At Aman Sveti Stefan, in Montenegro, a 15th-century village is transformed into a luxurious hideaway
Dramatic mountain ranges, primeval forests, ancient villages, glittering Adriatic shores—the country of Montenegro might be tiny (about 5,300 square miles), but it's packed with wonders. And off its central coast sits one such attraction: the Aman Sveti Stefan resort, a 15th-century fortified village that's been converted into a 58-room hideaway, complete with restored stone structures scattered around flower-filled plazas. The main resort, with guest rooms, restaurants and lots of scenic viewpoints, is on a rocky islet connected to the mainland by a narrow, pedestrian-only isthmus. On the mainland side lies the hotel's private beach, as well as the Villa Moncer, a former royal summer retreat now housing a few guest suites and a terrace restaurant.
Surrounded by a lush forest of ancient cedars, pines and over 800 olive trees, Villa Moncer is also the site of the resort's spa, a contemporary space with direct beach access and views out to the sea. In addition to dedicated spa pools, a gym and a yoga studio, the spa has four treatment suites, three with steam rooms, saunas and plunge pools for services that incorporate hydrotherapy. The spa uses the Australian line Sodashi for many services, but highlights draw from Montenegro's healing traditions and the country's 650-plus recognized medicinal herbs, most of which are wild-harvested.
The signature Adriatic Rejuvenation includes a body scrub with mint-infused olive oil, raw sugar and raw honey, followed by a soak in oat milk, and a massage with herbs like lavender and palmarosa. The spa also works with a local herbalist—affectionately known as Mr. Popovic—to create custom healing teas, syrups and products, available in the retail area. It's all part of the Aman dedication to showcasing the best of Montenegro, and a way for guests to get just a taste of some of the country's many natural delights. aman.com