Discover Montenegro’s Winter Magic
Hello Winter. We missed you.
Exploring Montenegro during the wintertime is a temptation that we would recommend to everyone.
The country's natural beauty, cultural richness, and historical significance is making Montenegro a fascinating destination to explore, and The Chedi Lustica Bay has always been a place where memories are made.
Picture leisurely walks along the pristine beaches of the Lustica peninsula, enjoying alfresco dining on sunlit terraces, embarking on e-biking or hiking tours through olive tree groves, immersing yourself in a journey back in time with visits to medieval towns and ancient ruins, or simply rejuvenating at our Asian-inspired spa. Whether your heart yearns for relaxation or adventure, winter at The Chedi Lustica Bay promises it all, with boundless possibilities.
Why Montenegro?
Montenegro is a small country in Southeast Europe on the Adriatic Sea, covering an area of just 13,812 square kilometers and with a population of under one million people (approximately 650,000). The Euro is its official currency, and it is widely regarded as a very safe destination for travelers.
Stunning Scenery and Diverse Culture
Montenegro is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, which encompasses a picturesque coastline along the Adriatic Sea, dramatic mountain landscapes, and pristine lakes. The name "Montenegro" translates to "Black Mountain," referencing the dark forests that blanket the land. The country's diverse landscapes make it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Montenegro's culture is a rich blend of influences from various empires and cultures, including Byzantine, Ottoman, Venetian, and Austro-Hungarian, resulting in a unique cultural heritage. Here are just a few highlights of Montenegro's beauty:
*Boka Bay, also known as the Bay of Kotor, is a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for its natural and cultural significance. The bay is surrounded by several charming towns and villages, including Perast, Tivat, Herceg Novi, and Kotor. A fun fact is that Brad Pitt's first movie role was in the film "The Dark Side of the Sun," which was partially filmed in Kotor, Montenegro.
*Lake Skadar, the largest lake in the Balkans, is a prime spot for birdwatching, with over 270 bird species, making it a haven for ornithologists.
*Biogradska Gora National Park, located in the heart of Montenegro, is home to one of the last and most untouched virgin forests in Europe.
*The Tara River Canyon, the longest canyon in Europe and, at its deepest point, rivaling the depth of the Grand Canyon in the United States. The canyon is part of the Durmitor National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Tara River, which flows through the canyon, is often called the "Tear of Europe" due to its crystal-clear waters and pristine natural surroundings.
*Kolasin Ski Resort, located in the northern part of Montenegro, is a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts, offering a variety of skiing options, from beginner slopes to more challenging runs for advanced skiers and snowboarders.
*The mausoleum of Petar II Petrovic-Njegos, a prominent Montenegrin ruler and poet, offers spectacular views, thanks to its unique location on the summit of Mount Lovcen, at an elevation of approximately 1,675 meters (5,495 feet) above sea level.
*Religious Diversity: Most Montenegrins identify as Orthodox Christians, but there is also a significant Muslim and Catholic minority, contributing to the country's religious diversity. Ostrog Monastery, an iconic Orthodox monastery, is built on the side of a vertical cliff, making it a unique and one of the country's most significant religious sites, attracting pilgrims and visitors from all over the world.
Staying in Montenegro and at The Chedi Lustica Bay also allows you to explore neighboring countries with ease, making day trips to Dubrovnik (Croatia), Tirana (Albania), Mostar (Bosnia and Herzegovina), and the northern part of Montenegro all within reach.
*Photo credit: reavphotography
Montenegrin Gastronomy
Montenegrin cuisine features a delightful blend of Mediterranean and Balkan flavors. Thanks to its stunning coastline along the Adriatic Sea, seafood plays a significant role in Montenegrin cuisine. Fresh catches like fish, mussels, and squid are commonly prepared with aromatic herbs and olive oil. Montenegro is also known for its smoked prosciutto (Njeguski pršut) and a variety of artisanal cheeses. A popular combination is prosciutto and local cheese, served with olives and homemade bread. Montenegro has a growing wine industry, with many vineyards producing high-quality wines. Vranac, a red wine, is one of the most famous local varieties. Rakija, a strong fruit brandy, is a popular alcoholic beverage in Montenegro, often offered as a welcoming gesture to guests. Pomegranates are widely grown in Montenegro, and freshly squeezed pomegranate juice is a refreshing and healthy beverage. Olive trees and olive oil production have a long history and cultural significance in Montenegro. Olive cultivation in Montenegro dates to ancient times, with olive groves that have been maintained for centuries. The Old Olive Tree, near the town of Bar in Montenegro, is one of the oldest living olive trees in the world and is estimated to be over 2,000 years old.
