Šasko lakeGuide

INTRODUCTIONSituated in the hinterland of the Ulcinj Riviera, Šasko Lake

with its surroundings is a peace and tranquillity oasis, cultural and historical treasury and jewel of nature. Hidden from the

bustle of modern life and crowd of summer tourist centres, this beautiful place is offering all its charms - countless natural beauties,

history richness, traditions, legends and customs, delicious local cuisine dishes, the fruits of the olive groves, gardens, vineyards and

orchards. Here you will have the opportunity to discover still unknown areas, enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, and acquire new skills and

interests, as well as new friends, because it is hard to resist the charm, warmth and traditional hospitality of the local population.

You will return home escorted by the singing of birds, beauty in the eyes and the heart full of unforgettable memories, richer

for a great experience and happy to know that this place exists and that you were in it.

Šasko lake

Geographic Features and Attractions Šasko Lake is a smaller lake pertaining to Dinarides, with the surface of 3.6 - 5.3 km². The Lake is located in the southeast of Montenegro, 23 km from Ulcinj, in the hinterland of two pearls of the Mediterranean - sandy, 13 km long Great Beach and the river island Ada Bojana – famous by its beauty, in the mouth of the river Bojana into the Adriatic Sea. Two additional natural beauty and biodiversity treasures are located in the vicinity of this area - National Park Skadar Lake and Ulcinj Salt Factory.

The wider area of Šasko Lake captures an area Briska Gora and flat terrain around the Šasko Lake, hills and plains of Anamalsko field with surrounding hills, while in the hinterland, this area is protected by the mountain massif of Rumija. Sights from this area reach the Adriatic Sea to the south, Albania to the east and the north - west to the prominent peaks of the mountain Rumija.

Numerous and interesting geological and biological processes have made this area a true collection of

natural attractions.

The vicinity of Ulcinj, which is considered one of the sunniest places in the Adriatic, Mediterranean climate and annual average air temperature of 16 ° C, is generating favourable conditions for outdoor living throughout the year.

The maximum depth of the Lake is 8 m, and since it is located at an altitude of only 1 m, the Lake is crypto - depression, since some parts of lakebed are below sea level.

aBoUT ŠASKO LAKE

Biodiversity The absence of settlements on the lakeshores contributed to rich diversity of flora and fauna, thus extremely beautiful landscape is creating a strong impression of intact corners of nature.

In addition to forests, shrubs and bushes, the landscape of the environment is complemented by the floodplains around the Lake where oak, ash and poplar are predominant types of trees. The Lake doesn’t have indented lakeshores. It is surrounded by dense reeds and sedge, while the water surface is partially covered with water lilies and other floating aquatic vegetation.

Water is the main wealth of this area. The Lake itself, the river Bojana and vicinity of the coast, combined with a very favourable Mediterranean climate, have created a specific ecosystem, inhabited by numerous plant and animal species, whereby from the standpoint of biodiversity, this area represents a national asset. This applies in particular to the birds for which the area of Šasko Lake is famous. Some of them are permanent residents of this area, some

are nesting and raising fledglings, some are staying only during winters, while some just rest on their long migratory journeys. Ornithological importance of this area has been recognized by the declaration of the Region of importance for birds (Important Bird and Biodiversity Area – IBA). During the winter, the Lake is hosting around twenty thousand water birds, mainly coots, which is a sufficient requirement for the entry into the List of Ramsar wetlands of international importance. Cormorants and pelicans are wintering here and an interesting prey - Levant Sparrowhawk - Accipiter brevipes - is staying during the summer and from spring during migration period, among many songbirds, prey birds and water birds, it is possible to meet hundreds of Oriole, Oriolus oriolus, the type which is difficult to see in nature.

Because of the warm water, the temperature of which reaches 28° C in the summer, as well as because the connection with the sea is made through the river Bojana, which is a tributary and shunt of the Lake, dark green lake water is hosting fresh and marine ecosystems species. All this, together with lush vegetation contributes to the fact that the lake water is a home for 23 fish species, both freshwater and marine. Among them are as follows: carp, chub, eel, bleak, gray mullet, nase, perch, bass, crucial carp, etc.

HisTory, cUlTUral ATTRACTIONS AND LEgENDS

Geographical position and natural resources from ancient times attracted people to settle here, processed fertile land, raise cattle,

engage in fishing and hunting wild animals. They, of course, attracted the invaders, thus the Šas area remembers many kingdoms, periods of peace and prosperity, but also destruction periods as confirmed

today by numerous material evidence.

Ancient City Šas

minted - Sovacii civitas, with the image of the patron St. John the Baptist on the one side and on the other, symbolizing the power and wealth of the city, was a fortress with towers and cannon fire. The city had the scriptorium (registry) which is suggesting that the city enjoyed a spiritual importance. During a turbulent history, the city resisted invasions of numerous invaders. Its walls remembered even the Mongols in the thirteenth century, and the history of the city is unfortunately ending in 1571, when it was conquered and completely destroyed by the Ottomans. After this, the city was abandoned forever and it never recovered.

Today this ancient city, which is on the national list of protected cultural monuments of 1st category, lives only in the rich spiritual heritage and the remains of the city walls, towers, churches and other buildings, as well as in the discovered tools, money, fragments of glass, pottery, etc.

Ancient City Svač (Šas)

Findings of numerous archaeological excavations have shown that the history of life in this part of Montenegro goes back to prehistory. The most important confirmation is the ancient city Svač (Šas, Suacium) situated on a stone hill above the Šasko Lake. It was the spiritual and economic hub of the medieval state of Duklja, a forerunner of today's Montenegro.

The first fortifications on this site date from 6th century A.D., from the period of which the city continually lived an entire millennium. The city consisted of two parts - the fortress Svač which was at the top of the hill and the suburb that was located on both sides of the hill. Archaeologists believe that the city stretched on the area of approximately 6 hectares, and it is certain that local materials were used for its construction. Situated on an important trade route between Ulcinj (Olcinium) and Shkodra (Scodra), the city grew and developed. The trade was conducted in the squares and streets. Coins were

GPS: N 41°59'10.96" E 19°18'58.78"

Tsar Samuil and he was being taken and imprisoned in a dungeon in Prespa, the capital of the then Bulgarian Empire.

Teodora (Kosara), noble daughter of the Tsar Samuil, on the occasion of visiting the cells to wash the faces of captives, met beautiful Vladimir. In the discussion they had, he won Kosara’s heart, and she managed to convince her father – Tsar Samuil to let her marry the prince, and free him and give him back the management of his land. As the king and queen, Vladimir and Kosara returned to Duklja and continue its development, also leaving a legacy for future generations, i.e. one of the most beautiful and most touching love stories in the history of the wider area, a story that has lived for 1,000 years.

According to tradition, Vadimir was tortured and left blinded in captivity, and Kosara, in her prayers to the God promised to build a place of worship for as many as there are days in the year if the God returns the vision to Vladimir. Legend has it that, after the end of the last church, Vladimir restored his vision. Today in the Svač area can be found foundations and the remains of several churches and best preserved are two churches - one dedicated to the patron St. John the Baptist (alb. Shen Gjoni) located within the city walls, and the other, the church of St. Mary (alb. Shën Maria), located in the suburb.

The legend of the “city of churches” lives today, saving from oblivion the memory of old Svač and symbolizing true love and devotion.

In addition to the remains of the ancient Svač, in this area there are also other cultural and historical monuments, the construction and duration of which are wrapped in legends.

Legend of 365 Churches

There are many legends and myths about Svač, which are still passed from generation to generation. According to one of them, there were 365 churches in Svač – one for each day of the year.

According to one interpretation, rich and religious inhabitants of the city Svač were building houses of prayers (chapels) near their houses for the purpose of easily performing religious practices, and the chapels were also used for the burials of church leaders and nobility.

Another interesting tradition of the "City of 365 Churches" is related to Prince Vladimir, the first prominent figure in Montenegrin history, and his wife Kosara.

