Exploring Montenegro: A Hidden Gem of the Adriatic

Everyone has a favourite holiday destination, a sanctuary where the culture feels familiar and the surroundings ensure relaxation. However, venturing into uncharted territories can often lead to delightful surprises. This was my experience with Montenegro, a jewel in the Balkans that I had yet to explore.

Historically, Montenegro became a part of Yugoslavia in 1945, alongside Croatia, Bosnia, Slovenia, and Macedonia. In the 1990s, it aligned with Serbia during Yugoslavia’s dissolution, eventually gaining independence in 2006. Since then, Montenegro has seen a gradual increase in tourism, which has become a cornerstone of its economy. Despite this, many parts of the country retain an untouched charm, as if preserved in time.

A three-hour flight from Newcastle lands you in Dubrovnik. From there, a short journey across the border takes you into the heart of Montenegro at the southern tip of the sun-kissed Adriatic. Our stay in Herceg Novi, a serene resort town, provided easy access to the surrounding areas via car, boat, and ferry.

The coastal towns, nestled against the backdrop of the Adriatic Sea, feel more like lakes due to the enclosing bays and towering mountains. The scenery is breathtaking. Perast, our initial stop, is notably picturesque with stunning views of two islets—Our Lady of the Rocks and St. George. Local legend has it that seamen built the church on Our Lady of the Rocks after finding an icon of Madonna with child on the site. They continued adding rocks after each successful voyage until an island emerged. This tradition persists even today.

Next, we visited Kotor, a fortified town known for its labyrinthine streets and historical squares, set against the dramatic Dinaric Alps. Kotor’s walls, stretching over 4.5 kilometres, encircle a vibrant community with churches, quirky boutiques, and lively eateries. Don’t miss the local bakeries offering delicious pastries at great prices—my favourites were the savory filo pastries stuffed with meat or spinach and cheese.

Tivat has transformed from an old naval base into the luxurious Porto Montenegro, complete with a posh promenade, super yachts, and designer boutiques. Though modern and chic, it somewhat lacks the old-world charm found in other Montenegrin towns.

A taxi boat from Tivat brought us back to Herceg Novi. The town, known as the “town of stairs,” challenged us with its numerous steps leading to a fortress, churches, and an amphitheatre. Strolling through its narrow alleys and relaxing in quaint squares provided a perfect end to our days of exploration.

Despite its size, Montenegro offers a diverse array of activities, from skiing and wellness retreats to beach vacations and cultural explorations. This small country was a revelation to me, and I eagerly anticipate my next visit to this enchanting part of the world.