Discover Montenegro: Essential Tips for Lodging, Dining, and Activities (2024)

Sun-drenched days, glistening waters, and a rich tapestry of history—Montenegro, a jewel of the Adriatic Coast, is an excellent choice for spring and summer escapes. Beyond its breathtaking landscapes, a recent surge in luxury developments like Porto Montenegro and Lustica Bay has transformed the region, offering sophisticated options alongside its timeless charm.

WAWW Guide, your trusted source for extraordinary travel experiences curated by experts, brings you the ultimate insider’s guide to Montenegro. Elena Leo, Director of Editorial at WAWW Guide, unveils the top places to sleep, eat, and play in this captivating destination.

Steeped in history, Mamula Island, a tiny emerald teardrop in Montenegro’s Bay of Kotor, has undergone a dramatic metamorphosis. Once a stoic Austro-Hungarian fortress guarding the entrance in the mid-19th century, it has been transformed into an exclusive hotel.

Accessible by both sea and sky (guests can arrive by helicopter), Mamula Island sheds its past as a wartime prison. The meticulously restored fort now pulsates with a new life as an opulent boutique hotel boasting just 32 exquisite rooms.

The island’s crown jewel is a state-of-the-art spa with treatments like floatation therapy and halotherapy chambers, traditional yoga, and ancient healing ceremonies.

Web: https://www.mamulaisland.com/en/

Regent Porto Montenegro sits in the heart of Porto Montenegro village,where guests can explore the vibrant shops and restaurants right on their doorstep.

This spectacular waterfront property, designed by Parisian architect Tino Zervudachi, pays homage to the region’s Venetian heritage. Inspired by Venetian Renaissance architecture, the chic and sleek building is cleverly divided by a stunning open-air pool club.

The hotel boasts 175 luxurious rooms, suites, and residences, each featuring a balcony overlooking the breathtaking vistas of Boka Bay. The nautical theme flows subtly throughout the décor, with wood accents and a calming colour palette of blue, cream, and beige fabrics. Linen canopies above the beds add a whimsical touch, resembling billowing sails.

Outside, the central, double-height atrium, with expansive views of the sea, leads out into a tranquil water garden. The ground floor offers a variety of dining and entertainment options, including a café, restaurant, library, and bar. For ultimate relaxation, there is a choice between the indoor or outdoor swimming pool, or a day in the spa featuring a hammam.

The sprawling Pool Club offers fresh Mediterranean cuisine in a laid-back atmosphere – the perfect place to soak up the beauty of Boka Bay.

Web: https://www.ihg.com/regent/hotels/us/en/porto-montenegro/tivpm/hoteldetail?cm_mmc=BingMaps-_-RE-_-ME-_-TIVPM

Europe’s first One&Only resort in Portonovi offers a luxurious escape beside the glistening Adriatic Sea.

One&Only Portonovi occupies a resplendent setting at the entrance of Boka Bay, a fjord-like idyll on Montenegro’s Adriatic coast. It’s part of the newly built Portonovi marina resort, nestled at the mouth of Kotor Bay. This location is fantastic for exploring the region. You can take a scenic drive or sail up Kotor Bay, a meandering inlet framed by rugged mountains, to the UNESCO-listed town of Kotor and the tiny village of Perast, with its two church-crowned islets.

One&Only Portonovi offers a contemporary take on Venetian architecture. Picture arcaded buildings in pastel hues and unabashedly plush interiors designed by Hirsch Bedner Associates. The grand lobby boasts sweeping views down to the deep blue bay. Grey marble floors are adorned with antique Persian rugs, and a modern bronze-boulder fountain adds a touch of whimsy.

The resort’s Chenot Espace medical spa is a destination in itself. For food and beverage, La Veranda serves up renowned Montenegrin recipes. Alternatively, head to the poolside Tapasake Club for a taste of Asian fusion cuisine. Sabia by Giorgia Locatelli offers mouthwatering rustic Italian fare, while Caminetti is the place to be for co*cktails with a view.

Web: https://www.oneandonlyresorts.com/portonovi

MayaBay Porto Montenegro draws inspiration from the dreamy island destination of Maya Bay in Thailand. The tropical influence is apparent in the MayaBay design, which is soft, elegant, and refined, blending traditional and contemporary Asian elements. Cuisine features Japanese and Thai fusion dishes. The drinks menu features curated wine, sake, and tea selections that complement the Asian dishes. MayaBay is conveniently located in the luxury waterfront village of Porto Montenegro. It overlooks the stunning Boka Bay and boasts a state-of-the-art superyacht marina.

