Bloc magazine summer 25.

21 With its dramatic mountain backdrop, Venetian-era architecture, and tranquil bay waters, Kotor offers an enchanting blend of history, culture, and natural beauty – all without the crowds of more familiar Mediterranean destinations. A UNESCOWorld Heritage site, Kotor’s old town is a maze of narrow cobbled streets, sun-dappled squares, and centuries-old churches. The medieval city walls rise steeply above, leading adventurous visitors to the Fortress of San Giovanni. The climb is steep, but the panoramic views over the Bay of Kotor – often called Europe’s southernmost fjord – are utterly worth the effort. Kotor’s charm lies in its authenticity. Unlike heavily commercialised resort towns, it retains a lived-in feel, with locals selling homemade cheese, olive oil, and rakija from shaded market stalls. Cafés spill onto the squares, offering strong coffee and people-watching beneath ancient stone façades. Cat lovers will notice the town’s feline residents lounging around every corner – a quirk that’s earned Kotor the nickname “the city of cats.” Beyond the old town, the bay is dotted with idyllic villages like Perast, where baroque palaces line the waterfront, and boat rides to the mysterious Our Lady of the Rocks island offer peaceful escapes. Adventurers can explore nearby hiking trails, kayak the serene waters, or drive the serpentine roads up to Lovćen National Park for breathtaking vistas. With its rich history, striking landscapes, and relaxed pace, Kotor feels like a place suspended in time. For travellers seeking an off-the-beaten-path European escape, this Montenegrin gem offers an unforgettable alternative to the typical tourist trail – and a welcome breath of Adriatic air.