After inheriting the throne of his father Petrislav (Archon Peter), Vladimir ruled Duklja, the first Montenegrin state, from around 990 to 1016. In 997, Duklja was exposed to the powerful Bulgarian army at the warpath of the Tsar Samuil on Dalmatia. In order to protect his country from destruction and people from starvation, Vladimir surrenders to the

Interesting is also the tradition that during one night of the year, on the former site of the city, is held a meeting of spirits of all rulers of the Kingdom of Duklja. Their voices can be heard while agreeing on the fate of the Duklean country. The ruins of Svač still keep secrets about its history and the fate of those who were conquering it and invite to unfold this "dead city" on the Adriatic coast.

Old Bridge and Mosque in the Village Gornja Klezna

The stone bridge on the Međurečka River dates back to 1696. Tradition on the construction of this ancient bridge is an unavoidable story that visitors of this area will hear from the hosts who live here.

According to tradition, inhabitants of Klezna hired famous master of Dibra to construct the bridge, who demanded that the lime, which will be used in the construction, stands for 15 years in the hole in the ground. After that, he returned with another worker and built the bridge 12 m long, almost 10 m height and about 3.5 m width. After the work was finished, the assistant killed his master for no earthly reasons. He was buried near the Mosque in Gornja Klezna, where his grave can be seen today. For centuries, the bridge served to the population of this region and the passengers who passed through the area. The construction of a new road and bridge, close to this ancient bridge, has lost its transportation importance in the middle of the last century, but not its architectural beauty.

The Mosque dating from 1917 is located near the Old Bridge. It is assumed that it was built on the foundations of an older mosque from the seventeenth century. It was renovated on several occasions and recently it was upgraded and significantly expanded.

Old Bridge in Gornja Klezna GPS: N 41°59'58.29" E 19°15'53.46"

Mosque in Gornja Klezna GPS: N 41°59'45.41" E 19°15'59.73"

GPS: N 42° 0'28.86" E 19°18'32.94"

Dervish Well(Pusi Dervish)

Dervish Well is located in a near vicinity to the intersection of the road from Vladimir to the village Brajše and the border crossing point Sukobin. According to tradition, water in traces was found on this location, so the Dervish started digging in order

to find the water. One day he hit the vein of water that came in a strong jet and people had to use the wool to close the opening, to protect their property from flooding.

Today, some 200 years later, this well is a symbol of the Dervish’s goodwill to all people living here and travellers passing through this area.

peppers, corn and other numerous varieties. As for the livestock, cattle are mainly grown and vegetation on the slopes of the surrounding hills enables the growth of goats and sheep.

Since ancient times, inhabitants of Šas are engaged in fishing. Although it is considered that every household has a traditional boat – canoe on the Šasko Lake and teh river Bojana, fishing is not just a business. It is a great passion and entrenched way of enjoying of the local population in nature and its beauty.

In addition, the people of this region are engaged in other activities - beekeeping, hunting, old crafts (wood processing, weaving and other handicrafts), and one still active mill keeps the tradition of this former watermill end.

In short, it seems that the people who live here have everything what the most of us longs for - beautiful nature, healthy organic food, quiet life and professions that do not cause, but treat stress. Thus the visit to this area, in addition to refreshing and enjoying all its charms, can change a lot in you and around you. Come and see it yourself!

people AND LIfEArchaeological excavations are implying a long and turbulent history of life in this area. Contrary to the past, the present is very peaceful, life is simple, and people are in fact the greatest treasure of the Šas area.

As in the entire Municipality of Ulcinj, this area is also inhabited by the Albanian population. However, coexistence with other confessions, mutual respect and tolerance are the main features of local life. The tradition of this area requires that the hospitality and kindness are the inviolable principles of conduct. The inhabitants of Šas are also adhering to these principles nowadays, which is why they are the hosts you can only wish for.

Agriculture is the most important activity of the people living in this region because of extremely favourable farming conditions. Since ancient times, a part of the landscape in Šas and surroundings belongs to olive groves, and now there are orchards of mandarins, pomegranates, peaches and other fruits, vineyards, planted honey melon and water melon for which the area is famous, famous tomatoes, onions,

Tradition and EventsLocated on the border between Montenegro and Albania, Šas area merged parts of the two traditions, preserved some elements and traces of empires that ruled it in the past, simultaneously retaining its native cultural specificity. The tradition of the Šas area is special for its customs, legends, lifestyle of people, gastronomy, etc.

The richness of tradition, as it is the case in every culture, is confirmed by the beauty and grandeur of traditional costumes. This is actually something that Ulcinj and its surroundings can be proud of - almost every area has its own costume, thus in addition to the national costume of Anamalska area which is a feature of this region, there are the following national costumes of: Ulcinj, Gorani, Krajina, Mrkojević, Malisor, Šestani, Kleznor, Bregasor and Montenegrin. In past, on the streets and markets costume revealed from which village or place of this area people come from, and today only on traditional weddings, folk festivals and events you have the opportunity to see this wealth of colors. A multitude of details, colours, materials and decorations make colourful the Anamalska costume. The costume is interesting for its red veil, which symbolizes love, and which as a part of the traditional wedding costume, a bride

would put it on her head after arriving in a new home. And today, it is not uncommon for brides, preserving the tradition, to wear the traditional wedding gown worn by their mothers and grandmothers or at least, as an accessory to a modern wedding dress to wear the red veil over the white one. Moreover, in the spirit of nurturing tradition, even nowdays it happens that the wedding guests come dressed in festive traditional costume.

Lot of other customs still prevail in this area. Certainly one of the most striking is that the locals, for the soul of dear, deceased persons, build something important for the entire region and travellers. Many such facilities - wells, shelter from the rain and the like, are marked with more recent dates, as well as those that reach far into the past.

The greatest treasure of the region is an innate sense of life in harmony with their neighbours, regardless of their religion and nationality. Joint celebration of religious holidays, family and personal events, routine daily visits and dependence on mutual assistance in the work and advice, give a special stamp of lifestyle of the local population. It is a tradition that will leave a strong impression to any visitor.

Pomegranate Days (Dita e shegës)In honour of pomegranate, representing a sort of the trademark of Šas area, this event is traditionally organized in the village of Vladimir in October, the month in which this juicy fruit is ripening. In addition to tasting fresh pomegranate and its juice, this event is a great opportunity to taste and buy mandarins, lemons, dried figs, chestnuts, persimmons, olive oil, etc. Ultimately, the visitors will meet friendly and hospitable hosts, learn more about the ways of production of the goods offered and their lives in general.

The organizer of the event is the Business Club "Anamalit" while the support is provided by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development of Montenegro, Municipality of Ulcinj and the Tourist Organization of Ulcinj.

Spring in Ana e Malit (Pranvera në Anë të Malit)In Šas this event is traditionally organized in May. With the objective of preserving the rich cultural heritage, it includes a number of cultural and artistic events - concerts of folk songs and dances, exhibitions of traditional crafts and photographs of the area, a tour of the old town Svač, tasting traditional dishes prepared by local skilled ladies of the house. Association "Ora" with the support of the Tourist organization of Ulcinj and the Municipality of Ulcinj, is the main organizer of cultural and entertainment events, which is taking place for the last 12 years.

In order to preserve the characteristics and customs of Šas area as a legacy for future generations, locals are organizing interesting events, which are true festivals of beauty and resources of the region, cherishing tradition and multi-confession.

dish prepared from it, known as Kruljan. Furthermore, this bread is made from corn from the fields of households and milled into flour in the local mill, as it was done in the past. Wild pomegranate juice, which is probably the most delicious medicament and an indispensable source of vitamin C gives a special seal to the experience,.

Local lamb, goat and veal are a mandatory part of the local gastronomy offer, and the vicinity of the sea, Šasko Lake and the river Bojana make the fish, saltwater and freshwater, important part of any menu. Thus, you have the opportunity to enjoy the taste of meatballs in sour milk, pan fried carp, traditional dish Peta prepared with or without meat and many other specialties.

