Plav lies in the far east of Montenegro, in a wide valley nestled between the Prokletije Mountains and Visitor Mountain. Set along the shores of Plav Lake and the Lim’s tributary, the Ljuča River, it is defined by the striking beauty of high mountain landscapes and tranquil waters. Covering around 328 square kilometres, it is home to approximately 10,000 residents.
This municipality is known for its multiethnic and multicultural character, with Bosniaks forming the majority of the population, followed by Albanians and Montenegrins. The heritage of the Upper Polimlje region, its oral literature, and traditional folk music all leave a strong imprint on local culture. Family values, religious life, and long-preserved customs continue to shape the community’s identity. The area is also known for its hospitality and distinctive mountain spirit.
The local economy is rooted in agriculture, livestock farming, fishing, and tourism. Products such as cheese, kajmak, meat, honey, and trout from crystal-clear waters are recognised throughout the country.
Tourism is developing rapidly thanks to Plav Lake, the Prokletije Mountains, and the surrounding mountain villages. At the same time, a growing number of households are investing in accommodation, adventure tours, and gastronomic offerings. Trade and small-scale workshops further enrich the local economy.
Education in Plav is supported through kindergartens, primary schools, and a secondary school, all of which play an important role in the life of the local community. Preschool children attend the kindergarten in Plav, primary education is provided at Hajro Šahmanović Primary School in Plav and Petar Dedović Primary School in Murino, while secondary school students attend Bećo Bašić Mixed Secondary School in Plav. These institutions are important not only for educating the young, but also for their development, the acquisition of knowledge, and the preservation of community values.
The proximity of Gusinje and Berane also provides access to additional educational programmes.
Plav is rich in cultural heritage. Important events include the Days of Plav Lake, along with numerous folklore and traditional music festivals. The cultural centre organises exhibitions, literary evenings, and concerts. Old customs, such as village gatherings and communal celebrations, continue to preserve the spirit of the region.
Plav Lake is the municipality’s greatest jewel, offering rowing, fishing, walks, and magnificent views of the surrounding peaks. The Prokletije Mountains dominate the landscape and represent one of the most impressive mountain massifs in the Balkans. Visitor Mountain, with its lakes and viewpoints, is ideal for hikers. Popular excursion sites include Hridsko Lake, Jame, and Planinica. The Ljuča River is renowned for its exceptional purity.
Plav is connected by road to Berane, Andrijevica, and Gusinje. Routes also lead towards Albania and Kosovo, increasing the municipality’s importance as a transit point. Bus lines connect the town with the larger urban centres of northern Montenegro and with Podgorica. Transport connections are reliable and convenient.
Plav is a centre for mountain sports. The most prominent activities are hiking, trail running, skiing, and sport climbing. The Prokletije Mountains offer routes for experienced alpinists, while Plav Lake attracts anglers and recreational visitors alike. Football, basketball, and martial arts are also well developed.
Plav has clear advantages in the development of tourism, organic production, accommodation capacities, and adrenaline-based activities. Demand for mountain holidays continues to grow, while land and property prices remain affordable.
In the long term, the combination of tourism and local production can create a sustainable model of development, especially through small family businesses, ethno-villages, and eco-resorts.
Among the many reasons to visit Plav are the Prokletije Mountains, Plav Lake, and unforgettable landscapes. Visitors can enjoy both water and mountains in one place, awaken their adventurous spirit, and experience the warmth of the local community.
Life here is peaceful and deeply connected to nature. Families live surrounded by clean air and vast green spaces. Everything is close at hand, and the rhythm of daily life is shaped by the weather, the lake, and the mountains. Plav is a place for those who seek an everyday life filled with natural beauty and the authenticity of a mountain way of living.
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