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The tiny nation of Montenegro is the unsung gem of the Adriatic coast, an ancient land where writers, poets, intrepid travelers, and adventurers have long been seduced by mountains, monasteries, secret beaches and medieval fortresses. Fabrizia Caracciolo shares an insider's guide for a memorable weekend in Montenegro, which is now immortalised in a new book, Secret Montenegro.
BY FABRIZIA CARACCIOLO | CABANA TRAVEL | 8 MAY 2026
Shaped by its seafaring past under the Venetian Republic and later touched by socialism, Montenegro today remains rooted in the tenets of traditional Montenegrin life – fishing and the production of olive oil, cheese, and prosciutto – which coexist effortlessly with a more recent cosmopolitan tourism. In the just-published Secret Montenegro, author Ivana Maksimovic shares the country of her childhood summers, revealing its many treasures, from the soft green hills and quiet stone villages of the Luštica Peninsula to the spectacular Bay of Kotor.
Where to Stay
Aman Sveti Stefan: A 15th-century fishermen’s village set on a tiny islet, linked to the mainland by a sandbar and stone bridge. In the 1960s, President Tito welcomed guests here, from Elizabeth Taylor and Sofia Loren to Queen Elizabeth and Picasso.
Mamula Island: A former Austrian fortress at the entrance to the bay, where frescoed ceilings and deep-set canon windows create a quietly dramatic atmosphere.
One&Only Portonovi: Set along the narrowest stretch of the Bay of Kotor, overlooking deep green hills, this is a stylish stay with all the comforts of the Chenot Spa.
Regent Porto Montenegro: An elegant harbour hotel at the heart of one of Europe’s most refined and prestigious yacht marinas, Regent Porto Montenegro is also close to UNESCO-protected medieval towns of Kotor and Perast.
Where to Eat
Stari Mlini: Set within an old mill at the foot of Kotor’s mountains, where a freshwater stream runs into the sea and watermelons cool in its current. Arrive by boat and linger in the shade.
Ribarsko Selo: Near Mamula Island, Ribarsko Selo has its own vegetable garden and a kitchen devoted to simple, fresh seafood. Easily reached by boat after a morning swim.
Adriatica: At the narrowest point of the bay, where ferries glide past as you dine beneath olive trees, you'll find this charming restaurant.
What to See & Do
Views & Road trips: Follow the old Austrian road from the top of Mount Vrmac to Muo for sweeping views over Kotor Old Town, gathering wild herbs along the way. Venture inland to Canyon Nevidio, two hours from the coast, for a dramatic, once-in-a-lifetime experience. Take a late afternoon drive from Luštica Bay Golf Club through olive groves and old stone villages, arriving at Mirista just in time for sunset, overlooking Mamula Island. Take the cable car high above Kotor for a panoramic view of the bay.
Sailing: Sail to the seven small islands scattered across the Bay of Kotor, each hiding churches, monasteries, beaches, and quiet corners of history.
Image courtesy Secret Montenegro, published by Vendome Press.
Where to Shop
Ivana Ma: This boutique in Luštica Bay sells the dreamiest summer dresses.
Antik Hobi: An Aladdin’s cave of old porcelain in the village of Prčanj.
Porto Montenegro: A polished promenade of boutiques, perfect for replacing anything you may have left behind, and sourcing inspired gifts and mementos.
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'Secret Montenegro' is available now, by Ivana Maksimovic, with text by Tree Sherriff & Photography by Boz Gagovski. Published by Vendome Press.
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