A pretty little town has been described as an ‘untouched gem’ which is perfect for a winter getaway – with temperatures in the high-teens during December.
The south-east European town is located in a stunning natural bay which is also home to a number of other iconic settlements.
But the Montenegrin town of Perast is unique because of its tiny population of just a few hundred. Its close proximity to several islets on Kotor Bay also make it a brilliant weekend visit as travellers are able to spend a day checking out the neighbouring – and slightly better-known – city of Kotor.
The Bay of Kotor is one of the most beautiful places on earth. It has huge mountains rising just metres from the surface of the water, and the coastline weaves and winds its way around endless corners.
The quiet town of Perast is an absolute haven for those wanting to recharge from their stressful jobs. While Kotor is just a twenty-minute drive away (or a three-hour walk for the hardier traveller), there is plenty to do in Perast.
The main square of Perast has a number of impressive statues and a resulting number of walkways and little streets around its quaint ‘old town’ section.
A must visit is the stunning St. Nicholas’s Church, which was built in 1616 and has a wonderful domed room at its centre. Visitors are also urged to climb up the stairs of the fifty-five-metre Bell Tower which provides an incredible view of Perast and the rest of the Bay of Kotor.
After this, you should take a boat ride out to Our Lady on the Rocks – a small islet with a church and museum of naval artifacts. Fascinatingly, locals attend a festival every summer and chuck rocks to the side of the islet in order to supposedly continually increase its size.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a holiday without a quick visit to the beach – whatever the weather. The beaches here are beautiful, although not very sandy. Nevertheless, the water should be just about bearable for a quick dip.
