It is the image that graces countless postcards and travel magazine covers. Sveti Stefan is the ultimate symbol of Montenegrin luxury and history.
The Origins: A Fortress Against Pirates
The story of Sveti Stefan begins in the 15th century as a means of survival. Legend has it that the local Paštrovići tribe built a fortress on the rock to protect their families from pirate and Ottoman attacks, which were common in the Adriatic. For centuries, it was a self-sufficient and fortified fishing community.
The Golden Age: The Playground of Celebrities
In the 1960s, the Yugoslav government transformed the entire island into a unique luxury hotel. It quickly became a playground for the world's elite, hosting stars like Elizabeth Taylor, Sophia Loren, and Princess Margaret.
Sveti Stefan Today: The Height of Exclusive Luxury
Today, the island is leased by the prestigious Aman Resorts group and operates as an ultra-exclusive private resort. Access to the island and the isthmus is restricted to paying guests to ensure privacy.
How to Enjoy the Beauty of Sveti Stefan (Without Being a Guest)
The best spot for the classic photo is from a small viewpoint on the main road. Additionally, there are two public beaches with pinkish pebbles on either side of the isthmus, offering magnificent views and a chance to swim with the island as a backdrop.
