Kotor to Herceg Novi

Your first stop takes you to the town of Perast! Parking is available roadside.

Take a stroll down to the seafront, to Viskovic Palace!
Whenever I make a trip along the bay road, I always make sure to stop in Perast, a picturesque village that, despite it's size, has played a vital role in the history of Boka Bay and contains some of the most beautiful ancient architecture in the area!
Viskovic Palace is a testament to the historic wealth of this tiny village and dates back as far as the 15th Century! Named after the Viskovic family who greatly contributed to the military, economic and political importance of the town, the palace represented the defensive heart of Perast and a demonstration of it's importance at the time.
From outside the palace, you have breathtaking views of the bay and surrounding mountains as well as a good view across to the Island of Our Lady of the Rocks, which, if you have time can be reached by boat from the waterfront.

Head back and jump back in the car!

Time to grab some lunch in my old hometown, Bijela!
A popular destination over the summer months, Bijela is heaving with tourists. However, if you visit at the beginning of June or towards the end of August you will find a quiet, seaside town with a small selection of local bars and restaurants!
Of the eateries on offer, just before you reach the town, you will find a place I try to visit as often as possible!
Easy to mistake for a fishing hut if you're not on the lookout, this tiny restaurant serves 3 things - mussels, oysters and delicious homemade white wine!
Grab a table and place your order, then watch as your waiter collects the mussels and oysters straight from the sea! You absolutely cannot get fresher than this!

Continue along the coast to reach my home, Herceg Novi!
It can be a little tricky navigating the narrow streets of this town, especially over the season. However, once you make it to the car park you can leave your car until tomorrow!

Your first stop takes you to Forte Mare.
The first of three forts on your itinerary for today, Forte Mare takes it's name from the Venetians who ruled during the 17th Century. An integral part of the local history, it is rumoured that the very first stone was laid by King Stjepan Tvrtko I, when he founded the town in 1382!

Next, take a short walk into Starigrad, or the Old Town, to Belavista Square!
One of the most popular of the town's locations, Belavista Square features a handful of excellent restaurants and cafes and boasts one of the towns most beautiful buildings, The Church of Michael the Archangel!
Take a wander around the square and then grab a coffee at Belavista, directly opposite the church!

A short walk up from Belavista you will find the second fort on today's agenda, Kanli Kula!
Originally built in the 16th Century by the Turks, the fortress was repaired and modified by the Venetians 100 years later, following their successful conquest of the city.
From the outside the fort is in fairly good condition and remains much the same as it was over 400 years ago! However, step inside and you will find a beautiful open-air amphitheater! Converted in 1966, the theatre holds 1000 people and is regularly used to host local cultural events and concerts, including the Herceg Novi Film Festival!

Fort number three, and my personal favourite!
In order to reach the fort, you will have to continue up from Kanli Kula.
The walk takes you out of the city and along some quaint country roads that used to be a favourite for our dogs! The fort is visibly less intact the previous two. However, contains some fascinating ruins, including an ancient barracks and several farm buildings.
The fortress takes it's name - Forte Spanjola - from the Spaniards who began it's construction in 1538 before they were forced out by the Ottoman Empire the following year. It was the Ottomans who completed the fortress. Over the years the fortress changed hands and names several times with the Ottomans naming it Gornji grad, meaning "Upper Town" and the conquering Venetians referring to the building as "Fortezza Superiore"

Make your way back into town to a great little pub, Orca!
One of the town's true hidden gems, Orca could very easily be mistaken for just another of the beautiful stone townhouses that line the streets of the old town. Inside you will find a warm and welcoming little establishment that almost feels as though you are stepping into someone's living room!
It is a great spot to catch live music and if you catch them at the right time on the occasional Sunday you'll be treated to a classic movie on the pubs projector! Please note that they have no official opening times and sometimes they will just be closed!

Dinnertime! Head back up to Belavista square to a restaurant that has become extremely popular among expats in the area - Portofino!
Portofino is well known to serve some of the very best food in town, and, although a little pricey, is well worth the extra Euros!
The menu is full of Mediterranean classics, including fantastic, fresh seafood! It's the perfect location to sit outside on a Summer's evening and enjoy a great meal and a few glasses of wine!

Time to head to your accommodation for the evening!
If traveling in Summer, I highly recommend booking in advance as hotels and apartments fill up very quickly!