Montenegro-the Adriatic Gem That Completely Won Me Over

After booking several clients to Montenegro over the years and hearing nothing but glowing reviews, I finally decided it was time to experience this beautiful destination for myself. I spent a wonderful week staying at the stunning Lazure Hotel & Marina, and it‘s safe to say Montenegro exceeded every expectation.

Our journey began with a flight into Tivat Airport, one of the smallest airports I‘ve ever experienced. What it lacks in size, however, it more than makes up for in convenience. Within minutes of landing, we were on our way to the hotel, a transfer of less than an hour.

Part of the journey included a short crossing on the car ferry, which turned out to be the perfect introduction to Montenegro. We stepped out of the taxi, stretched our legs and immediately found ourselves surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Towering mountains plunged dramatically into crystal-clear waters, while picturesque villages dotted the shoreline.

Our home for the week was the beautiful Lazure Hotel & Marina, located just outside Herceg Novi. This unique boutique hotel combines contemporary luxury with fascinating history. The original building dates back over 300 years and once served as a quarantine station during the Venetian era, welcoming sailors arriving from across the Mediterranean. Today, the lovingly restored stone building sits alongside a sleek modern wing, creating a perfect blend of old and new.

The marina-front setting is stunning, offering uninterrupted views across the bay, and from the moment we arrived, it was clear why so many fall in love with this property.

While the hotel offers excellent dining options and there are several restaurants within easy walking distance, most evenings we chose to stroll along the beautiful waterfront promenade into Herceg Novi. The walk takes around 30 minutes and is worth every step. Along the way, you‘ll pass beaches, bars and waterfront cafés before reaching one of Montenegro's most charming coastal towns.

Herceg Novi itself is a delight to explore. Beyond the bustling seafront lies a maze of atmospheric back streets, hidden squares and stone staircases leading through the old town. It's the kind of place where getting lost is all part of the experience. The restaurant scene is fantastic, and the fresh fish and seafood we enjoyed throughout the week were amongst the best I've tasted anywhere in Europe.

When we weren't exploring, the hotel's spa provided the perfect place to unwind. Guests enjoy complimentary access to an extensive wellness area, including a large indoor pool, saunas and relaxation spaces. We also treated ourselves to a massage one afternoon, which was the perfect way to recharge after a busy few days sightseeing.

For those looking to relax in the sunshine, the hotel's beach club is another highlight. With its infinity pool overlooking the bay and direct access to the beach, it's an idyllic spot to spend a lazy afternoon soaking up Montenegro's spectacular scenery.

One of our favourite excursions was a boat trip departing from Herceg Novi harbour to explore some of the bay's most fascinating sights. We cruised along the spectacular coastline to the famous Blue Cave, a natural sea cave where sunlight reflects through the water, creating an incredible glowing blue effect inside. The crystal-clear water was simply irresistible and made for the perfect swimming stop.

The trip also included a visit to the former Yugoslav submarine tunnels, hidden deep within the mountainside. Built during the Cold War era, these impressive tunnels were designed to conceal and protect submarines and remain one of Montenegro's most intriguing historical attractions. Cruising into these enormous tunnels by boat offered a fascinating glimpse into the country's military past and provided a striking contrast to the natural beauty surrounding them.

During our stay, we also ventured further around the Bay of Kotor, visiting both Perast and Kotor, two destinations that simply have to be on any Montenegro itinerary.

Perast is postcard-perfect, with elegant Venetian palaces lining the waterfront and views across to the famous island church of Our Lady of the Rocks. Despite its small size, it is often considered one of the most beautiful towns in the Adriatic and perfectly captures Montenegro's rich maritime history.

Kotor, meanwhile, is one of the Adriatic's most impressive medieval towns. Enclosed by ancient city walls and backed by dramatic mountains, its UNESCO World Heritage-listed old town is filled with winding alleyways, charming squares, hidden churches and centuries of history. Every corner seems to reveal another beautiful photograph waiting to be taken.

While in Kotor, I couldn't resist taking the cable car high above the bay. The journey itself is spectacular, but the views from the top are simply breathtaking. Looking down over the winding Bay of Kotor, with its tiny villages, sparkling waters and towering mountains, you quickly understand why this corner of Montenegro is often described as one of Europe's most beautiful landscapes.

Feeling adventurous, I also decided to brave the mountain coaster at the summit. While I happily climbed aboard, my husband took one look and promptly decided that watching from a safe distance was the better option! His loss, as it turned out, turned out to be enormous fun and one of the most memorable experiences of the trip.

A little tip if you're planning a visit to Kotor: try to avoid days when multiple cruise ships are in port, as the town can become extremely busy. If you're considering a trip, I can always help check cruise schedules to make sure you experience Kotor at its best.

One of the highlights of our stay was an unforgettable dinner at a beautifully restored old mill nestled in the hills above Herceg Novi. The setting alone was magical. Before the meal, the owner personally guided us around the historic property, explaining its role in local life over the centuries.

The meal that followed was a wonderful showcase of Montenegrin hospitality and cuisine, featuring traditional local specialities prepared using regional ingredients. Accompanied by local wines and surrounded by spectacular scenery, it was one of those travel experiences that stays with you long after you've returned home.

What surprised me most about Montenegro was how much variety such a small country offers. In a single holiday, you can explore UNESCO-listed medieval towns, relax on beautiful beaches, enjoy luxury spa facilities, take a boat trip to hidden caves and submarine tunnels, ride a cable car high into the mountains and dine in centuries-old buildings overlooking the Adriatic.

It's easy to see why Montenegro has become one of Europe's fastest-growing luxury destinations. It combines spectacular scenery, fascinating history, outstanding food and genuine hospitality, all while remaining refreshingly authentic and less crowded than many of its Mediterranean neighbours.

Having now experienced it for myself, I completely understand why so many of my clients return again and again. I left already planning my own return visit and that is perhaps the biggest compliment I can give any destination.

Montenegro, I'll definitely be back.