Sveti Stefan is a stunning hotel island located in Montenegro. It is one of the most photographed locations on the Adriatic coast and represents a true gem of Montenegrin tourism. The Sveti Stefan hotel is part of the Aman group, and therefore, it has in the past hosted some of the numerous celebrities who have visited Montenegro.
The location is packed with diverse accommodation options, incredible amenities including upscale restaurants and private beaches, as well as stunning rooftops with panoramic views. Unfortunately, the island has been closed for several years now, and it is not possible to access it. However, it still intrigues tourists and locals who come to enjoy its charm even from far away.
Therefore, in this blog, we will share everything I know about Sveti Stefan to help you grasp all the elements which make this hotel island truly special.
Sveti Stefan: Well-Known Hotel Island
Sveti Stefan is a lovely island turned into a hotel off the coast of Budva. With the sandy covering, it is connected to the land called โtomboloโ. This is quite rare to see today anywhere in the world, which makes Sveti Stefan it is more alluring.
This island has been known for a peaceful and relaxing ambience. Therefore, it has become an excellent choice for a relaxing holiday destination. From 2007, Sveti Stefan has become part of the Aman Group together with Villa Milocer, located across the island.
Celebrity Hotspot
Because of their incredible features, pristine waters, enchanting greenery and peaceful environment, it soon became the ultimate holiday retreat for celebrities. Renowned actors such as Sophia Loren and Carla Bruni, along with presidents from numerous countries, celebrated singers, scientists, and other distinguished figures, have all visited.
Among the most notable guests were Princess Margaret of England and King Umberto II of Italy. Hollywood legends, including Kirk Douglas, Doris Day, Geraldine Chaplin, Sidney Poitier, Richard Widmark, Sylvester Stallone, and Jeremy Irons, have all graced its shores. Literary giants Andrรฉ Malraux and Alberto Moravia, Soviet cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin, legendary chess grandmaster Bobby Fischer, and supermodel Claudia Schiffer are also among the elite visitors. Many of these prominent figures stayed in Villa 118, one of the most exclusive residences within the hotel complex. The Villa is still open today as part of the Aman offer, and it is one of the most requested accommodations in Sveti Stefan.
Read Also: Is it better to stay in Budva or Sveti Stefan?
History of Sveti Stefan
Sveti Stefan has a rich and fascinating history, dating back to the 14th century, when it was established as a fishing community. The community rose in importance throughout time, eventually becoming a fortified town with walls and towers to defend itself against attackers using treasure seized from the Turks.
The famous Paลกtroviฤi tribe once used this area, particularly in the 15th century, as a strategic stronghold for defence against enemies. The legend tells that during a Turkish siege of Kotor, the Paลกtroviฤi tribe, gathering around 1,000 men, answered the cityโs call for help. Fighting alongside the citizens of Kotor, they successfully repelled the Turkish forces. On their return, near Jaz Beach, they spotted Turkish galleys anchored offshore and launched another attack, defeating the Turks and capturing a rich bounty.
Each of their twelve tribes used bounty to build a house on the island of Sveti Stefan. The island itself was named after the church of Saint Stephen the First-Martyr (Stefan Prvomuฤenik), built during the Nemanjiฤ dynasty and dedicated to the patron saint of that Serbian royal family.
War Years
Today, remnants of that era, such as preserved cannons and cannon openings, serve as lasting reminders of its historic role. The interior of the town is a charming maze of winding, narrow streets, complemented by picturesque squares and three historic churches. Elegant Mediterranean-style houses now host luxurious hotel suites, blending the townโs rich heritage with refined modern
During the 19th century, Sveti Stefan became a popular summer resort for the wealthy elite of Montenegro and neighbouring countries. People built many luxurious villas and mansions, and the town gained a reputation for its high-end restaurants, cafes, and shops.
However, during World War II, Sveti Stefan was occupied by Italian and German forces, and the town suffered significant damage. After the war, the town was neglected for many years and fell into disrepair.
