Written By: Missy Johnston
Mountains, beaches, and fascinating history are just a few of the reasons why a vacation to the Balkans is a wonderful idea. If you’ve been daydreaming about the ultimate luxury vacation and searching for private luxury yacht charters in Croatia or the surrounding areas, you’re just a few clicks or a phone call away from a spectacular travel experience.
We highly recommend Montenegro, a tiny Balkan country that borders Croatia, Serbia, Kosovo, Albania, Bosnia, and Herzegovina. You may not know much about Montenegro, so all the more reason to go, as there are many amazing and memorable things to do while you’re there.
Tour historic and protected medieval towns.
Most Montenegro private luxury yacht charters visit the port town of Kotor. You may decide to begin your journey in this historic coastal city where there are largely intact defensive fortresses and walls from medieval days surrounding “Old Town.”
If you enjoy exploring the cobbled mazes of old medieval cities, make sure to include Budva and Perast on your customized yacht charter itinerary after Kotor. Both cities also feature quaint and authentic charm. Perast is part of the Kotor UNESCO World Heritage Site and has two small islets just in front of town, one with a monastery and the other with a small church. It is said if you circle the monastery three times on your charter yacht the monks will ring the bells and bless your journey. Budva is on the Adriatic and has a small Old Town to visit.
If you’re up for a trip a little further inland, stop by one of the numerous monasteries in Montenegro. Skadar Lake has several monasteries along its shore, or you could visit Moraca Monastery if you’re traveling from Kotor to Durmitor National Park. If you plan to visit the Serbian Orthodox Monastery of Ostrog, you’ll need to adhere to their conservative dress code (shoulders, arms, and knees covered and women must wear head scarves).
Soak up water and sun.
Include Blaue Grotte on your itinerary. This cave is renowned for the shimmering blue reflections from the sun that bounce off its walls during the day. Blaue Grotte also offers the opportunity to snorkel and explore the local marine life.
Relax on any of Montenegro’s beautiful beaches that can be found all along the coastline. Almara Beach is a popular destination after stopping at Blaue Grotte. Head ashore to enjoy this beach and sample local cuisine while watching a beautiful sunset over the sand and water.
Spot wildlife and enjoy outdoor activities.
Black Lake in Durmitor National Park and Skadar Lake are the best places to see hundreds of unique bird species, wolves, brown bears, and wild cats.
These national parks are protected, so plan on relaxing and being awed by nature’s beauty. Use your private yacht’s tender to explore the famous Tara River Canyon, or perhaps try whitewater rafting or just hike the canyon and enjoy the striking turquoise color of the river; whatever you choose, you will have a memorable day.
It is for these and so many other reasons that a Balkan yacht vacation is on so many travelers’ bucket lists. Call us to book your Montenegro yacht charter, or contact us anytime with questions.