Exploring Ulcinj: Beaches, Nature, and Unexpected Adventures
After leaving Bar, our journey continued to Ulcinj, Montenegro’s southernmost coastal town. A quick 40-minute drive stretched into a slightly longer adventure as we navigated through areas affected by forest fires. Despite the challenges, Ulcinj offered us some surprises, from stunning beaches to a unique nature reserve. Here’s a look at our three-day adventure in Ulcinj, packed with highs, lows, and unforgettable moments.
Arrival in Ulcinj: First Impressions
We arrived in Ulcinj late afternoon, greeted by an apartment that exceeded our expectations inside, though the surrounding area wasn’t quite what we had envisioned. Our accommodation came with an unusual feature—a hot tub in the kitchen—which gave us a good laugh and added some quirkiness to our stay.
After settling in, we headed to the nearby beach to make the most of the remaining sunlight. Unfortunately, our initial experience didn’t live up to the dreamy images we’d seen online. The beach near the estuary was vast but shallow, with ankle-deep water and plenty of litter, including cigarette ends scattered across the sand.
Though it wasn’t the best start, we didn’t let it dampen our spirits.
Top tip: Always thoroughly vet the area where you’re going to stay…Use Google maps
Finding the Perfect Beach
Determined to make the most of our time in Ulcinj, we ventured down the coast the next morning in search of better beaches. About 10 miles south, we found exactly what we were looking for—a pristine stretch of sand that felt like a hidden gem.
- The Beach: Clean sand, crystal-clear water, and plenty of space to relax.
- Beach Bar and Amenities: This beach had a fantastic bar and even offered covered beach beds for rent. Although pricey at €90, the experience was worth it for the comfort and privacy.
- Family Fun: The kids loved running between the sand and the waves, while we enjoyed treats like white wine and fruit salad under the sun.
We spent two blissful days here, soaking up the sun, enjoying the serene atmosphere, and finally experiencing the kind of Montenegrin beach escape we’d been hoping for.
Evening Exploration: Electric Scooters and a Nature Reserve
On our final evening, Tania stumbled upon a random electric scooter rental spot near Nature Park Ulcinj Salina. Naturally, we couldn’t resist. We rented scooters and set off to explore the area, with the kids gleefully riding along with us.
The nature park itself, a vast 15-square-kilometre wetland area, is a hub for migratory birds. Known as one of the most significant wetland areas in the Balkans, it’s often likened to Heathrow or Frankfurt Airport for its importance to bird migration.
Highlights of Nature Park Ulcinj Salina
- Birdwatching: Over 250 species of birds, including globally threatened species, make this area their home. The kids were particularly thrilled to spot pelicans, a rare sight for them.
- Unique Landscape: The combination of grasslands, halophyte vegetation, and reeds gave the park a distinct and peaceful vibe.
- Quirky Encounter: While scooting around, we had a peculiar run-in with someone who claimed to be a security guard, questioning our presence. With the kids in tow, we decided to play it safe and head back, but not before enjoying the stunning natural surroundings.
Exploring Ulcinj Town
We also spent some time exploring Ulcinj town (If you could call it a town) mainly for practical reasons like picking up groceries. While the town itself didn’t blow us away, it had its charm, and it was nice to get a glimpse of local life. That said, we much preferred the tranquillity of the nature reserve and the perfect beach we’d discovered earlier.
What We Loved About Ulcinj
- The Pristine Beach: Once we found the right spot, the beach experience was everything we’d hoped for.
- The Kids’ Joy: From running along the waves to riding electric scooters, the kids had an absolute blast.
- Nature Park Ulcinj Salina: This unexpected discovery added a unique and educational element to our trip.
Tips for Visiting Ulcinj
Be Prepared to Explore: Don’t settle for the first beach you find. A short drive can reveal hidden gems.
- Check Nature Park Ulcinj Salina: Even if you’re not into birdwatching, the serene landscape is worth a visit.
- Bring Cash: Many smaller vendors and rentals, like the scooter hire, operate on a cash-only basis.
- Pack Snacks and Drinks: Especially if you’re exploring off-the-beaten-path areas, as amenities can be sparse.
Final Thoughts
Ulcinj was a mixed bag of experiences, but it ultimately left us with some incredible memories. From our initial disappointment with the local beach to discovering a pristine, peaceful stretch of sand and the unique beauty of the Ulcinj Salina, this part of Montenegro showcased its diversity.
If you’re visiting Ulcinj, take the time to explore beyond the main tourist spots—you might just find your own hidden gems, as we did.
Have you been to Ulcinj?
Share your experiences and tips in the comments below, and don’t forget to check out our other Montenegro guides for more inspiration!
