While the allure of popular tourist cities like London, Barcelona or Paris is undeniable, if you’re seeking a destination less frequented by the masses, a more off-the-beaten-path adventure could be just what you’re looking for. Here are six suggestions of lesser-known holiday spots.
As the most beautiful fortified town in Montenegro, Kotor has been named by Lonely Planet as the number one city to visit in the world but unlike popular tourist destinations in neighboring Croatia, is not as overrun by tourists. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Old Town of Kotor was built between the 12th and 14th centuries, and a visitor could spend many happy hours wandering the pretty streets. Climb the 1300 steps to the fortress of San Giovanni for spectacular view of the Old Town and Boka bay. Then have lunch at a restaurant on the harbor front with sweeping views across the bay. Galion restaurant is a good choice. Stay at the four star Astoria, a boutique hotel within the UNESCO-protected 13th-century Buca Palace in the heart of Kotor’s fascinating old town.
Although the coast of Languedoc-Roussillon isn’t as obvious a holiday destination as the Cote d’Azur, it has just as much to offer with less crowds, even in peak season. And Montpellier, a medieval city founded around 1200, is an excellent base for a visit to the area. Stay at the gorgeous Hotel Richer de Belleval, a 17th-century former private mansion, beautifully restored as a Relais & Châteaux hotel-restaurant in the heart of the city. Or, for the more budget minded, the family run Hotel du Palais has 26 charming rooms and a sweet terrace. Montpellier is a gastronomic delight. Even the simplest cafes offer high quality food, always beautifully presented. Among the best high-end restaurants are Le Petit Jardin, with a gorgeous internal terrace garden and the Pourcell brothers’ La Canourgue in the Hotel Richer. Chez Canaille in Place du petit Scel has a cute outdoor terrace for a casual meal on a pretty square and La Coquille has great seafood including gambas with squid ink linguine. Culture lovers will enjoy the Fabre Museum, with European works from the Renaissance to the present day, and a full wing dedicated to contemporary artist, Pierre Soulages. If visiting in the summer, the annual Radio France Music festival showcases top international talents featuring hundreds of mainly free classical, opera, jazz and DJ music concerts.
Stavanger has been known as the country’s oil capital since the major discovery of the Ekofisk field in 1969. Further discoveries in the North Sea transformed Norway from Europe’s poor relation into one of the wealthiest countries in the world. The city has also become the country’s top foodie destination and has three Michelin starred restaurants. Foodies will love lunch at Spiseriet at the concert hall with fabulous views of fjords and mountains or at Fisketorget, an excellent fish restaurant on the harbor. A great choice for dinner is Matbaren by renaa, an informal bistro with a super creative menu using local ingredients. And for a unique Japanese-Norwegian tasting experience at Michelin-starred Sabi Omakase, chef Roger Asakil Joya uses Edomae, an age old method of sushi making, one of the most revered in the world. And a well-deserved Michelin star was awarded in 2023 to Restaurant K2. Stavanger is surprisingly arty, with Kunstmuseum, a cutting edge contemporary art museum and a thriving artists’ community with studios often open to the public. Also, essential to visit is the fascinating Petroleum museum which uses engaging and interactive displays to show how oil and gas are formed, how resources beneath the seabed are found, and how drilling and production are conducted.
The sprawling fishing port of Vigo in Galicia, Northern Spain has ancient Roman ruins, neoclassical churches, a lovely old town and the best octopus you’ll ever taste. Stay at the four star NH Collection Vigo, overlooking the harbor. MARCO, the museum of contemporary art housed in what was formerly Vigo’s prison and court (1880), doesn’t have a permanent collection but has regular temporary exhibitions. For a lovely daytrip, take a ferry to the nearby islands. The beautiful Islas Cies with the Playa de Rodas has been described as “the best beach in the world” with turquoise water and white sand.
