19 Hidden European Villages Perfect for an Off-Season, Crowd-Free Getaway
18. The Painted Quiet of Žabljak, Montenegro

In the heart of Durmitor National Park, Žabljak is a highland village surrounded by pine forests, glacial lakes, and the jagged Dinaric Alps. It’s known for adventure sports in summer, but in shoulder season, it slows to a whisper. Mist rolls across Black Lake, trails open up to solo hikers, and the stargazing is unreal. For travelers seeking raw wilderness and cultural authenticity—without peak-season noise—Žabljak is Montenegro’s best-kept alpine secret.