Luštica is located at the entrance of the Boka Kotorska also known as the Bay of Kotor. It effectively separates Tivat Bay from the Adriatic. The peninsula has an area of 47 km² and is 13 km long. The highest point of the peninsula is Obosnik peak, at 582 meter. It has 35 km of coast, which accounts for 12% of Montenegrin coastline. Lustica is divided between the Herceg Novi and Tivat Montenegrin municipalities.
Cultural Heritage
This area has an extremely rich cultural heritage embodied by twenty churches, out of which eighteen Orthodox and two Catholic ones. Once an isolated community, there are farms and smallholders producing their own cheese, prosciutto, wine and rakija from local ingredients.
Natural history
Luštica is largely undeveloped with populations of wild boar, mongoose, jackal and edible dormice. Nightingales and Scops-owls can also be heard in abundance. Olive groves are also plentiful although many are uncultivated and overgrown.
Military Heritage
The peninsula also has a significant military history with its position guarding the entrance to the Boka Kotorska and military ports at Tivat during the cold war (Yugoslav Navy) and Kotor during the Austro-Hungarian occupation (Austrian Navy). There are disused Austrian fortifications at Rose, Mamula, Arza and Montenegrin military installations at Rose (disused), Krašići and Obosnik. Two disused submarine hides are cut into the rock of the steep coast on Herceg Novi bay, and the Kumbor Strait. Since the closure of Tivat Naval Base a Kotor Class Frigate, previously of the Yugoslav Navy, has been moored at a facility directly below the village of Zabrđe in the Kumbor strait.
Tourism
On the northeast side there are fine views over Tivat and Herceg Novi bays of the Boka Kotorska and on the southwest side; fine views over the entrance of the Boka to the Adriatic Sea and of the Prevlaka Peninsula. The Luštica peninsula is main excursion destination for tourists in Herceg Novi. It has the finest beaches and resorts in Herceg Novi municipality, including Žanjice, Mirište, Arza and Dobreč.
“Our dear Boka, Adriatic’s bride. Droped with the sky like with silk blue, Prettier than any Nereid are you, Upon you beauty you should yourself pride.”
A small population is resident all year round with a large number of people resident for the summer months only. Historically these summer visitors have come from parts of the former Yugoslavia, particularly Serbia. More recently, with the breakup of Yugoslavia and with Montenegro gaining independence, western Europeans and Russians have moved in, some permanently. Close to Tivat Airport, the area is ripe for development and several large projects including golf courses have been mooted. However, to date there is still very little tourism development with the main building activity limited to that close to Zanjice beach. However the scale is still very small. The biggest tourist center is Krašići with many houses and apartments for rent. The stunning views and scenery, clean seas, warm summers and relative isolation make Luštica an attractive tourist destination.
Beaches on the Lustica peninsula
The Luštica Peninsula in Montenegro is home to some of the country’s most stunning and secluded beaches. This tranquil stretch of coastline offers crystal-clear waters, rugged landscapes, and a sense of serenity that’s perfect for relaxation. Popular spots like Rose, Mirište, and Plavi Horizonti provide golden pebbles and quiet coves, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or simply unwinding in nature’s beauty. The area is less crowded compared to other Montenegrin beaches, making it a hidden gem for those seeking an authentic coastal experience. Whether you prefer lounging by the water or exploring the scenic surroundings, the beaches of Luštica promise a peaceful escape in a breathtaking setting.
Luštica Bay Resort
Luštica Bay Resort in Montenegro is a luxurious seaside destination that combines modern elegance with natural beauty. Situated on the picturesque Luštica Peninsula, the resort offers a blend of upscale accommodations, world-class amenities, and stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. With its charming marina, beautiful beaches, fine dining options, and a range of activities from golf to watersports, Luštica Bay is the perfect place to relax or explore. Whether you’re strolling along the waterfront, enjoying a sunset cocktail, or indulging in a spa treatment, the resort promises an unforgettable experience in one of Montenegro’s most scenic locations.
Accommodation on the Lustica peninsula
In the past, the Lustica peninsula was a remote area with only a few small fishing villages. But with the tourist growth of recent years, the tourist potential of the peninsula was soon discovered. Due to the available beaches, space and the abundance of the olive trees, larger projects have been started as golf courses. The majority of the accommodation is located in the small coastal villages, of which some of the houses are holiday houses of the more favored Serbs, because Serbia itself does not have any access to the sea.
Infrastructure
There are few roads and these are often narrow and can be busy in August. Mains water only makes it as far as Krašići and this supply is often turned off in the summer. The majority of houses rely on underground tanks supplied by rainwater and water tankers. The 3 phase electricity supply can be unreliable with frequent blackouts and missing phases.
Villages
Babunci, Begovići, Eraci, Klinci, Krtoli, Krašići, Milovici, Miževići, Mrkovi, Radovići, Rose, Tići.
