Exploring Lipa Cave

Calling all adventurers and fans of amazing adventures! Prepare for a thrilling excursion to the enchanting beauties of Lipa Cave. This natural treasure, hidden away in the picturesque town of Cetinje, Montenegro, promises an amazing trip. Leave the commonplace behind and embark on an incredible journey.

If you enjoy exploring caverns and taking risks (albeit mild) on vacation, Lipa Cave welcomes you to discover its intriguing secrets. This is one of the most unique experiences in Montenegro and should definitely be on your to-do list. Prepare for an enthralling encounter with its distinct traits, historical history, and spectacular beauty at every step. Are you ready to let out your inner explorer and find the extraordinary?

Welcome to Lipa Cave, where reality surpasses your greatest expectations and stalactites reign supreme.

Discovering Lipa Cave: A Brief Introduction

Lipa Cave is one of Montenegro’s largest cave systems, reaching over 2.5 kilometers – though the area accessible to tourists is far smaller. This incredible cave was constructed over millions of years by water erosion and is thought to be over 5 million years old. The cave is packed with underground lakes, rivers, and waterfalls, creating a captivating ambiance that will leave you speechless.

Normally, people find such areas – but not here. In the nineteenth century, a dog purportedly discovered Lipa Cave after falling through a hole in the mountain. After losing their dog, villagers began hunting for it and luckily discovered it in a mountain hole that functioned as the cave’s entrance.

The discovery of the cave quickly spread throughout the country, and Montenegrin ruler Petar II Petrovic Njego issued a decree to study it. Experts from Austria, Italy, and Germany were invited to explore the cave, which later became an important infrastructure facility for the city of Cetinje. It served as a refrigerator, a water source, a warehouse, a meeting place, and a diplomatic mission, depending on the circumstances.

During World War II, the cave was used as a shelter by the Partisans, a Yugoslav resistance movement. You can see the remains of their presence, such as graffiti and artifacts, as you explore the cave. For more information on the Partisans and their role in Montenegro’s history, check out this article on the Monument to Partisans in Niksic

Descending into Lipa Cave: An Unforgettable Adventure

To enter the cave, you’ll descend a spiral staircase that takes you 20 meters below the ground. As you venture further into the cave, you’ll see stunning limestone formations that have been sculpted by water over the years. Some of the highlights include the Great Hall & the Gallery, each with its unique features that are sure to impress visitors.

Also Read: The Blue Cave – one of the must see places in Montenegro

Touring Lipa Cave: Ticket Prices and Inclusions

The entrance fee is €14.90 for an adult and €8.90 for a child from 5 to 15 years old (children under 5 years old are admitted for €1). Family tickets for 2 adults and 2/3 children are €39.90. The ticket price includes basic accident insurance, parking, a ride on the tourist train to the cave entrance (which was fun for adults too!), and the services of a guide. The prices are as per 1 June 2024.

Alternatively, you can do a private tour from Kotor which will meet your needs

Contacting Lipa Cave

To book a tour or inquire, you can contact them by phone at 067-003 040 or visit their website at www.lipa-cave.me.

Getting to Lipa Cave from Cetinje

Cetinje is the nearest town to Lipa Cave, and getting there is relatively easy. The easiest way to reach the cave from Cetinje is by car or taxi. It takes around 15 minutes to drive from Cetinje to the cave. You can also book a tour with a local tour operator who will arrange transportation and a guided tour of the cave.

Activities for All Ages

In addition to the cave tour, there are other activities you can enjoy at Lipa Cave. There’s a zipline that takes you over the beautiful scenery of the canyon, a high ropes course, and a playground for children. You can also take a break at the on-site restaurant that serves traditional Montenegrin dishes and local wine.

Read Also: The hidden gem: The Bukumirsko Lake

Preparations: What You Need to Know

Lipa Cave is suitable for all ages and fitness levels. However, please note that the temperature inside the cave remains constant at around 8°C – so it can get a little bit chilly so make sure to bring a jacket, even on hot summer days.

Tips for exploring the surrounding area

While the focus of this article is on Lipa Cave, there are plenty of other attractions and activities to enjoy in the surrounding area. Here are a few ideas to help you plan your visit:

1. Hiking trails: Lovćen National Park is a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts, with trails ranging from easy to challenging. You can explore the park’s diverse flora and fauna while enjoying stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
2. Scenic viewpoints: The village of Njeguši is perched on a hill overlooking the Bay of Kotor and offers panoramic views of the area. Another great option is the Ivanova Korita viewpoint, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
3. Cultural landmarks: The town of Cetinje is known for its rich cultural heritage and historic landmarks. Some of the must-visit sites in Cetinje include the Cetinje Monastery, the National Museum of Montenegro, and the King Nikola Museum.
4. Beaches: Montenegro is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe, and several of them are located within driving distance of Lipa Cave. Some of the best beaches in the area include Jaz Beach, Mogren Beach, and Sveti Stefan Beach.

By exploring the surrounding area, you can experience the diverse natural beauty and cultural heritage of Montenegro. Whether you enjoy hiking, sightseeing, or soaking up the sun on a beach, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Conclusion

Finally, Lipa Cave is a hidden gem that provides a one-of-a-kind experience for visitors looking to explore Montenegro’s natural and historical beauty. It has something for everyone, from stunning limestone formations to a rich history and exciting activities.

So, plan your visit accordingly, buy your tickets, and prepare to be amazed by this incredible natural wonder. Remember to get in touch with Lipa Cave for more information or to book your tour.