Elevator pitch
When Banyan Group built their first resort in Phuket, it set a precedent to be design-led, sustainable and an uninterrupted presence amongst the land it beholds. Since its inception in 1994, over 100 experiential Banyan stays have sprouted across Central and Southeast Asia, South America and the Middle East.
Mamula Island by Banyan Tree marks the group’s first foray into European waters. Nestled in the Adriatic Sea along the southern Montenegro coast, the circular, secluded island sits at the entrance of the UNESCO-listed Bay of Kotor (also known as Boka Bay). A mere 200 metres in diameter, it was once an Austro-Hungarian fortress in the 19th century. The Banyan resort seamlessly assimilates into the preserved structure, hosting a complete takeover of the island.
The design
The 32-room sanctuary maintains its original structure as a restored fortress encircled by sea and sky. You’ll find an arch leitmotif recur throughout the resort as an homage to its medieval past, from the windows in the junior suite to bespoke furniture developed specially for the hotel. Elements of aged brass, solid oak and organic textiles complement the fortress’s natural stone, imbuing interiors with an understated warmth.
The stay
The journey begins with a short private boat transfer across Boka Bay. I am welcomed by a warm, approachable host upon arrival, a glass of Mamula-exclusive champagne in my hand. A swift check-in later, I was brought to my home for the next few days—the Junior Suite.
The doors open to a spacious lounge area, the bed and bath quietly hidden behind. A few steps down leads you to the vanity counter, providing ample space for getting ready while a separate water closet and shower area allows for added privacy. A king-sized bed centers the innermost quarters, facing the room’s unique feature: a small arched window, its shape retained from the past where canons were once launched from. Now, it provides a quaint, picturesque view of Montenegro’s coastline and the expansive Adriatic Sea. I settled down with ease, cocooned in the warm, earthy tones that dressed the suite.
The food
Take your pick from the three restaurants on the island, each highlighting local seasonal produce through a different lens. By the poolside you have Parasol, a casual crudo concept that serves sharing plates of locally-caught seafood. Breakfast is typically served at Kamena that sits above the pool. There you’ll find full course options rooted in Montenegrin harvest available throughout the day. For an intimate evening, head to Celeste, perched on the edge of the island. An uninterrupted ocean view serves as the backdrop for a discovery of coastal cooking traditions from Italy, the Caribbean and the Levant. And for a post-meal tipple? Head to Pinea, a speakeasy-style bar with innovative cocktails and a DJ that accompanies the night with a curated vinyl playlist.
The itinerary
A full immersion into Montenegrin culture begins right at Mamula. Spend your days with a curated itinerary tailored to your whims and fancies, from local expeditions to open water adventures. Try your hand at local and regional craft, as the resort’s new Artist-in-Residence programme, a Banyan signature, invites local and regional artisans to the island for workshops, exhibitions and maker sessions. For a glimpse into the life of a local, board a cruise trip along Boka Bay. Immerse in the quaint allure of Perast and Kotor Old Town, and walk along its stone-paved streets of medieval fortifications, ancient palaces and Roman churches.
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For the gourmets and connoisseurs, Luštica Epicurean Experience is a trip that’s sure to satiate the appetite. You’ll begin with a visit to the Moric family farm, where some of Montenegro’s finest olive oil is made. Now run by the third generation, you’ll be taken through the olive tree orchard, discovering the timeline of harvesting, processing and packaging extra virgin olive oil before a fine tasting of prosciutto, cheese, wine and olive oil, of course. The journey continues a little further down to Klinci, a traditional village that’s known for complete preservation of its architecture. Here, the village owner and host warmly welcomes you to a home-made regional meal, complete with a taste of house-made cherry liqueur.
With Mamula Island completely surrounded by the Adriatic Sea, the ocean is yours to explore. Circle around the island and venture into open waves with your pick of a water bike, kayak or stand-up paddleboard. If you’re keen on a little adventure, embark on the Blue Cave swim that’s just a short boat ride from the resort. What awaits is a serene hideaway and clear, calm azure waters. Pro-tip: head down early in the morning and you just might have the cave to yourself.
After a full day out, there’s no better way to unwind the spent body and soul than a spa experience. You’re spoiled for choice with amenities like saunas, a steam room, halotherapy rooms, a flotation chamber and an indoor gym. Drawing from local plants and oils, each ritual reflects the island’s tranquil, restorative landscape. The Lymphatic Flow Massage instantly puts you at ease, alleviating heaviness and eradicating toxins and tightness in the body. You’ll emerge feeling revitalised and restored. The spa also offers hydro and weightless therapy, traditional Thai, Javanese and Chinese healing treatments and the group’s signature Royal Banyan treatment.
Typically eclipsed by its border neighbours, Montenegro is an underrated destination for a Euro summer getaway. And Mamula Island by Banyan Tree brings its sunny skies and clear blue waters right to your doorstep, with the best that the island has to offer sprawled at your feet.
