Great Balkan Adventure: Albania and Montenegro

About the destination: Tirana è di gran lunga la città più grande dell'Albania e il suo centro amministrativo, culturale, economico e industriale. Oggi è una città interessante e affascinante, con una vivace vita notturna. Tirana è dove la vecchia e la nuova Albania si incontrano. C'è un'imponente moschea ottomana e il suo imponente minareto vicino a Piazza Skanderbeg, la piazza principale di Tirana. La costruzione della Moschea Ethem Bey iniziò nel 1798 e fu terminata nel 1821. Chiusa sotto il regime comunista, la moschea ha riaperto come luogo di culto nel 1991. Guarda gli affreschi all'esterno e nel portico che raffigurano alberi, cascate, case ottomane e ponti, motivi raramente visti nell'arte islamica. Il centro di Tirana è una deliziosa area di ampi viali alberati e grandi piazze, popolata da un'architettura brutalista indimenticabile ea volte estremamente colorata. Ha anche alcuni grandi esempi di realismo eroico e socialista, come l'enorme murale sulla facciata del Museo di Storia Nazionale. Tirana è una città affascinante e capitale di un paese affascinante. È molto rilassante, con persone amichevoli e ospitali, alcuni ottimi ristoranti e una vivace vita notturna. Puoi praticamente vedere tutto ciò che la città ha da offrire in un giorno o due, ma è un ottimo posto per partire per esplorare i luoghi vicini, come Durazzo e Kruja.

About the destination: Albania is one of the last secrets to discover for tourism and travelers, a country with great natural and spiritual wealth, which spent more than 50 years of the 20th century completely isolated from the rest of the world. Being the border with Montenegro just 20 kilometers from Ulcinj, we do not hesitate to include in our route visiting Shkoder, one of the most important and most influential cities in Albania, in fact, it is the second largest in the country.

About the destination: With a population of less than 150.000 people, Podgorica is one of the smallest capitals in Europe. Due to its almost total destruction during World War II, the city nowadays has not many exciting sights to offer. Many of the buildings in the city centre date from the socialist era of Yugoslavia, when Podgorica was named Titograd. One of the newer well worth seeing landmarks is the Millennium Bridge, Most Milenijum, which was opened in 2005. Trg Republike, Republic Square, is the main square of downtown Podgorica. It is a nice shopping area with lots of pleasant restaurants and bars. Stara Varos, the old Turkish town, is a typical old Turkish town with narrow and curvy streets. The Clock Tower is one of the most important monuments in the old town. With a handful of quirky sights, lots of students, a buzzing nightlife scene, enjoyable restaurants and transport connections, Podgorica is not that bad a place to spend a day or two. Podgorica has a reputation as a party town, and it's no problem for visitors to make friends in one of the city's many cafés, bars and clubs.

About the destination: Durmitor is a massif located in northwestern Montenegro. It is part of the Dinaric Alps. Its highest peak, Bobotov Kuk, reaches a height of 2,523 meters (8,278 ft). The massif is limited by the Tara River Canyon on the north, the Piva River Canyon on the west, and by the Komarnica River Canyon on the south. To the east, the Durmitor opens to a 1,500 m (4,921 ft) high plateau, called Jezerska površ (Plateau of Lakes). The Sinjavina mountain is located to the east of the Jezerska površ plateau. The Durmitor is for the most part located in the Žabljak municipality. The massif gives its name to the national park that comprises it. Durmitor National Park was founded in 1952, and designated as a World Heritage Site in 1980.

About the destination: Žabljak, a picturesque town nestled in the heart of Montenegro's Durmitor National Park, is a premier destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Situated at an altitude of 1,456 meters, it is the highest town in the Balkans, offering stunning panoramic views and a cool mountain climate. Known for its proximity to the majestic Durmitor Mountain and the Tara River Canyon, Žabljak provides access to a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, mountain biking, and white-water rafting. The town itself boasts charming accommodations, cozy restaurants serving local cuisine, and a welcoming atmosphere. With its breathtaking landscapes and rich natural heritage, Žabljak is the perfect gateway to explore Montenegro's rugged beauty and outdoor adventures.

About the destination: Kolašin, fortress-settlement, was raised by the Turks in the middle of the 17th century in the namesake village in Nikšić district (nahiye). The village of Kolašin was first mentioned in the Sultan's Decree in 1565, by which the deceased Grand Duke Miloš was replaced by his son Todor. The Turkish town was named after the former village of Kolašin. In 1651, Patriarch Gavrilo assigned Eparch of Zahumsko, the Eparchy of Nikšić, Plana, the Kolašinovićevs and the Morača to Basil of Ostrog. This document also, like the one from 1667, shows that the Orthodox Christian population of this region called the Kolašinovići, was organized in a recognized and respected tribal community of the Kolašinovićs. The historical science and sources recognize the surname Kolašinović. By all odds, the name was also derived, same as the name of the region, fortress – settlement and the tribe from the same source – the village of Kolašin.