As in all other areas of life as well as in the preparation of food, the local population cherishes tradition. Many of the recipes are centuries old, being hand down from generation to generation, and still remain in the inheritance of future generations preserving the richness of taste and colour of the table. While here you can enjoy a modern interpretation of local specialties, authentic cuisine is

Gastronomic atmosphere prepared for you by the residents of this area will remain forever in your hearts. Having in mind that they grow almost everything they need in the diet, the local cuisine is a true oasis of health, pleasant taste and scents. Authentic gastronomic grandeur is preserving traditional recipes and inherited skills of the ladies of the house that they are not leaving to oblivion. The richness of taste is brought by the dishes of fresh vegetables from the gardens, thus served are deliciously prepared okra, eggplants, peppers and tomato and other vegetables salads. Watermelon, mandarins, fresh and dried figs, sweet pomegranates, grapes and other fruits from the orchard, as well as Tespidza, Halva, Rahania and other traditional cakes served as a dessert are confirming the wide array of colours and flavours of the local cuisine. Traditional corn bread is offering a genuine experience, representing an essential part of the table, as well as a

GasTronomy, OLIvE OIL and vine

still one of the distinctive emblems of Šasko area, and you will certainly want to ask the lady of the house for the dish recopies in taste and flavours of which you enjoyed.

By tradition, olives and olive oil are indispensable on the table. You will recognize the commitment to work in the olive groves not only in the stories of olive growers, but also in taste of this traditional so-called "salty" olives or olive oil, whether served as a supplement to salads and other dishes, or if you enjoy in the taste of the Mediterranean elixir during the tasting, which will host expertly take you through.

All rays of the sun of this area are also collected in the drops of wine, for which quality the Ulcinj wine area is famous for and to which this area belongs to. As one of the sunniest region on the Adriatic coast, this is a true paradise for growing Vranac - indigenous variety of grapevine, which is simultaneously a feature of the local wine production. Enjoying a specific aroma, all wine lovers will be convinced of the advantages of this area, as well as the dedication of winemakers to the vineyards and wine production.

recipes

KruljanPreparation time: 1 hQuantity: 5 person Ingredients: - 2 cups water-3 cups corn flour- salt to taste

For the dressing:- 500 g homemade butter

Preparation:Poor the water in a deep pot, add salt to taste and leave to boil. Then remove the pot from the heat, and pour the flour in boiled water and knead the dough. In a baking pan coated with oil, pour the dough and place it in the oven. Once the bread is baked crunch it up by hands. Melt the homemade butter and pour it over the crumbled bread.

The dish may be served either hot or cold.

PetaPreparation time: 1 hour 30 minQuantity: 5 people

Ingredients:For the dough:

- 1 kg flour,- 200 ml of lukewarm water,- 1 tablespoon salt,- 100 gr butter for brushing the crusts.

For dressing and stuffing:- 200 ml hot water,- Boiled meat of your taste (chicken, veal, venison, etc.),- Hot water or soup (chicken, veal, venison, etc.)

Preparation:Mix the flour, salt and water with hands and make the dough as for the pie. If necessary, add more water, but make sure that the dough should be firm. Make 7 - 8 balls from the dough. Melt the butter. Use the rolling pin to stretch the first ball of dough to the size of the pan in which you will bake the pie. In a baking pan previously coated with butter, place the pie crust and spread some butter. Repeat the process with all the dough balls placing crusts along one another in a baking pan. Then bake the dough for 20 minutes at 250 ° C. Simultaneously with the preparation of the dough and pie crusts, prepare a meat of your choice. When the upper pie crust becomes golden – yellow remove it from the oven and pour over 200 ml of hot water, first lifting the dough from the bottom of the pan and pouring below a half of the water, and then place down the sought and pour the rest of the water over the dough, on the upper crust. Then cover the baking pan with a lid of appropriate size and leave the baked dough for 10 minutes to soften. Than crunch up the crusts in the pan and place boiled meat over it. Then pour hot water or soup in which the meat was cooked. Crusts and meats are poured with liquid until the desired softness of the crust is obtained. In the end, everything gets back in the oven and is baked for 5 minutes.Serve warm.

Meatballs in sour milkPreparation time: 40 minQuantity: 5 people

Ingredients: - 700 gr minced meat,- Parsley, if desired,- Salt, seasoning, pepper to taste,- 2 teaspoons flour,- some water,- Oil for frying.

For the dressing: - 1 litre sour milk,- 3 cloves garlic.

Preparation:Stir chopped parsley and other spices to taste and combine with meat. Add the flour, and then water to obtain a watery bland. Once you heat the oil in a pan remove it from the heat and using small spoons form meatballs and place them in the hot oil. Then return the pan to the stove and fry the meatballs on a low heat. When golden brown, remove them from the oil, and arrange them on a deep bowl. After all the meatballs are fried, poor the milk with shredded garlic over the meatballs.

The dish is left to stand 2 hours before serving. Serve it as a side dish such as grilled peppers.

Preparation:Season the carp slices to taste, and fry on the grill and place it in a ceramic pot. In the mixture of water and vinegar, stir the flour and add the chopped garlic, peeled tomatoes or paprika and salt to taste. Cook for 5 minutes. Pour the sauce poured over the pieces of carp in a ceramic pot and then place it in the oven to bake for 15 minutes at 220 ° C.

Serve hot in a ceramic pot in which the food is baked. Add a quarter of lemon to taste.

TespidzaPreparation time: 30 minutes Ingredients: For the dough: - 3 cups milk,

- 50 ml oil,- 200 gr butter, - 1 cup wheat flour,- ½ cup corn flour.

For the syrup (sherbet): - 1 kg sugar, - 800 ml water.

Preparation: Boil the milk with the butter and add the flour (corn and wheat flour) steadily stirring. Cook over a low heat for about 10 minutes. Then, spread the dough onto the pan that is preheated and coated with 1 teaspoon of vegetable fat. Make the lines on the surface of the dough and bake for 20 - 30 minutes at 200° C until the crust is golden - yellow and until it begins to separate from the edge of the pan. Then switch off the oven and leave the cake in it for another 10 minutes. Then take out the cake and leave to cool.

After baking the cake, prepare the syrup by mixing the water and the sugar and once it boils it should be cooked 20 - 30 minutes, until the liquid level drops for about one finger below the initial level. Pour the syrup over the cake. The syrup should be hot and the cake should be cold.

Serve cold.

Pan Fried CarpPreparation time: 30 minQuantity: for one person Ingredients: - 500 gr carp sliced into pieces, so-called rings,- salt.

For the sauce:- 100 gr flour,- 150 ml water,- 50 ml vinegar,- 1 clove garlic,- Salt to taste,- 2 tablespoons peeled tomatoes or 1 teaspoon ground paprika to taste,- a quarter of a lemon to taste.

Rahania- The cake, which traditionally brings the bride to her husband and other family members in her new home when she returns from her first visit to her parents and her parents' home after the wedding. The symbolism is in the name of the cake, because the word “rahat” in the Turkish language means “quietly”, “in peace”. Therefore, this cake is brought as a symbol of peace. -

Preparation time: 3 h

Ingredients:- 10 eggs,- 9 tablespoons sugar,- 9 tablespoons of flour.

Preparation:Sugar is slowly added into the scrambled egg whites. Beaten egg yolks are then slowly added. Reduce the mixer speed and gradually add flour, blending gently all the ingredients in one direction only. Pour the blended ingredients onto well oiled and flour sprinkled baking sheet. Bake the cake for 2-2.5 hrs at a temperature of 110 - 120 ° C.

