High above the sparkling turquoise Tara River, the Đurđevića Tara Bridge stands, sandwiched between two cliffs.
It’s hard not to be enamored with the view of the majestic overpass. Giant arches stand high above the river’s fierce rapids and trees emerge from the rugged mountain sides.
SOME HISTORY TO SOAK UP
The Tara Bridge was built in the late 1930’s and early 1940’s when the region was part of the Kingdom of Yugoslavia. There are two main figures behind the construction of the overpass. Isaac Russo who was the Chief Engineer and the project’s designer, Mijat Trojanovic.
The finished project ended up being the largest concrete arch bridge in Europe at the time. It was known for it’s five large arches that combined to create a bridge almost 1,200 feet in length. If you feel a bit of vertigo while looking down on the Tara River, I wouldn’t blame you. The road stands 564 feet above the flowing water.
Soon after it’s creation Tara Gorge Bridge was captured by the Italians. WWII had made its way into Yugoslavia and Tara Canyon was a hot spot for guerrilla warfare. There were many struggles for the bridge including a strategic explosion by one of the original engineers Lazar Jaukovic. This cut the only crossing off for miles, however it cost Lazar his life.
IT’S ALL ABOUT THE ACTIVITIES AT THE TARA GORGE
The current state of things is much less intense. The bridge is used as a way to enter from Montenegro into southern Serbia. There are also a myriad of fun activities that start from the bridge. Multiple companies offer zip lining across the canyon with spectacular views of Đurđevića Bridge.
Kayaking and water rafting excursions take place from the adventure companies next to the pass. Coffee shops and restaurants have wonderful viewpoints and a campsite just after the bridge is a great way to experience the area. There are also a few churches to visit in the valley not far from the bridge.
You can spend a morning here, enjoying a coffee, some thrills, and eye-popping visuals. Pairing a visit to the man-made bridge and the nature of Durmitor National Park makes for an epic adventure in northern Montenegro.
A view of Tara River from the bridge.
How to get to Tara Bridge?
The Tara Bridge is located just outside of the popular mountain town of Žabljak. So, the most convenient way to visit is from the town (which is most likely where you’ll be staying).
DRIVING – From Žabljak hop onto the P5 north/east and it will take you directly to the bridge. There will be signs for the Tara Bridge as the P5 highway meets up with the P4 highway. This is the opposite direction of Niksic.
BUS – There are a few buses that run from the Žabljak bus station towards the bridge. The bus station has a timetable printed out on its window. However, when I was there only half the scheduled buses were actually running. I suggest starting in the morning, because the last bus heading back to Žabljak was around 4 P.M. (and I was afraid it wasn’t going to show up). Basically, the bus schedule isn’t very trustworthy. If you start early and head back just before noon, you shouldn’t have any problems.
TAXI – You can grab a taxi just about anywhere in Žabljak and they will know where the Đurđevića Tara Bridge is. There will be plenty of taxis at the bridge too for the way back. Although, the later it gets the more their numbers dwindle.
With spectacular views and wonderful architecture, the Tara Bridge is one of Durmitor National Park’s real treats. Make sure not to miss out on a place bursting with adventure!
