Montenegro, a small Southeast European country with 117 beaches along 293 kilometers of coastline, has long been a dream destination for travelers seeking an escape from everyday life. Just three hours from London, this picturesque nation has seen a surge in popularity among British tourists, with UK flights increasing by 164% in 2024. However, one mesmerizing corner of Montenegro has been completely off-limits to visitors until now.
Sveti Stefan Reopens After Legal Dispute
Sveti Stefan, a small island and luxury resort village, was closed to the public in 2021 due to a long-running legal and political dispute with the Government of Montenegro over beach access for locals. After five years of uncertainty, a settlement has finally been reached. The hotel operator on the island, Aman, has announced it will reopen its doors to guests this summer. This highly exclusive and remote spot, once called the most 'extraordinary sight along the Adriatic shoreline' by Lonely Planet, may soon become your next dream destination.
Beach Access Agreement
Under the new settlement, locals will now have free access to Sveti Stefan Beach and King's Beach, while Queen's Beach will remain private for guests staying at Aman. All three beaches are beautiful in their own right, with crystal-clear blue waters and dramatic coastal scenery. Sveti Stefan Beach is often regarded as the most photographed shore due to its positioning behind historic stone buildings rising from the islet. King's Beach is smaller and more secluded, surrounded by pine trees and hidden beneath lush forest. Queen's Beach, nestled into a cove, offers a serene and tranquil afternoon.
The Iconic Pink Beach
One of the most captivating features of Sveti Stefan is its distinctive pink hue. The soft blush color comes from a mixture of fine sand, crushed red shells, and pebbles. Under the sparkling Adriatic sunlight, it creates a truly mesmerizing sight. The island has been visited by celebrities such as Elizabeth Taylor and Sophia Loren, adding to its allure.
How to Get to Sveti Stefan
The easiest way to reach Sveti Stefan is to fly into Tivat Airport (TIV) or Podgorica (TGD) in Montenegro. Traveling the first week of July, you can catch a direct flight from Luton to Tivat with EasyJet for £250, or fly with Wizz Air from Gatwick to Podgorica for just £152. From there, a taxi or shuttle takes approximately 40 minutes from Tivat and about an hour from Podgorica.
Accommodation at Aman Sveti Stefan
The hotel is officially due to reopen on July 1, 2026. It consists of 33 individual hand-restored stone cottages and suites with modern furniture. The most premiere property, the Sveti Stefan Suite, offers a private swimming pool, breathtaking sea views, a spacious interior over 165 square meters, and even a steam room. Including taxes and fees, staying here costs €6,933 (£5,998) per night. The most affordable option, a two-bedroom suite, is priced at €4,458 (£3,857) per night.