Info Centre, located within the restaurant "Shas", is offering its services to all visitors of the

Šas areas. Here, on the shores of Lake Šas, in a pleasant atmosphere of authentically decorated space, with free WiFi

internet access, throughout the year you can get all the information needed for more complete and enjoyable vacation. From the friendly staff and for promotional materials that are available here, you can find plenty

information about the area and its natural resources and attractions, cultural and historical heritage, food and lodging offers, tours, recreational activities and

other forms of active holidays, equipment rental, events, etc.

In addition to the offer of visiting Šasko Lake and its surrounding area, you can also obtain information on tourist offer of a wider environment. Based on collected

information, as well as your interests and preferences, you will be able to create and indulge in holiday worth remembering - you will enjoy many natural beauties and

cultural sights and you will obtain new findings from the history and get to know the people and their traditions.

In the Info Centre premises you can buy authentic souvenirs manufactured people of this region. Therefore, together with a truly memorable experience and emotion in the heart, from here you can take with you a variety of local products typical of Šasko Lake and its surroundings - olives, olive oil and

soaps made from olive oil, honey, wine, juices, jams, dried figs, cow and goat cheese, and numerous artifacts artisans.

Details about these products and offer of the hosts preparing these products can be found in the

section OFFER.

inFo cenTre & OffERINfo cENtrEAddress: within the restaurant “Shasi”, ŠasMob. tel: +382 (0) 69 101 699, 69 582 783GPS: N 41°58'47.43" E 19°20'15.40"

RESTAURANT sHasi Delicious dishes from the menu, courtesy of staff, pleasant interior and interesting tours offer, represent an excellent recommendation to visit this Restaurant. When you add to this an impressive ambience of the Šasko Lake in which the restaurant is located in and surrounding silence and legends of the ancient city Svač, then you are guaranteed a truly memorable experience of the ways of life of the population, natural and cultural and historical heritage of the area.

A true gastronomic experience is provided by a variety of dishes that are offered to guests. Offered is an authentic taste of fish from the lake - carp, eel and mullet, regardless of whether they are prepared on the pan or in a sauce that is characteristic of local cuisine. Ingredients used for preparing a dish are always fresh and sourced from local producers, ranging from the famous tomatoes from Vladimir, to the corn flour for making bread typical for this area.

The facility has two double bed and two triple bed apartments equipped with TV and air conditioning units and free WiFi service. Bed and breakfast is the minimum service offer. The campers are also welcome and the restaurant has all necessary facilities. The complex has a golf course, football and volleyball, while the swings and seesaws entertainment is provided for the youngest visitors.

The restaurant is offering numerous activities. True experience of the beauty of the Lake is offered by the canoes, boats or raft which also serves as a swimming area. Sport fishing and passionate birdwatchers will be certainly satisfied with the stay. Powered paragliding is a special experience offer. The host also organizes tours of the remains of the old city Svač and the church dedicated to the Virgin Mary, while the tour to a nearby watchtower, or fishing on the river Bojana will complete enjoyment of the beauty of the place.

In addition to experience, as a memory of this place, visitors can also take a souvenir displayed in the Info - centre located within the Restaurant complex. Here you can buy products of local producers: olives and olive oil, wild pomegranate juice, fig jam, cheese, soaps made from olive oil and other artisan crafts. The restaurant is open all year round and has a parking.

OffER

resTaUranTs

Alim ĐekovićŠas, Vladimir+382 (0) 69 101 699; +382 (0) 69 582 783restorantshasi@gmail.com

N 41°58'47.60"E 19°20'15.11"

Restaurant "Panorama" is located 5.5 km from Vladimir, right next to the road to Ostros and the top bike path 5 - TT5. In addition to high quality service, this restaurant boasts a fascinating view over the fields and Anamalsko field and Šaskog Lake reaching up to the Adriatic Sea and then across the river Bojana in the plains and the mountains of Albania. Mountain pass Stegvaš is near the restaurant where the sea sight is complemented with the landscape of the Lake Skadar and high Montenegrin and Albanian mountains in the distance.

Hospitality services are the family business that Esad inherited from his father and have successfully continued it with his family. In order to preserve the traditions and to add value in an original manner, carefully selected dishes from the restaurant menu consists of authentic dishes from Anamal area. Among the many dishes offered at the restaurant, a grilled carp is the house specialty. Fans of fish dishes can enjoy the taste of grilled mullet, as well as authentically prepared dishes known as carp (carp) in a pan. The restaurant's menu also offers the roast goat and lamb under the bell. In addition, fresh and high quality products sourced from local producers are served in the restaurant. Thus, a wide array of tastes, representing this area, is complemented with goat and cow cheese topped with olive oil, then salads and side dishes of tomatoes and many other vegetables. An indispensable part of serving is the traditional corn bread, while the watermelon in the summer and some traditional cakes are served as dessert.

The experience of the area will be completed with the stories of a kind host about the tradition, past and current way of life, cultural and historical heritage, legends and natural attractions.

The restaurant capacity is up to 60 guests and around 50 guests on a terrace. The Restaurant is also offering organized lunches for groups numbering more than 50 people. Such visits should be announced a day earlier.

The hosts also provide the service of accommodation for 14 people, and have three four – beds apartments and one double room, equipped with TV and air conditioning units. The restaurant has parking and is open all year round.

RESTAURANT panoramaEsad Curanovićrastiš, Vladimir+382 (0) 69 850 466restoran_panorama@hotmail.com

N 42° 2'40.43"E 19°19'5.52"

fOR ThE vine LOvERS

Winery " Milović” is situated in the area of Briska Gora, 7 km from Ulcinj, surrounded by vineyards and mandarin plantation. Branislav is proudly emphasizing that this area has for long been famous for good wine that was drunk in diplomatic circles and in Tito's villas on Brioni in 60-ies of the last century. Favourable climatic conditions, a large number of hours of sunshine and fertile land surrounded by the river Bojana, Šasko Lake and the Adriatic Sea, is of crucial importance for the quality of the local wine. Equally important are family heritage and host’s love of vineyards, which based on the application of modern technology, transformed into high quality wines of the winery.Branislav inherited this family business from his grandfather and father. He also planted new crops, thus the vineyards of the family Milović now count to about 18,000 vine grapes, mostly wine category Vranac and smaller quantity of Kratošija. The winery is offering the following red wines: Codex, Status, Status Barrique, Status Reserve and Status Barrique - screening vintage.Winery guests, in the company of the passionate winegrower, will visit the vineyard and then in authentically decorated wine cellar will taste wines served with the traditional Montenegrin starter dish - prosciutto, cheese, olives and bread. The family is also organizing lunches offering a whole range of traditional culinary specialties: meals baked under the bell, fish specialties, kačamak (polenta) and authentic Montenegrin stew – raštan (kale). The winery can accommodate up to 120 persons.The Family Milović is also offering the accommodation to its guests –one four - bed and three one - bed apartments. Within the complex there is a tennis court, and visitors can also use the swimming pool on the terrace on the roof of the building, offering views of the estate and the winery environment.Vines of the family Milović are served in a number of luxury Montenegrin hotels, restaurants, wine shops, and can be purchased in large chain stores. Apart from Montenegro, the vines found customers and in the region and additional confirmation of their quality is the number of awards won at prestigious international wine competitions assessment. Organized lunches should be announced a few days in advance.

vINERy milovicBranislav MilovićBriska Gora, Ulcinj+382 (0) 63 205 120vinarija.milovic@gmail.comhttps://www.facebook.com/vinarija.milovic

