Montenegro

JG: More Adriatic goodness. To some, the feel of Montenegro is redundant (fortified, historic towns near a bay), especially those traveling from seaside towns in Croatia. Montenegro was slightly different - it's smaller, not as well known, and a little more intimate as a result. This also began my monthlong infatuation with scooter travel - so easy to get around given the small area to cover. But from Perast down to Petrovac, the scenery can't be beat.

SS: I didn't think the Adriatic coast could get prettier until we roll along the coast towards Kotor. Massive cliffs line the sea, zigzagging in and out of countless bays.

Montenegro is a small country and buses are readily available, so we based ourselves in an apartment in Kotor and ventured out. Up the coast is tiny Perast, specked with 16 churches and two very small islands, one hosting a monastery and the other a 17th century church. Kotor itself has a rich history with a fortified old town spread up the mountain hillside. 

On to the bigger, busier and touristic city of Budva. With a charming old town (fortified of course - it's apparently the thing in this region), with its narrow marble pathways and yet another maze that makes getting lost a pleasure. 
We rented a scooter to travel farther south to the picture perfect Sveti Stefan. An isthmus connecting a tiny island that has been purchased and operates as a luxurious resort, but still really pretty to gaze upon. 

A little further south we stumbled upon Petrovac, where the Romans once built their summer villas. Just past the city is Buljarica Beach; a 2.5 km stretch of sandy beach where we enjoyed the rest of an afternoon.

Now off for an overnight in Albania's capital on our way to the land of the ancient Gods.