Tallinn has less than half a million people but its charms are that of much larger cities. A multitude of museums and galleries, a historic old town that’s a World Heritage site, a strong foodie culture and a long sandy beach on the city outskirts, hemmed with a pine forest, are just a few of Tallinn’s attractions. A wander around the quaint cobbled streets of the historic old town with its walls and towers is a must. And just outside the city walls is the KGB museum in the Viru hotel. During Soviet times, Hotel Viru was the main hotel for foreign visitors, all the while being monitored by the KGB, particularly on the officially non-existent 23rd floor. The rooms, frozen in time, offer a unique glimpse into the past, showcasing an extraordinary collection of espionage paraphernalia. Also essential to visit are Kai Art Centre in the Noblessner former shipbuilding area, Tallinn Art Hall (currently in a temporary location on the city outskirts because of renovations) and internationally renowned photographic art center, Fotografiska, with a great rooftop restaurant. And for a really unique art experience, go to the Flo Kasearu House Museum, a site-specific art project by a contemporary artist Flo Kasearu, in her home, attic, basement and backyard.
For history buffs, Gaziantep beckons with its ancient charm, woven with cultural, religious and gastronomic treasures spanning 6000 years. Positioned strategically in southeastern Turkey, along historic trade routes near the border of Syria and serving as a crossroads for civilizations, the city is a fascinating place to spend a few days. A must see is the Zeugma Mosaic Museum, which houses one of the world’s most important mosaic collections, most of which was discovered at the Roman site of Belkıs-Zeugma. The most famous exhibit is the Gypsy Girl, although equally impressive are huge, detailed floor mosaics. Stay in the center of the old town at family-run boutique hotel Aynur Hanim Konagi Butik which has plenty of character and a fantastically generous Turkish breakfast.
With unrivaled natural wonders and plenty of sunshine, history and serenity, Montenegro has emerged as one the most attractive destinations attracting visitors from all over the world. With its favorable economic climate, the country has attracted many foreign investors.
Buying an apartment in Montenegro is an easy and straightforward process. Individuals can buy properties under their own name, domestic or foreign company.
Foreign citizens can apply for 2 types of residency permit taking into account they meet the necessary requirements.
Temporary residence permit gives foreign citizens opportunity to stay in Montenegro for maximum 365 days which includes full time employment, school / university attendance, family reunion, and property ownership.
Permanent residence permit can be obtained after 5 years of temporary residency and can be renewed for subsequent 5 years. Permanent residence permit gives the foreign nationals the same rights of Montenegrin citizen except the right to vote.
With the recent introduction of notaries, the whole purchase process is safe and transparent for both parties. Outlined below are some of the most important steps and facts:
Once both parties have agreed on the purchase price of the property , it is recommended to hire a lawyer who can check that the property fulfills all the necessary elements especially the title of deed and that there is no mortgage on the property.
Depending on the agreement between the parties, deposit is paid prior to scheduling the notary. Deposit amount depends on the value of the property and it is communicated and handled by the selling agent.
When all the details regarding the sale of the property are agreed on, the selling agent will schedule the notary.
At the notary, both the buyer and the seller need to be present in person. In cases when either of the parties is not in Montenegro, agreement can be signed on their behalf by their representative holding the Power of Attorney for such purpose.
When the agreement is signed between the parties who are not Montenegrin nationals, presence of the court translator is mandatory.
Once the Sales and Purchase Agreement is signed and the purchase price paid in full ( deadline for the payment is agreed between the parties and noted in the agreement ), the notary will send all the paperwork to cadaster in order for title of deed to be changed which takes up to a few weeks.
The buyer will be required to pay 3% purchase tax or title transfer tax.
Once the deed transfer is confirmed, the new owner can change all the communal bills to his own name.
Financial incentives and taxation
CORPORATE TAXATION
The basis for domestic companies is considered to be worldwide income, while non-resident companies are taxed only on Montenegro sourced income.
Corporate profit tax rate is progressive:
9% – profit up to 100,000 eur
12% – on profit above 100,000 eur and up to 1,500,000 eur
15% + 177,000 eur on profit above 1,500,001 eur
PERSONAL TAX
Personal income tax ranges between 9% and 15%. A 0% tax is levied on the inherited real estate among close family members.
