Stays That Slay: Montenegro & Albania

On our Montenegro & Albania: Balkans Adventure, travellers can expect to hike alongside shimmering Adriatic coasts, through dense European forests, and up dramatic Alpine mountains. Travellers will try their hand at white water rafting, dip their toes in glacier-fed lakes, and enjoy private walking tours through UNESCO-listed cities.

With so much activity in-store, we knew we needed to incorporate some pretty special hotels to rest our weary feet. Scroll down for a preview of each.

A sumptuous hotel & spa to start.

Ease into your vacation at the Palmon Bay Hotel & Spa.

To kick off this European sojourn we’ve reserved rooms at the five-star Palmon Bay Hotel & Spa. This modern accommodation overlooks beautiful Boka Bay and features a private beach, pool, wellness centre, rooftop restaurant and lounge, and a can’t-be-missed spa.

The rooms are all naturally lit, with sweeping views of the Adriatic Sea. The decor is natural and clean, evoking a breezy but modern Mediterranean vibe. Billowy beds, snug sheets, spacious washrooms, and private balconies complete the experience.

Gorgeous design aside, what makes the Palmon truly special is the wellness and spa centre. Slip into the restorative mineral pool before warming up in the steam room, Finnish sauna, and jacuzzi. There’s also a salt room and countless massage treatments.

A lovely lodge in Tara.

Located in Montenegro’s deepest canyon is the simple but smart Blue River Lodge.

Our second accommodation is located deep in the Tara River canyon where wolves and bears still roam.

The family-run lodge has a natural design that blends right into the surrounding forest, and is purposefully minimalist, letting the unforgettable landscapes do all the talking.

Comfort with a side of cuisine.

Our third hotel may be remote, but its got big-city standards.

Hotel Soa is located in one of the most breathtaking areas of Durmitor National Park. It’s a remote region surrounded by mountains and forests. But despite being in the middle of nowhere, you can expect big-city standards and luxe, spacious suites.

The cozy rooms are equipped with queen-size beds, sofas, monsoon showers, comfy robes, and slippers.

Oh, and according to Lonely Planet, Hotel Soa features one of the best restaurants in all of Montenegro.

A sophisticated ski resort good for all seasons.

Bianca Resort & Spa exudes cool, even in the summer.

While our fourth hotel is technically a schmancy ski resort, it is still an extraordinary accommodation in summer when we check-in.

As soon as you arrive you’ll be impressed by its pyramid structure and sharp architectural design. The interior is refreshingly rustic and unpretentious despite the high-end service standards. Rooms are equally enticing and comfortable.

If your feet are sore from all the hiking we’ve been up to, let off some steam in the Turkish bath or book a signature spa treatment.

Casual comfort in Theth.

Enjoy Hotel Alpet’s homey Albanian atmosphere.

As we cross the border into amazing Albanian, we’ll be treated to a small but well-kept accommodation in Theth—a mountain village in Valbona National Park.

The property only has 16 quirky rooms that are homey and comfortable. Service standards are equally professional but relaxed. Be sure to stroll the beautiful garden or enjoy a pint on the terrace.

More casual comfort in Valbona.

The mountain views never get old.

Just like our accommodation in Theth, Hotel Margjeka also features those signature professional but relaxed Albanian service standards. Rooms are simple and kitted with queen or double beds, TVs, free Wi-Fi, and some truly spectacular mountain views. In fact, to best enjoy the views, take a seat on the spacious terrace.

Modern luxury in traditional Tirana.

A final hurrah in the capital of Albania.

Our last hotel is far from least—it’s a 4-star, modern stay located in the exquisite Blloku neighbourhood of Tirana.

Rooms are minimalist and equipped with all the usual creature comforts: big beds, soft linens, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs etc. To cap off our adventure, we encourage you to enjoy one last drink on the terrace overlooking Albania’s colourful capital.

Join an all-gay hike in Montengro & Albania.

Our signature Balkans hiking tour begins just as some of our Croatia: Gay Dalmatia Cruises conclude. The two tours can be easily paired together so you can extend your Adriatic adventure. Contact us to reserve your spot.