Lord Byron famously declared that “The most beautiful merging of land and sea occurred at the Montenegrin seaside.”
Over 200 years later, this sentiment still stands, as Montenegro remains a scenic sanctuary of towering mountains, beautiful beaches, and locals welcoming visitors with open arms. Although sometimes overshadowed by neighbouring Croatia, recent years have proven that Montenegro – or Black Mountain – has firmly secured a coveted place on the travel map.
Nestled just a brief 20 minute journey from wild shores and hidden trails, and only ten minutes from Tivat Airport, Porto Montenegro serves as the ultimate base for quiet, cool, understated luxury. At the heart of this gorgeous waterfront area, the five-star Regent Porto Montenegro offers an oh-so-chic place to rest your head.
The Hotel:
The grand entrance, flanked by Rolex and BVLGARI sets the stage for this exquisite hotel. Drawing inspiration from a Venetian Palazzo, the Regent Porto Montenegro stretches five stories, with its three wings – Venezia, Aqua, and Baia – surrounding an impressive, imposing lobby.
Each room boasts hardwood flooring and custom Mediterranean décor, offering tranquility and opulence with a nod to the area’s rich naval history. The 175-room hotel features an open-air pool club where sun loungers and cabanas overlook the breathtaking Lovcén Mountain and the Adriatic, where guests can marvel a the superyachts in the marina, Paloma in hand.
The hotel staff is expertly trained, and nothing is too much trouble. Their knowledge, discretion and efficiency are all testament to why famous visitors have included John Malcovic and Dita Von Teese.
Rooms:
The accommodation options range from one to three-bedroom suites and penthouses, each evoking the essence of being on a luxury cruise liner. Maritime influences weave through the interiors, with wood accents and soft, soothing colours, enhancing the serene atmosphere, challenging anyone to stay awake after sinking into the cloud-like, canopied beds.
Each room is equipped with modern amenities including flat-screen televisions and complimentary Wi-Fi. Chic bathrooms feature spacious tubs – a Regent signature – and walk-in rain showers, complemented by quirky communication hatches, adding a touch of nautical flair. Soft, fluffy robes complete the picture- perfect experience.
Many rooms also include expansive balconies that offer stunning views of the dramatic Montenegrin mountains or Boka Bay, ideal for enjoying a sunset cocktail while being on the lookout for a superyacht owner to befriend.
Food and Drink:
The hotel’s main restaurant, Murano, excels in crafting exquisite meals from local, fresh ingredients, served in a setting with chandeliers and mosaic art reminiscent of Venetian glasswork. From hearty breakfasts to indulgent dinners featuring dishes like burrata with homemade basil pesto or freshly grilled sea bass, each meal is a celebration of culinary art.
The Gourmet Corner is an all-day treat with excellent coffee, freshly baked bread and savoury goodies. If the weather permits, take a seat outside for a gorgeous glass of local Chardonnay and watch the world go by.
The ONYX Bar & Garden by Beluga also offers a glamorous setting for sipping beautifully mixed cocktails, accompanied by delicious gourmet bites.
Finally, the Pool Bar, with its casual Italian Riviera vibe, provides a perfect retreat during the day, serving light snacks and signature cocktails against the stunning backdrop of the bay.
Spa and Fitness:
The Regent Spa offers a sanctuary of wellness, blending ancient traditions with contemporary practices. Facilities include a range of treatment rooms, a sauna, steam room, Hammam, fitness studio, and a nail salon. Their massages are a specialty; an hour under their therapists’ magical hands is the equivalent of a three-month sabbatical.
The Area:
Porto Montenegro
Home to The Regent is Porto Montenegro. Once a humble naval base, it has transformed into a luxurious marina, attracting the glitterati with its state-of-the-art facilities and high-end lifestyle. Yet, Porto’s charm isn’t just in its opulence but in its blend of contemporary living and local culture. The marina is not just a place to dock; it’s an experience, featuring gourmet restaurants, chic boutiques, and vibrant nightlife. Local folklore whispers of a time when seafarers, enticed by the calm waters of the bay, would anchor here to seek the blessings of the patron saints for their voyages.
Kotor
Walking through Kotor feels like stepping into a meticulously preserved medieval world. The town, encircled by imposing walls built by the Venetians, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a unique, layered history.
The Old Town is a labyrinth of cobbled streets, secretive squares – one, entirely dedicated to cats – and charming cafes. The grand St. Tryphon’s Cathedral, dating back to 1166, stands as a testament to Kotor’s historical importance and architectural prowess. But Kotor is not just for the history buffs. Legend has it that anyone who climbs the 1,350 steps to the Fortress of San Giovanni at dawn will have their wishes granted by the “Vila,” a mythical fairy said to protect the town.
Perast
Perast, though smaller, holds its own charm with a sleepy, time-stood-still quality that is utterly serene. This tiny town, with its 16 churches and 17 formerly grand palazzos, is steeped in maritime history and Baroque architecture.
The most enchanting story is that of the nearby island of Gospa od Škrpjela (Our Lady of the Rocks). According to legend, the island was created by sailors who kept an ancient oath after finding a picture of the Virgin Mary on a rock in the sea. Each time they returned from a successful voyage, they laid a rock in the Bay, eventually emerging the island where a church was built in her honour. Today, visitors can take a short boat ride to explore this man-made islet, filled with local art.
A Must-Visit Destination:
Montenegro offers more than just scenic beauty and sunny Mediterranean weather; it is a gateway into a world where the past and present merge seamlessly. From the luxury and liveliness of Porto Montenegro to the historical escapades in Kotor and the mythical allure of Perast, this Adriatic jewel makes for an unforgettable holiday. The Regent Porto Montenegro is not only the perfect base for exploring this remarkable area, but also the ultimate destination to revel in luxury.
Highlights:
MayaBay Restaurant – Indulge in a culinary feast at MayaBay Restaurant, where the flavours of Thailand and Japan merge into delicious dishes. From sushi to pad Thai, every bite is a delight.
mayabayrestaurant.com/portomontenegro
Buddha Bar Beach Club – Located within the glamorous marina’s yacht club, Buddha Bar Beach Club is the ultimate hotspot for daytime relaxation and nighttime revelry. Lounge by the pool under the sun, then dance the night away.
buddhabar.com/en/beachclubs/montenegro/
Restaurant Conte – Treat your taste buds to an unforgettable seafood feast at Restaurant Conte in Perast. Perched right on the water’s edge, you’ll dine with panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea while enjoying the freshest catch of the day.
They also offer an impressive wine list hotelconte.me/restaurant
Boka Bay Boat Tour – Embark on a Boka Bay Boat Tour to discover the hidden gems of Montenegro’s stunning coastline. Cruise past ancient towns, secluded beaches, and towering cliffs as you soak in the beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Bookable through The Regent Hotel, it’s a must-do experience.
Tuk Tuk Tour – Dive deep into Montenegro’s culture and history with a tuk tuk tour. Contact the hotel’s concierge to book your adventure and be sure to request Nikola Marković for an exceptionally entertaining and informative experience. With insider knowledge and a larger-than-life personality, Nikola will guide you through the streets, sharing fascinating stories and hidden treasures along the way.
@regentportomontenegro
ihg.com/regent/hotels/us/en/porto-montenegro
Porto Montenegro, Obala bb, Tivat 85320, Montenegro
