Relaxing Near Ostrog Monastery: A Perfect End to Our Montenegro Adventure
After days of winding mountain roads and coastal drives, we ended our Montenegro trip in the most peaceful way possible, staying near the sacred Ostrog Monastery. Perched high in the cliffs, this centuries-old pilgrimage site feels otherworldly, yet the calm that surrounds it is what really stays with you. Whether you come for the views, the history, or just to slow down, here’s how we found the perfect place to rest before saying goodbye to Montenegro.
- 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.
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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.
Visiting Ostrog Monastery: Drive Yourself or Take a Tour from Podgorica
We drove ourselves to Ostrog Monastery, winding up through sharp bends and mountain switchbacks that make even confident drivers slow down. It’s completely doable with your own car, just be ready for narrow roads, sheer drops, and locals who drive them daily like it’s nothing. The reward is in the climb itself: every turn reveals new views of Montenegro’s valleys and villages, and when you finally spot the monastery tucked into the cliffs, it feels unreal.
That said, many travellers choose to visit on a day tour from Podgorica, and after seeing the route, I get why. It takes the stress out of driving and parking, and most tours include a guide who shares the monastery’s history and cultural significance along the way.
If you’re short on time or not keen on mountain driving, the Ostrog Monastery Day Trip from Podgorica is a great option, you’ll get round-trip transport, skip navigation headaches, and still have plenty of time to explore both the Upper and Lower Monasteries. Most tours take around 4–5 hours total, with pick-up directly from your hotel in the capital.
For families, it’s worth noting that the monastery grounds are stroller-friendly in parts but steep in others, so a baby carrier works best. Bring modest clothing (shoulders and knees covered) and a bottle of water, the mountain sun can be intense even early in the day.
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.