About the destination: Welcome to Cetinje, the historical heart of Montenegro, where the past and present blend seamlessly to offer visitors an authentic taste of Montenegrin culture. Nestled at the foot of Mount Lovćen, within the Lovćen National Park, Cetinje's picturesque setting is as compelling as its rich heritage. Known as the "Valley of Gods," this quaint town once served as the royal capital of Montenegro and today stands as a monument to its storied past. Begin your exploration at the Cetinje Monastery, a bastion of Orthodox Christianity and Montenegrin spirituality. This 15th-century sanctuary is home to relics of Saint Peter of Cetinje, as well as the hand of John the Baptist, making it a site of immense religious and cultural significance. Stroll down the tree-lined avenues and you'll encounter a series of charming embassies and palaces, such as the Blue Palace, which now serves as the President's residence, and King Nikola's Palace, which has been transformed into a museum showcasing royal artifacts and national history. After immersing yourself in the town's history, take a leisurely walk to the Cetinje Historical Core to experience the local lifestyle. Here, amidst the vibrant market stalls and quaint cafés, you can sample traditional Montenegrin cuisine and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere. Don't miss the opportunity to try "Njeguški pršut," a local prosciutto that is a delicacy of the region, or sip on a strong "domaća kafa," the local coffee that is sure to energize your travels. Venture beyond the town's boundaries to discover the natural wonders that surround Cetinje. The serpentine roads lead to the majestic Lovćen National Park, where you can hike trails offering panoramic views of the Bay of Kotor on one side and the Skadar Lake on the other. The Mausoleum of Petar II Petrović-Njegoš, perched atop Mount Lovćen's second-highest peak, provides not only a historical landmark but also an unparalleled vista of Montenegro's rugged landscape. Whether you're a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, Cetinje's timeless allure is guaranteed to captivate your heart.

About the destination: Kotor is a coastal town in Montenegro. It is located in a secluded part of the Gulf of Kotor. It is located on the Bay of Kotor (Boka Kotorska), one of the most indented parts of the Adriatic Sea. Together with the nearly overhanging limestone cliffs of Orjen and Lovćen, Kotor and its surrounding area form an impressive and picturesque Mediterranean landscape. Kotor is part of the World Heritage Site dubbed the Natural and Culturo-Historical Region of Kotor. MAIN TOURIST ATTRACTIONS • Old Town. The Old Town is the most famous part of Kotor, where the Kotor history, culture, and tradition are being preserved. They are complemented with the multitude of narrow streets, squares, and markets. The main and the biggest square is Trg od oruzja (Square of arms). The old town of Kotor today is considered to be the best preserved medieval urban entity in the Mediterranean. • Maritime Museum. The memories on those long gone sailing days and years, the successes of the famous Kotor seaman, artists, ship builders, crafts man, states man, and diplomats, intermediaries between west and east, are kept in the Maritime museum, which is housed in the baroque palace Grgurin. • The Island Gospa od Skrpjela. The Island Gospa od Skrpjela is one of two gorgeous islands in Kotor Bay, which are situated in the bay across from Perast. That island is also called ""the island of the dead captains"". The Island Gospa od Skrpjela is an artificial island, made by seaman from Perast and Kotor, who on their big sail boats brought in large boulders.

About the destination: Welcome to Perast, a hidden gem nestled on the edge of the Bay of Kotor in Montenegro. This charming coastal town is steeped in history and beauty, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. With its beautifully preserved stone buildings and baroque architecture, Perast is a picturesque destination that invites travelers to step back in time and soak in the tranquil atmosphere of the Adriatic coast. As you wander through the cobblestone streets, you'll be greeted by the sight of old churches and stunning palazzos. The town's most famous landmarks are the two islets off its coast, each boasting a significant religious structure: St. George, with its centuries-old monastery, and Our Lady of the Rocks, with its historic church and museum. A visit to these islets is a must-do; you can easily reach them by taking a short boat ride, where you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views and a fascinating glimpse into the region's lore and legend. Perast's waterfront promenade is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the view of the sparkling bay against a backdrop of dramatic mountains. Here you can savor the fresh local seafood in one of the quaint restaurants or cafes, all the while admiring the magnificent scenery and the leisurely pace of life. As the day winds down, the promenade becomes an idyllic spot to witness one of the most stunning sunsets on the Adriatic. For those interested in history and culture, the Maritime Museum of Perast offers insight into the town's storied past as a naval power during the Venetian period. The museum showcases artifacts and exhibits that highlight the town's seafaring traditions and its connection to the sea. Whether you're a history buff or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Perast is a destination that promises a memorable experience combining natural beauty, historical richness, and a touch of Montenegrin hospitality.

