1. An Old Prison
The Mamula island fortress is located on a water boundary of two countries, Croatia and Montenegro – between Prevlaka and Luštica peninsulas. This small islet is a circular shape that’s 200 metres in diameter. It’s worth taking a boat trip to visit this wild, rural and unique island and to see the old fortress. But if you visit, be respectful of the surroundings because it was a former concentration camp and a place where people were tortured during World War II. In early January 2016, the government of Montenegro, over the objections of those who were once imprisoned on the island, approved a plan to convert the site into a luxury beach resort. Currently, plans are being made to turn it into a casino and hotel.
2. River Houses In Ada Bojana
The name Ada means river island in Montenegrin. The area is located in Ulcinj, a popular tourist destination, with 3 kilometres (2 miles) of long sandy beach and a plethora of traditional seafood restaurants. The relaxed surfer’s paradise is a hot spot over the summer months. Renting an idyllic wooden river house, with private parking, is a great option for those looking for something peaceful off the beaten track. The river houses are simple, basic and charming. But be mindful that Ana Bojana is a naturist island – a place attracting nudism.
3. Superyacht Haven In Porto Montenegro
There’s no better way to travel and relax in luxurious style than in a superyacht! Charter one and explore Montenegro in sheer luxury. Make sure to berth your boat in Porto Montenegro, located in the UNESCO protected Bay of Kotor. Porto Montenegro is a spectacular lifestyle destination with an impressive 450-berth marina and an international retail and dining scene covering world-class gastronomy, elegant bars and bistros, as well as an array of sports, leisure and cultural amenities. It’s also the biggest yacht marina in the country. If you’re hunting for the best superyacht that will meet your needs visit Azimut and mwtribs.
4. Ethnic Ecovillages
An ecovillage is a group of traditional wooden huts or stone cottages with the goal of becoming more socially, culturally, economically and ecologically sustainable. Their aim is to offer the least possible negative impact on the natural environment. There are several great ones to try across Montenegro namely Izlazak, Komnenovo and Nevidi, amongst other quaint ones to choose from. All surrounded by beautiful nature, it’s perfect for adrenaline junkies and nature lovers. It’s also a great way to enjoy the outdoors whilst leading a sustainable way of living.
5. Royal Getaway
Once the summer residence of the Serbian royal family, overlooking the Adriatic Sea lies the stone-walled Villa Milocer – part of Aman Resorts, on exclusive St Stefan island. It sits on 80 acres of luscious land, surrounded by abundant forests with more than 800 olive trees. It’s more than just a destination hotel; it’s part luxury resort and part island. Aman Sveti Stefan is comprised of two parts: Sveti Stefan island and Villa Milocer which is on the mainland. The historic property has scenic views of both forest and sea. Arrive in style by private helicopter, a limo, or speedboat. The island is open from May 1 to October 20, but Villa Milocer remains open all year-round.
6. Tara River Camping
Anyone who loves nature should try camping by Europe’s biggest river canyon – Tara Canyon. Enjoy the majestic beauty of nature by staying by the banks of the Tara River or camp in the wild woods. Tara River Canyon is also known as Tara River Gorge and it is part of Dumitor National Park. Be amongst the stunning waterfalls and wild springs; enjoy rafting, biking and hiking.
7. Vacay In A Fishing Village
Whether you stay at Ribarsko Selo guesthouse, or simply dine there, this is a must visit hot spot in Montenegro. It’s famous for its fresh seafood restaurant which is one of the places to see the sun set. The apartments are luxurious and comfortable. The most attractive one is a deluxe apartment with a Jacuzzi and a private swimming pool. The others are five bungalows which are more modest. It’s situated amongst beautiful pine trees and vegetable gardens. Every day, between 11 and 12am, local fishermen visit the village and bring in newly caught fish and seafood. All the culinary specialties that are prepared in the restaurant are made from the fresh ingredients organically grown in their garden. Guests who really need to relax can enjoy massages;those who prefer to be more active can rent kayaks and explore nearby Mirište and Žanjice beaches.
