Montenegro - The land of black mountains

 

Montenegro- Black Mountain: the very name conjures up images of romance and drama – and this fascinating land doesn't disappoint on either front.

Ever since the Roman Empire split in two 1600 years ago, this land has sat on the borderline between east and west – and it's all the more interesting for its turbulent past.

The richness of its cultural history can be seen in the mosaic floors of Roman villas, flamboyantly painted Orthodox monasteries, ornate Catholic churches, the elegant minarets of mosques, and the sturdy fortresses built by the numerous powers that have fought over these lands.

Then there's the legacy of 50 years as a communist state, independent of both the Eastern Block and the West. For those with even a passing interest in European history, it's a fascinating place. 

 

Day 1: Arrival on Riviera Makarska. Half board  in hotel 

 

Day 2: After breakfast, drive to Dubrovnik. City tour with goude.

The city is often referred to as the Pearl of the Adriatic and Croatian Athens because of its cultural significance and the centuries-long politically special position.

In the 1979, the historic center has been included in the UNESCO list of world cultural heritage.

Attractions in Dubrovnik: pedestrianized street Stradun, Palace Knežev Dvor, Franciscan monastery with the oldest pharmacy in Europe and much more.

After lunch (optional), drive to Montenegro - Budva / Petrovac.

From the border crossing further drive to Herceg Novi to Budva. On this route we will cross the Boka Bay by ferry in Lepetane (the trip takes approximately 10 minutes).

Accommodation in hotel in Budva.

After dinner it will be a nightly guided tour of Budva. 

 

Day 3: Drive to Cetinje, the old capital of Montenegro.

We will visit the monastery with the treasury and the reliquary of St. Peter of Cetinje.

Further route continues to Lovćen National Park. After lunch, visits to Mausoleum on the top of Lovćen.

Halfboard in hotel. 

 

Day 4:  Excursion to Kotor. Wedged between brooding mountains and a moody corner of the bay, this dramatically beautiful town is perfectly at one with its setting.

Its sturdy walls – started in the 9th century and tweaked until the 18th – arch steeply up the slopes behind it.

From a distance they’re barely discernible from the mountain’s grey hide, but at night they’re spectacularly lit, reflecting in the water to give the town a golden halo.

Within those walls lie labyrinthine marbled lanes where churches, shops, bars and restaurants surprise you on hidden piazzas. 

 

Day 5: After breakfast drive to the southern cities of Montenegro. First we will visit Ulcinj, once pirate base.

Further to Bar and Stari Bar. In town Bar you will also find the old olive tree of Mirovica which represents one of the oldest copies of the region of about 2300 years.

Next we will visit the Serbian Orthodox Monastery Reževići.

In the evening return to the hotel, half board. 

 

Day 6: Northern Montenegro. Starting from Budva can be reached within a 1.5-hour drive away, which leads to the Skadar Lake.

From the lake is wonderful far view on Podgorica and it's surroundings. Continues drive to the mountainous north. Photo stop at the most attractive point of Morača canyon.

After you will reach the monastery Morača. After a scenic drive, back to the hotel. On request, may be planned a short stay in Podgorica.

Halfboard in hotel.

 

Day 7: After breakfast check out in hotel in Budva and drive to Herceg Novi, a location in a charming setting with oriental city, Byzantine and Baroque buildings.

After a short break drive to Croatia - Makarska for stop overnight. 

 

Day 8: Check out in hotel on Riviera Makarska and homeward journey. 

 

EXACT PRICE WILL BE GIVEN ON DATE REQUEST.

The program can be tailored to your wishes.