Besac Fortress

Address
E‑80 road, Virpazar, Bar Municipality, Montenegro
Region
Skadar Lake
Subregion
Crmnica
Available languages
English, Montenegrin

Detail information

Overlooking the charming village of Virpazar and the tranquil waters of Lake Skadar, Besac Fortress stands as a timeless guardian of Montenegro’s rich heritage. Built in the 15th century by the Ottomans, this hilltop stronghold has witnessed centuries of change—and today, it welcomes visitors not with cannons, but with wine glasses raised.

Beautifully restored with support from the European Union, Besac Fortress is now a unique wine destination blending history, culture, and local tradition. Within its ancient stone walls, you’ll find a wine museum, a cozy souvenir shop, and one of the most stunning panoramic viewpoints in Montenegro—offering sweeping views of the Skadar Lake National Park and the Crmnica wine-growing region.

Crmnica is the cradle of Montenegrin winemaking, home to the indigenous Vranac grape. At Besac, guests can enjoy wine tastings of premium local vintages while learning about centuries-old wine traditions passed down through generations.

Besac Fortress is more than a historical site—it’s a sensory experience. Ideal for lovers of culture, nature, photography, and of course, wine, it’s a must-stop on any wine tourism route through Montenegro.

Winemaker
Winemaker
Annual grape production
Annual grape production .
Annual wine production
Annual wine production .
Vineyard area
Vineyard area .
Vineyard locations
Vineyard locations .
Number of registered wine labels
Number of registered wine labels 50
Types of wine
Types of wine Red, Rosé, White
Grape varieties
Grape varieties No grape varieties found

Facilities

  • Event Space
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Outdoor Wine Tasting
  • Parking
  • Restaurant
  • Tasting Room
  • Wine shop

Try our wines

Our tours

FAQ

No, it is not a winery.
However, it serves as a showcase of Crmnica’s wine heritage, offering tastings and exhibitions of wines from several local wineries. It’s a central place where visitors can sample a variety of regional wines—especially the famous Vranac grape—in one scenic and historic location.

  • By car: 30 min from Podgorica or 40 min from Bar via E‑80 highway.
  • By train: Virpazar station (on the Podgorica–Bar line).

  • On foot: From Virpazar center, follow signs up the hill (~10–15 min walk).

  • Taste local wines from multiple producers

  • Explore the wine museum and learn about regional winemaking

  • Enjoy the panoramic views from the fortress walls

  • Visit the souvenir shop with local crafts and wine

  • Attend cultural events (seasonal concerts, exhibitions)

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AGE VERIFICATION REQUIRED

To visit our website, you must be of legal drinking/
purchasing age in your location of residence.

In Montenegro, the legal age for consuming alcohol is 18.
If you are under 18, you will not be able to access the site.