The Montenegro Hilltop Hideaway, Bay of Kotor, Montenegro - Explore & Book

"We could happily spend weeks marvelling at the views from this stunning hilltop hideaway. And, clearly, we're not the only ones. In 2018, two friends from London were so enchanted by "the vistas of mountains rising straight from the sea and fortified medieval towns" that they bought this 16th-century olive mill, renovated its old stonework and beamed ceilings, and spent happy summers here. New owners - also British - arrived in 2022, adding more homely touches and opening it up to guests through the season. Inside, there's a gracious but cosy living room, a spacious kitchen and five en-suite double bedrooms, furnished with antique pieces, handmade Persian rugs, old prints and eclectic artworks. The result is a fabulous, homely retreat with bags of character. Outside, there's a terraced garden with outdoor eating spaces and a pool with parasols and wooden sunbeds, all overlooking the dramatic mountains and calm waters of Kotor Bay. The location, on Lustica peninsula, offers a lush interior dotted with rural villages, medieval churches and olive groves that once supplied the Venetian Republic's coastal settlements. Lustica gives onto Kotor Bay to the north and the open sea to the south, where you'll find several blissfully secluded beaches. Nearby activities include sailing, sea-kayaking, cycling and hiking; kids will love it here. Come with all the family or bring your friends - this would make a great hideaway for a celebration with loved ones. Highs The magnificent hillside location above the Bay of Kotor – near medieval Kotor town, but away from the crowds Lovely walled garden with stone terraces, a barbecue, a saltwater pool with views, fig trees, climbing roses and fragrant herbs Each bedroom has its own outdoor entrance for added privacy The rustic sitting room comes with wood-burning stove, comfy sofas, antique pieces, artworks, and ents system The proximity to both sea and mountains makes it a perfect base for watersports and adventure sports enthusiasts Lows The tiny hamlet of Zabrdje is very sleepy so don't expect much in the way of shopping or nightlife - although there is a van that comes each morning selling homemade wine, meat, oil and other essentials You really need to hire a car to explore the area properly There's an adjoining annexe that's separately owned, with outdoor space beside the back veranda, but no facilities are shared We've not visited in person since the new owners arrived in 2022" - Jane Foster