For decades, Montenegro has been the hidden gem of the Adriatic region. Now, the secret's out and this stunningly beautiful and diverse country is tipped as one of the most dynamic property investment hotspots in the world, thanks to its breathtaking countryside, glorious coastline and tourist potential.

Montenegro is a country of remarkable geographical contrasts. Its unspoilt Adriatic coastline, with azure seas and hidden coves, sits alongside shimmering glacial lakes, lush forests, soaring mountains and picturesque villages. The undisputed jewel in the crown is Boka Kotorska - the Mediterranean's only fjord.

The stunning coastline stretching for 293 kilometres is dotted with historic old towns including the island resort of Sveti Stefan, as well as quaint fishing hamlets where visitors can enjoy some of the freshest seafood anywhere in the world. There are 73 kilometres of stunning beaches, including a 13 kilometre stretch of unbroken white-sand near Ulcinj in the south of the country. With 240 days of sunshine every year, you could be on the beach 2 days out of every 3.

With an enviable location in the heart of central Europe, Montenegro is flanked by Bosnia Hercegovina to the north, Kosovo and Serbia to the east and Albania to the south. Once the playground of princes and the glitterati, the country went through a difficult period during the Yugoslavian wars in the late 1980s and 1990s, but it is rapidly gaining attention and recognition on the international tourism trail which makes it a good prospect for property investors who purchase early.

Visitors are also drawn by Montenegro's 15 Blue Flag beaches and four national parks including Biogradska Gora Park, the last virgin forest in Europe. The country's highest mountain, Mount Durmitor is UNESCO protected with peaks at a staggering 2,522 metres and it is one of the most popular skiing destinations in the region. This wonderful country offers the ultimate in outdoor living, whatever your passion; from swimming and bird watching to hiking, sailing and white water rafting.

 

The Climate

Montenegro's valleys and plains enjoy a Mediterranean climate with long, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. Temperatures vary depending on the altitude; Podgorica which is just above sea level experiences hot July temperatures averaging 27°C.

Cetinje, in the Karst region at a height of 866 metres, has a July temperature of 22°C. January temperatures range from 8°C at Bar on the southern coast to -3°C in the northern mountains.

Like most countries in the region, rainfall occurs principally during the winter months but the mountain areas also experience seasonal summer showers. Snow is rare along the Montenegrin coast but falls in the mountains and stays for up to 120 days a year.

 

Basic information

Border crossings:

Albania - Bozaj and Sukobin, Bosnia and Herzegovina - Sitnica, Vilusi, Scepan Polje, Croatia - Debeli brijeg.

Ports :

Herceg Novi, Kotor, Budva and Bar

A large number of passenger ships dock in the port of Bar and there are many marinas along the coast which are available for small and medium size yachts.

Airports :

Podgorica and Tivat, (Cilipi in Dubrovnik, Croatia)

Visas :

For a stay of up to 30 days the citizens of the following countries do not need a visa for Montenegro: EU countries, Andorra, Albania, Australia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Byelorussia, Bulgaria, Croatia, Israel, Island, Japan, Canada, Liechtenstein, Macedonia, Moldavia, Monaco, Norway, New Zealand, Russia, Romania, USA, San Marino, Switzerland, Ukraine, Vatican. Citizens of other countries need visas.

Car insurance:

There is a mandatory insurance for vehicles at the border crossings. The green card is valid for the following countries: Albania, Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Greece, Croatia, the Netherlands, Ireland, Italy, Israel, Iran, Island, Cyprus, Latvia, Luxemburg, Hungary, Morocco, Malta, Macedonia, Moldavia, Germany, Norway, Portugal, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Tunisia, Turkey, Ukraine, Great Britain.

Tourist Organizations:

• www.visit-montenegro.com
• www.bestof-montenegro.com

Cash machines & cards:

Durmitor, Biogradska Gora, the lake of Scadar, Lovcen.

National parks:

Podgorica and Tivat, (Cilipi in Dubrovnik, Croatia)

Cuisine

The food has a Mediterranean character and is rich in fish and shellfish such as pilchards, sardines and mussels which are eaten in soups, stews and risottos flavoured with lemon juice and olive oil, parsley and garlic and a wide variety of vegetables. There are first class meats on offer including lamb cooked with tomato sauce or grilled naturally. One of the local specialties is prepared from gnocchi and meat sauce and a competition is held every year in Kotor in February where experts and amateurs compete to prepare the best version of the dish.

To complement the delicious food, Montnegro produces excellent red and white wines and a wide variety of brandies.

Shopping

Podgorica, the capital is the best shopping area and has boutiques and shops selling international fashion labels. Budva, Kotor and Sveti Stefan are the best towns for shopping on the coast and in the smaller shops it is possible to find original jewellery made of red coral and silver. There are wonderful antique shops and small galleries selling interesting artifacts and more valuable items.