About the destination: Herceg Novi is a coastal town in Montenegro located at the entrance to the Bay of Kotor and at the foot of Mount Orjen. It is the administrative center of the Herceg Novi Municipality. Herceg Novi was known as Castelnuovo between 1420 and 1797 when it was part of the Albania Veneta of the Republic of Venice. MAIN TOURIST ATTRACTIONS • The Herceg Novi old town. It is on a fairly steep hill that leads all the way down to the sea. There are both Orthodox and Catholic churches that are well worth visiting. • The Kanli Kula fortress dominating the old town doubles as an open-air theatre and is worth visiting mainly for the splendid views of the town and the Kotor bay (entrance fee as of August 2012: 1 euro) • The Spanjola fortress located higher up the mountain (170 meters above see level) dates back to 16th century. Take a small street going upwards across from the Kanli Kula fortress. • The Savina monastery, approximately 2 km east from the city center has three beautiful Orthodox churches and splendid views of the bay.

About the destination: Kotor is a coastal town in Montenegro. It is located in a secluded part of the Gulf of Kotor. It is located on the Bay of Kotor (Boka Kotorska), one of the most indented parts of the Adriatic Sea. Together with the nearly overhanging limestone cliffs of Orjen and Lovćen, Kotor and its surrounding area form an impressive and picturesque Mediterranean landscape. Kotor is part of the World Heritage Site dubbed the Natural and Culturo-Historical Region of Kotor. MAIN TOURIST ATTRACTIONS • Old Town. The Old Town is the most famous part of Kotor, where the Kotor history, culture, and tradition are being preserved. They are complemented with the multitude of narrow streets, squares, and markets. The main and the biggest square is Trg od oruzja (Square of arms). The old town of Kotor today is considered to be the best preserved medieval urban entity in the Mediterranean. • Maritime Museum. The memories on those long gone sailing days and years, the successes of the famous Kotor seaman, artists, ship builders, crafts man, states man, and diplomats, intermediaries between west and east, are kept in the Maritime museum, which is housed in the baroque palace Grgurin. • The Island Gospa od Skrpjela. The Island Gospa od Skrpjela is one of two gorgeous islands in Kotor Bay, which are situated in the bay across from Perast. That island is also called ""the island of the dead captains"". The Island Gospa od Skrpjela is an artificial island, made by seaman from Perast and Kotor, who on their big sail boats brought in large boulders.

About the destination: With a population of less than 150.000 people, Podgorica is one of the smallest capitals in Europe. Due to its almost total destruction during World War II, the city nowadays has not many exciting sights to offer. Many of the buildings in the city centre date from the socialist era of Yugoslavia, when Podgorica was named Titograd. One of the newer well worth seeing landmarks is the Millennium Bridge, Most Milenijum, which was opened in 2005. Trg Republike, Republic Square, is the main square of downtown Podgorica. It is a nice shopping area with lots of pleasant restaurants and bars. Stara Varos, the old Turkish town, is a typical old Turkish town with narrow and curvy streets. The Clock Tower is one of the most important monuments in the old town. With a handful of quirky sights, lots of students, a buzzing nightlife scene, enjoyable restaurants and transport connections, Podgorica is not that bad a place to spend a day or two. Podgorica has a reputation as a party town, and it's no problem for visitors to make friends in one of the city's many cafés, bars and clubs.

About the destination: Lezhë ([ˈlɛʒə] en italiano, Alessio) es una pequeña ciudad ubicada al noroeste de Albania. Alessio es la capital de la prefectura y distrito del mismo nombre, el alcalde se llama Viktor Tushaj. Lezhë es también la sede de un obispado católico en la catedral de San Nicolás.

About the destination: Tirana è di gran lunga la città più grande dell'Albania e il suo centro amministrativo, culturale, economico e industriale. Oggi è una città interessante e affascinante, con una vivace vita notturna. Tirana è dove la vecchia e la nuova Albania si incontrano. C'è un'imponente moschea ottomana e il suo imponente minareto vicino a Piazza Skanderbeg, la piazza principale di Tirana. La costruzione della Moschea Ethem Bey iniziò nel 1798 e fu terminata nel 1821. Chiusa sotto il regime comunista, la moschea ha riaperto come luogo di culto nel 1991. Guarda gli affreschi all'esterno e nel portico che raffigurano alberi, cascate, case ottomane e ponti, motivi raramente visti nell'arte islamica. Il centro di Tirana è una deliziosa area di ampi viali alberati e grandi piazze, popolata da un'architettura brutalista indimenticabile ea volte estremamente colorata. Ha anche alcuni grandi esempi di realismo eroico e socialista, come l'enorme murale sulla facciata del Museo di Storia Nazionale. Tirana è una città affascinante e capitale di un paese affascinante. È molto rilassante, con persone amichevoli e ospitali, alcuni ottimi ristoranti e una vivace vita notturna. Puoi praticamente vedere tutto ciò che la città ha da offrire in un giorno o due, ma è un ottimo posto per partire per esplorare i luoghi vicini, come Durazzo e Kruja.