Income tax rate is also progressive:
Personal income tax
0% on the amount up to 700 eur
9% on the amount from 701 eur to 1,000 eur
15% on the amount over 1,001 eur
15% on capital gain
VALUE ADDED TAX ( VAT )
The VAT rate is 21% with implementation of 7% on certain products and service categories including the sector of tourism.
PROPERTY TAX
Property tax is paid annually to the state and municipal authorities called the Annual Property Tax ranging from 0.1% to 1% depending on location of the property, size etc.
PROPERTY TRANSFER TAX
As from January 1st 2024, new property taxation will apply as follows:
3% on properties worth up to 150,000 eur
5%- + 4,500 eur on properties worth between 150,001 eur and 500,000 eur
6% + 22,000 eur on properties worth over 150,001 eur
Heroic-looking highlands, pretty blonde bays overlooking the royal blue Adriatic Sea, antique Venetian villages and UNESCO walled cities, Montenegro might be small, but this gorgeous nation has a huge array of natural and man-made wonders.
Once overlooked in favor of more well-known Mediterranean nations, Montenegro is fast gaining a reputation as a great place to travel. It’s easy to see why.
Mountainous hinterland nestles deep canyons, gushing rivers, glacial lakes and primeval forest, popular for adventure activity. The serpentine coast skirts glistening ports, from palazzo-embellished Perast in UNESCO-protected Bay of Kotor, to Tivat, a swanky super yacht marina.
In 2006, Montenegro declared independence and became a sovereign nation. Today, the country’s population is primarily made up of Montenegrins, with smaller populations of Serbs, Bosnians, and Albanians. The official currency is euro, and the country’s size is roughly equivalent to the state of Connecticut in the United States.
Despite its small size, traveling to Montenegro is worthwhile because of its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality.
The population of Montenegro is 619,211, and even though that is not much, these people will welcome you with hospitality, so make sure your trip to Montenegro will be a pleasant experience!
One of the great things about traveling to Montenegro is that it can be a very affordable destination.
The cost of your trip will highly depend on your travel style, as well as the level of luxury you are looking for.
Before traveling to Montenegro, it is important to make sure you have all the necessary documents and paperwork.
First and foremost, you will need a valid passport that will remain valid for at least three months after the date of the entry.
It is also a good idea to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and unexpected events. With these basic requirements covered, you can focus on other aspects of your trip to Montenegro, and enjoy all that this beautiful country has to offer.
Travel requirements to Montenegro might include a visa, but this of course depends on your country of origin.
Citizens of some countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and the European Union, can enter Montenegro without a visa for stays of up to 90 days.
However, visitors from other countries may need to obtain a visa before traveling to Montenegro. If you are unsure whether you need a visa, you can check with the Montenegrin embassy or consulate in your home country.
After collecting all the documents you need for your trip to Montenegro, all that is left for you to do is enjoy the various beauties of this country.
Another way you can acquire a visa to Montenegro is by working remotely . This country is heaven on earth for digital nomads and all others that work remotely.
Warm climate, low taxes, co-working spaces, beautiful apartments and hotels, fine dining and shopping are just some of the amenities digital nomads look for.
Anyone that works remotely does not need to worry about their most important needs such as internet connection, work-life balance and affordable cost of living. Montenegro has all these aspects covered. Digital nomad visa is not hard to obtain, you only need to fulfill some basic requirements and you are ready for a trip to Montenegro!
So if you are a remote worker who is looking for their next destination, this country by the sea should definitely be on your list!
There are several ways to travel to Montenegro, depending on your starting point and travel preferences. If you are coming from a neighboring country, such as Serbia or Croatia, you can easily travel to Montenegro by bus, car, or train. There are also international bus and train connections from other European countries, such as Italy or Austria.
If you prefer to fly, there are several airports in Montenegro, two of them being Podgorica and Tivat airports offering connections to major cities in Europe.
Montenegro has a good network of roads and highways, making it easy to explore the country at your own pace.