8. Sail Away
Monetenegro is known to be a top sailing destination because of its spectacular coastal landscape. If you stay in a sailing boat, you’ll get to explore all around the coast discovering new ports, whilst checking out stunning marine views and coastal towns. Don’t miss sailing in the former submarine and boat hideout tunnels from World War II. We suggest anchoring near St Marco Island or at Herceg Novi. Each little coastal town are enlisted in UNESCO’s world heritage list and are worth being discovered. Sail through Tara Canyon, the second-greatest canyon in the world, and Skadar Lake, the biggest lake in the Balkans and one of the most important bird reserves in Europe. We suggest chartering a boat with Luxsos.
9. Stay In A Labyrinth
Old Kotor town is like a charming maze of little streets and ancient buildings. The old Mediterranean port of Kotor is surrounded by fortifications built during the Venetian period. Staying here is one of the best areas to capture the magnetism of the country. It’s also a good place to be within walking distance of all the major attractions. Choose from some of the best luxurious 5-star accommodation to smaller pretty boutique hotels.
10. Ethical Donkey Farm
Donkey Farm Martinic at Danilovgrad is the only place where you get to pay to stay and work – but for a good cause! The farm is open throughout the year and the lodgings are simple and comfortable. It has a family-style setting where organic healthy lunches are prepared for the whole household. Guests will work by cleaning the farm, donkey trimming and hay gathering. The purpose is about promoting ecotourism. With sustainability in mind, the farm is made of recycled or used materials. It also has its own vineyard, an orchard, and a field which has organic vegetables. The farm has several strategic objectives: to protect donkeys from extinction and abuse because they have become endangered species in Montenegro with around 150 left; to produce donkey milk which is known to help several health ailments; and to support disabled children by allowing donkey rides as a form of therapy.
11. Former Fortress
Forte Rose Hotel in Lustica was previously an Austro-Hungarian medieval fortress. It’s located in the Mediterranean coast of Rose village in Montenegro, next to the “Monastery of the Presentation of the Virgin” chapel. Forte Rose’s beautiful fortress is famed in the area for its spectacular views of the Bay of Kotor, white stone pathways and arches, oleander flowers and private beaches. It’s the perfect retreat for a relaxing holiday filled with exquisite dining, water activities, cultural exploration.
12. Lodging At Lodges
Lodges located at the peak of mountains are run by professional mountain climbers and organisations. They are a spectacular choice for travellers that love nature and adventure. We suggest Ethno Lodge AB. It has two clean and cosy chic wooden chalets and it’s just 1.3 km from the centre of Virpazar. It’s within a short distance of Lake Skadar, which surrounds a national park. They regularly organise boat trips on the lake. Tara Riverside is also a good option. It’s a charming wooden house has a magnificent view of Tara River.
13. World Heritage Site
Travel back in time to one of Balkan’s oldest town Perast. The oldest town in Boka Bay is UNESCO protected and it’s a world’s heritage site. It looks as if a chunk of Venice has floated down the Adriatic and anchored itself onto the Bay of Kotor in Perast. Despite having only one main street, this tiny town boasts 16 churches and 17 formerly grand palazzi. The tiny, idyllic village has stunning views of Boka Bay. There are several apartments and idyllic 4-star hotels. One exceptional one is the unique and chic Monte Bay Retreat with amazing views of the fjord. The beautiful rooms have individual features ranging from claw foot bathtubs at the foot of the bed to sumptuous open fireplaces. It merges harmony of old rustic charm and modern-day aesthetic. You even have your very own butler and concierge service.
14. Old Palaces
There are plenty of old palaces that have turned into a hotels and guest houses. The best includes Old Mariner Guest House, Galathea Guest House, Carruba Hotel, Iberostar Grand Heritage Perast, Conte, Hotel Libertas, Vardar Palace Hotel, Monte Christo Hotel (from the 13th century which belonged to a first bishop of Kotor and Boutique Hotel Astoria (a 13th century palace). Not to mention Villa Milocer. The villa was built in 1934 as the summer residence of Queen Marija Karadjordjevic and is backed by a large forest of olive trees, cedars and pines called Milocer Forest Park.
