Sveti Stefan Islet
Sveti Stefan
A 15th-century fortified fishing islet later transformed into a resort ensemble. Access is restricted and the best views are from the mainland.
Sveti Stefan began as a coastal stronghold and compact settlement on a rock just off the shore. Its plan follows a defensive layout with narrow passages and closely packed stone houses.
In the mid-20th century it was adapted into a hotel complex while preserving the stone fabric and skyline. Today it stands as the key visual icon of the coast between Budva and Petrovac.
How to Get There
On foot from Sveti Stefan center ~9-14 min.
From TIV airport (Tivat) by taxi/transfer ~32 min.
From TGD airport (Podgorica) by taxi/transfer ~47 min.
Description
What this place is
Sveti Stefan is a rocky islet on the Budva Riviera, linked to the mainland by a narrow sand-and-pebble tombolo. Its historic stone fabric and three small churches form a “stone town” that has operated as a gated resort since 1960. Since 2021, the hotel-island has been closed due to a dispute between the state and the lessee (Adriatic Properties / operated by Aman), so interior access is not possible.
Key features
- Simple-type tombolo – a single wave-built isthmus connects the islet to the shore.
- The Paštrovići fortified settlement took shape in 1442 – terraces and walls remain legible.
- Three churches: St Stephen on the summit, St Alexander Nevsky (renovated 1938), and the Transfiguration by the gate.
- Converted into a “hotel-town” on 13 July 1960; its terracotta skyline became a national tourism icon.
- Current status: closed since 2021; the access/obligations dispute is before London arbitration, where July 2025 saw closing arguments; as of autumn 2025 the island remains closed.
What to see
- The classic skyline of walls and terracotta roofs from the causeway and nearby shore viewpoints.
- The tombolo line and twin beach arcs beside it (shore-only views).
- Seaward façades of the “stone town” from the waterfront at the mainland end of the isthmus.
History
The islet was fortified by the Paštrovići in the 15th century; legend says twelve clans settled it after victories over the Ottomans. Under Venice it served as a small trade/maritime node, with the summit church of St Stephen naming the place.
By 1955, residents had been relocated. On 13 July 1960, the islet opened as an elite “hotel-town,” retaining historic shells. In later decades it hosted global celebrities; 1992 brought the Fischer–Spassky chess match, and 2014 saw Novak and Jelena Djokovic’s church wedding.
A new chapter began in 2021, when disputes over public access to coastal zones and operating terms shut the complex. Talks in 2023–2025 failed to yield a stable solution: a tentative March 2025 reopening deal fell through; in April–May 2025 the government rejected an out-of-arbitration agreement and arbitration continued. In June 2025, a Podgorica court recognized an arbitration decision on legal costs. As of September 2025, the islet remains closed to visitors.
Practical information
Location: Budva Riviera, at the village of Sveti Stefan; the islet is linked to the mainland by a narrow tombolo.
How to get there: reach the landward end of the causeway via the Adriatic Highway or on foot through Miločer Park.
Access: interior is closed; access stops at the security line on the causeway; views only from shore and public lookouts.
Visiting hours: viewpoints year-round.
Visit duration: 20–40 minutes for panoramas.
Best time: early morning or sunset for soft light and fewer crowds.
Special conditions: access rules depend on arbitration outcomes and government decisions; check official updates.
