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Sveti Stefan – Montenegro’s Iconic Island Village

Few places in Montenegro are as instantly recognisable as Sveti Stefan. Every time we visit, we’re reminded why it remains one of our favourite destinations along the beautiful Budva Riviera.

Perched on its own tiny island and connected to the mainland by a narrow stone causeway, Sveti Stefan is one of the country’s most photographed landmarks. Surrounded by the crystal-clear Adriatic Sea and framed by pink pebble beaches, it’s a place that never fails to impress.

From Fishing Village to Luxury Retreat

It’s hard to believe that this iconic island was once a small fishing village. In the 1960s, the original stone houses were carefully restored and transformed into an exclusive luxury resort, preserving the character of the old village while creating one of Europe’s most prestigious hotels.

Today, the island is operated by the Aman Group, and its terracotta rooftops, narrow cobbled streets, ancient churches and medieval buildings create one of the most spectacular backdrops on the Adriatic coast.

Our favourite time to visit is late afternoon. As the sun begins to set, the warm light catches the stone buildings and red rooftops, creating unforgettable views across the sea.

Exploring the Budva Riviera

Although the island itself is reserved for hotel guests, the surrounding beaches, coastal walks and viewpoints are open to visitors, making it a wonderful place to spend a relaxing afternoon.

After enjoying the views, we often stop for a coffee or lunch overlooking the island before continuing our journey along the Budva Riviera.

If you’re exploring this part of Montenegro, don’t miss the historic Old Town of Budva, just a short drive away, with its medieval streets, lively cafés and beautiful beaches.

Returning to Lustica House

One of the advantages of staying at Lustica House is that many of Montenegro’s most famous attractions are within easy driving distance. Although Sveti Stefan is on the opposite side of the Bay of Kotor, the journey offers spectacular coastal scenery and makes for a fantastic day trip.

After a day exploring the Budva Riviera, we always enjoy returning to the peace and tranquillity of Luštica Peninsula, relaxing on the terrace with uninterrupted views across the Adriatic.

Other Places Worth Visiting

If you’re travelling around Montenegro, we’d also recommend visiting Kotor Old Town, the beautiful baroque town of Perast, the peaceful beaches of Luštica Peninsula, and the glamorous Porto Montenegro marina in nearby Tivat.

For nature lovers, a day exploring Lake Skadar or the spectacular Durmitor National Park is well worth adding to your itinerary.

One of Montenegro’s Most Beautiful Views

Sveti Stefan is more than just a luxury hotel—it’s one of Montenegro’s most iconic landmarks. Whether you’re admiring it from the beach, photographing the island at sunset or simply enjoying the relaxed atmosphere of the Budva Riviera, it’s a destination that deserves a place on every Montenegro itinerary.

For visitor information and travel inspiration, visit the Montenegro National Tourism Organisation.

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Porto Montenegro – Montenegro’s Luxury Marina

During one of our trips around the Bay of Kotor, we decided to spend the afternoon exploring Porto Montenegro. We’d heard plenty about its luxury yachts and exclusive reputation, but we were curious to see whether it lived up to the hype.

The answer was a definite yes.

From Naval Base to World-Class Marina

It’s hard to imagine that this beautiful waterfront was once a deep-water naval base used by the former Yugoslav Navy. Over the past 25 years, it has been transformed into one of the most impressive tourism developments on the Montenegrin coast and one of the Adriatic’s leading superyacht marinas.

Today, Porto Montenegro attracts some of the world’s most spectacular yachts, alongside visitors who simply come to enjoy the restaurants, cafés, boutique shops and stunning waterfront setting.

Surprisingly Tasteful

We expected plenty of luxury, but what really surprised us was how tastefully Porto Montenegro has been developed.

Rather than feeling over-the-top, the marina has a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere. Wide promenades lined with palm trees, beautifully landscaped gardens and elegant buildings create a destination that’s enjoyable whether you’re admiring the yachts, enjoying lunch by the water or simply taking a leisurely stroll.

Of course, many of the boats moored here cost several million pounds, but you don’t need a superyacht to appreciate the atmosphere. It’s just as enjoyable sitting with a coffee, watching the world go by and imagining where some of these incredible vessels are heading next.

A Wonderful Place to Spend the Afternoon

We wandered along the marina, browsed a few of the boutiques and stopped to admire the views across the Bay of Kotor. There are plenty of excellent restaurants overlooking the water, making it an ideal place for a long lunch or an evening meal.

If you’re looking for another memorable dining experience during your stay, have a look at our favourite fish restaurant on Luštica Peninsula, where fresh seafood and spectacular Adriatic views make for a perfect afternoon.

Returning to Lustica House

After exploring Porto Montenegro, we made the easy drive back to Lustica House. One of the things we love most is how easy it is to experience both sides of Montenegro—from glamorous marinas like Porto Montenegro to the peaceful beaches and traditional villages of Luštica Peninsula.

Back at the villa, we spent the evening on the terrace overlooking the Adriatic, enjoying the peace and quiet after a day of exploring.

With four bedrooms, three bathrooms, a private swimming pool and panoramic sea views, Lustica House provides the perfect base for discovering Montenegro’s beautiful coastline.

One of Montenegro’s Finest Developments

Porto Montenegro is undoubtedly one of the best tourism investments Montenegro has seen in recent decades. While it’s still evolving and will no doubt continue to develop its own character over the coming years, it has already established itself as one of the most prestigious marinas on the Adriatic Sea.

Whether you’re interested in luxury yachts, waterfront dining, boutique shopping or simply enjoying a beautiful setting, Porto Montenegro is well worth adding to your Montenegro itinerary.

If you’re visiting the area, we’d also recommend exploring Kotor Old Town, Perast, and Luštica Peninsula, each offering a different glimpse into the beauty and charm of Montenegro.