Velji Kosmač and Strimnja

Velji Kosmas has been described as a mountain with very nice views. It is the highest summit in the range that directly rises from the Adriatic, between Budva and Petrovac - undoubtedly one of the most beautiful coastlines in Montenegro. However, Kosmas itself doesn't allow direct views to the shores of Adriatic - for these you have to venture to Strimnja with its steep cliffs that are so beautiful when seen from Budva in the evening light. Strimnja is 30 Meters lower than Kosmas.

There is some confusion as to the designation of Strimnja. We found literature that simply replaces the whole area (and Kosmas summit) with Strimnja, and the Rother (German language) guidebook seems to position Strimnja just at the most easily accessible point on the cliffs. To us, Strimnja is the highest point along the cliffs.

Most of the path to Kosmas (except for the final summit hike) is on a good and well marked trail. From waypoint 04 to the summit is without a visible path or markings, but pretty straightforward.

There is no path from Kosmas to Strimnja, and only the intrepid hiker may want to bush-, rock-, and grass-whack from Kosmas to Strimnja summit - especially when the views are likely to be obstructed by clouds, as happened on our hike. But then, there is always the satisfaction of being where few travellers will follow - at least for the time being.... It takes more than 1 hour from Kosmas to Strimnja, and as much for the return.

The trail follows (loosely) the description of the said Rother Wanderführer of hikes in Montenegro, though we advise to allow for extra time. We needed about 7.5 hours for the return trip, all rest stops included.

For more info, visit: http://palmtreeproduction.com/Hikes%20and%20Climbs/Montenegro%20Climbs/Kosmas/Kosmas%20Gallery.html