, the via ferrata offers an opportunity to experience the exhilaration of climbing while ensuring constant safety along the cable route. The access point begins at Međuvršje at an elevation of 1,340 meters. Hikers proceed along a trail leading to the eastern couloir and then to the prominent vertical rock face where the via ferrata starts, ascending from 1,540 meters to 1,645 meters. Upon exiting the vertical section, climbers can either reach the summit of Štirovnik at 1,749 meters or follow a designated return path.

Popović emphasized the environmental responsibility taken during the installation of the via ferrata. “We did not disturb the local flora and fauna,” he assured. The drilling was conducted using battery-operated drills to minimize noise pollution and carbon emissions. The appearance of the rock face remains unaltered, with cables and iron footholds designed to blend in from a distance.

Support from local authorities has been crucial to the project’s success. “From the conception of the idea to the realization of the project, it took only 24 days,” Popović explained, highlighting the collaborative efforts of his family and local entities. He expressed gratitude to Milan Vlahović from the Environmental Protection Agency for their timely support, as well as to Nikola Đurašković, the mayor of Cetinje, and the local government for their encouragement and resources.

The Via Ferrata Štirovnik stretches 145 meters with a vertical gain of 105 meters, classified as a grade C climb. The installation includes 110 iron footholds, 45 intermediary iron anchors, 17 main anchors, and 210 meters of cable. The route’s difficulty falls in the middle of the via ferrata scale, which ranges from A to E, with A being the most challenging.

This new trail is a testament to the growing adventure tourism landscape in Montenegro, inviting locals and tourists alike to discover the scenic wonders of Lovćen National Park while enjoying a safe and thrilling climbing experience.