N 41°57'14.14"E 19°18'13.86"

fOR ThE LOvERS Of

olives and olive oil

House and estate of the family Rexha are located at 7 km from Šas, 5 km from Vladimir and 11 km from Ulcinj. With the knowledge acquired on the Agricultural Faculty, long experience in agriculture and with great love for this business and the area where he lives, Gani continues the family tradition of growing olives and olive oil production. Olive groves of this household count more than 230 olive roots and since they also grow many other cultures, their estate is a real example of permaculture. The estate is surrounded by trees of wild pomegranate that are used for making the juice, and in the front garden of the house are apple trees, almonds, mandarin, fortunella, planted vines, kiwi and figs. In the garden they grow tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, garlic and onions, leeks, Swiss chard, spinach, watermelon, honey melon, etc. In addition, the wife Nija is engaged in decorative plants cultivation.During the visit, the guests, together with the owner, will visit olive grove and on this occasion they will learn many interesting facts about the production and storage of olive oil. After that, during the oil tasting the guests will, following the owner’s instructions and explanations, in a right manner, enjoy all the charms of this precious liquid. In addition to olive oil and homemade preserved so-called salty olives, they will be served fritters, corn bread, tespidza or halvah as a dessert, but also other fruits grown on the estate of the host.The visitor’s experience of the place and the life in it will be enriched by the stories of the host reflecting the traditions, customs and life of the family and ancestors. Such is the story about the construction of the old bridge on the Međurečka River, located in the immediate vicinity, but also the knowledge of the old, recently renovated Mosque, the minaret of which can be seen from the estate. It is interesting to hear the story of a family house which is more than 200 years old, the remains of which the visitors can tour, the information about the custom that still prevail which is to leave something behind in honour of deceased person for the future generations to use, as well as about crops such as cotton, hemp and tobacco that were previously grown here, about how and why the host is growing white grapes with an apple tree, and the like. All the above is the reason more for visiting this household and to experience this place in a right way and to preserve it in memory.The household can accommodate groups of up to 10 people, whereas a visit should be announced 2 - 3 days in advance. Household members are speaking the Montenegrin, Albanian and the English language.

Gani rexHa Gornja Klezna, Ulcinj+382 (0) 69 324 339ganirexha@live.com

N 41°59'50.50"E 19°15'43.26"

Donja Klezna, Vladimir+382 (0) 69 474 085

N 41°58'51.30" E 19°17'19.80"

Mustafa spahić

The Spahić family estate is located at 40 minutes walking distance from the Šasko Lake, in the beautiful ambiance of the Donja Klezna village, in the heart of Brisko field, surrounded by the Brisko hill and the Šasko hill where the remains of the ancient town Svač are. Inherited tradition, their own experience and devotion of every family member to working on the estate, represent the basis for the quality of products picked form the orchards and gardens of this household. The range of crops cultivated is wide. For some of the crops, the entire process of production is taking place here – from the nursery gardens to ripe fruit, which only confirms the care provided for every phase of cultivation, as well as the devotion to achieving excellence when it comes to the quality of products. During the visit, the guest may tour the estate in the company of their kind hosts – the olive trees, orchards, gardens, as well as the spacious green houses, where crops aternate during the year – famous Vladimirian tomato, rocket, chard, onions and others vegetables. During this pleasant walk, the visitors will learn different interesting facts about the process of production of olive oil, juicing of the pomegranates and the cultivation of different fruits and vegetables. Despite their workload related to the estate, the Spahić family will greet the visitors with the traditional care and cordiality, making the stay at their household as pleasant as possible. In the shade of grapevine, surrounded by the tangerine, jujube and persimmon trees, the visitors will have the opportunity to taste the olive oil, salted olive with homemade grape brandy and delight in the grapes and other fruits from the orchard. On this occasion they will be served some of the homemade sweets prepared by the hostess. This household may host a group of up to 10 people, and the visit must be announced at least one day in advance. The family speaks Montenegrin, Albanian and English language.

The house of Hajdarovic family is located in the beautiful ambience of the Zenelaj village, only a couple of hundred of meters from the road between Vladimir and Ulcinj, surrounded by the gardens and apiaries. A visit to this household is a great opportunity to taste some excellent honey, which is made even more special due to the fact that its production is supervised by a young and beautiful lady. Teuta’s beekeeper’s story is rather interesting. She was born in the city, and only after getting married and stepping into the new home she has started to take care of the only hive she found in the apiary. With her love for the bees and devoted work, along with the support of the family, Teuta has developed her business, so today, after many years of working in the field, she owns more than 90 hives from which she collects up to 1000 kilograms of honey a year. Other than honey, during the tastings, visitors may taste cheese, milk, fig jam, as well as other products from this household’s production. Should you wish to stay for lunch with the Hajdarović family, a wide range of traditional specialties will wait for you at the table, all prepared from the ingredients growing in their estate: meatballs and eggplants soaked in yoghurt, popara, pies, roast veal, grilled vegetables and numerous salads. There is also the inevitable homemade corn bread, made from corn cultivated by this family, grounded in the mill nearby. At the end, you will have the desert, a honey cake – rahanija – which is a cake with a long and interesting tradition, requiring special attention and patience during the preparation process.

For those who are interested, the household offers the accommodation services for up to six people, as well as food preparation.

The charm of this visit is learning for about the traditions from the past, but also parts of tradition that remains alive in this part of the region, that is cherished in the home of our hosts. For instance, when attends weddings and other solemn occasions, Teuta wears the traditional costume typical for this area, while her father in law can be seen wearing hodja attire. He serves in the Krute mosque, so his stories about the religious traditions of this area and his religious pilgrimage are particularly interesting.This household is open for visits year round. Besides Montenegrin and Albanian, Teuta speaks English as well. Those interested in honey tasting do not need announcement beforehand. However, those who would like to stay for lunch or accommodation should preferably announce themselves.

Zenelaj, Vladimir +382 (0) 69 504 539

N 42° 0'39.02"E 19°17'14.73"

teuta hajdarović

fOR Honey LOvERS

aMir i fljora taganovićGastronomic pleasure, hospitality of the host, family tradition and the way of living will make the visit to the Taganović family unforgettable. Just one glance at the table and the served dishes speaks volumes about the rich tradition and the inherited skills of the hostess, and her attention to preserve the authentic values of the local cuisine. Sharing interesting stories about each dish, serving them in the exact order as their ancestors used to, describing the occasions in which the meals were served, as well as the ways of preparations of the dishes that are an inevitable part of the table, Flora and Amir will offer a real feel of their habits and the way of live that the locals live. The introduction into the gastronomic opulence follows: traditional fig jam served with fritters, cheese pie, corn bread made with spinach, specific corn bread made popara – a traditional meal common in this area. Meat lovers may feast on tasty lamb roast – one of the staples of the local cuisine. If the guests wish so, specialties made of fish caught in the Šasko Lake may be served. The area is rich in variety of vegetables, which is used to prepare different salads and side dishes, and it all gives a special note to the taste and colours of the table. For desert they serve tespidža, an old but tasty cake. Since the hosts have an orchard with over 700 trees of different kinds, depending on the time of the year, the guests may feast on cherries, peaches, apricots, plums, fresh or dried figs, pears...

Every corner of the home and the yard is neatly arranged, reflecting Fjora’s and Amir’s devotion to the household. Amir has a strong affinity towards art and handwork, and this is a prominent feature of this home. He designed and made the fence, parts of furniture, the flooring and numerous objects made of wood. Amir is also a passionate collector of old objects, and the visit to the old house, built over 200 years ago will take the visitors to the times long passed.

The household can host groups of 4-5 people. During the summer season, the groups need to announce themselves up to 4 days in advance, while out of the season 2 days in advance is enough.

Besides Montenegrin and Albanian, Flora and Amir speak Italian, and Flora and the couple’s daughters speak English as well.

Šas, Vladimir+382 (0) 69 583 456;+382 (0) 69 226 043

N 41°59'39.79"E 19°18'54.40"

fOR ANOThER mEETINg wITh ThE

local cUisine

nail BajrakTariIf you wish to feel the real sensation of the way of live and the hospitality, the stay at the pleasent atmosphere of this household, that lives thanks to the results of their labour and agriculture, offers just that.

