Verige Strait

Dividing the inner from the outer Bay of Kotor, the Verige Strait is the narrowest choke point and measures a mere 340 meters. Surprisingly still wide enough for huge cruise ships to pass on their way to Kotor, its exceptional strategic location is also its largest asset.

Kotor

Orange rooftops, ancient city walls, and narrow cobblestone streets. Discover the charms of Kotor, a UNESCO-listed coastal town.

It is no wonder then that prime real estate occupies both of its ends – the Verige 65 Restaurant on the northern side and the Church of Our Lady of Angels in the south. Walk up from there and you will discover two abandoned forts (Fort Verige and Fort Bijeli Pijesak) that are another testament to its beneficial geographic position.

For centuries, the Boka Bay residents have been exposed to a potpourri of foreign influences: culturally, politically, and militarily. This is reflected most notably in the strait’s name “Verige” which is an old Montenegrin word for “chains”. Back in the 14th century, a metal chain was cast between both ends to protect the inner bay from invading Venetian ships.

The Bay Area was very important historically because it was one of the few sheltered natural fjord-like inlets between the nautical trading centers of Constantinople, Athens, and Venice. For centuries, Ottomans and Venetians battled for supremacy over the Boka coastal towns.

Perast

Explore the beauties of Perast, Montenegro’s most charming coastal town. It is rich in culture, history, and culinary delights.

Kotor, Dobrota, Perast, and Prcanj were able to sidestep Ottoman rule and remained under the governance of the Venetian Republic from the period of the Late Middle Ages until the end of the 18th century. This dividing line still looms large over local folk traditions and vocabulary. Residents east of it use many words of Italian origin and celebrate Venice-inspired festivals like the Kotor Winter Carnival.

There is a vehicle ferry service running between Kamenari and Lepetani, connecting both sides of the strait. But this is certainly not the best way to enjoy the beauty of this area. For the full experience, hire a kayak, charter a boat, or join a daily bay cruise.

Our Lady of the Rocks

An artificial island boasting a small church with beautiful frescoes, Our Lady of the Rocks is a must-visit on your trip to Montenegro.

A large choice of local tour companies offer trips that often include passage through the Verige Strait. Starting in Kotor, you’ll embark on a journey taking you past Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks Island, before finally leaving the strait towards the outer bay around Tivat and Herceg Novi. It’s not rare to see joyful dolphins playing and jumping close to the boat.

Alternatively, enjoying the Strait from the sidelines is a formidable experience as well. Verige Beach is one of the best beaches in Tivat, cherished by locals who come here to escape the crowds and to watch cruise ships pass in and out through the narrow strait.

Tivat’s Top Beaches

The Tivat Riviera has it all! Intimate coves, family-friendly sandy beaches, and exclusive beach clubs. Here are Tivat’s Top Beaches.

Verige Beach

An often-overlooked beach close to Tivat, Verige Beach sits at the narrowest stretch of the Bay of Kotor, surrounded by lush nature.

Onsite, there is a small beach bar with a laid-back vibe with chairs and loungers serving good cocktails and some beach snacks such as hamburgers, salads, and tortillas. It is a popular spot for sundowners and early evening cocktails, and there are always relaxing tunes playing in the background.

If you fancy a more upscale setting, head over to Verige 65, probably one of the best restaurants in Montenegro. It sits right at the water’s edge with a beautiful oceanfront terrace. The restaurant is a striking architectural concept, its oval-shaped edifice facing out to the Verige Strait from giant floor-to-ceiling windows.

Verige 65

Get a taste of delicious sushi, pristine seafood, and other local Mediterranean specialties at the Restaurant Verige 65. Panoramic Bay Views included.