It’s nothing new that Summer in Europe is always lively and entertaining. But, in the midst of so many traditional blue paradises, there is a new place conquering a legion of fans with its beauty. It’s called Montenegro.
This neighbor of Croatia was part of the former Yugoslavia, after Serbia and just over ten years ago became independent. It is a pretty small country. It has one third of the size of the state of Rio de Janeiro and is beautiful. I was completely in love with the city of Kotor which is on the edge of the Adriatic Sea. I’m sure you will also fall in love with it.
I never thought about going to Montenegro. It was on a trip to Croatia that gave me the idea, as I talked to the concierge of the hotel in which I was staying. I rented a car in Dubrovnik, which is 45 kilometers from the border of Montenegro, and he suggested that I stretched my itinerary to visit the fjords and the medieval towns in the neighboring country. When I heard the word “fjord” I was really curious. The next day Montenegro entered my travel itinerary.
I crossed the border and in less than an hour I arrived at the Bay of Kotor which is registered by UNESCO. What a beautiful place! The river valley was flooded by sea water and formed a fjord. It is not a traditional fjord as those of glacial origin of New Zealand, for example, but the formation is very similar to what we have in Brazil in the bag of Pantanal, in Paraty. High mountains with crystalline waters and the scenario deserves reverence!
A few more miles of driving and the walls of Kotor arise along the way. The medieval city is facing the sea and is considered Patrimony of Humanity. Three gates give access to the narrow streets filled with old buildings, churches and palaces. Climb up to the top of the wall that weaves the Mount St. Ivan and you’ll have the most incredible view of the Bay of Kotor. It is tiring, as there are 1,200 meters of slopes and stairs, but I assure you that it is worth the climb. On the way back, choose a restaurant to rest, grab a glass of wine and sample the famous cru of Montenegro.
It is worthwhile to sleep at least two nights in Montenegro to explore other villages and seize that blue sea. You know what’s the best place to stay in Montenegro? The Hotel Aman Sveti Stefan. It is phenomenal and super unique. It occupies the island of Sveti Stefan and like all hotels of the Aman chain (which I love!) it made sure to preserve intact the outer structure of medieval houses. Inside, the facilities are super comfortable. The hotel’s beach is wonderful. A true dream!
I hope you have gotten an inspiration and have had the desire to add it to your wish/bucket list!
I wish you all a wonderful week and see you next Tuesday.
