by Katerina Nikolas

Created on: July 29, 2010   Last Updated: July 30, 2010

Montenegrins prefer to use the more traditional name Crna Gora for their small homeland of Montenegro. Known as the Pearl of the Balkans, this tiny European country lies between Serbia in the North and Albania in the South, and boasts 290kms of unspoilt Adriatic coastline, accessible from both Bari and Ancona in Italy. Montenegro is a rare find of stunning natural beauty which offers three diverse areas, the coastline, Middle Montenegro and North Montenegro. Within its small borders are dramatic mountains, canyons, lakes, rivers, caves, ice caves and historical sites.

Montenegro is a proud country with a rich cultural history, yet a population of only just over 650,000.  Its rich past is reflected in the architecture which ranges from medieval and baroque, with Ottoman influences. The harbour town of Kotor has such exquisite architecture that it is under UNESCO protection, whilst Ulcinj is an old pirate center with a medieval fortification.

The country has four national parks of stunning beauty, and plans are underway to develop adventure tourism within the country, which is perfect for rafting and hiking. Extreme sports are started to be promoted in the country as more tourists become drawn to the land. The snow covered mountains mean that the country is an all round destination for tourism, with Zablja already established as a ski resort. However one of the main attractions of Montenegro is that it is possible to travel with relative ease from the coast to the mountains, and even enjoy some snow covered peaks in the summer.

Skadar Lake is one of the largest in the Balkans and offers a host of pleasures for the tourist. An amazingly unique body of water it is free flowing and fed by many rivers and underground wells. In parts the lake is lower than sea level. It is a must for any traveller who appreciates natural beauty, and appeals to bird watchers who can see pelicans amongst the many other species the lake and marshlands attract. Skadar Lake also has 60 small islands which are covered in wild pomegranates, and it is possible to cruise between the islands and admire the old architecture.

The area welcomes fishermen, hunters and horse back riders, cyclists, hikers and swimmers. The surrounding shores are dotted with old villages which extend amazing hospitality and welcome visitors with freshly grilled fish and home made wine. The Lake can be approached from many directions and there is a direct route from the coast through the Sozina tunnel which cuts through a mountain.

There are so many things to see and do in Montenegro but an absolute must is a visit to the old monastery of Ostrog which is carved into a sheer mountain cliff, and was once the scene of a valiant battle against the invading Ottomans. It is a truly historic center and attracts both travellers and those who visit for its spiritual benefits, and the possibility of the miracles it offers.

It is possible to stay overnight at the Ostrog monastery which will offer a bed, blanket and pillow, and welcomes visitors at any time of the day and night. No one should leave the monastery without filling up their bottle with holy water to take home to protect both home and family.

For a truly unspoilt piece of Europe with a rich cultural heritage and natural landscapes of unique beauty, and stunning Adriatic coastlines, Montenegro should be on every European travellers list of must see places.  

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