Totally gorge
TIKTOK popularised the idea of “dupes,” or more affordable alternatives to popular products, and the concept is increasingly taking off in the world of travel according to the Expedia Group’s latest travel trends report.
Just a short journey from the perennial tourism favourite of Croatia, Montenegro boasts cheaper accommodation, attractions and gastronomy — all whilst offering sandy beaches, historic towns and national parks.
Here we’ve rounded up some of its top sights which can easily rival its Balkan neighbour...
Swap Split for Sveti Stefan: A favourite with both royalty and tourists alike since 1930,
Sveti Stefan is a quaint 15th century village boasting pink-pebble beaches and azure waters.
Visitors can take a stroll through Milocer Park framing the historic monastery of Praskvica, followed by a dinner of fresh seafood whilst watching the sunset over the Adriatic Sea.
Trade Plitvice Lakes National Park for Durmitor National Park: Offering breathtaking views of surrounding nature, Durmitor National Park was formed by glaciers and is traversed by rivers and underground streams.
Along the Tara River Canyon, which includes the deepest gorge in Europe, the dense pine forests are teamed with clear lakes and a wide range of flora and fauna.
The adventurous can hike the highest peak in Montenegro, Bobotov Kuk at 2,523m or experience rafting on the wild waters of The Tara River.
Switch Lake Vrana for Lake Skadar National Park: The largest lake in the Balkans, Skadar Lake and National Park shares its waters with Albania and is an important destination for migratory birds.
Visitors can take a gentle, guided boat tour and cruise the serene lake with mountains in every direction before heading to a local restaurant in the village
THE fabulous Cahernane House Hotel in Killarney, Co Kerry has just announced a new package sure to inspire all amateur photographers.
The ‘Cahernane Captured Photography Retreat’ takes place from March 19-21.
It is ideal for those who want to learn more about how to get to make the most of their photographs with top tips on working with natural light and capturing a moment in time. of Virpazar to enjoy a fresh morning catch from the lake.
Other ways to discover Montenegro include visiting the iconic Our Lady of the Rocks island sanctuary off the coast of Perast with its rich history — or try some of the open-water swimming locations along the coast.
You can also explore Budva’s 2,500-year-old walls in the coastal town known for its lively nightlife or check out the luxury on offer at Porto Montenegro Waterfront area, which is home to a large marina for superyachts, high-end boutiques & upscale restaurants.
For more information on Montenegro, visit www.montenegro. travel/en.
HOTEL BREAK CAN BE PICTURE PERFECT...
Guests will enjoy a full day of expert guidance and tuition with photographers Keith and Evelyn Woodard, a two-night stay with full Irish breakfast each morning and dinner on both evenings as well as welcome drinks with the photographers on arrival (rates from €346 per person sharing).
Participants on the photography retreat will go into nature with Keith and Evelyn and stop off at the adjacent Killarney National Park and beyond to capture some of the remarkable scenery in the area.
The hands-on tuition day commences at the original entrance to Muckross
House Estate and concludes with the breathtaking Torc Waterfall which is one of the most stunning natural attractions in the area.
For more or to book, see www.cahernane.com or call 064 663 1895.