Hello there, fellow travel enthusiasts! Today, I want to share an unexpected but delightful journey my partner, Sue, and I embarked on when our plans to visit Naples were dashed and we found ourselves booking a trip to Budva in Montenegro. With little knowledge about this hidden gem, we set off on an adventure that turned out to be everything we could have hoped for and more.
Our journey began as we flew into Dubrovnik Airport, which meant passing through the Croatian border into Montenegro. Although the transfer involved a short ferry trip and made the journey a tad longer, the excitement of exploring a new destination overshadowed any minor inconvenience.
Upon arrival, we were greeted by the Hotel Fagus, a small, fairly new establishment where we had opted for a half-board basis. Eager to make the most of our vacation, we decided to upgrade our room, and oh boy, were we in for a treat! The spacious suite boasted two rooms—a cozy bedroom and a living room complete with a large TV, tea and coffee facilities, air conditioning, a fridge, and a sleek modern design that exuded comfort and cleanliness.
The hotel's location was perfect, just a two-minute walk from the vibrant Main Street and a mere five minutes away from the enchanting promenade and pristine beach. Admittedly, during our first walk to the sea, we were slightly concerned that Budva might be a party town, given the remnants of outdoor nightclubs along the coastline. Thankfully, since it was September and nearing the end of the season, those lively spots had already closed down. Instead, we discovered an abundance of traditional restaurants and bars lining the promenade, which catered to our taste for more laid-back holiday experiences.
As we strolled along the promenade, we stumbled upon the crown jewel of Budva, Budva Old Town. Nestled between a marina and a breathtaking mountain range, this ancient town was the perfect place to get lost in. Its narrow, cobbled streets beckoned us to wander aimlessly, and we happily obliged. Along the way, we encountered small bars, charming restaurants, boutique shops, and what I affectionately call "tat shops" (the ones that sell quirky souvenirs and trinkets that somehow find their way into our suitcases).
Follow the labyrinthine cobbled streets, and you'll find yourself in a charming town square, where you can simply sit, relax with a refreshing drink, and revel in the joy of people-watching. Spending a few days immersed in Budva's old town was an absolute delight. We leisurely explored the city walls, occasionally pausing for a drink or indulging in delectable ice cream. One particular memory that still brings a smile to our faces is our visit to the Budva Museum. While the museum itself may not have been the most impressive, we had a good laugh at a glass case filled with pots, vases, and other artifacts labeled as "various pots of various sizes and various uses." Talk about informative labeling!
Of course, our trip wouldn't have been complete without a couple of exciting excursions. One took us to Lake Skadar via a national park. The journey by coach and train was incredibly scenic, and the lake itself was a sight to behold. Though the national park was closed due to the end of the season, we enjoyed a pleasant walk. It's worth noting that most of the information provided along the way was in German, as it was a shared tour with German tourists and our English tour guide struggled to get a word in edgewise. It added an unexpected element of comedy to the experience!
Another unforgettable adventure was our visit to Kotor Old Town, a place that truly captivated us. Similar to Budva's old town, Kotor was four times the size and brimming with activity. As we made our way back, the coach wound its way up the snake pass, clinging to the side of the mountain. The nerves of steel possessed by our skilled driver were evident, but the reward at the summit was beyond compare—the most awe-inspiring views that left us utterly speechless.
In the end, our impromptu trip to Budva, Montenegro turned out to be a serendipitous adventure. From the charming allure of Budva Old Town to the breathtaking vistas of Lake Skadar and the mesmerizing beauty of Kotor, we fell in love with this hidden gem on the Adriatic coast. So, if you're ever looking for a holiday that combines history, natural beauty, and a touch of the unexpected, I wholeheartedly recommend Budva as your next travel destination.
Until our next adventure,
Opmerkingen