Kotor, Adriatic Coast, Montenegro [Image by Michał from Pixabay]Montenegro (Black Mountain) is a small country, bordering Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia and Serbia. Placed as it is on the Adriatic coast, this Balkan country boasts idyllic beaches, soaring mountains and loads of fascinating history.
In the past, Montenegro has been occupied by various powers, making for a rich, cultural history. Here, travelers can explore the ruins of Roman villas, complete with their intricate mosaic floors. Meanwhile, beautifully painted Greek and Serbian Orthodox monasteries dot the nation, while ornate Catholic churches also stand tall. Its more recent history has seen the country as a non-aligned communist state, independent from both the Eastern and Western bloc and separated from Serbia in 2006. With all this behind the Balkan country’s past, read on to find out the major attractions Montenegro has to offer the modern traveler.
Head to the beach in Montenegro
Beaches [Image by anna_kk from Pixabay]For any traveler seeking sun, sand and sea, Montenegro boasts a beautiful 186 mi (300 km) coastline. Moreover, it offers clean, sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, backed by impressive mountains and cliffs.
Taking a drive down the coast reveals many ancient walled towns to visit as well as beautiful bays. One is the Bay of Kotor, which is said to be among the most beautiful bays in all of Europe. Meanwhile, set on this bay are two UNESCO World Heritage Sites – Kotor and Perast, as well as other towns that bring a feel of the Mediterranean. While in the area, make sure to tour the historic walled town of Kotor, which has been occupied by the Slavs, Venetians and Ottomans, all of whom have left their mark on the town.
Perast on the Adriatic coast [Image by Michał from Pixabay]While on the coast, visit the Budva Riviera which features the main tourist beaches of Montenegro, as well as excellent and lively nightlife. In the area, many pretty villages and fortified towns beg to be explored. Moreover, on the south coast, Ulcinj and Bar are worthy coastal towns to explore, while all popular water sports are available all along the coast.
Head into Montenegrin nature
Skadar Lake National Park [Image by елена скорубская from Pixabay]Besides its glorious beaches, inland Montenegro also has plenty to offer. Here, visitors can explore the country’s state capital, Podgorica, and its historic capital, Cetinje.
However, outside the cities, nature awaits in the Skadar Lake National Park and the Lovćen National Park, both offering beauty and relaxation in the fresh country air. Among the activities available to travelers are mountain biking, hiking, kayaking and bird watching. Moreover, heading to the Durmitor National Park reveals the stunning Tara River Canyon.
Tara River Canyon [Image by Alexander from Pixabay]When it comes to winter, the north Montenegrin Mountains are the place to be. In fact, Žabljak is Montenegro’s winter sports capital, nestled up in the Dinaric Alps among untouched and beautiful nature.
Warm Montenegrin hospitality
Montenegro view [Image by Max Yakovlev from Pixabay]One thing is guaranteed on a visit to Montenegro and that is a warm and friendly welcome from the local people. They are always happy to welcome people to the land and share the local cuisine. Moreover, Montenegro is renowned for its olive groves and small vineyards where they produce olive oil and excellent local wines. Meanwhile, the ancient mills of the country are still used to this day to produce flour for the local homemade bread.
On your next European trip, take time out to visit beautiful Montenegro and explore everything this small Balkan country has to offer.