Keeping the tradition of his ancestors alive, Nail has been fishing almost all of his life. Te proximity of the Šasko Lake (around three km)and river Bojane (around 600 m), experience and the knowledge he inherited, represent a great recommendation for all the passionate fans of recreational fishing to go with Nail to the Šasko Lake. For those who would like to take on the fishing alone, Nail can lend his boat with the equipment he owns. Also, the host can organize trips to the lake for those who just with to see him fishing. The guests can leave the preparation of the meals to their host, or they can join him in preparing them from the fish they caught on the barbeque in the frontyard of the family home. Nail fishes at the river Bojana as well, and in its waters, besides carp, chub and eel, which can be found in the lake, you can find gray mullet, nase, perch and bass as well.

The guests of this household can be hunders as well. Depending on the hunting season, together with their host, guest can go on hunting sessions.

Besides the specialties made of fish and game, you can find dishes made of high quality lamb. Salads and side dishes are made of tomato, peppers, onions, cucumbers and other vegetables from the garden. Everything being served to the guests exudes authenticity and tradition of the Šasko Lake area, including the famous watermelon and fig jam. For desert, the hostess can prepare tespidža, alva or some other traditional cake. Her culinary skills are confirmed with the fact that every year she takes part in preparation of the food for the manifestation called “Days of spring”.

The household can host up to 5 people. In case of larger groups interested in fishing, the trips will be organized in cooperation with the neighbours. The family speaks Albanian and Montenegrin language, and can communicate in Italian and English as well. The visit shoud be announced at leas 2 to 3 days in advance.

Štodra, Šas+382 (0) 69 032 849

N 41°59'11.41"E 19°21'53.78"

fOR ThE fANS Of recreaTional

FisHin

Staying in the pleasant atmosphere in the garden of the family house and indulging in the hospitality of this household will stay in the memories and hearts of those who visit. Interesting stories about their lives and warm family atmosphere which reflects the spirit of mutual help and the inclusion of all the family members in the estate related labour will evoke the authentic lifestyle of the locals – their tradition, costums and everyday lives.

Agriculture is Bajraktari’s family traditional occupation. In their gardens they cultivate various vegetables, among which the tomato and watermelon are a characteristic for the area. They are also into cattle breeding – they raise sheep and cows, while the hens, chickens and ducks, that roam freely among the lemon, tangerine, pomegranate, fig and olive trees and vines only complement the picture of the country lifestyle. The commitment of the host to the family’s tradition is reflected in his work on the estate, as well as in the great number of old tools that he meticulously takes care of.

Fishery is a part of life of the locals, so the guest may be serve a variety of fish specialties, while those interested in recreational fishery may join the host and enjoy the fishing on the Šasko Lake.

The hardworking Hajredin also hunts, so the visit to this household can be interesting to hunters as well. Depending on the season, the visitor may go hunting with the host, and then, together with him, prepare some of the local specialties made of game. A traditional dish – peta, which can be made with domestic veal, game or even without meat at all, is a great recommendation for another way to learn about the spirit of the past. The guest may also taste corn bread, prepared by the hostess. The bread is made of corn grown on this estate, grounded in the old mill in Mida, in the same way as their ancestors used to do. During your visit you must not miss the opportunity after lunch to try halvah or some other traditional desert.

The versatility of the host is supported by the fact that he is also a long time bee keeper.

The household can host groups of 5-6 persons, and the visit should be announced 2-3 in advance. The family members speak Albanian and Montenegrin language.

Hajredin BajrakTariŠtodra, Šas+382 (0) 69 671 243

N 41°59'11.04"E 19°21'53.10"

Štodra, Šas+382 (0) 69 223 278

N 41°59'8.40"E 19°22'14.58"

mUsa sinani3 km from Šasko Lake and only 500 m distance from Bojna River, this passionate fisherman lives with his family. As is the case with many locals, fishery is a tradition to Musa, but it’s his great passion as well. Every day he finds the time to go to the river. With his boat made of wood – a sort of canoe, Musa will gladly take his guests to the river – those who are fans of recreational fishing, as well as those who would just like to join him to observe his fishing skills. Depending on the season of the year and the fishing season, in the waters of Bojana River you can fish for: carp, chub, eel, bleak, perch, bass... Besides on the river, Musa also fishes on the Šasko Lake, where the most common species are carp, chub and eel. After fishing, guests, together with their host, can prepare a meal from the caught fish, or simply leave it to the host to prepare some of the local specialties.

The Sinani family traditionally works in agriculture. The cultivate watermelon, tomato, okra, peppers and other vegetables that are characteristic for this area. Lemon and wild pomegranate juice, pear, fig, apple and even wild plum jam is made exclusively from fruits picked in their orchards. High quality milk, cheese, meat and other homemade products are also the characteristic of their offer.

Variety and the quality of the products are a guarantee that this household can satisfy different gastronomic tastes with its wide offer. At the wealthy set table you may find dishes made of fish, specialties made of meat, dishes with vegetables, homemade pies, as well as tespidža, which is served as a traditional desert. Different seasons and situations offer opportunities for guests to see different activities of this family – picking of watermelons, making of butter the traditional way, making of homemade ketchup from domestic tomatoes and so on. The smile on their faces, cordiality and traditional hospitality are key to the experiencing the lifestyle of people from this area. Their neighbouring relations are also full of mutual understanding. This is confirmed by the stories of „moba”, which is volunteer work in the fields, organized by the locals in order to help each others in performing important works in the fields, while during the winter, when there is less work, they can spend more time together.

The household may host groups of up to 10 people interested for lunches and recreational fishing year round. The family speaks Albanian language, and Montenegrin and Russian to some extent.

OLD CRAfTS AND

HandicraFTs

Many years of experience in the production of souvenirs by carving wood, moulding plaster and polymer, and decorating with pyrography guarantees that the visitors will find something to their liking and buy an interesting item from the stand where Ramiz keeps his products exposed. The stand is located in the village Zenelaj, 1 km from Vladimir, eight near the road to Ulcinj. Just a couple of hundred of meters from there is Ramiz’s workshop, next to the old stone house, build in mid last century. This is where he can demonstrate the process of the production of souvenirs, and beside learning the details about his long creative work, the visitors can try and make some of the shapes themselves.

Ramiz is an artist that knows well both sides of his works. Before making a shape in plaster, he makes this shape from wood. Afterwards, based on the wooden shape, he makes a mould for the souvenir. His works have national characteristics of Montenegro, Albania and neighbouring countries, as well as symbols of the cities form the Balkans. Different shapes, that are an expression of his creativity are also a part of his offer.

Ramiz is at the head of the NGO NVO Globus Art, which through organizing numerous fairs of handicrafts gives a significant contribution to the preservation of old crafts and the development of cooperation between craftsmen from the region. This proves that for Ramiz there are no boundaries, so he keeps the handicrafts of other authors on his stand next to his works. Ramiz speaks Albanian and Montenegrin language, and can communicate to a certain extent in Emglish and German. There is a parking lot next to the stand. He can host groups of up tp 15 people in his workshop, and the visit has to be announced five days in advance.

NvO GloBUs arTRamiz HajdariZenelaj, Vladimir+382 (0) 69 818 830globusart_ul@hotmail.com

N 42° 0'28.61" E 19°17'14.41"

Gornji rastiš, Vladimir+382 (0) 69 300 269

N 42° 2'53.96"E 19°20'0.73"

sUlTana xHUreToviq

Sultana’s life choice is fancy work. Since she was a little girl, her mother and grandmother taught her how to create different styles of work. So today she preserves the tradition in the threads of her products – traditional clothes for formal occasions, rigs, beddings... People’s lifestyles have changed under the impact of times, but Sultana, with her enthusiasm, is devoted to this old craft. The traditional clothes of Ana Malit that she creates is present at the performances of numerous dancing troupes, and the locals, wishing to preserve the tradition, purchases the traditional clothes for formal occasions. But, besides the production of djamadans (vests), anterias (shirts), traditional harem pants and dresses, Sultana modifies her products to accommodate contemporary trends. She weaves woollen rugs, socks and vests, but also makes cotton bed sheets, aprons, table covers, different area rugs for households made from pieces of fabric, and tapestries and colourful bed covers made of thic woollen threads...

