Relaxing Near Ostrog Monastery: A Perfect End to Our Montenegro Adventure
TL;DR (Too Long; Didn’t Read) Summary:
- Stay: Family-run guesthouse near Ostrog Monastery with a pool and mountain views.
- Highlights: Atty & Aurie learned to swim in the pool—a huge milestone!
- Exploring Ostrog Monastery: Hiked up to the monastery, soaked in stunning views, and learned about Saint Basil of Ostrog.
- Getting There: We drove to Ostrog Monastery parking and hiked to the upper monastery.
- Family Travel Tip: Reward the hike with ice cream at a nearby café!
A Stay with Heart: Family Hospitality & Fresh Figs
Our final stop in Montenegro was a peaceful guesthouse near Ostrog Monastery, surrounded by rolling hills and fresh mountain air. The accommodation was family-run, and the owners made us feel right at home.
Each morning, the elderly host stopped by with fresh figs, a thoughtful gesture that made our stay extra special. Though we didn’t share a language, he used Google Translate to chat with us, showing just how welcoming Montenegrins can be.
Poolside Moments & a Big Milestone for the Kids
With all the adventuring and sightseeing behind us, we embraced slow travel and spent most of our time relaxing by the pool.
Big milestone moment: Atty and Aurie learned to swim!
It had been a work in progress during our travels, but something about the calm setting and extra time in the water gave them the confidence to finally swim on their own. A proud family travel win!
Exploring Ostrog Monastery: A Montenegro Must-See
No visit to this part of Montenegro is complete without a trip to Ostrog Monastery. This 17th-century monastery, dedicated to Saint Basil of Ostrog, is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the Balkans.
Ostrog Monastery: How to Get There
- Driving: From our stay, it was a short drive to the lower monastery parking area.
- Ostrog Monastery Parking: There’s free parking near the lower monastery, with limited parking closer to the upper monastery.
- Hiking: We opted to hike from the lower monastery—it’s steep but short (about 20–30 minutes) and totally manageable for families.
Along the way, we took in panoramic views of the mountains, making the effort well worth it.
Ostrog Monastery Opening Hours & Tips
- Opening Hours: Open daily from early morning until evening, but best visited in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
- Dress Code: It’s a functioning monastery, so shoulders and knees should be covered.
- Entrance Fee: Free, but donations are welcome.
Final Thoughts: A Perfect Way to End Our Montenegro Journey
For our last two days in Montenegro, we didn’t squeeze in more sights—we slowed down, soaked in the beauty, and enjoyed time together as a family.
- Swimming milestones for the kids
- Stunning views at Ostrog Monastery
- Incredible Montenegrin hospitality
This wasn’t just the end of our Montenegro trip—it was a reminder that sometimes, the best moments in travel are the simplest ones.
📍 Next Stop: Croatia!
🚗 FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Visiting Ostrog Monastery
How do I get to Ostrog Monastery?
The monastery is located in central Montenegro, about:
- 45 minutes from Podgorica by car
- 1 hour from Nikšić
- 2 hours from Kotor or Budva
You can drive to the lower monastery parking area and hike up (30-minute walk) or take a taxi/shuttle to the top.
Is there parking at Ostrog Monastery?
Yes! Ostrog Monastery parking is available:
- Lower Monastery: Larger parking lot, best for most visitors.
- Upper Monastery: Limited parking—arrive early if you want a space!
Who is Saint Basil of Ostrog?
Saint Basil of Ostrog was a 17th-century Orthodox bishop known for his miracles. His relics are housed in the upper monastery, making this a significant pilgrimage site for believers.
What are Ostrog Monastery’s opening hours?
The monastery is open daily, from morning to evening. However, it’s best to visit early or late in the day to avoid crowds.
