During the recently held Tourism Think Tank, Jelena Krivčević (RRA BKP) and Klaus Ehrlich (Ruraltour) shared key insights into the future of rural tourism in northern Montenegro, with a special focus on the mountain katuns of the Bjelasica, Komovi, and Prokletije regions.
Katuns – The Heart of Montenegrin Identity
Katuns are not merely a tourist attraction; they are the core of our people’s tradition, culture, and identity. However, research data from RRA BKP indicates an alarming trend:
Historical data: Previously, there were over 1,200 active katuns in these regions.
Current state: Today, only about 400 katuns remain active.
This decline reflects decades of depopulation, but tourism offers an opportunity for a turnaround. The goal is not to halt development, but to ensure careful and thoughtful progress that preserves key values while providing modern comfort for the people living and working in the katuns.
Authenticity as the Greatest Advantage
In the international tourism market, the Balkans are positioned through adventure, untouched nature, and living traditions. Our advantage is that we do not have to “invent” attractions – it is enough to stop destroying what we already have.
Against “Disneyfication”: Rural tourism must not become a “Heidi installation” or an artificial theme park. It must remain real, accessible, and authentic.
Ecological balance: Mountain agriculture plays a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity and ecosystems, preventing natural disasters such as erosion and the reforestation of pastures.
Future and Year-Round Tourism
Although the climate crisis is felt even in our mountains, the potential for development remains significant.
Winter tourism: Instead of focusing exclusively on large infrastructure and ski centers, the solution lies in developing models like backcountry skiing (ski touring), which requires minimal intervention in the landscape.
The village as a starting point: The development of the tourist offer should begin from mountain villages that are more easily accessible, gradually integrating katuns into an offer that lasts throughout the year.
Conclusion
Our vision is a Montenegro that leads in Europe precisely because it has managed to preserve its original values. Tourism in katuns is a model of truly sustainable development that brings income to the local population and offers visitors an unforgettable experience of “traveling back in time.”
