An island in Montenegro is set to reopen to tourists this summer after a five-year closure stemming from a dispute over beach access. Sveti Stefan, located on the Budva Riviera, will welcome guests again from July following a settlement between the Montenegrin government and the island's leaseholders.
Background of the Closure
The popular island was forced to close in 2021 amid a decade-long legal battle concerning beach access for local residents. The dispute had rendered the 15th-century village inaccessible to tourists and locals alike.
Details of the Reopening
According to Aman, the luxury hotel operator on the island, Sveti Stefan will open for the summer season starting 1 July. Under the terms of the settlement, locals will have free access to two of the three beaches near the resort, while one beach will be reserved exclusively for hotel guests, as reported by Euronews.
Residents will be able to use Sveti Stefan Beach and King's Beach, while Queen's Beach will remain private for tourists staying at Aman. Previously, surrounding beaches including King's Beach and Queen's Beach were accessible only to Aman guests.
About the Island
The fortified 15th-century island on Montenegro's Adriatic coast is connected to the mainland by a narrow tombolo of sand. From 22 May, guests will also be able to stay at the hotel's Villa Miločer residence on the mainland year-round. Rooms at the former summer villa of Queen Marija Karađorđević start from £1,323 per night in May.
Government Statement
Prime Minister of Montenegro, Milojko Spacjić, announced on X: “The city-hotel Sveti Stefan is reopening its doors this summer! We have preserved the state's interest and made an important step forward for Montenegrin tourism.” He added that the state will receive a 10 per cent share of profits, with no additional construction work permitted in Miločer Park opposite Sveti Stefan.
