Opening to the Adriatic and surrounded by lush hills dotted with towns that date back to the 15th century, the Bay of Kotor is equal parts nature preserve and luxury lifestyle destination.
Since 2007, Porto Montenegro has defined the eco-conscious opulence of this UNESCO-designated Natural and Cultural-Historical Region. Now, Destinations by Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® is bringing Porto Montenegro’s newest additions, Boka Place and Synchro Yards, to buyers from the U.S. and around the world. TRD sat down with Katie Smirnina, Head of Sales for North America, UK and Middle East for Porto Montenegro, to learn how the development combines sustainable design with the height of luxury living.
A Gem on the Adriatic
In 1991, Montenegro became the first country to declare itself an ‘ecological state.’ Nestled in the heart of this small, low-carbon-footprint nation, The Bay of Kotor stands as an emblem of the promise made over three decades ago, and Porto Montenegro, a former naval base converted into a luxury destination, has become a piece of that ongoing project.
“Porto Montenegro is actually classed as a landmark,” explains Smirnina, who highlights the development’s commitment to preserving the Bay’s natural beauty.
“We strive to ensure that the marina operates in harmony with its surroundings, taking measures to protect the local habitat and maintain the region’s environmental integrity.”
The original part of the Porto Montenegro development, South Village, was inspired by the area’s original cultural heritage, complete with stone houses bedecked with terracotta rooftops and turquoise shutters reminiscent of Venetian architecture.
Of course, the focus has always been on the marina itself, which was developed as a haven for yachters from around the world. From providing complimentary black- and grey-water discharge for boats to encouraging the use of biodegradable chemicals, Porto Montenegro takes its stewardship of this national treasure very seriously.
Porto Montenegro recently entered a partnership with the Seabin Project, a revolutionary technology that captures “all floating waste, oils, fuels and detergents from the water” for easy disposal. This partnership is just one of the initiatives that Porto Montenegro has pioneered as part of its ongoing mission to preserve the Bay of Kotor as a pristine natural environment for generations.
Life, Enjoyed
The marina is the perfect setting for high-net-worth individuals from around the world who want to dock their yachts in an idyllic port and enjoy the luxury lifestyle offered by Porto Montenegro. Residents and visitors to Porto Montenegro enjoy boutique homes and hotel rooms that celebrate the Bay’s unique qualities.
“The environment boosts sleep and wellbeing,” explains Smirnina, “and there are a lot of cultural engagements on-site.”
Locally sourced food and beverage grace the tables at Porto Montenegro’s many high-end restaurants, while proximity to nearby national parks and the Institute of Marine Biology means that a retreat into nature or Montenegro’s storied past is always close at hand. Porto Montenegro is established as a premier shopping destination, complete with international fashion boutiques, art galleries and luxurious waterfront spas.
The Porto Montenegro lifestyle revolves around its world-leading superyacht marina. With five jetties and a host of services ranging from fibre optic WiFi and on-site provisioning to maintenance facilities and fueling, yachters from around the globe seek out these berths throughout the season.
The newest addition to Porto Montenegro, Boka Place, takes the focus on wellness to the next level. These homes have integrated wellness facilities, including gardens and a resident-only pool. In addition to residences ranging in size from studios to penthouses, Boka Place is also home to SIRO Hotel and the SIRO Branded Residences, which allow owners to place their home in a management apartment rental program.
SIRO epitomizes sustainability through a deep commitment to eco-conscious practices across various facets of its business. The brand seamlessly integrates sustainability not only in its materials and production processes but also in its ethos and brand philosophy. By using renewable, biodegradable, and recyclable materials, alongside ethical production methods and efforts to reduce its carbon footprint, SIRO continuously demonstrates how luxury brands can embrace sustainability without compromising on quality or aesthetics. This holistic approach enables the brand to resonate with environmentally sound consumers, all while making a positive impact on the planet.
A Piece of the Worldwide Puzzle
Porto Montenegro attracts buyers from a diverse array of countries. Over 95 nationalities are represented among owners, including large contingents from Eastern Europe as well as the EU, North America, and the UAE. The Bay of Kotor is a particularly desirable spot for Dubai residents who want to escape the oppressive heat of the summer months.
While Porto Montenegro is certainly one-of-a-kind, it aligns with a trend toward environmentally sustainable developments that Destinations by LeadingRE Vice President Tasos Stavrou has observed in recent years.
“The focus on environmentally conscious living influences the way developers conceptualize their communities,” says Stavrou. “We have some incredible examples of sustainable developments in Destinations by LeadingRE, including Soneva in the Maldives; Elounda Hills in Crete, Greece; and Cap St Georges Hotel & Resort in Paphos, Cyprus.”
More than just investment properties for the high-net-worth individuals, these residences are part of a movement by luxury resi consumers toward a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle. To learn more about Porto Montenegro visit DestinationsByLeadingRE.com.