Montenegro’s Hidden Gem: Discovering Boka Bay and the Best of Montenegrin Luxury

Nestled along the Adriatic Sea, Montenegro’s Boka Bay is a breathtakingly beautiful region rich with history, charming villages, and crystal-clear waters. Often called the “southern fjord of Europe,” Boka Bay is Montenegro’s crown jewel, with dramatic mountain landscapes, historic sites, and endless opportunities for adventure. I had the pleasure of staying at both The Chedi Luštica Bay and One&Only Portonovi—two luxurious resorts that offer distinct yet equally incredible experiences. Whether you're after fine dining, watersports, or quiet moments by the sea, Boka Bay has it all. Here’s a guide to making the most of this mesmerizing region.

Things to Do in Boka Bay

From historic villages to thrilling adventures on the water, Boka Bay is full of unforgettable experiences:

1. Explore Kotor Old Town

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kotor’s Old Town is a must-visit. Surrounded by medieval walls and crowned by San Giovanni Fortress, this charming town is filled with narrow, winding streets, quaint squares, and centuries-old architecture. A climb to the fortress is rewarded with sweeping views of Kotor Bay—a sight you’ll want to capture.

2. Visit Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks

Just a short drive from Kotor, the picturesque town of Perast is known for its baroque architecture and stunning waterfront. From here, take a short boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks, an island created by local seamen who would lay stones in the bay. The island’s chapel and museum house beautiful relics and offer insight into the rich history of the area.

3. Kayak or Paddleboard in Boka Bay

For those who love the water, Boka Bay offers ideal conditions for kayaking and paddleboarding. The calm, turquoise waters are perfect for a morning paddle, and you’ll have the opportunity to see the dramatic cliffs and historic villages from a unique perspective. Many resorts offer rentals for these activities.

4. Blue Cave Adventure

A boat trip to the Blue Cave is one of the top experiences in Boka Bay. Located on the Lustica Peninsula, this natural cave glows with an enchanting blue light created by sunlight reflecting off the water. Swimming in the cave is a magical experience and a highlight for adventure lovers.

5. Dining and Shopping in Porto Montenegro

For a taste of luxury shopping and dining, head to Porto Montenegro. This waterfront village features high-end boutiques, art galleries, and world-class restaurants with views of luxury yachts. It's an ideal place to enjoy an upscale dinner or a cocktail while watching the sun set over the bay.

Where to Stay: The Chedi Luštica Bay and One&Only Portonovi

I was fortunate to experience both The Chedi Luštica Bay and One&Only Portonovi, which offer unique and luxurious stays, each with its own charm and personality.

The Chedi Luštica Bay

Nestled in the emerging Luštica Bay development, The Chedi combines modern elegance with Montenegrin charm.

- Chic Rooms with Scenic Views: The Chedi offers beautifully appointed rooms, many with balconies overlooking the marina and the sea. The design is sleek and contemporary, with subtle nods to Montenegrin culture.

- The Signature Restaurant offers a blend of Mediterranean and Asian-inspired dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. The laid-back The Rok Beach Bar & Lounge is ideal for enjoying a cocktail with your toes in the sand.

- Relaxing Spa & Pool Facilities: The Chedi Spa is a sanctuary of relaxation, featuring a heated indoor pool and a range of treatments designed to rejuvenate body and mind. Outdoors, a stunning infinity pool offers sweeping views of the bay.

One&Only Portonovi

For an elevated luxury experience, One&Only Portonovi provides an opulent escape which is definitely on a higher level of luxury.

- Palatial Rooms & Villas: One&Only Portonovi’s rooms and suites are inspired by Montenegrin heritage and offer a sense of grandeur with their spacious designs, luxury furnishings, and private terraces. For families or larger groups, the resort’s private villas with pools are a perfect choice.

- Gourmet Dining & Cuisine: One&Only’s dining experiences are exceptional. Tapasake Club offers modern Japanese fusion in a chic poolside setting, while La Veranda serves traditional Montenegrin dishes with a refined twist. Each restaurant has been designed to provide a unique and memorable culinary experience.

- World-Class Wellness with Chenot Espace: One&Only Portonovi is home to the renowned Chenot Espace, offering personalized wellness treatments, detox programs, and state-of-the-art spa facilities. It’s an oasis for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.

- Private Beach & Pool Club: The resort’s private beach and Tapasake Pool Club create an exclusive, intimate experience. Guests can spend their days relaxing by the water, with attentive service and panoramic views of Boka Bay.

Why Boka Bay is the Perfect Destination

- Historical Richness: With medieval towns like Kotor and Perast, Boka Bay is a haven for history enthusiasts. Each village offers its own unique character and fascinating past, inviting exploration.

- Natural Beauty: The dramatic cliffs, deep blue waters, and lush forests make Boka Bay a place of awe-inspiring natural beauty. Whether you’re cruising the bay or hiking its mountainous paths, you’ll be constantly surrounded by stunning views.

- Luxury & Adventure: The area seamlessly blends high-end experiences with outdoor adventures. The region’s luxury resorts, like The Chedi and One&Only, offer world-class facilities, while the nearby mountains, caves, and islands invite endless exploration.

Montenegro’s Boka Bay is a hidden gem that combines stunning landscapes, cultural treasures, and luxury accommodations. Staying at The Chedi Luštica Bay and One&Only Portonovi added an unforgettable layer of comfort and indulgence to the experience, each resort offering its own unique style of Montenegrin luxury. For those looking for an off-the-beaten-path Mediterranean escape with both adventure and elegance, Boka Bay is the perfect destination.

For your Montenegro travel inquiries, email [email protected]

It’s time to STOP using Honey and Credit Karma

Kudos: The all-in-one app that outshines Honey, Credit Karma, and Apple Pay. Maximize rewards at 3M+ stores, discover top card deals with The Points Guy, and enjoy one-click checkouts. Pick your best card, earn more cashback, and simplify online shopping. Kudos does it all.

Download Now—It’s Free!