There it is! In the sea, 6 kilometers from Budva, it can already be seen: a small island with ancient turrets and red roofs. Once an old fishing village, currently, a paradise for the rich and celebrities, Sveti Stefan.

The villagers of Pastrovici, having just defeated the warriors of the Ottoman Empire, inhabited this tiny islet a few hundred meters from the coast in the middle of the 15th century. To commemorate their victory, they built a fortress and the church of St. Stephen.

The island became an important strategic site: ships moored here; it was a vantage point to protect the bay from raids. The location of Sveti Stefan played into the hands of the islanders. But as time passed, the tiny islet completely lost its grandeur and turned into a poor fishing village. Over time, all the islanders moved to the mainland.

Twice they tried to breathe life into the island. Only the second attempt was successful. Since 2009, Sveti Stefan has been a fashionable resort. It houses 58 luxurious rooms and eight villas, including the world-famous Villa Milocer.

By the way, 11 years ago, the name of the island changed. It is now called Aman Sveti Stefan, as the country’s authorities have rented it for 30 years to the luxury hotel group Aman Resorts.

The run of mankind are not allowed to enter it, but you can still give it a shot.

A walk from Budva along the coast will take you 2-3 hours, but the main problem is to cross the narrow bridge and get to the island. There are three ways to get to Sveti Stefan. First, you can book a hotel room. Great views and privacy are guaranteed. Or book a table at a restaurant on the island. You may get a chance to enjoy the view of the Old Town of Budva in the company of Hollywood celebrities. Or you can come here on August 28: it is the only day when the gates of the island are open. On the island, guided tours are arranged, and suites are shown to tourists.