Retiring by the beach can be an incredibly rewarding experience that offers numerous benefits to your physical and mental health, as well as your overall well-being. The sound of the waves crashing on the shore, the smell of the salty ocean air, and the feeling of the warm sun on your skin can all contribute to a sense of peace and tranquility that is difficult to find elsewhere.
One of the primary benefits of retiring by the beach is the opportunity to engage in outdoor activities that promote physical health. Swimming, walking on the beach, and playing beach sports are all excellent ways to stay active and maintain a healthy lifestyle. These activities can also be enjoyed with family and friends, creating a sense of community and social connectedness that is important for mental health.
Retiring by the beach can also provide access to fresh, healthy food. Many beach communities have local farmers’ markets where you can purchase fresh produce and seafood that is locally sourced. Eating a healthy diet is crucial for maintaining good health, and retiring by the beach can make it easier to access fresh, nutritious foods.
Additionally, living near the beach can provide a sense of peace and relaxation that is difficult to find in other environments. The sound of the waves can be incredibly calming and can help to reduce stress and anxiety. Many people find that spending time near the ocean helps to promote feelings of happiness and contentment, which can be beneficial for mental health.
Retiring by the beach can offer a sense of adventure and excitement. Many beach communities offer a wide range of activities and events, including live music, festivals, and cultural events. Retirees who live by the beach can explore these activities and connect with their local community in a way that is both fun and fulfilling.
Whether you’re looking for a sense of peace and relaxation, opportunities for outdoor activities, or a sense of community and social connectedness, retiring by the beach can provide all of these things and more.
Montenegro is a beautiful country located in the Balkans, known for its stunning coastlines, majestic mountains, and rich culture. It has become a popular destination for retirees who are looking for a peaceful, yet exciting place to spend their golden years.
Retiring in Montenegro near the coast is a dream come true for many. With its crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and sunny weather, the coast of Montenegro offers the perfect setting for a relaxing retirement. The coastal towns of Budva, Kotor, and Herceg Novi are particularly popular among retirees. These towns offer a mix of old-world charm and modern amenities, making them ideal for those who want to experience the best of both worlds.
Montenegro has a low cost of living compared to many other European countries, which is one of the reasons why it has become a popular destination for retirees. The cost of accommodation, food, and entertainment is significantly lower than in many other European countries, making it an attractive option for those who want to stretch their retirement savings.
Aside from its stunning natural beauty and low cost of living, Montenegro also offers a relaxed and welcoming lifestyle. The locals are friendly and hospitable, and the pace of life is slow and laidback. Retirees can spend their days exploring the town, sampling the local cuisine, and soaking up the sun on the beach. They can also take part in various cultural activities and events, such as music festivals and art exhibitions.
In conclusion, retiring in Montenegro near the coast is an excellent option for those who want to enjoy their golden years in a peaceful and beautiful setting. With its stunning scenery, low cost of living, and welcoming lifestyle, Montenegro is becoming an increasingly popular destination for retirees from all over the world. Whether you want to spend your days relaxing on the beach or exploring the local culture, Montenegro has something to offer everyone.
In recent years, Montenegro has become an increasingly important investment destination. The world’s leading company in the luxury real estate market, Sotheby’s International Realty, has also recognized this and opened a representative office in Tivat two years ago, in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic. Right there, in the heart of the luxurious Porto Montenegro marina, where it all began, the local Montenegro Sotheby’s Realty office welcomed friends and partners from as many as 15 countries in August.
The event, held in the wonderful ambiance of the Buddha bar with an unreal view of the bay, was the crowning glory of a three-day gathering, during which Sotheby’s representatives from all over the world had the opportunity to learn about Montenegro’s potential.
Despite the pandemic, political instability, and global events, the Montenegrin office has only achieved success and in a short time has become synonymous with the offer of luxury real estate in Montenegro. According to Niko Laković, partner and executive director of the Montenegro Sotheby’s Realty group, who is the mastermind behind the arrival of this prestigious brand in Montenegro, they will continue to work to promote the best that this country has to offer in the future.
