Montenegro is a Balkan country on the Adriatic Sea, standing on the edge between west and east. Bordering Bosnia and Herzegovina and Croatia to the north, Kosovo to the east, Serbia to the northeast, and Albania to the South. Over the centuries, many civilizations have collided to leave behind beautiful marks between the rugged mountain ranges of this breathtaking country. From Venetian walls, Roman mosaics, Illyrian churches, Catholic churches, Orthodox monasteries, mosque minarets, and socialist-style buildings, Montenegro is blessed with a rich and diverse cultural history.
Montenegro is known for its mountain range, medieval villages, and beaches that line its Adriatic coastline. The Bay of Kotor is lined with coastal churches and walled towns like Herceg Novi and Kotor. You can find glacial lakes, Tara River Canyon, and limestone peaks in the Durmitor National Park.
During Yugoslavia’s civil war in the 90s, Montenegro’s tourism slowed down dramatically. However, as the region stabilized, tourism was able to recover, and now travelers from all over the world are rediscovering this gem.
While less than 300km from tip to tip, Montenegro’s coastline is jam-packed with some truly spectacular ocean views. Mountains that can only be described as looming extend dramatically from crystal-clear waters. Medieval fortified villages dot the coastlines. In the summer, the entire country blooms with wild herbs, Mediterranean flowers, and conifers.
While the beaches are a stunning attraction for sunbathers, travelers can go off the beaten path towards the rugged mountains of Durmitor and Prokletije or the ancient forests of Biogradska Gora, or any of the numerous villages and towns to enjoy local life. Activities can include kayaking, mountain biking, horse riding, or hiking.
The richness of Montenegro’s cultural heritage can be seen in every corner.
Perast is a small rural town situated on the stunning Bay of Kotor in Montenegro. Known for its proximity to the islets of Our Lady of the Rocks and St. George, it has a compelling history, classical architecture, breathtaking views, majestic churches, and tranquil waterfront cafes and restaurants.
Perast is known for being laid back and is a beautiful day trip from Kotor or Dubrovnik. It is one of the most photogenic destinations in Montenegro!
Kotor’s walls were built in the 9th century and completed by the 14th century. If you feel particularly ambitious, you can climb up the 1,350 steps to find yourself 260m above sea level! As you can imagine, the views from the top are spectacular.
The main attractions within the Bay of Kotor are two small islets in front of Perast. One of them, Our Lady of the Rocks ( Gospa od Skrpjela), is outstanding in its beauty, but the legend behind it is just as enchanting.
This artificial island was built in the XV century. The legend reveals that two fisherman brothers from Perast discovered a statue of the Virgin with Christ on the cliff. After bringing it home, they found it had disappeared in the morning, only to be found again on the ridge. Once again, the brothers brought it home, and once again, it disappeared and reappeared on the same cliff.
They realized that the Virgin wished to remain there forever, so they pledged to build a church devoted to this icon of the Virgin, the patron saint of fishermen and seafarers.
Thus, a small island was created by the locals of Perast, and in the center of the island, a chapel was built.
Can’t Miss: Going to Our Lady of the Rocks Church from Perast is a must-do. The story itself is worth the trip. This is one of the small islands located in the inner part of Boka Kotorska bay. One thing you may not know is that these islands are almost entirely man-made. The church from the legend is still there, and every year the residents sail out to the island and throw rocks into the sea to make sure the island is anchored.
Insider Tip: The best way to see the fjord is by boat, so make sure you book a boat trip while you’re here. Visitors can go on a boat tour, guided or unguided, visit the small man-made islands, or even go to Kotor and nearby destinations. The views are stunning anywhere you go.
Restaurants: Konoba Portun is the best in the area! Enjoy incredible local seafood overlooking the bay. Whet your appetite with fresh fish from the Adriatic, grilled to perfection. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the hills and the bay with a fine selection of carpaccio, Montenegrin cheeses, and Serbian wine.
