I have always wanted to visit Montenegro. I heard about the beautiful country when I visited Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina some eight years ago. I got the chance to visit the country last July and here’s my list.
1. Kotor
Kotor enchants me. The walled city, climbing to St. Giovanni’s Fortress, strolling at the Marina on quiet afternoons, the many churches inside the old town, and the cobblestone walkways give you that feeling.
2. Ostrog Monastery
And speaking of enchantment, Ostrog Monastery gives you that feeling, too. I couldn’t imagine how a structure like this could be built at 900 meters above sea level in the 16th century (and renovated on the same site about 300 years later). The walk to the monastery founded by St. Basil (of the Serbian Orthodox Church) is a pilgrimage in itself, and the view from the top is magnificently beautiful.
3. Durmitor National Park
One of Montenegro’s most famous national parks, Durmitor National Park is home to the Black Lake. A walk around this body of water is relaxing. Every corner is worth stopping for, and every stop invites meditation. I can spend my days here without getting bored. I was here for the summer season but I can imagine that winters can be enchanting too!
4. Lovcen National Park
I hiked to Jezerski Peak, around 1650 meters above sea level, to visit the mausoleum of national hero Petar II Petrović Njegoš. A shorter option is to take the cable car up the edge of the national park and hike from there. Or you can take your electric bicycle all the way through and walk your way up to the mausoleum. At the back of the mausoleum, you get a magnificent view of about 60% of the country. On clear days, you can even see the Adriatic sea from there.
5. The Venetian Architecture in Perast
The car-free waterfront, lined with stone palaces and churches, makes Perast very charming. A comfortable boat ride/car ride from Kotor’s old town, this city is more my favourite than the densely urban Budva. It just reminds you of the grandeur of old times. The nearby man-made island, home to the Lady of the Rocks church, is a short visit. I spend my time eating gelato on the waterfront, just watching the day pass by.
6. Podgorica
To be honest, I stopped by Podgorica for three reasons. First, I am flying out from the capital city. Second, I wanted to see the Museum of Contemporary Art behind the US Embassy because of its eclectic collection. Third, I want to try the famous Pod Volat barbecue. I was never disappointed by the quality of the artwork. I was never disappointed with the food as well. So all good.
Should you include the country in your bucket list?
Definitely. I will come back again with my wife and kids.
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