Montenegro has quickly gone upmarket over the past couple of years, so much so, Monaco is looking over its shoulder, which is why luxury brand Nikki Beach has pitched up on the shores of Boka Bay, the Mediterranean’s only fjord. Showcasing a world of indulgence, relaxation and luxurious enjoyment, Nikki Beach Resort and Spa, Montenegro features spectacular views over the Adriatic Sea, combining music, dining, entertainment and wellness into one destination. Uniquely, the Hotel and Beach Club has direct water access, catering to the region’s international yachting community as a prime mega-yacht destination.

As the summer season kicks off Nikki Beach Montenegro becomes a buzz with families, groups and couples looking for a glamorous getaway. I checked in for the weekend to celebrate the brand’s milestone 25th Anniversary.

Expect signature Nikki Beach style at their outpost in Montenegro. With 54 rooms, suites and residencies this boutique resort oozes Ibiza style. Each room, unique in design is spacious and bright, with lots of white, natural fabrics and sky-blue accents. My room boasted a large terrace with outdoor seating and show stopping views across the bay. A huge bathroom with heated floor, fluffy white robes and Malin+Goetz goodies are perfect for some in-room pampering.

The infamous Beach Club is what the brand is most known for. As with their other global locations, Nikki Beach Montenegro is the place to be on summer weekends. Their sun-drenched outdoor space is split across three levels that cater for those who want to chill as well as those here to party. That’s the beauty of Nikki Beach, you really can have it all whether you want to relax in one of their cabanas or hangout with friends on a bright, white, plush day bed.

The weekend I am staying there’s a party vibe to celebrate the Independence of Montenegro. Groups start to roll in from 12pm and before long the DJ has people shimmying poolside. The staff are friendly, and the service is second to none, attentive waiters ensure my glass of rosé is topped up and I have everything I need. Yachts pull into the jetty in front of the hotel, groups hop off, enjoy a magnum of Whispering Angel and a ‘sexy salad’ before jumping back on their boat and sailing off into the sunset. The resident saxophonist brings a vibrant energy to the afternoon as revellers get on their feet. Suddenly, the soundtrack switches and a gorgeous (did I mention that everyone here looks like they’ve just stepped off the catwalk) troupe of waiting staff step on to the pool deck and held aloft a throne style chair, is a waitress clutching a jeroboam of champagne. Flairs pop off and the guests go wild.

Those looking for a bit of balance can retreat to the spa. With an indoor pool, gym, a sauna, steam chamber and ice fountain you can book a treatment and spend the day getting your zen on. During my stay I indulged in a signature massage and a poolside sound bath, the ideal way to recover from all the beach club fun.

The food here is excellent and I don’t say that lightly. The breakfast buffet is a range of fresh fruits, local meat and cheese. Mini pastel hued Smeg fridges house yoghurts and cute compote pots. You can also order firm brekkie favourites like smashed avo on toast and pancake stacks. The beach club has an all-day menu that serves up Instagramable alfresco feasts like caviar topped sushi platters, ceviche, colourful superfood salads, juicy sliders and lobster tacos. As the sun goes down head to Sirocco by Michelin star chef Aleksandar Kerekes, for fine dining set against the most stunning backdrop. Pink skies and the twinkly lights of Porto Montenegro in the distance offer up impressive views to rival any Mediterranean location. The seafood-centric menu features creative dishes like King Crab with Almond Milk Foam and Blood Orange Meringue, Lobster Carpaccio covered with Thai Sauce and Avocado-Coriander Cream, Confit Calamari Tartare with Squid Bechamel Sauce, Lemongrass Oil and Orly Pearls, and a Turbot Fillet with Celery-Raisin Caponata and Champagne Foam. Seafood is sourced fresh and direct from local fishermen. There is also an option to select the Chef’s tasting menu or create your own set menu which includes a choice of two cold appetizers, two hot appetizers, two mains and two desserts and you can add wine pairing.

A little bit of that Nikki Beach magic rubs off on me during my stay, my cup is full and I leave a shade happier, this magical waterfront property perfectly captures the spirit of summer and the celebration of life.

Nightly rates at Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Montenegro start from 264€ on a bed & breakfast basis. nikkibeach.com

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