– It makes me proud and additionally motivates me to achieve even more serious results in the promotion of everything we have here, that today, after only two years, we have 14 countries from the Sotheby’s group to get acquainted with Montenegro and luxury projects. If we manage to reach all 78 countries of the Sotheby’s group with what we offer, we have done a good job. For example, last year one of the properties from our portfolio was among the world’s top five in the selection of Mansion Global from the Wall Street group – said Laković, greeting the guests at the event in Porto Montenegro.
Laković’s acquaintance with Hunter Milborne, a true legend of Sotheby’s, who sold real estate measured in billions, is another reason for introducing Sotheby’s to a Montenegrin market.
– When I first came to Montenegro, I felt great investment energy, I met serious developers and knew that this place has great potential. My partner, Mr. Laković, already had a well-developed real estate business, and together we entered into the project of developing Sotheby’s offices in Montenegro. Today, we are still here, with already tangible results and an excellently positioned office in Porto Montenegro, our strategic partner – said Milborn.
Marina Porto Montenegro, Portonovi, and the first One&Only resort in Europe, Luštica Bay tourist resort, Huma Kotor Bay, and Nikki Beach resort assured guests of Montenegro Sotheby’s that Montenegro is rightly one of the world’s most luxurious destinations.
Boka Bay, one of the most beautiful bays on the planet, as well as charming palaces from the 17th and 18th centuries, whose value reaches up to ten million euros, have shown that this market is not behind Greece, Spain, and similar destinations.
– We are impressed by the positioning of Montenegro as a luxury destination, the projects implemented here, and the fascinating brands present on the market.
What is particularly impressive is that in a short period our office has become one of the leaders in the luxury real estate market in Montenegro.
We are witnessing a mini-gathering of European offices and great socializing – said Natalie Meek, Global Vice President of Sotheby’s Realty Group.
The presence of the world’s most famous brands significantly influenced the value of real estate in Montenegro.
In addition, the arrival of Sotheby’s has created new value for the Montenegrin market and increased the attractiveness of the destination itself.
With the opening of Porto Montenegro, and then other resorts on the coast, Montenegro is increasingly becoming a year-round destination.
Life in the Mediterranean, on the coast, with all the amenities that these complexes offer, is seen less and less as a vacation, and more and more as a lifestyle.
Real estate world elite in one place
At the event that rounded off two extremely successful years of operation, Montenegro Sotheby’s Realty gathered renowned global real estate companies.
In addition to the representatives of 14 countries from the Sotheby’s group and the presence of Sotheby’s Concierge, which recently also conducts auctions of the most expensive real estate, brand developers from Dubai and Abu Dhabi, Emaar and Aldar, as well as the partner company from Abu Dhabi Al Mira Real estate, also arrived in Montenegro.
There were also representatives of the project management of Porto Montenegro, Luštica Bay, Portonovi, Dukley Gardens, Nikki Beach, Huma Resort & Villas, and Belgrade on the Water, as well as global brokers CBRE, JLL, and Savills.
In parallel with these activities, with the London Sotheby’s office and the British television Channel 4, we filmed the show The Most Expensive Houses of Europe and presented palaces from the 17th century, as well as One & Only signature villas on the coast, the first in Europe.
The three-day meeting was an opportunity to get to know the market, present its potential, network, also to enjoy the beauty of Montenegro and the best tastes.
Sotheby’s Realty is discovering regional and international markets for its luxury products.
Montenegro Sotheby’s Realty is a real estate company specializing in luxury properties of distinguished style, location, and charm in different regions of Montenegro. With sales and rental properties in Porto Montenegro, Lustica Bay, Budva, Kotor, and more, Sotheby’s Realty is a sophisticated company with first-in-class business operations, leading the affluent real estate segment in Montenegro in attracting investment and supporting the country’s growing tourism sector.
With properties in prestigious locations across the country, Sotheby’s specialty stands out in a class of its own. Its notable project in Porto Montenegro as a world-class marina with exclusive residences and the space for a potential of 450 boats up to 200 meters in length, makes this location one of the few marinas in the world that has the capacity to accept boats this size. Another project in Lustica, with 800 hectares at its disposal, is looking to provide Montenegro with its first golf course.
