64-Year-Old Continues to Develop Tourism in Montenegro

The goal of our existence would not be fulfilled if we did not include all the Balkans who invest their efforts to attract tourists from all over the world. The people who create tourism through their way of living are, to us, heroes who will be remembered for their mark in their own country.

Today we move to Montenegro, a country that is also underexplored by tourists. Rich in plant and animal life, quality food, tradition, and many undiscovered wild beaches.

One of our heroes living in the Montenegrin land is Rasho. A man who, at the age of 64, is a true promoter of Lake Skadar. A man who lives to build tourism, organize boat tours, and offer the healthiest local food to his guests.

Rasho Vukašević was born in Virpazar, a municipality of Bar. Even as a child, he helped his father, who at that time was involved in tourism at Lake Skadar. Rasho says that he inherited the craft from his father, who is now 97 years old and still gives him advice from his personal experience.

If you look at the map, you will notice that this is the largest lake shared by Montenegro and Albania. The lake has a fantastic coastline, full of wild sandy beaches. One of those beaches, right below the village of Godinje, is where the restaurant "Pješačač" is located.

One of our favorite tourist hideaways in Montenegro. Built in the Ethno-Mediterranean style, with hard work that involved long-term cleaning of the coastline to construct a dock that was originally intended for a boat delivering water.

foto: Pjer Pjer on Google

The dock today serves as a parking area for boats that transport tourists, and around it, there's a well-maintained sandy beach. When you arrive at the dock, you'll immediately notice wide stone stairs leading to six panoramic terraces spread across several levels. The terraces are stunning in the summer, with torches set up to create a wonderful ambiance at night.

Rasho says that all of this required immense love for the lake and for tourists. It all started with the construction of a small terrace on a secluded beach, far from the hustle and bustle, where he could enjoy peace. Over time, Rasho's friends began to fall in love with this place and started recommending it to anyone looking for romance and tranquility.

Today, Rasho has built an underground tavern and a wine cellar, a kitchen, and three apartments for accommodation with a view of the island of Grmožur.

He has also constructed six open terraces by the lake, where fish specialties are served, and visitors can taste organic beer grown in the surrounding villages.

Rasho and his wife share the success of their work together

The beautiful days of "Pješačač Beach" began when the Rockefeller Foundation learned about it. After their visit, they decided to provide financial support to the area, allocate funds for the protection of the lake, and assist with electricity supply to preserve the same harmony.

Today, this place can be reached by boat, which is owned by the restaurant. The boat offers tours around the shoreline, allowing tourists to explore the wildlife, lake ecosystem, plants, and the history of the local sites located along the lake.

The restaurant is not accessible by car; it is surrounded by nature. Only a small walking path has been carved out, leading to the nearby asphalt road. Here, wood and stone dominate, while wrought iron and decorations serve as reminders of life from the past century.

Rasho says he is proud of the fact that this place was visited by a large number of tourists before the pandemic. He mentions that all the government officials of Montenegro, from the president to the ministers, are part of the guest list.

He is happy that among his guests were Russian Prime Minister Primakov, Spanish princesses with their families, ambassadors from nearly all countries in Montenegro, and many other well-known personalities.

This place has been featured in two films and several music videos. It has become recognizable for its local and healthy food, local wine, untouched nature, and wilderness.

The host says that all those who had the chance to visit have returned and hopes that this will continue, both with new guests and with those who regularly visit. With a smile, he adds that they have overcome the coronavirus and received the vaccine.

Lake Skadar is a beautiful combination of flora, fauna, architecture, gastronomy, and tradition. It offers a great opportunity for all tourists who want to experience water sports, hunting and fishing, photo safaris, tours with visits to monasteries, islands, and fishing villages.

Foto: Pjer Pjer on Google

The Montenegrin part of the lake and its coastline were declared a National Park in 1983. It is one of the largest bird reserves in Europe, with around 270 species, including the last remaining pelicans in Europe.