In the room where Sultana works and where she keeps all her products exposed, through the stories accompanying every piece of clothing or house object, she will present to the visitors the traditional way of living. Here they will learn how the girls used to dress for their wedding; how the colours and decorations made the difference between the clothes for younger girls and that of older women; how some of the clothes and other goods made of wool were not purchase, but rather handmade by the hardworking housewives. To those who are interested, she will be happy to demonstrate the work on the 120 years old loom, which she inherited from her grandmother and her mother. Other than in her house, Sultana’s products can be bought in the souvenir shop in the Info centre, at the „Shasi“ restaurant. Sultana speaks Albanian and some Montenegrin. She lives on this address year round, and the visit should be announced no more than one or two days in advance.

Eleonora RedžepagićĐerani bb, Ulcinj+382 (0) 69 612 492eleonora.redzepagic@hotmail.comhttps://www.facebook.com/ElaPrirodniSapuniodMaslinovogUlja

ela maGic, DOO

First class olive oil, the knowledge and devotion to work and the quality of products are what give the natural soaps, made by Eleonora, their stamp of uniqueness. Using the cold process of production in order to preserve the healing properties of the olive oil, she gathered all the nature’s specificities and the advantages of this area in the soaps that are being sold in numerous souvenir shops and health stores all over Montenegro under the brand of “The Montenegrin Souvenir”. Based on her own recipe, she makes soaps with addition of goat’s milk, honey and herbs such as: lavender, marigold, rosemary, mint, sage, nettle, cinnamon and St. Johns wort. Beside these, she offers soas made with the addition of essential oil of lavender, mint, sage and rosemary. Together with her family, Eleonora dedicates the attention to the entire process of production, to make her soaps of highest quality and to make them available in various shapes and weights, and eventually, to have interesting packaging in boxes made of paper with the bar codes, jute floss and cellophane. Eleonora takes care about the quality of every ingredient of the soaps, which means that the production process may commence only after a careful selection of the olive oil, goat milk and honey from the local producers, as well as the herbs that she either cultivates herself, pick in the wilderness or buys from a pharmacy. This is why the soaps under the ‘’Ella” label are recognized adn sought after. They are also available at various festivals and fairs of handicrafts, were Eleonora, on her thoughtfully decorated stand will present the product of her skill, knowledge and imagination.In the Ulcinj Municipality she is the originator of the soap production using the cold procedure, and is one of the firsts in Montenegro to use herbs as additions to soaps.Although she lives in Ulcinj, Eleonora is promoting the area by keeping them exhibited, along with other local craftsmen products in the Info centre at the „Shasi“ restaurant.

A long time love for fancy work inspires Sadeta to crochet table covers, pillowcases, tray mats and other decorative items for the household. Since she was a little girl, her mother taught her the crochet technique, weaving on the loom and embroidering of tapestries.

Sadta’s creations reflect her skills, as well as the tradition and the skill of the hardworking women of this area, which used to decorate every part of their homes with their handicrafts. There was even some secret competition going on, for having the most unique works and make their skills stand out amongst the others.

In Sadeta’s home can be seen numerous products that keep the tradition alive and from being forgotten, and her stories will complement the experience of the past times. One of these stories tells how the girls had to know the crochet technique, in order to have table covers and other items for their future new household. After they got married, by decorating their new home, they would show all the items they have made. This is why they always tried to make them in a new way, with a never before seen pattern. They took pride in this and would provide them the additional respect by the members of their new family.

Sadeta makes thing by order as well, proving that this works of art can serve to decorate homes, and that the spirit of the past can be perfectly incorporated into the modern trends.

sadeta elezovićVladimir+382 (0) 67 915 8788

N 42° 0'18.48"E 19°18'13.56"

The love for homemade goods and tradition is a feature in Ljindita’s products, and the olives that she grows with the help of her family and the oil the produce are the basis of her products. Along with Ljindita’s creativity, persistence and endeavour for novelties, there is a story based on traditional values, nature’s advantages of this area, as well as specific tastes and healing properties, behind every one of these products. Besides pure olive oil, she makes olive oil infused with St John wort, rosemary or basil, originally packaged with a little twiglet in inside the bottle. Her offer also includes black olives, prepared with salt in a traditional way.

An important item in a plethora of her products is the soaps made with olive oil. Ljidita’s uses the cold method of production. This enables her to preserve all the healing properties of the olive oil, and to keep the high quality of her products. A specific product is the lavender soap, infused with flower petals. Interesting packaging is another confirmation of the devotion and care for every detail.

A reflection of her devotion to tradition are figs, dried and sold in arranged in wreaths, while the fresh ones are used for the preparation of jam, an authentic product of the area.

ljindita sukalićNova Mahala, Ulcinj+382 (0) 67 204 613

acTiviTiesWith its nature and terrain, Šas is a real piece of heaven for all those

who want to complement their vacation with different activities – whether they prefer those that do not require serious physical effort, or feel like trying new challenges, which imply certain level of fitness.

Additionally, the proximity of other natural attractions (the Great Beach and Aba Bojana, Skadar Lake and the Ruija Mountain)

extend the list of outdoor contents, making this area an attractive destination for all fans of active tourism.

Bird watching

The fish resources, favourable climate and other natural features have turned the Šasko Lake into a real ornithological gem of the southern part of Montenegro. During every season, with their aerial and aquatic dance the birds will make your stay on the lake a true attraction. When, during periods of migration, thousands of songbirds, birds of prey and aquatic birds fly over the lake, t maes for some truly impressive moments. This is when you can see hundreds of golden orioles - Oriolus oriolus, a species which is otherwise hard to see in the nature. An interesting bird of prey is the levant sparrow-hawk - Accipiter brevipes, which uses the lake as his hunting site during the summer months. Among twenty thousands of aquatic birds that stay on the lake during the winter, the coot is the most common. Another reason to visit the lake during fall and winter is that during this period you may meet its special guests - pelicans and cormorants.

For fans of the bird watching, we recommend the trail that goes from the football field, by the St. John’s Church, to the belvedere. This way they will be able to see numerous bird species in their habitats

among the Mediterranean underbrush, floodplains of the Donja Klezna village and the water surface of the lake. In the underbrush, on the trail which leads toward the lake, you may see numerous species of land birds.

Important nesting birds at the Šasko Lake are the following aquatic birds: Rallus aquaticus, Gallinula chloriopus, Fulica atra, Sterna hirundo, S. albifrons, C. hybrydus, Acrocephalus arundinaceus, A. scirpaceus, te „kopnene vrste“: Streptopelia turtur, Clamator glandarius, Athene noctua, Coracias garrulus, Upupa epops, Galerida cristata, Calandrella brachydactyla, Hirundo rustica, Delichon urbica, Motacilla alba, M. flava, Luscinia megarhynchos, Phoenicurus ochruros, Oenanthe oeananthe, O. hispanica, Sitta neumayer, Turdus merula, Hippolais pallida, Sylvia atricapilla, S. communis, Muscicapa striata, Parus lugubris, Lanius senator, L. minor, Sturnus vulgaris, Oriolus oriolus, Passer montanus, P. hispaniolensis, Carduelis canabina, Emberiza calandra, E. melanocephala. This area is attracting an increasing number of passionate bird watchers, whether they are ornithological experts or individuals who enjoy this hobby. Whit their knowledge of terrain, the birds and habitats, the trained bird watching guides will provide their support to the ornithologists and curious tourists.

Bird watching guides

AGoN SALAJ

Place of residence: Vladimir, Ulcinj Phone number: +382 (0) 69 560 987 E-mail: goni.85@hotmail.comEducation: faculty of German language, Priština

Agon completed the training organized at the Ulcinj Saline by the centre for Protection and research of birds. He also completed the training for the guide for the city of Skadar and Skadar Lake, organized by the Ministry of tourism of Albania and Natga.