Sotheby’s development of marina and real estate projects, authentic villas in Montenegrin olive groves, old Mediterranean houses, and Montenegrin estates will delight all aficionados of architecture. The Perast, Prcanj, or Dobrota palaces located where famous naval captains of old built their stone palaces, overlook the bay and quaint town squares. The Montenegrin coast has a great synergy of architectural heritage and century-old identities; the newer residencies have the leitmotif of the same with the added blend of modern architectural characteristics.
Montenegro’s strategic position allows the government to market Montenegro as a tourism and real estate hub on the Adriatic coast. Thanks to Sotheby’s international network and 24,000 agents, they have been able to reach over 75 countries in the promotion of Montenegro as an alluring international destination. In 2020, a Sotheby Realty property was recognized as one of the top five properties in the world.
The growing potential of tourism in Montenegro has resulted in many investments in the real estate sector aided by the nation’s investment-friendly policies, including a low corporate tax, favorable visa regimes, and the government-sponsored Citizenship by Investment Program (CIP). Many of these policies are designed to attract investors from the Middle East, as well. Niko Laković, Managing Director and Partner of Sotheby’s Realty, says, “With the Investment Corporation of Dubai (ICD) coming to Montenegro as strategic partner of the country, I think interest will increase. They are working on the promotion of Montenegro and real estate here.”
While the nation’s population rings in at approximately 620,000 citizens, it is clear that a largely untapped investment market, which was unaffected even by the COVID-19 pandemic, presents many great opportunities. “That’s the beauty of it; the Bay of Kotor is splendid and very underrated. People are interested regardless of the timing: we sold costly villas and palaces during the pandemic,” says Laković. “Indeed, the pandemic changed people’s perceptions, and for this reason it is important to provide them with world-class services and allow them to feel that their properties are well protected and safe. In this way, they have peace of mind.”
Throughout the years, the real estate sector in Montenegro has witnessed impressive growth in alignment with the country’s positive economic outlook. According to Laković, the market is maturing and more prepared than ever due to the government’s focus on facilitating investment and the prospect of joining the European Union and its multinational market customer base. “We have buyers from over 50 countries including Japan, China, Slovakia, Poland, Czech Republic, Western Europe, the US, and Canada. This is partly due to the Citizenship by Investment Program and the promotion we have carried out.” Indeed, Montenegro’s inevitable growth is greatly supported by the luxury real estate sector, providing distinguished properties to tourists and discerning investors who are interested in experiencing the opportunities that Montenegro has to offer.
Skip Monaco and St Tropez this September, as Montenegro is where you’ll want to be if you’re looking for the ultimate spot to park your superyacht.
Porto Montenegro was awarded the title of the World’s Best Superyacht Marina this August by ACREW, a Netherlands-based company providing professional development to superyacht captains and crew.
Each year ACREW’s prestigious Superyacht Business recognizes superyacht businesses that deserve global recognition in their field, with its network of more than 15,000 members invited to cast their vote.
For the Best Superyacht Marina Award – one of seven categories – marinas are ranked on the services and facilities offered, and the willingness of staff to assist superyacht guests.
Other judging criteria include location, accessibility, safety and security, value for money, and WiFi.
Porto Montenegro, which carries the strapline ‘a life less ordinary’, came out on top after being voted the Adriatic’s Best Superyacht Marina last year.
The marina, which is located on the eastern shore of the Adriatic, started life as a former Yugoslav army military base.
Its transformation into a luxury superyacht marina was spearheaded by the late Hungarian-Canadian businessman, Peter Munk who purchased the site for €23 million. His aim was to build a superyacht marina that would rival mainstream destinations and he secured from several of the world’s most respected business figures including Lord Jacob Rothschild and LVMH chairman Bernard Arnault.
In 2016, the marina complex was acquired by the Investment Corporation of Dubai (ICD), the principal investment arm of the Government of Dubai.
Today it offers more than 450 berths for yachts of 12-250m in length and it will cater to 850 vessels upon completion.