Web: https://www.mayabayrestaurant.com/portomontenegro

Located in Morinj village, halfway between Herceg Novi and Kotor, Ćatovića Mlini boasts a unique history. This former mill, transformed by the Ćatović family over 200 years ago, is now one of Montenegro’s finest restaurants.

Rustic charm complements the diverse Mediterranean menu, featuring fresh seafood alongside regional specialties like homemade cheese and prosciutto. An impressive wine list boasts interesting local and international options, catering to every taste.

During summer, the outdoor terrace is a great place to enjoy hearty local dishes, soaking up the sunshine while gentle breezes cool you. In winter, blankets ensure cosy outdoor dining for those who prefer al fresco dining year-round.

Reaching Ćatovića Mlini requires a short car trip or a scenic boat journey—a small price to pay for an unforgettable evening.

Web: www.catovica-mlini.com

In Kotor Bay, Mudra Art Cuisine within the 5-star Huma Hotel elevates Montenegrin cuisine to an art form. Inspired by the mythical Huma bird, a creature of perpetual flight in ancient tales, the hotel offers a haven for international travellers. Here, guests find a cosy sanctuary and a serene haven for rest and rejuvenation. Situated just 3km from Kotor’s port, the hotel boasts 18 moorings for vessels up to 25 metres, making it a popular choice for those arriving by boat.

Chef Andrew Jones crafts innovative dishes using seasonal ingredients sourced directly from the hotel’s garden. Each dish is presented as a beautiful work of art, so exquisite that you might hesitate to take the first bite (until the flavours entice you, of course!).

Web: https://www.humahotel.me/mudra/

Sun-drenched days, pulsating beats, and endless celebrations—that’s the magic of Nikki Beach. Nikki Beach clubs around the world are playgrounds for jetsetters, celebrities, and anyone who wants to live life to the fullest.

It’s famous for legendary parties and iconic DJ sets. The menu is full of international delights, with some sushi and Mediterranean staples. Nikki Beach’s signature style is white plush sunbeds and luxurious cabanas. It’s family-friendly, too: while adults unwind, little ones can splash around in their dedicated pool area.

Web: https://montenegro.nikkibeach.com/

Perched on the northern coast of Montenegro’s Lustica Peninsula, Ribarsko Selo offers an authentic glimpse into traditional Montenegrin life.

This charming fishing village caters to a variety of tastes, boasting a deluxe apartment with a Jacuzzi and private swimming pool for those seeking luxury. For a more rustic vibe, five bungalows lie hidden amidst pine trees. Each bungalow features an intimate terrace, perfect for soaking in the sea views.

Freshness is a cornerstone of Ribarsko Selo’s experience. Every day, between 11 and 12 AM, local fishermen arrive with their bounty of freshly caught fish and seafood. The restaurant prepares culinary specialties using fresh ingredients, including organically grown vegetables from the nearby garden.

Ribarsko Selo’s appeal extends beyond its great views and gourmet fresh food.For those seeking relaxation, massage treatments are available. Active travellers can explore the nearby beaches of Mirište and Žanjice, renowned for their beauty, by renting a kayak. If you’re visiting on a Friday, be sure to catch one of Ribarsko Selo’s lively cabaret nights. The village also boasts its own pier, allowing for a convenient arrival by boat.

Web: www.ribarskoselo.com

Located in the heart of Montenegro’s prestigious Porto Montenegro yacht club, Buddha Bar entices with its chill-out lounge music, poolside vibes, fantastic co*cktails, and prime yacht-watching opportunities. It’s the perfect spot to unwind by the awe-inspiring 64-metre infinity pool stretching towards the horizon, all while marvelling at the mesmerising “8 Possibilities” sculpture by renowned Catalan artist Jaume Plensa.

Buddha Bar Beach Montenegro offers a delightful blend of beach club vibes and exquisite culinary experiences. The restaurant serves Asian-inspired dishes and delicious co*cktails (try the Shiso Negroni!) with a side of panoramic Bay of Kotor views. Whether you prefer a seafront lounge, a poolside cabana, a beach bed, or a variety of lounge areas, Buddha Bar caters to every preference. Families can also enjoy peace of mind with a dedicated kids’ area and a shallow pool near the restaurants.

While Buddha Bar Beach offers a tranquil escape during the day with chill-out music perfect for relaxation, as the sun sets, the venue transforms into a vibrant nightclub, making it ideal for both daytime lounging and nighttime revelry.

For those arriving by water, a convenient dock located at the Porto Montenegro Yacht Club right beside the pool area allows for a seamless arrival by water taxi or tender transfer.

https://www.portomontenegro.com/marina/yacht-club/buddha-bar-beach/