Mrtvica: Europe's Second Deepest Canyon

Despite not being widely known, the Mrtvica Canyon is gaining attention and rightfully earning its title as one of the most beautiful canyons in Europe.

Mrtvica River

Mrtvica is a powerful mountain river approximately 10 kilometers long, surrounded by the cliffs of the canyon, which reaches a depth of around 1,250 meters, making it the second deepest in Europe, just after the Tara Canyon. The water throughout its course is completely pure and drinkable, displaying alternating shades of blue and dark green. In some places, especially in the turbulent rapids, it takes on an almost surreal appearance. At the beginning, Mrtvica is calm and peaceful, but the further one delves into its canyon, the louder it becomes. Around the midpoint of the river's course, nature has created a stunning hidden beach in the forest for those who reach this spot. The river is concealed between the Moracke Mountains, intertwined with numerous frothy waterfalls and springs, and its beauty is challenging to put into words – it simply must be experienced.

Zeleni vir: A Bridge of Historical Significance

One kilometer upstream, you will come across Zeleni vir. Here, in memory of his mother Krstinja, Prince Danilo Petrovic of Montenegro constructed a stone bridge in 1858.

The Mystical "Gate of Wishes"

Adding a mystical touch to this destination is the Gate of Wishes. "Here, the fairy from Maganik fulfills wishes. To make a wish come true, one must, with a strong desire and in complete silence, cast a stone at this spot. The wish must be pure and not harm others; otherwise, it will return with misfortune," are the instructions that can be read on the sign next to the Gate of Wishes.

The Captivating Beauty of White Nerini Springs

Among the numerous springs you'll encounter along the river, such as Jama, Zvona, or Rikavac, the White Nerini springs are particularly striking. They cascade into Mrtvica in the form of frothy waterfalls and jets. It's believed that they were named White Nerini due to the noise they create as they crash down the rocky cliffs, regardless of whether it's summer or winter.