Of these spots, 350 will be specifically reserved for superyachts – the largest offering in Europe, capable of accommodating the world’s largest yachts afloat.
Porto Montenegro prides itself on being a marina designed by mariners, with an impressive range of facilities on offer from a well-stocked chandlery to high-speed Wifi.
One of the standout offerings is the Porto Montenegro Yacht Club, which features a photogenic 64m infinity pool overlooking the marina, a state-of-the-art sports club, a sailing school, and a beach facility where regular events are held.
In terms of berths, there are short- and long-term opportunities available. During the winter season, there is currently an offer to pay for five and stay for seven months.
Porto Montenegro is easily accessible by air (there is an on-site helipad), land and sea and it boasts a sublime setting in the UNESCO protected Bay of Kotor.
The charming coastal town of Tivat is on the doorstep, with an undulating mountain range beyond.
Since opening in 2006, Porto Montenegro has flourished into an upscale lifestyle destination with high-end waterfront residences, luxury retailers, and fine dining venues.
The waterfront area continues to evolve, and next year will see the arrival of the hotly-anticipated new Boka Place complex.
The slick urban neighborhood has been designed for year-round living, with a focus on wellbeing and fitness.
There will be 213 managed and private residences, ranging from studios to three-bedroom duplexes, and a sports-centric hotel called SIRO (the first-of-a-kind concept from Kerzner International Holdings, the parent company of the world-famous Atlantis and One&Only Resorts).
Currently, there are two main residential offerings in Porto Montenegro which have set the tone for luxury living, which comprise the ‘Elena’ and ‘Regent’ residences.
The Elena includes 50 luxury freehold apartments with sea and mountain views while the ‘Regent’, inspired by the Italian Riviera, features 129 condominium properties. The latter has a pool rental program, where homeowners can earn rental income from the pool when they are not there, by providing access to guests of the accompanying five-star hotel.
Along with the Elena and Regent, there are six smaller complexes in the vicinity all boasting the same high end facilities and unparalleled views.
Buyers of all managed residences are eligible to participate in Montenegro’s Citizenship by Investment Programme, introduced in 2019. With a minimum investment of €450,000 and an additional €100,000 donation to a Montenegrin government development fund, successful applicants will be granted full citizenship within six months of applying.
Another perk of homeownership or leasing in Porto Montenegro is access to the 200-strong Owners’ Club. Membership offers a range of lifestyle benefits and experiences, with frequent invitation-only events and kids’ clubs days during the summer.
Currently, the housing price in Porto Montenegro on JamesEdition averages around $3m or $11,000 per sqm but at the lower end, buyers can spot a one-bedroom waterfront apartment for $455,000, or at the top end, a four-bedroom penthouse in Regent Residences is currently going for $4.5m.
Meanwhile, the median listing price in Tivat is $1m or $8,000 per sqm.
Porto Montenegro attracts a mix of international jet setters, with buyers coming from the Balkans, Russia, Western Europe, Scandinavia, Turkey, and Australia.
Currently, there are five properties listed on JamesEdition in the Porto Montenegro area. They are as follows:
Property: Ultra-luxe penthouse at the Regent hotel
Price: €4.5m
A unique penthouse apartment with panoramic sea views and a pool. The contemporary-style fully-furnished apartment includes four bedrooms, four bathrooms, ample space for entertaining, and a sprawling terrace. This property is located on the fifth floor and part of the Regent five-star hotel. Shared facilities include direct access to two pools, a wellness center, a gym, and restaurant offerings.
Property: A colorful apartment in the Tueta residences
Price: $2.9m
This characterful and colorful apartment features prime views over the marina. In terms of living space, there are three bedrooms with bathrooms, a study room with its own bathroom, a guest toilet, a large living room with kitchen and dining room, a hallway, storage room, and two terraces. The property comes fully furnished. Shared facilities in the exclusive Teuta building include a swimming pool and a gym.
