Mamula Island, also known as Lastavica Island (meaning “Swallow in Montenegrin”), is a small islet located near the entrance to the Bay of Kotor in Montenegro. The island is known for its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and unique architecture, making it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Montenegro.
Montenegro Essentials
Montenegrin Essentials – Planning a trip to Montenegro? These travel essentials will help you plan your journey
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Montenegro Tours
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History of Mamula Island
In Venetian times, the island went by Rondina. Nowadays, a fort dominates nearly all of its surface. Lazarus von Mamula, an Austro-Hungarian general, put it up in 1853, along with two other fortifications at Prevlaka’s Cape Oštro and Luštica’s Cape Arza, to help ward off enemies from entering Kotor Bay.
Did you know that Mamula Island remained uninhabited for decades after the war, giving it an eerie, abandoned feel—perfect for history buffs and adventurers?
During World War II, however, the Mamula fort became a concentration camp where prisoners were treated with extreme cruelty. Today, despite objections from former prisoners, the Montenegrin government approved turning the site into a posh beach resort through a lease deal with Orascom Development Holding AG. The move has been criticized as prioritizing profit over preserving the fort’s history.
Reasons to Visit Mamula Island
Rich History
The island has a rich history, having served as a strategic military fortress during World War II. Italian and German forces used the island as a concentration camp. Visitors can explore the fortress and learn about its dark past.
Natural Beauty
The island is surrounded by crystal clear waters, and visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The island is also home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it a great destination for nature lovers.
Unique Architecture
The island’s unique architecture, which combines elements of military fortification and residential buildings, makes it a fascinating place to explore. Visitors can admire the island’s many tunnels, passages, and fortifications, and learn about the island’s unique history and significance.
Did you know that remnants of prisoner carvings, names, and messages can still be seen etched into the stone walls of Mamula’s interior?
How to Get to Mamula Island
Mamula Island is located approximately 10 km west of Herceg Novi, and can be reached by boat. Boat tours to the island are available from several ports along the Montenegrin coast, including Herceg Novi, Kotor, and Budva.
Accommodation
The obvious place to stay is on the Mamula Island Hotel, which gives you a very unique combination of luxury combined with the illustrious history.
Immerse yourself in the unsurpassed magnificence of Mamula Island Hotel, set in a historic 19th-century stronghold on a lovely Montenegrin island. With 22 unique suites and 10 rooms, each with stunning sea views, this hotel redefines luxury. Indulge in culinary pleasures at three exquisite restaurants, relax at the holistic spa, and participate in personalized cultural excursions. Whether you choose an energetic adventure or a relaxing getaway, Mamula Island Hotel offers an extraordinary escape that combines historical heritage with modern magnificence and sustainable elegance.
However, there are several accommodation options available in nearby towns, including Herceg Novi and Kotor. Here are three places we recommend:
Boutique Hotel Casa del Mare – Mediterraneo: A luxurious hotel located in Dobrota, Kotor. Boutique Hotel Casa del Mare offers stunning views of the bay and a range of amenities, including a spa, swimming pool, and fitness center. Also read our article on the best boutique hotels in Montenegro.
Herdera Residences: Enjoy stunning sea views at Hedera Residences – Kumbor in Herceg-Novi. This impressive accommodation offers free WiFi, private parking, and a range of amenities including a garden, shared lounge, terrace, and bar. The stylish apartments feature air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and private bathrooms with free toiletries. Some units even have a fully equipped kitchen. Guests can conveniently rent bicycles or cars to explore the area. With Kumbor Beach just 200 meters away and Denovici Beach a short 2.1 km distance, you’ll have endless coastal adventures.
Apartments Jadran: These modern apartments are located just outside of Herceg Novi, in a peaceful and tranquil setting. They offer comfortable accommodations and a range of outdoor activities.
If you are happy to stay on the island, Mamula Island Hotel is the place to be. As mentioned earlier, the Mamula Island Hotel is a unique and luxurious retreat located on the stunning Mamula Island in Montenegro. The hotel is situated on the site of a former concentration camp but has been beautifully renovated and transformed into a luxurious resort that offers guests a truly unforgettable experience.
5 Activities to Do on Mamula Island
Explore the Island’s Fortifications: Take a guided tour of the island’s fortifications and learn about their unique history and significance.
Swim in the Crystal Clear Waters: Take a dip in the crystal clear waters surrounding the island, and enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the area.
Snorkel or Dive: The waters surrounding Mamula Island offer great opportunities for snorkeling and diving, with a diverse range of marine life to observe.
Enjoy a Boat Tour: Take a boat tour around the bay and explore the stunning coastline and nearby islands.
Enjoy a Sunset: The island offers stunning views of the sunset, making it a perfect place to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of Montenegro.
Did you know that the fortress is nearly perfectly circular, and its symmetry made it one of the most advanced coastal defenses of its time in the Adriatic?
Conclusion
Mamula Island is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history and natural beauty of Montenegro. Its fascinating history, stunning natural beauty, and unique architecture make it a truly exceptional place to explore. Accessible from major ports with nearby accommodation, Montenegro offers an easy trip planning for any budget. We hope this blog has inspired you to include Mamula Island.
Where to Stay
Looking for a hotel to stay?
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