Gem of the Adriatic: Kotor, Montenegro
After rattling around on the local Blue Line bus service that navigates the extremely narrow road connecting the surrounding local villages (an attraction in itself) set your eyes upon the majestic city of Kotor, rising from the bay high up into the blue skies of Montenegro. Settled for the first time in 168 BC, Kotor is a must see when traveling through Montenegro.
As you enter the main gate you are immediately transported back to the Ottoman Empire. Narrow streets and busy squares unfold into a maze of trendy shops, bars and cafes. Kotor stands out as its small size, in comparison with other fortified cities, manages to retain the authentic feel of the middle ages. It is not hard to imagine being an invader, confused by the labyrinth of alleyways despite the modern music drifting into the streets, and families enjoying ice-cream on a hot summer day.
Kotor has many special events and festivals throughout the high season, like the Summer Carnival or Bokeljska Noć. While the city is family friendly, for those interested there is even a Nightclub called “Maximus” that pumps dance music and hosts live events late into the night.
Once you have absorbed the cities energy, it is possible, and highly recommended to make the long hike up to the fortress of Saint Ivan. In the summer the heat can be almost unbearable, but with a good supply of water and some determination, the views of the bay filled with yachts and cruise ships, as well as the breathtaking Adriatic vistas are worth the trek.
From May to September there is an admission fee for the climb (about 3 euros) but it is well worth the price. The sense of accomplishment after handling the treacherous climb (the steps are not well maintained) and the vantage point over the bay produces some of the best photos of the Gulf of Kotor.
For those who seek a slightly more “local” feel, making a trip to the small town of Stoliv (Donji Stoliv), just a short bus ride around the bay, is rife with places to dive into the Adriatic as well as small family run hotels and restaurants on the Sea.
The village is located directly on the bay, but was first settled much higher up on the mountain to provide security from pirates and invaders.
A very private 45 minute hike up from the coast along the time worn forest path that the locals still use to bring goods to the village below, leads you to Gornji Stoliv, now scarcely inhabited and completely void of tourists. You won’t find any amenities there. Just a beautiful, secluded view of the bay below, olive trees, a unique church-tower overlook, and if you are lucky, some locals herding goats along the cobblestone pathways.
Kotor, and the surrounding area provide beautiful scenery and intimate locales thanks to its location and modest size. See how Kotor stacks up against other small cities in Europe in this article from Sarah.