Property: Modern living at the Elena Residences
Price: €1,144,800
Apartment 106 is right in the center of the Elena building, which takes its name after a Montenegrin princess who married the future King of Italy in 1896. The bright and modern property is built and equipped to the highest level. There are two large en-suite bedrooms, a huge living/dining space, a well-equipped kitchen area, and a family bathroom. The terraces are large enough for al fresco dining and you are a few seconds walk away from your poolside lounger.
Property: Marina village living in a smart two-bed
Price: €850,000
A charming two-bed apartment right next to the marina. The property, decked out with neutral tones, features terrace space with unobstructed sea and mountain views. It is located inside the Ksenija residential complex, with homeowners benefitting from a dedicated 24/7 concierge team, underground parking as well as secluded terraces, pools, and sun decks.
Property: A one-bed investment opportunity
Price: €650,000
This cozy and colorful one-bed makes for a great investment opportunity in the highly sought-after Regent Pool Club Residences complex. It includes views of the swimming pools, landscaped grounds, and marina, and benefits from a southwest positioning. The apartment comes full-furnished and homeowners can use all of the services of the five-star Regent hotel.
Source: JamesEdition
Dear virtual passengers , at first glance- I am nothing more than an ordinary stone. And I do almost nothing to justify my existence – I defy the sun and the rain, I resist the wind motionless and, sometimes, my steadfastness tames the sea. Only to be looking at it peacefully again, in the very next moment. Because whenever the sea decides to imitate the glass- there I go, starting over. Enjoying the calmness.
But, yet again, I said- almost nothing. And that’s fine if you don’t want to waste your time on my story. But if you do decide to stay just a bit longer, I will speak. Telling you that I, indeed, am a part of a special palace which, by definition – is a beautiful and luxurious house. In my case, even more special, because this in fact is the residence and the pride of the Bronza family, whose first ship was mentioned in the archives from the end of the XVI century. The family whose members, captains Ivan and Josip, were awarded by the Venetian Republic the Order of St. Mark for their bravery in battles against pirates.
As I said, I represent a very important part of this family’s foundation, and am trying to prove (to those who donated me their precious time) why the “ordinary stone” expression was only- seemingly. Let me first reassure you by showing off my baroque suit, which dresses up the whole palace and makes me a proud hero, standing this close to that terrible force and synonym for unbridledness and moodiness, as it’s the sea. For centuries.
And it is, above all, the baroque spirit which inspired me to build this palace from the ground up – ground floor, first and, in the end, the second floor in the shape of a belvedere, whose dynamic volutes are synonym for baroque, pageantry and freedom in architecture. Deprived of the rules of symmetry and so absolutely free and unlimited in space, these moments gave my palace the opportunity to fit perfectly into the Pearl of Montenegro, as they call Perast, a long-time safe harbor for captains and their families. As a proud part of this entirety, which in the XIX century served to the Austro-Hungarians as the Customshouse (Dogana), which today has preserved the original layout of its space, I am proudly enjoying the view of the Mediterranean. Under this clear, picturesque sky, I testify variety or scenes during the day: fishermen sailing towards the horizon early in the morning, joyful tourists while enthusiastically taking new moments and memories from a place that so boldly watches the hills merge with water in the afternoon and then, in the evening, I will obviously send off a day to a new, endless journey into the quietness.
The Bronza Palace preserves the baroque of Montenegro, keeping all of its peculiarities and valuables intact while taking care of its unbreakable tradition with the sea. So again- I am just a seemingly ordinary stone that travels through time. Exposed to the sun, sea salt and the enchanting scents of the Mediterranean. Speaking an authentic language and carrying the fragments of eternity within me. Forever.
Montenegro is the second in the region, next to Croatia, that the Sotheby’s brand wants to present to the world public as a jewel of the Mediterranean and one of the world’s fastest growing tourist destinations.
The global leader in the luxury real estate market, Sotheby’s International Realty, will have its representative office and office in the nautical resort of Porto Montenegro starting this March. This international community with a marina for superyachts, the Regent Hotel and luxury residences fits perfectly into the concept of Sotheby’s, which wants to offer its services to the Mediterranean and European markets, but also to present to prestigious clients all the benefits of life on the Montenegrin coast.