In the 1950s, the Yugoslav government took over the island and transformed it into a luxury resort for the rich and famous. Many of the old buildings were renovated, and new villas and hotels were built to accommodate guests. This is the period when the most celebrities came to Montenegro, which is a trend that continues today.
Reasons to Visit Sveti Stefani
Relax in a Beautiful Setting
Sveti Stefan is a stunningly beautiful destination that is surrounded by stunning beaches, clear waters, and lush green hills. Visitors can spend the day relaxing on the beach. Also, you can take a boat tour to explore the coastline and the nearby islands. There are also numerous activities to enjoy, including swimming, sunbathing, and kayaking. These tours are available from other cities in Montenegro, like Budva, Bar and Kotor, which present Sveti Stefan in all of its glory.
One of the best areas to enjoy nature, have a swim and soak in the panoramic view is Kraljicina beach and Milocer, which are accessible to the public, very close to island. They compensate greatly restricted access to the main amenities of Sveti Stefan.
Boating and Fishing
The island offers a wide range of boating and fishing activities. Try your luck with a fishing rod or rent a boat to explore the area.
Swimming
As mentioned, one of the most popular attractions in Sveti Stefan is the beautiful beach, also known as King’s Beach or Queen’s Beach, that stretches along the coast. The two beaches are split on either side of the causeway connecting the islet to their mainland.
With crystal clear water and distinct pinkish sand, this beach is the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun. There are plenty of amenities available on the beach, including umbrellas, loungers, and beachside bars where you can enjoy a refreshing drink or snack. They are accessible by boat, which is why many people especially appreciate it.
Hiking
Explore the stunning landscapes of Sveti Stefan by taking a hike. There are many trails to choose from, ranging from easy to strenuous.
One popular trail is the path that connects Sveti Stefan to the charming village of Przno. This trail follows the coastline and provides stunning views of the sea and the rocky cliffs. For a more challenging hike, you might consider the trail that leads to the top of Paลกtrovska Gora, a nearby hill. From the summit, you’ll be able to enjoy panoramic views of the coast and the surrounding hills. Finally, don’t forget to explore the many walking trails within Milocer Park, which is home to a diverse range of plant and animal species.
This is one of the most spectacular roads that allow you to enjoy panoramic views and get a grasp of why Sveti Stefan is so special.
Wine Tasting
Montenegro is known for its delicious wines. Visit local wineries to sample the products and learn about the winemaking process. Read our article on the wonderful range of Montenegrin wines.
Can I visit Sveti Stefan?
As mentioned, Sveti Stefan is owned by Aman Sveti Stefan, which many consider to be the best hotel in Montenegro. Due to ongoing disputes between the owner and the state, the island is closed to visiting, together with Villa Milocer.
Therefore, not all of its amenities are open for visit, nor are the restaurants and facilities nearby. The closest and most enjoyable part is Milocer and Przno. These are fishermen’s villages packed with incredible restaurants and scenic beaches for a fun day in the area.
Read Also: Best places to stay near Sveti Stefan
How do I get to Sveti Stefan?
The easiest way to get from Podgorica to Sveti Stefan, Montenegro, is by car. The drive is about 1 hour and 25 minutes. To get there, take the E762/E80 highway out of Podgorica, then take the E762 highway south and follow the signs for Sveti Stefan. If you don’t have access to a car, you can take a bus from Budva to Sveti Stefan. The bus journey takes about 20 minutes and costs around 2 euros.
To get from Kotor to Sveti Stefan, Montenegro, you can take a taxi, bus, or rent a car. If you choose to drive, rent a car or use a taxi, the journey takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. Take note that this time accounts for the drive without traffic jams, which are quite often in the summertime.
You can also take a bus from Kotor to Budva and then find local buses that can take you to the island. The bus leaves from the bus station in Kotor and takes around 1 hour and 40 minutes. The cost of a one-way ticket is around 10 EUR.
