Described on many social media platforms as a Secret Gem, Montenegro does not disappoint. I've just returned from my third visit to this stunningly beautiful country, having spent a week in a villa with my running club friends. On this occasion we were in Herceg Novi on the west side of the fjord which winds its way up from the Adriatic all the way up to the beautiful town of Kotor. Everywhere you look there is stunning scenery from the peaceful water to the mountain tops and add to that clear blue sky and warm sunshine and you have my idea of a perfect holiday location.
There are many beaches along the waterside where you can easily spend the day swimming, relaxing or eating in the many superb restaurants available at easily affordable prices.
We took in the cable car trip up to the top of the new Lovcen National park development, had a boat trip to sites of interest around the fjord, walked 1100' up to the old fort at the top of the cliff backing onto Kotor as well as many other activities.
If you're looking for a non-Schengen location for a lovely holiday you'd have to go a long way to beat this little piece of paradise.
Finally, skiing in Montenegro is a rising, budget-friendly winter alternative to the Alps. The country offers uncrowded slopes, breathtaking mountain scenery and two main ski hubs: Kolasin and Zabljak. A typical adult one-day ski pass costs a out €25-30, making it one of Europe's most affordable destinations together with very reasonably priced food/drinks. Check it out if you're a beginner/early intermediate or just want to try a short break somewhere different for a few days.