Kotor

This is an excursion that gives you a great opportunity to combine asphalt and off road, to enjoy seaside as well as mountain scenery and to feel different climates, all in one day. It starts from Boka Bay and town of Kotor and it goes to the peaks of the mountain of Lovcen, which is a National park but also a very important historical place. Driving by the old serpentine road with its famous 25 curves will be a very important part of this excursion, because it gives you the most beautiful view on Boka bay, and then we arrive to Krstac. From this point we continue off road, towards the village Dolovi, where we stop to see one authentic Montenegrin place that kept its original aspect through the years. The road continues to Ivanova Korita and at the same time change from off road back to asphalt. Ivanova Korita is on 1270m above sea level. It got its name by the clear, healthy waters that come out of Trestenik peak and Ivan Crnojevic, the founder of Old capital of Montenegro, Cetinje. From this beautiful green valley we will go on with our journey up to the mountain Lovcen. Driving further up the slopes of this mountain, through contrast of nature surrounding, from lime stone rocky mountains called Sea of Stones, to the green valleys where the village Njegusi is situated. Njegusi is a very special place because of its well-reserved folk architecture, but also because it continues the traditions of Montenegrin cuisine to new heights. In Njegusi, you will find traditional farms for Njeguski sir and Njeguski prsut (cheese and prosciutto). Our journey will finish in Kotor by the same serpentine road from the beginning of this trip.

Established over two thousand years ago, Kotor is historically rich and has many stories to tell; from its ancient Roman beginnings, its struggle of the Middle Ages when ownership was acquired by the Goths, Saracens, Serbians and Venetians. With a history like this, it’s no surprise Kotor earns its place on the UNESCO World Heritage List. And what better way to explore this fascinating city than with a guided walking tour? In every stone of its timeworn walls, on every fresco painting and every hidden alleyway, you’ll relive its glorious past. The old town center is still well preserved and the criss-crossed narrow streets and squares have monuments at every corner. From the Prince’s Palace and Napoleon’s Theatre to the most recognizable symbol of the city - the Romanesque Cathedral of Saint Tryphon – you’ll be mesmerized and intrigued. How many towns in this part of the world have preserved their fortifications from the middle Ages? Not many. But Kotor is one of the few. The chunky walls surrounding the old town are impressive to say the least - at some places they reach 20 meters in height and 16 meters in thickness. If you don’t believe us, you’ll have plenty of time to measure them during the extensive free time you’ll get here. Inside visits will be made to the Cathedral and the Maritime Museum in Kotor.

From the port, you will drive by coach directly to Budva to visit its stunning Old Town, one of the oldest settlements in the Balkans. The legend, confirmed by Greek mythology, says that Budva was established by Cadmo, the sun of the Phoenician, King Agenon in the 5th century BCE. The Old Town of Budva – a two millennia old town embedded in a small peninsula, a repository of cultural heritage. It is surrounded with the ramparts from the 15th century and intersected by narrow alleyways and bustling squares hosting a series of important monuments. Among the must-see monuments is the Church of St. Sava the Sanctified with its remnants of frescoes and inscriptions from the mid-12th century. Also look for the Church of the Holy Trinity, the Church of Santa Maria in Punta, and the town’s Fortress of Citadella. During the summer months, the square becomes an open-air Theatre, the location for many local and international performances. After a guided tour through the old town you will be given some free leisure time before returning to the old town of Kotor. With all its historical monuments offering great value, Kotor has been under UNESCO’s protection since 1980. During this visit, you will see the ancient Cathedral dedicated to St. Tryphon, constructed in 12th century. After this guided tour, you will have more free time to browse the boutiques or enjoy the bars and cafes. Return to the ship on foot of your own accord.

The port of Kotor finds a home on the world’s southernmost fjord - otherwise known as the ‘Bride of the Adriatic’. It’s one of the most beautiful places in the Adriatic. Think blue seas, a stony shore, rolling mountains, and a rich green landscape all drenched in the heavenly scent of lemons, oranges, mimosas and camellias. And here’s your chance to explore this gorgeous part of the world. First you’ll stop at the mountain village of Njegusi to taste the region’s delicious prosciutto ham and cheese. With your appetite satisfied, you will be ready for Cetinje. Known as the ‘Valley of Gods’, it was once the smallest European capital and is still held in high regard for its wealth of astounding architecture. Passing Cetinje, you'll continue your drive to Kotor via Budva - the most popular tourist destination on Montenegro’s map. Your tour will end with a coach ride back to Kotor where you will have introductory tour of this unique town. Walk back to the ship at your leisure.