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Tiny country becomes a big draw
TUCKED away at the bottom of Europe’s deepest canyon, we paddle as if our lives depend on it.
As we race down the Tara River Gorge in northern Montenegro, I try my best to take in the spectacular landscape of waterfalls, caves and lush green peaks.
But when a burly guide tells us to accelerate, we do as we are told and drive our paddles into the foaming water.
Rafting is the big draw to this hidden area of Montenegro, the minuscule Balkan country brimming with majestic mountains and medieval villages.
The lower depths of the Tara Gorge, only accessible by water, are like a lost world.
And, between bursts of speed, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the fairytale scenery of Durmitor National Park along the way.
Another highlight is the five-arch Djurdjevica Bridge, which spans the Tara.
Its central arch was blown up during the Second World War to halt enemy units but it was rebuilt in 1946 and is now one of the country’s most visited attractions.
Previous rafting experience is not necessary to enjoy the river here. Those who fancy a go get a safety briefing at the start of the route in Splaviste and are equipped with a life-jacket. Children as young as three are allowed to take part, making it an ideal family activity.
Appealing to adventure travellers, mini-breakers and families keen to venture off the beaten track, Montenegro is growing ever more popular.
The country is currently enjoying the spotlight after being hailed as a must-visit destination for 2016.
EasyJet are meeting the demand by offering new flights to Tivat from Gatwick and Manchester from £34.99 – a tiny price to pay for some soul-stirring adventures.
From quad-biking and Jeep safaris to paragliding and watersports, there’s a range of adrenaline-pumping activities on offer which make the most of Montenegro’s staggering scenery and captivating coastline.
During my visit, I took to the water for a spot of sailing – this time in the Adriatic at Lustica Bay.
The marina town, a short drive from popular coastal spot Tivat, is being developed, with golf courses and luxury hotels in the offing.
If you’d rather be relaxing in the sun, head to Porto Montenegro, the fastest-growing marina in the Mediterranean, with new homes and facilities being added all the time.
What was once a military shipyard now looks more like the setting for a Bond film or a glossy US drama.
The marina has space for 127 250-metre super yachts, giving it a VIP feel.
It’s also home to the Porto Montenegro Yacht Club, which boasts a 64-metre infinity pool.
For around 40 Euros a day guests can enjoy waiter service as they relax poolside surrounded by views of the Boka Bay. The marina’s five- ED GLEAVE star Regent hotel is the perfect place for lunch.
With its Venetian architecture and terracotta roofing, it oozes old-fashioned charm but the food is modern and daring.
The chef wowed us with a starter of tomatoes and buffalo mozzarella cream with basil ice cream, followed by pan-seared red mullet fillet then a rich chocolate mousse.
There are also many cheaper dining options along Montenegro’s 180-mile coastline.
Established 40 years, Restaurant Jadran can seat 600 guests. Shortly after arriving, owner Niklanovic warned the main course would take a while…and it did.
But as he set the salt crust of the dentex fish alight, I realised it had been worth the wait. After cutting the snowy-looking coating away, the fish that remained tasted melt-in-themouth good.
A great place to stay for couples and families is the five-star Splendid Conference and Spa Resort, which has its own private beach.
Guests have included Madonna, The Rolling Stones and Bill Clinton. It has its own casino named after the