Winter events
Montenegro's cities host various cultural events during the winter season. Due to its cultural diversity, coastal towns commonly organize an event program that spans from Christmas to Christmas. This almost month-long program includes a series of local events with gastronomic offerings, live music performances, and entertainment for children. Two traditional winter events in Montenegro, each with its own unique charm, take place during the month of February. The Kotor Winter Carnival features traditional music and dance performances, adding to the festive atmosphere. The event includes lively costume parades through Kotor's historic Old Town, along with traditional Montenegrin and Mediterranean cuisine, as vendors offer local delicacies. The Mimosa Festival, held in the coastal town of Herceg Novi for over 50 years, celebrates the arrival of spring and the blooming of the mimosa flower. The mimosa is known for its vibrant yellow color and sweet fragrance, symbolizing friendship and love. The event often includes art exhibitions and cultural displays showcasing the work of local artists and the beauty of the mimosa flower. It also features musical performances, including local folk music and international acts.
For more information about winter events in Montenegro, please check: Winter events in Montenegro by NTO
Here at The Chedi Lustica Bay, we firmly believe in the transformative power of responsible luxury travel. As Montenegro's first and only hotel proudly associated with The Leading Hotels of the World's Sustainability Leaders Collection, we invite you to explore the world during the off-season and celebrate an industry that has the power to delight us with new horizons, create unforgettable memories, and foster cross-cultural understanding.
To provide you with a valuable resource for off-season Montenegro travel planning, we would love to share a brief overview of our destination and The Chedi Luštica Bay below.
How to Reach Us
Montenegro is easily accessible through three international airports:
*Tivat: Only 13 km (19 minutes) away from The Chedi. You can access this airport via international winter connections from Belgrade (Air Montenegro and Air Serbia) and Istanbul (Turkish Airlines and Air Montenegro). For detailed information, please check the link: Winter flights to Tivat Airport.
*Podgorica: Located 90 km (1 hour and 20 minutes) from The Chedi. This airport offers international winter connections through Belgrade (Air Serbia and Air Montenegro), Istanbul (Air Montenegro and Turkish Airlines), Vienna (Austrian Airways), Rome, and Ljubljana (Air Montenegro). Additionally, there are low-cost carriers flying from Milan, London, Athens, Berlin, Brussels, and other cities. Please check the link for more information: Winter flights to Podgorica Airport
*Dubrovnik: Just 63 km (1 hour and 45 minutes) from The Chedi. For winter flight details to Dubrovnik Airport, please check the following link: Winter flights to Dubrovnik airport
What to See Near the Hotel
*Kotor Old Town: A short 15–20-minute drive from The Chedi Lustica Bay, Kotor Old Town offers a captivating historical experience.
*Perast: Located just a 40-minute drive from the hotel, Perast boasts two captivating islands, making it a must-visit destination.
*Tivat: Conveniently located a mere 20-minute drive from the hotel, Tivat is rich in local attractions.
*Budva Old Town: This historical gem is situated approximately 35 minutes away from the hotel.
*Lustica Peninsula: Known for its picturesque olive groves, numerous beaches, the Blue Cave, historic fortresses, charming churches, and authentic local experiences, Lustica Peninsula offers a variety of unique and memorable adventures.
Who is it for?
The Chedi Lustica Bay provides a year-round experience, extending a warm welcome to a diverse range of guests. Whether you're traveling with your family, embarking on a solo adventure with your furry companions, enjoying a romantic getaway for two, blending business with leisure, seeking relaxation , or part of an incentive group, there's a place for you here. Our offerings cater to both slow and sustainable travel as well as active and healthy travel, with a particular emphasis on the great outdoors, well-being, and immersive local experiences.
We are delighted to share our Winter Magazine with you, underlining that Montenegro is truly a year-round destination.