From Dubrovnik to the Magical Bay of Kotor

Our adventure began in Dubrovnik, where we found ourselves torn between two options: Kotor in Montenegro or Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina. In the end, Kotor won, but I still feel we owe Mostar a visit one day. Isn’t it a shame when there’s never enough time to do it all? From Dubrovnik to Kotor, the drive is about 110 kilometers, which, according to Google Maps, should take just over two hours. The road hugs the coastline, giving us beautiful views of Croatia’s beaches along the way. But as we neared Montenegro, the scenery started to shift.

At the border, even though Croatia joined the Schengen zone in 2023, there’s still a passport control. And just a few hundred meters after crossing into Montenegro, you notice the difference. The roads, the houses, everything felt like stepping back into the 80s or 90s. But I don’t mean that in a bad way. Back then, nature was wilder and more untouched, and Montenegro’s landscape still holds that raw beauty. The road to the bay took us through several small villages, making the journey a bit slow, but the scenery made it worthwhile—especially if you’re on a motorcycle! The dark green, almost black mountains rising around us and the shimmering blue-green waters of the bay were mesmerizing. We stopped countless times for photos because every view felt like the best one yet. By the end, we counted over 20 “unforgettable” views. And then, out of nowhere, we saw a tiny island with a church. Of course, that meant another stop!

The Perast Adventure and Our Lady of the Rocks

One of the highlights was stumbling upon the town of Perast and seeing the island with  Our Lady of the Rocks  chapel. We couldn’t resist hopping on a boat (which, to be honest, was the size of a bathtub!) to visit the picturesque island and the chapel full of frescos.

The islet’s legend dates back to 1452 when two fishermen discovered an icon of the Holy Mother on a crag in the sea. After taking it home and seeing it mysteriously return to the crag, locals built a church there, creating an artificial island by throwing rocks after each voyage. This tradition continues today, with locals gathering on July 22nd to add rocks to the islet. Inside the chapel, visitors can view artifacts, including 60 frescoes by local artist Tripo Kokolja, votive tables, and a marble altar, said to grant wishes through the Madonna rock.

However, our captain  suggested we head back to shore quickly before the boat capsized. I’ve never been so relieved to touch solid ground!The boat ride was short but memorable, especially when the wind started picking up.

Kotor: Medieval Charm

We continued our drive with no more stops, finally arriving in Kotor. Since the old town is pedestrian-only, we parked the car and started walking. Kotor’s medieval city wall begins right next to the parking lot with its 1350 steps city wall climbing up the mountain.

The views from these ancient fortifications are breathtaking, offering sweeping panoramas of both the bay and the town below. Kotor, shaped like a U, sits nestled between the mountains, home to just 12,000 residents. As we wandered through the cobblestone streets, we couldn’t help but notice the similarities to Dubrovnik and Split, with the same old-world architecture.

And here’s a fun fact: Kotor has a serious love affair with cats! You’ll find them everywhere, wandering the streets like little kings and queens. These cats have been here for centuries, likely helping to keep rats and mice at bay. Today, they’re practically the town’s mascots, adding to Kotor’s unique charm.

Where to Eat in Kotor

If you’re a fan of meat, BBQ Tanjga is the place to be, just a short walk from the old town. It’s a paradise for meat lovers. If you’re staying within the old town, Konoba Scala Santa is another great option, serving delicious local cuisine in a cozy setting.

Things to Do in Kotor

A must-do in Kotor is simply wandering the streets, taking in the architecture, and visiting St. Tryphon’s Cathedral, a stunning piece of history. But if you’re up for an adventure, I highly recommend driving up the famous serpentine road that climbs the mountain behind Kotor. The road is narrow and a bit nerve-wracking, but the views—especially at sunset—are absolutely worth it. Just be careful, as it’s super tight in some spots!

A Journey You’ll Never Forget

Kotor is one of those places that stays with you long after you’ve left. Its combination of medieval charm, stunning natural beauty, and the welcoming atmosphere makes it a destination you won’t want to miss. If you’re planning a trip to Montenegro or even just visiting nearby Dubrovnik, make sure to carve out time for Kotor. You won’t regret it!

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