Pia Bayot Corlette takes us through her former home country, Montenegro, and shares some tips on how to best enjoy this country in the Balkans
What do you love most about your city?
Montenegro is a tiny country on the Adriatic in Eastern Europe, just south of Croatia and across the high heel boot of Italy. Montenegro means “black mountain” in Italian, a name reflected in the mountains soaring from the sea. It’s the most dramatic landscape blessed with endearing, friendly people and a place I have called home for nearly a decade! My husband developed Porto Montenegro, and we were there until it was sold to the Sovereign Wealth Fund of Dubai in 2017.
I have had the wildest stories and adventures, but its people are what have made Montenegro part of my life forever.
What are your top restaurants, Kook hotels, and bars?
Hotels: The Aman Sveti Stefan is a dream (I had my wedding reception here and have stayed many times since). It consists of the limestone Vila Milocer that was once (the former Yugoslav president Josip Broz) Tito’s old palace as well as the Island of Sveti Stefan which was once a fishing village that was converted to a hotel. It has the most wonderful views and is all stone. It has a special magic that can’t be replicated.
Otherwise, The Regent at Porto Montenegro managed by The Intercontinental Group is buzzier and on the marina waterfront. With lovely nautical chic interiors in the heart of the marina, the hotel features the more traditional nautical wing and the more modern Miami-vibe wing.
Restaurants: Stari Mlini, a magical restaurant beside the sound of the rushing river. Stari Mlini means “old mill”. Traditional food, lovely ambience. Come in by boat or by car, lunch or dinner, it never fails as an experience.
Adriatica, is another standalone restaurant shaded with olive trees best accessed by boat (it has a boat shuttle regularly from Porto Montenegro).
Ribarsko Selo, this means “fishing village” and has the most wonderful shrimp and fish carpaccio with truffle, garden salads, clam pasta and baked fish. Get some beds and chill by the Capri-style “beach” area overlooking the Adriatic, no sand but jump straight into the crystal blue waters from the platforms.
Conte by Perast, located in the Venetian town of Perast, is not as highly ranked in food as the others but has the best view of the magical Lady of the Rocks.