ArtAN KUrtI

Place of residence: Ulcinj Phone number: +382 (0) 69 277 200E-mail: art_attack_22@yahoo.deLanguages: Albanian, Montenegrin, German, and English.

Artan is a German language professor by vocation. for nine years he has been teaching at the elementary school „Maršal tito“ in Ulcinj. Apart from working as a professor, he’s been working as a tourist guide for foreign tourists since 2008, when he received his licence. In 2014 he was involved in a project for bird watching guides at the Ulcinj Saline. In his spear time he plays football, photographs and paints.

Recreational fishingLocated between three water surfaces – Šasko Lake, Bojana River and the Adriatic Sea, the šasko area is an area rich with fish. Due to the interconnection with the sea, through the Bojana River canal, besides fresh water fishes, here you can find sea fish as well. There are 23 registered species in the lake, and the most common ones are: carp, perch, eel, lice, crucial carp...

The rich fish fond makes the Šasko Lake attractive for numerous fans of recreational fishing. With the respect of rules and ethics of the recreational fishing, and using the allowed tools, they are welcome here. If you wish to enjoy the silence and try to outwit the fish the best recommendation is to go into an adventure with one of the locals who owns a boat. This will be an excellent opportunity to exchange the experience, but also to learn some of the tricks, used by their ancestors. The restaurant “Shasi” as well as many households offers this service. You don’t have to be a fisherman to chose this activity – you may simply enjoy the cruising over the lake from the comport of the boat, and watch your host expertly work the fishing rod.

The rides over the lake and the swimming tourismA boat ride over the lake is an excellent opportunity to enjoy the lake scenery and its surroundings. This service is easy to attain - restaurant „Shasi“, located at the shore provides canoes (capacity of the canoes is up to two persons), boats (capacity up to five persons) and a raft (capacity up to 50 persons), and almost every household owns a canoe. The ride will be made more pleasant by the conversation with

your kind host, from whom you will learn a many interesting details about the lake and living with it. With the temperature of the lake reaching up to 28°C during the summer, it makes it really hard to resist the temptation to swim in it, thus making your ride and stay at the lake more complete. Although there are no regulated beaches on the lake, the visitors can enjoy the warm waters of the lake by using the raft of the „Shasi“ restaurant.

Tracking and climbing If you are a fan of easy walks, touring the pleasant terrains of the Šasko Lake and visiting the ancient town of Svaču make for a perfect introduction for the remaining stories of the area, but will also confirm o everything that you have lived in this area. If you have an affinity and a level of fitness to match a greater physical effort, than you will probably notice the massive of the mountain Rumija at the north-eastern part of the horizon. This is the highest and the most attractive mountain in this part of the Montenegrin seaside.

Located between the Skadar Lake and the sea coast, Rumija offers one of the most spectacular views in the region, and this is a just reward for the climbing effort. The view reaches far deep into the continental part of Montenegro and Albania. The view of the coast and the sea on one side, and the Skadar Lake on the other, while in the distance you look at the impressive cliffs of the Kučke mountains, Prokletije, Lovćen, and Orjen, will leave every nature and mountain lover breathless.

Moreover, Rumija is a part of the Coastal Mountain Transversal, which starts at the Orjen mountain near

Herceg Novi, and reaches Rumija across Lovćen and Paštrovačka mountain. This panoramic tour is 182 km long, and it requires 8-9 days. Although this transversal ends in Bar, there is a mountain trail from Rumija which will bring you to 1 km away from Vladimir, across villages Veliki Mikulići and Lunja, where it continues towards the border crossing Sukobin. The Map of the National Network of Mountain Trails is available at the web site of the National Tourism Organization of Montenegro.http://www.montenegro.travel/files/multimedija/gallery/files/2013/02/wilderness_hiking_mapa_cg_0.pdf

Panoramic flightsThe panoramic flights over the sea, Ada Bojana, Rumija and Šasko Lake offer a true enjoyment in the view over the beautiful landscape of Ulcinj Riviera and the rolling hills. In a powered hang glider, in the company of a trained pilot, the fans of heights will have an opportunity to enjoy this adventure during the summer months. Besides the point at the Šasko Lake, it it possible to take off from Štoj as well, and these panoramic flights, performed by the Aero club “Ulcinj“ last for around 15 minutes (phone: +382 (0) 69 025 589 or any of the phone numbers of the „Shasi“ restaurant).

BikingWhether it’s your hobby, or you are a passionate biker, the Šasko Lake area has something to offer. The flat land of the Grea Beach, rolling hills of the Briska gora and the Ana Malit field, the mountainous roads that lead towards the inland across the hillsides of Rumija will satisfy different tastes and levels of fitness.

Only a couple of kilometres from Šas, through Vladimir there is a Top biking route - „Waterfront stories “ - TT5 in the national network of biking routes. It starts in Cetinje, across the Rijeka Crnojevića, Virpazar, Stegvaš bend, then Vladimir and Ulcinja, and it reaches Ada Bojane, then back through Ulcinj, Bar and Virpazara ends in Cetinje. This circular route which is 237 km long, connects many belvederes, leads through old trading trails, tours the medieval towns and villages, takes you through the chestnut forest and olive plantations. Although the route itself includes many attractions that you will enjoy, once you reach Vladimir on your two wheels, use this opportunity to visit the Šasko Lake and experience its uniqueness.

O the National Tourism Organisation web site you

will find the guide for the Top biking route 5 - TT5, as well as the maps of all Top biking routes, including the TT5. http://www.montenegro.travel/files/multimedia/www_montenegro_bild_studio_me/stranice/fajlovi/2012/02/vrhunska_staza_5..pdf

You may use the network of the local and regional roads to create tours of different intensity, combining the distance and the pints that you may wish to visit. Some of the recommended tours are:

recommendation nr. 1: Bar – Ulcinj – Krute – Sukobin – Skadar – Podgorica

The total length of this route is 136 km, with the following sections: Bar – Ulcinj 27 km, Ulcinj – Krute 14 km, Krute – Sukobin 15 km, Sukobin – Skadar 15 km, Skadar – Podgorica 65 km.

recommendation nr. 2: Virpazar – Godinje – Seoce – Murići – Đuravci – Ostros – Vladimir – Šasko Lake – Sukobin – Skadar

The total length of this route is 75 km, with the following sections: Virpazar – Godinje 7 km, Godinje – Seoce 5 km, Seoce – Murići 3km, Murići – Đuravci 4 km, Đuravci – Ostros 12 km, Ostros – Vladimir 18 km, Vladimir – Šasko Lake 5 km, Šasko Lake – Sukobin 6km, Sukobin – Skadar 15 km.

Recommendation nr. 3: Bar – Krute – Vladimir – Šasko Lake – Lisna Bori – Sukobin – Vladimir – Old Olive - Bar

The total length of this route is 80 km, with the following sections: Bar – Krute (traffic roundabout) 22 km, Krute –Vladimir 5 km, Vladimir – Šasko Lake 5 km, Šasko Lake – Lisna Bori 3 km, Lisna Bori – Sukobin 3 km, Sukobin – Vladimir 15 km, Vladimir – Old Olive – Bar 27 km.

Written by: Bojana SekulićWeb design: TAČKA Design LabPhotography: Vladana Vojinović

Translation: Violeta CamajProject coordinator: Azra Vukovic

Design brochure: Bojana MićunovićGraphic design: ŠTAMPANJE D.O.O

This brochure is result of the project: “Support local communities to implement nature based tourism practices around Sasko Lake”, implemented by the NGO Green Home. Project is funded by the Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund. CEPF – www.cepf.net . The Critical Ecosystem Partnership

Fund is a joint initiative of l'Agence Française de Développement, Conservation International, the European Union, the Global Environment Facility, the Government of Japan, the MacArthur Foundation and the World Bank. A fundamental goal is to ensure civil society is engaged

in biodiversity conservation.