Bay of Kotor

Close your eyes. Take a breath. 

Now, imagine yourself on the Italian Riviera. You’re leaning back in a recliner, with a glass of wine. The sun is beaming down. You hear the sound of waves lapping gently at the pebbles beneath your feet. The faint smell of grilled fish over charcoal comes floating through the soft patter of sandals on the busy promenade behind. Pretty great huh? Well, what if I told you this isn’t the Riviera? This isn’t even Italy. 

Just across the Adriatic, you’ll find the opening to an ancient treasure trove of culture, food, history and natural beauty that will have you pinching yourself, just to make sure! 

Welcome, to Boka Bay!

Why Boka Bay? 

Now, I’m sure you’re thinking. 

“That sounds great!” But, can it really be that special?” 

Well … Yes! And here’s why.

Culture

Boka Bay presents a unique opportunity for travellers to experience the confluence of multiple different cultures and civilizations. From it’s architecture to the food and even the language, Montenegro is a vibrant book of stories, filled with the influence of Italy, Spain, The Ottomans, The Greeks, Romans and so many more! This rich cultural collage has made Montenegro one of the most interesting European destinations in 2023, with Boka Bay at it’s centre.

Food

Did someone say Italian? Greek? Turkish? How about all 3! With such a vibrant cultural history is it any wonder that Montenegrin kitchens produce some of the best food in Europe. But the real secret? Ingredients. Montenegro is a small country with the topography of a continent. At roughly half the size of Belgium, the nation boasts a Mediterranean coastline, a vast mountain range, flat plains and thick forest. This unique landscape allows for the growth of a wide range of fresh ingredients, ranging from wild boar, to fragrant herbs, lush vine tomatoes and freshly caught fish. And it’s the quality of these ingredients that really brings Montenegrin cuisine to life!

Nature

It’s not only the food that benefits from Montenegro’s unique landscape. This small nation has managed to fit 5 national parks, and 4 UNESCO World Heritage Sites within it’s borders, including Europe’s deepest river canyon, the Tara, and Boka Bay itself. It is an area of incredible natural beauty that has inspired poets, authors, kings and clergy and featured in many famous pieces of work. 
Boka Bay offers visitors a thoroughly Mediterranean experience, with warm sunshine, crystal clear water and the ever-present hum of cicadas from within the olive and citrus groves. But, as you head north, the bright coastal vistas are replaced by rugged mountains and pine forests, populated by wild boar and brown bear. With such stark natural contrast, Montenegro presents you with the opportunity for unrivalled variety in your trip. Where else can you swim in the ocean at 10 and be strapping on your ski boots at 2!

Top 5 Must See Boka Bay Destinations

 

Herceg Novi The city of stairs! Directly opposite the entrance to Boka Bay, Herceg Novi has played an important role in it’s history, as can be seen by the 3 imposing forts constructed to defend it from attack. The town itself, while small, is a tardis of history and culture, and well known for it’s status as a city of exceptional art. Lively town squares, brimming with delightful restaurants and cafes, and a beachfront promenade stretching several kilometres make Herceg Novi a popular choice for travellers to Montenegro. With stunning views, great food and crystal clear water, Herceg Novi is a definite contender for the best town in the bay!

 

Perast A town of rich, maritime heritage, Perast is famous for it’s breathtaking views across the bay, and proximity to one of Montenegro’s most famous island churches - Our Lady of the Rocks. The spectacular Baroque buildings will bring a glint to the eye of any architectural enthusiasts, while a host of delectable eateries offer travellers a mouthwatering selection of local dishes.

 

Kotor The ancient city by the sea! No trip to Montenegro would be complete without a visit to the worlds oldest coastal city. 2000 years old and UNESCO protected, the walled city of Kotor is as close to time travel as it’s possible to be. Through the impressive gates, travellers are greeted by a winding maze of narrow stone streets and vibrant town squares. Filled with vitality and buzzing with activity, it’s easy to get caught up in the energy and find yourself transported by the thought of the millions of footsteps that have trodden the streets before your arrival, and get lost in the labyrinth of restaurants, bars and cafes that seem to pop out from the very walls themselves. Be ready to turn on all your senses and immerse yourself in an unforgettably Montenegrin experience.

 

Porto Montenegro With such a visibly rich history, it’s easy to forget that Montenegro is also a swiftly developing nation, with plenty of enthusiasm for the finer things in life! Step up Porto Montenegro. One of the countries most luxurious marinas, Porto Montenegro provides a setting for contemporary sophistication. Top tier restaurants offer world class service and spectacular views across the bay, and as the countries largest marina, travellers are offered a rare chance to gaze over a collection of breathtaking, world famous super yachts. The town offers access to designer stores, cocktail bars and all the trimmings you would expect of a sophisticated, modern district.

 

Lustica Peninsula Untouched beauty and intimate charm characterise the final destination on our list. The Lustica Peninsula is celebrated for it’s authentic Montenegrin charm, and boasts some of the best preserved wild nature in the bay. Dotted with traditional hamlets, a mosaic of olive and citrus groves and myriad secret, hidden coves and beaches, the Lustica Peninsula perfectly encapsulates the rustic old-world charms of the Adriatic coastline. Leave your camera at home at your own peril - the Lustica Peninsula is not to be forgotten!