Sveti Stefan is the landmark of Montenegro and the most famous spot on the country’s coast. This unique and picturesque place offers undoubtedly the best view in Budva, making it a perfect spot for capturing unforgettable Instagram photos.
The sea here is clean and clear, with an amazing deep blue color. The waves gently splash into the fine pebbles, which have an extraordinary pinkish reflection in the sun. Locals call it sand, but the beach is actually made of very, very small pebbles.
Quiet and calm, with a backdrop of pine, olive, and cypress forests, the beach creates an atmosphere of serenity and peacefulness. The whole area is very private and quiet, with no loud music or party-friendly beach bars. For day parties, Budva city center is the place to be.
The historic old town that occupies the entire little island adds to the picturesque view. Actually, it’s more of a peninsula than an island, connected to the mainland by a narrow isthmus. The stone fortress, established in the 15th century, adds a cultural dimension to the experience.
The park just behind the beach is also a must-see. Don’t miss the scenic hiking route through 13 acres of scented forest full of pines, laurels, mimosas, and other regional species. This magnificent garden, part of the summer residence of the Yugoslav royal family Karadjordjevic, was developed with special care. Most of the pathway offers million-dollar views of the peninsula, Budva old town, and the vast blue sea.
St. Stefan Fortress
The fortress was originally built to protect against the Ottomans. After their failed attempt to conquer the nearby town of Kotor, the local Montenegrins decided to build a stone town on a small peninsula. They named it Saint Stefan after the patron of the church that had been there for centuries. The fortress served as a court of justice but was mainly home to local fishermen.
In the 1950s, the town was evicted, and the peninsula became a closed luxury resort for the world’s rich and famous. However, it retained its original look and authenticity, with white shutters and red roofs, making it one of the most culturally rich resorts in the Mediterranean.
St. Stefan – The Luxury Retreat
The stone peninsula is a glamorous luxury resort that has been a hotspot for VIPs from around the world. Celebrities like Novak Djokovic, Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie, David and Victoria Beckham, Michael Douglas, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Ronaldinho, Marilyn Monroe, and Jeremy Irons have all chosen this place for their holidays. Novak Djokovic, the world’s best tennis player, even chose it for his glamorous wedding venue.
Sveti Stefan is part of the luxury Aman hotels and spa resort, along with Queen’s and King’s beach resorts. Until recently, the part of the beach to the right of the isthmus was closed to visitors and reserved only for hotel guests. However, due to a legal dispute, the hotel is now closed, and the beach is open to all visitors. Similar to Queen’s beach, this means there is very little beach infrastructure. Unfortunately, the stone town resort of St. Stefan remains locked up and cannot be visited.
Beach Infrastructure
The beach itself is clean and well-kept. You can rent sunbeds or bring your own towels and an umbrella. Additionally, you can rent paddle boards or use the well-maintained children’s playground nearby. When you get hungry, indulge in delicious food from the Olive restaurant, conveniently located close to the beach.
Getting to Sveti Stefan
Sveti Stefan peninsula is about 10 km away from Budva city center. You can get there by car, taxi, boat, or local bus. If you opt for your own ride, there is parking available.
Best Accommodation Near St. Stefan Beach
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