Lazing back on a sun lounger, the gentle hum of European dance music playing faintly in the distance, I find myself gazing out at sleek yachts gliding through the sparkling marina waters. Just a few meters away, the Lazure Hotel and Marina—a luxurious five-star haven—stands as a blend of history and modernity. Its main building is a carefully renovated 18th-century Venetian structure, complete with a quaint Catholic chapel nestled beside the reception. Adjacent lies a contemporary addition featuring spacious, bright rooms, combining the charm of the old world with sleek, modern comforts. The setting feels like something plucked straight from the glamour of St Tropez or Monaco, yet strikingly, rooms start from just €135 (£115) per night—a remarkable value for such elegance.
Montenegro, often overshadowed by the shining stars of the Adriatic such as Croatian Dalmatia or the Montenegrin neighbor, Albania, is finally stepping into the spotlight. Traditionally passed over by travelers in favor of these flashier destinations, Montenegro offers a uniquely untouched experience paired with the luxury and culture found in more famed Mediterranean hotspots. This hidden gem is a mere three-hour flight from the UK, making it accessible yet still delightfully undiscovered. EasyJet has clearly recognized this burgeoning appeal, adding more London departures to their schedule—a sign that the country is ready for its close-up. Just 12 miles from Tivat airport, the Lazure Hotel and Marina in Herceg Novi lies at the entrance to the stunning, UNESCO-listed Bay of Kotor, serving as an ideal base for exploring the country's diverse landscapes and rich culture, all without the usual tourist crowds.
The experience within this hotel alone is worth a leisurely stay. With two distinct dining options, guests can choose between the relaxed ambiance of Augusto Terrace or the more refined fusion kitchen of Rosemarine, which creatively blends Asian flavors with Mediterranean ingredients. Montenegrin cuisine itself is a fascinating patchwork reflecting the country's geographic diversity. Coastal areas favor fresh seafood—catch of the day and sumptuous shellfish platters steal the show—while inland areas offer hearty fare centered around meat and potatoes. Locals take their national dish seriously: a simple yet delightful plate of ham and cheese, a testament to Montenegro’s appreciation for quality, rustic flavors. One of the evenings I dined at Konoba Skver, a restaurant owned by a fisherman and renowned for its authentic Montenegrin dishes. Though I selected a tender filet mignon, my companion’s scallop risotto looked so tempting that I soon rued not opting for seafood.
Herceg Novi, traditionally known more as a chilled family destination, opens up a surprising window into Montenegro’s lively nightlife after sundown. Tondo, a local nightclub with panoramic views across the bay, boasts no fixed closing time and a genuinely fantastic atmosphere. Here, a white wine spritzer can be savored for just £2.50, while a local beer—endearingly called "domestic"—costs only £1.50. The club's clientele is a mixed but friendly blend of locals with a sprinkling of visitors from neighboring Serbia, all bringing their own unique flavors to the vibrant nightlife. Such an inviting scene reveals the warmth and convivial spirit that Montenegro offers after dark.
Beyond the coastal allure, Montenegro’s interior boasts natural wonders that are a must-see. Approximately three hours by bus from Herceg Novi lies Durmitor National Park, a rugged and stunning expanse within the Dinaric Alps. The bus journey itself is a thrilling ride, full of twists and turns along narrow cliff roads that challenge even the steadiest of stomachs—made all the more interesting after a night of brandy-fueled revelry. Durmitor’s highest peak towers at 2,523 meters, but what draws visitors most is Crno Jezero, or Black Lake. This dark, serene lake owes its shade to the surrounding dense pine forest, whose reflection mirrors perfectly on the water’s surface. In spring, glacial waters cascade into the lake via waterfalls, though by summer, the lake’s size diminishes noticeably. I circled the lake on a tranquil hour-long hike, culminating in a drenching rainstorm that sent me scurrying into a local café. There, the ever-present generosity of Montenegrin hospitality shone, as the staff offered generous pours of their famous brandy, lifting spirits despite the weather. After my hike, the Organic Family Farm in Zabljak provided a mouth-watering meal of carrot and noodle soup, roast potatoes, and tender lamb, accompanied by a refreshing glass of blueberry juice—a local specialty that beautifully encapsulates Montenegro’s blend of nature and nurture.
Montenegro’s magic lies in its diversity and accessibility. Here, one can feast on freshly caught seafood by the crystal-clear Adriatic in the morning and venture into alpine wilderness for spectacular hiking experiences by afternoon. You can soak in history and culture at every turn, from restored Venetian buildings to vibrant local taverns, all without the crowds or the hefty price tags of other Mediterranean locales. For travelers seeking a blend of relaxation, adventure, and authentic cultural encounters, Montenegro presents an inviting, enriching destination just waiting to be discovered.
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EasyJet offers flights from London’s Luton Airport to Tivat twice a week, with prices starting at an incredible £25.99 one way per person. For a seamless travel experience, EasyJet Holidays provides packages that include a three-night bed-and-breakfast stay at the Lazure Hotel and Marina, flights, luggage allowance, and transfers from Luton—all for £478 per person, with availability from autumn dates. This unbeatable blend of affordability and luxury puts Montenegro within easy reach for those craving something new and special this travel season.
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